Not every trip to the beach needs to end with crisps, melted chocolate or expensive snacks from the beach bar. Supermarkets offer plenty of options that are easy to carry, filling, and hold up better during long hours by the sea.
The beach bag is usually packed in a hurry, a bottle of water, a towel, sunscreen and something quick to eat. But not all food is suited to summer's high temperatures. Some items melt, others spoil quickly, while a select few stay tasty and practical even after hours in a bag.
Which snacks hold up best without a cooler
If a portable fridge is not an option, these are some of the most practical snacks available in almost any supermarket.
Roasted nuts. Almonds, cashews, pistachios or mixed nuts in small packets are among the most practical choices. Choose roasted and unsalted, or reduced-salt, varieties, as they are filling without increasing thirst.
Chickpea or fava bean snacks. In recent years, more brands have released crunchy chickpea and fava bean snacks in various flavours. They are a pleasant alternative to crisps and travel well without spoiling.
Wholegrain breadsticks. Whether sesame or multigrain, breadsticks are among the safest beach snacks. Paired with a piece of fruit, they make a small but filling meal.
Cretan rusks (paximadia). Small individual packets of barley rusks fit easily into a bag and don't break easily. With a bottle of water and a tomato on hand, they can even be turned into a quick dako when you get back.
Seeded crackers. Crackers made with oats, flaxseed or sesame are ideal when you want something savoury without being too heavy. They come in many small, easy-to-carry packets.
Popcorn. Ready-made popcorn and other corn snacks, such as puffed corn, without excessive butter or strong flavourings, are among the lightest snacks to bring along. They are also unlikely to melt or spoil in the heat.
Dried fruit. Apricots, prunes, figs or raisins offer natural sweetness for a sugar craving at the beach. Choose products without added sugar.
Nut bars. Look for bars with few, recognisable ingredients, where nuts and fruit are the main components. These are ideal for spending many hours away from home.
Individually packaged olives. The small olive packets now available in most supermarkets are especially practical for day trips and the beach, as they open easily and can be eaten on the spot.
Individually packaged halva. It may not be the first option that comes to mind, but individual halva packets are filling, sweet, and help sustain a feeling of fullness for longer.
Which foods are better left at home
However practical they may seem, sandwiches with cold cuts or mayonnaise, cream-filled desserts, yoghurt and cut fruit are not good choices without a portable fridge. High temperatures encourage bacterial growth, and perishable foods should not be left unrefrigerated for many hours.
If you're planning to spend the whole day at the beach, a small insulated bag with ice packs is the best solution. It allows you to bring along more food options while keeping them safe to eat until you're ready.
