5 Easy & Energising Hiking and Biking Snacks for Kids

Whether we’re heading up a hill, strolling along a woodland path, or tackling a longer trek as a family, snacks are essential. They keep energy levels up, stop the grumbles (from children and grown-ups alike), and offer those little moments of joy along the way.

Here are five of our absolute favourite snacks to take on hikes and bike rides with children – tried, tested, and loved by our crew:

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1. Homemade Flapjack

Nothing beats a good flapjack. It’s chewy, comforting, and packed with slow-release energy thanks to the oats. We make ours at home, which means we can control how sweet it is, and sneak in some extras like seeds, nuts (if no allergies), chocolate chips or dried fruit. (Or all 4!)

Why we love it:

• Easy to make in big batches
• Doesn’t melt or squish in the backpack
• Fills hungry tummies for longer
• Bonus: the children love helping to make it before the hike!

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2. Fruit (Apples, Bananas, Berries)

Fresh fruit is always a winner – it’s healthy, refreshing, and hydrating too. Apples and bananas are our staples (bananas especially), but in summer, a little container of berries or cherry tomatoes is always a treat. Seeds, nuts and raisins can also be great, but are often more difficult to eat whilst walking.

Why we love it:

• Naturally sweet and full of vitamins
• Lightweight and easy to pack
• Great for a refreshing mid-hike boost

Top tip: If your hike might get bumpy or warm, go for firmer fruits like apples to avoid banana mush disasters in the bag! For smaller fruits use a lightweight pot – it’s perfect for dipping into along the way.

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3. Cereal Bars

Shop-bought cereal bars are great for convenience, especially when time’s short (Our favourites are Aldi’s Munchy Bars, or Nature Valley Protein Bars). The long shelf life also means we can stock up and always ensure we have something when we need it quickly. We usually opt for oat-based ones with nuts, seeds, or dried fruit (chocolate-coated ones are reserved for bribery on the last hill 😅). The boys Grandparents often stay away in hotels and Grandma collects the pre-packaged biscuits often provided just for their walks – also a great option! 🤫

Why we love it:

• Individually wrapped and mess-free
• Ticks the boxes for fibre, carbs, and taste
• Perfect for popping in the daypack on a busy morning

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4. Maoams – The Sweet Energy Kick

Yes, these little chewy sweets aren’t exactly health food… but they’re brilliant for a quick morale boost when the legs are getting tired and motivation is fading. We keep a few stashed away for when spirits dip – they always raise a smile!

Why we love them:

• Easy to carry and hand out
• Quick sugar energy boost when needed
• Fun and tasty – and sometimes that’s all that matters

Parent trick: Don’t tell them you’ve packed them. Pulling out a surprise sweet treat at just the right moment is magic.

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5. Kendal Mint Cake

This one’s for the big adventures – longer, more technical walks where a bit of an old-school energy hit is needed. It’s a classic for a reason: packed with sugar and that distinct minty taste that somehow makes you feel like an explorer. It’s long shelf life means it can easily be stored in your bag for a long time, ready to grab just when you need it!

Years ago, when I was around 8/9, I used to go hiking with my school to Withypool, on Exmoor – Mum would always pack me trail mix and a Kendal Mint cake (in case I got lost) – but if I didn’t get lost (and only once I’d eaten all my trail mix) was I then allowed to eat the Kendal Mint cake on the bus ride home! It’s been nice to pass this tradition down to my own boys!

What NOT to Bring

There are some snacks that we wouldn’t recommend. Chocolate easily melts, especially in the warmer weather, and makes for a super messy snack. Why not opt for a brunch or cereal bar with chocolate chips as an alternative? Crisps can get crushed easily, or bags can pop. Why not pop some into a small tupperware container instead? Seeds, nuts and raisins can be a little harder to eat whilst walking (though are ideal if you are stopping, or including them in your lunch/picnic). Why not opt for bigger picky treats, such as cherry tomatoes, grapes or berries.

Food for Thought: Final Thoughts

Snacks can make or break a family hike — and after plenty of trial and error, these five have become our go-to choices. From the homemade comfort of flapjack to the minty boost of Kendal Mint Cake, each one has earned its place in our backpacks.

Just please remember to bin or bring home all packaging and waste – it doesn’t belong in nature! 💚

Got a snack your children won’t hike without? I’d love to hear about it – leave a comment below!