Summer is here and many of us are dusting off the tents and sleeping bags and getting ready for a camping trip! I know how important it is to have a stash of toddler friendly camping snacks that are nutritious, keep well, and have minimal-mess.
Here’s a list of my favourite camping snacks for toddlers that are low-mess, won’t stain clothes, and are super easy to prepare and pack. Trust me, these will keep your tiny explorers happy and nourished!
1. Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are a fun way to get some colour into your toddler’s diet while camping. I like to use a variety of soft fruits that are easy for little hands to manage, such as:
- Strawberries (halved and tops pre-cut)
- Banana slices
- Soft melon
- Mango
- Kiwi
- Blueberries
Thread these onto kid-safe skewers or sturdy straws for a fun and mess-free snack. Just make sure to cut the fruit into feeding appropriate shapes and sizes for your little one.
2. Pre-cut Veggies:
It’s always helpful to have veggies on hand, to have as an option and to help support providing exposure to a variety of vegetables (even when camping!). Slice soft vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers into manageable, bite-sized pieces. This not only makes them easy to eat but also reduces the risk of choking. For harder veggies, consider lightly steaming them before cutting to soften them. For grape and cherry tomatoes, cut length wise. Store these pre-cut veggies in ziplock bags in your cooler for easy access.
3. Mini sandwiches are perfect for little hands and can be filled with all sorts of delicious, toddler-friendly ingredients. My go-to fillings include:
- Smooth peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter) and banana
- Cream cheese and thinly sliced cucumber
- Hummus and soft roasted veggies
If you’re feeling extra creative (and have the time!), you can cut the sandwiches into fun shapes using cookie cutters or these shape cutters to make them even more appealing. Choosing a whole grain bread will help boost the fibre content.
4. Homemade LaraBars
LaraBars are a fantastic, nutritious option, and you can easily make them at home! They’re made from simple ingredients and are easy to pack. For a great recipe, check out these Homemade LaraBars recipe. These bars are packed with fibre and energy to keep your little one going all day.
5. Yogurt Pouches
Ok, yes yogurt can be messy, but yogurt pouches help remove that problem! They are mess-free and can be stored in a cooler. Look for brands with no added sugar and the “Greek” variation for higher protein content!
6. Smoothie Packs
Before heading out, prepare some fun smoothie packs! Blend your toddler’s favourite smoothie and then pour the mixture into reusable pouches and freeze them. They’ll double as ice packs in your cooler and thaw just in time for a refreshing, nutritious snack. Here are some of our favourite smoothie recipes: Chunky Monkey Smoothie, Strawberry Calcium-rich Smoothie, and this Strawberry and Peanut Butter Smoothie!
7. Muffins
Muffins are a great snack to prep ahead of time and have on hand. They are easy for toddlers to hold and eat, and they don’t create much mess, making them a convenient and healthy choice for your camping adventures. Plus, they store well and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Check out these muffin recipes here: ABC Muffins for Toddlers, or these Almond Flour Zucchini Muffins.
Additional Feeding Tips to Make Life Easier:
Bring a Little Fold-Out Table: It’s much easier for your toddler to eat at a small table than on your lap or while running around.
Use Ziplock Bags and have extra on hand: These are incredibly convenient for storing and carrying snacks during outings. They keep everything fresh and are easy to grab on the go.
Have Veggies and Fruit on Hand: Fresh produce like bananas, apples, and sliced grapes are great to have on hand.
Cooler Foods: Don’t forget to pack a cooler with cheese, hummus, and yogurt to keep snacks fresh and ready to eat.
Camping with toddlers can have its challenges but ensuring you are stocked and prepared with your snacks can help! These ideas are tried and true, making them perfect for keeping your little ones happy and well-fed on your outdoor adventures. So pack up, head out, and enjoy every moment with your tiny campers!
