Annabel’s snack hacks for on the go
Guest blog by the UK’s No. 1 children’s cookery author Annabel Karmel
There’s something magical about eating outdoors—whether you’re in the park, at the beach, or just out running errands with the little ones in tow. But when hunger strikes on the go, it’s all too easy to reach for sugar-laden snacks or shop-bought nibbles that don’t quite tick the nutritional boxes.
I know just how important it is to have snacks at the ready that are both nourishing and appealing to kids. So, here are my top tips for on-the-go snacking, wherever your day takes you!
1. Think finger food
Kids love to pick! Keep things simple with bite-sized foods like mini sandwiches, cheese cubes, sliced fruits and veggie sticks. Not only are they easy to eat, but they also offer variety and encourage little ones to try new things.
*Use cookie cutters to shape sandwiches or fruit slices into stars, hearts, or animals. It’s a simple trick that makes food that little bit more exciting!
2. DIY snack kits
Make lunch or snack time interactive! Kids love building their own mini meals. Think DIY wraps, mini pitta pockets with fillings on the side, or if you’re feeling ait more adventurous a ‘build your own pizza’ kit with flatbreads, tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings.
*Use silicone muffin cases to separate ingredients in a lunchbox—great for keeping things fresh and fun.
3. Get kids involved
Children are more likely to eat what they’ve helped to prepare. Give them age-appropriate tasks like picking fruit, filling wraps, or choosing which veg sticks go into their box.
* Turn lunchbox prep into a weekend activity—batch make muffins, flapjacks, or veggie fritters.
4 Make it colourful
We eat with our eyes first, especially kids! A colourful lunchbox with a rainbow of fruits and veggies is not only appealing but also ensures a good range of nutrients. Add a little pot of hummus to dunk and dip for an added nutrient and energy boost.
*Pack a ‘kebab’ skewer of colourful fruits or alternate veggies and cheese cubes for a fun, eye-catching twist.
5. Bake Some Hidden Veg Treats
Muffins, pancakes, fritters and flapjacks are the perfect disguise for a little extra goodness. Grated carrots, courgette, or mashed banana can add nutrients without a fuss.
*Bake in batches and freeze so you’ll be ready and prepped for future days of exploring!
6. Pack a protein punch
Snacks with protein help keep little tummies fuller for longer and avoid the dreaded sugar crash. Why not try:
1. Hummus with pitta fingers or cucumber sticks
2. Roasted chickpeas or edamame beans
3. Mini chicken balls, croquettes or fritters
4. Hard-boiled eggs (peeled at home!)
7. Don’t forget to hydrate!
All that scooting can be thirsty work! Always have water bottles on hand and avoid sugary juices which can lead to energy dips (and sticky fingers!).
Add a slice of orange or a few frozen berries to a water bottle for a naturally fruity flavour—no added sugar needed.
Snacking on the go doesn’t have to mean reaching for processed packets. With a little planning, you can fuel your child’s outdoor adventures with food that’s nutritious, delicious and exciting!
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