Since you can't always count on in-flight food to satisfy your hunger or provide you with the healthiest options for meals and snacks, I like to bring my own food while traveling. Not only does this ensure you receive the energy-rich nutrients you need while on-the-go, it also guarantees you will enjoy the food, since it was hand selected by none other than yourself!

I used to always eat the airplane food because I thought hey, if I paid for this plane ticket, I want to get every dollar out of the airline I can! However, over time I realized that in-flight food selections were not always the tastiest or healthiest options. Sure, there are a few items I enjoy, but you never know when they’ll change up the menu or sell out of your favorite item. You also never know when your flight will be delayed, leaving you hungry in the airport terminal, or even stranded on the tarmac without food and beverage service.

Here are some quick, easy and healthy options to consider packing on your next trip:

TRAIL MIX

Creating your own trail mix is a great way to arm yourself with a satisfying snack that keeps you energized as you make your long journey. Making it yourself allows you to avoid the airport upcharge for pre-made mixes and tailor your trail mix to your taste. My trail mix always includes peanuts, cashews, dried cranberries, raisins, and pieces of dark chocolate or M&Ms.

CHEESE AND CRACKERS

Sliced cheese and a stack of crackers is a super satisfying snack and may I add pairs perfectly should you decide to order up a glass of wine aboard your flight. While you'll probably want to avoid smellier cheeses that could cause you to make enemies on the plane, a mild cheese will certainly be fine to take aboard. Make the crackers whole wheat and add in some sliced salami and the combination of fiber and protein will help you stay full longer.

FRUIT

A carry-on bag filled with fresh fruit will allow you to snack all flight long without tons of calories or fat. Healthy and easy to eat fruits like bananas, apples, grapes and berries nourish your body and enhance your health. Be sure to wash fruit before you leave home so they'll be ready to snack on during your travels. If you’re bringing sliced fruit, toss with fresh or bottled lemon juice and store in an airtight bag or container to prevent the fruit from going brown.

GRANOLA BARS

This is a great snack to keep on hand because it’s super easy to toss into your purse or carry on. I also like bringing granola bars because not only do they make good in-flight snacks, they’re also good for a quick and cheap breakfast option while you’re traveling. Feel free to bring along a couple different varieties and flavors to keep snacking fun.

POPCORN

“Pop” on an in-flight movie and pull out some pre-popped popcorn from home and you’ll feel like you’re at the movies, rather than a cramped airplane! Movies are also a great way to make the time "fly" by, just don’t forget to bring your headphones. Choose whatever popcorn variety you prefer, plain, buttered or kettle corn and transport in a gallon sized plastic baggie. Popcorn is high in fiber, so will help keep you full. Just go easy on the butter for health reasons and to avoid buttery fingers in-flight.

Bonus Tip: Bring an empty nalgene bottle to fill up with water once you get past security. This will save you the cost of a high priced water from the airport and ensure you have something to drink while waiting for your plane or in between beverage service. Spice up your water by adding some fruit. Slice ahead of time and add to the nalgene bottle or invest in one of these cool Fruit Infuser Water Bottles below. Try strawberries, raspberries, cucumbers, oranges or even adding mint. Add lemon juice to any sliced fruit to keep from browning and add the flavor.

What’s your favorite snack to bring aboard?