24 Hour Travel Pack
Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved planes. I love the science behind them, the romance they connote, and the effervescent excitement they fill me with. Although it doesn’t take much to get me enthused about the prospect of being a total sloth for 24 hours straight, I am all too versed in how uncomfortable it can get. Particularly around meal times, when the cabin starts to bustle with the excitement of something, anything to break up the seemingly endless cruise through space. But wait! Bread rolls? Cakes? Mountains of pasta and sauces that are probably made from shredded newspapers and cardboard more so than actual food?! Even if you could eat that ‘food’, why would you want to?
Never fear! For I have compiled the perfect pack of travel foods that give your body all of the precious nutrients vital to surviving long haul flights. It is important to remember how much travelling can strain the body; differing time zones, small spaces, and a bunch of strangers (including their germs), can all lead to a pretty uncomfortable time. And unless you are lucky enough to travel with an airline that offers a raw menu (yes, that’s a thing now!), curb your snack attack with this travel pack and you will never look back!
Oh and do I even need to mention the benefits of being able to eat whenever you want…Nobody will dictate my meal times, not even if they are wearing a uniform and look totally cute while doing it.
(Hint: click on the headings to be transported to the recipes)
Dehydrated Fruits
The beauty of dehydrating fruit is when dried under 48C they retain their nutritional benefits and can be considered to still be in the raw food realm. Most of the vitamin, mineral and fibre content remain the same, just without the bulk that moisture imposes, meaning you can pack more into less room!
Pre-cut and thirstily awaiting hot water. I simply cannot get enough of this tea, it’s spicy, warming and seems to re-calibrate my being. Turmeric has an anti-inflammatory known as Curcumin, which is also a proven anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-oxidant. Great for calming the gut and the body when exposed to so many rogue elements. Ginger (along with it’s amazing spice) is said, among other things, to be effective in treating movement-related nausea, stomach upset and joint pain. And lemon is a great anti-oxidant, packed with vitamin C to keep your body clean, fresh and new. Something that is especially important when travelling around different time zones.
Because why not have high tea really really high in the air? You have an option to make these sweet or savoury. Almond meal is an incredibly versatile and protein rich option. Married with a bitey parmesan or honey and mashed banana, they are comforting and filling.
Mixed Berries/Compote
Fresh, seasonal and packed full of antioxidants and Vitamin C. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherries, cranberries- their beautiful natural sweetness teamed with a taught skin and juicy flesh make for a delightful grazing time. Jumping off the plane into a loved ones arms? Rub the cherries across your lips for an irresistible pout.
Cashew Cheese
Cashew cheese is a great alternative for those that are trying to steer clear of dairy. But even for those that aren’t, the benefits of the cholesterol free cashew are insurmountable. High in magnesium and copper, they help protect the joints and encourage the formation of collagen and elastin. High in fibre and low in fat, you can enjoy a delicious creamy cheese without the guilt. To both your body and the animals!
Almond meal crackers are the best. Use the almond meal as a base, and simply add any kind of nut or seed (I do a mix for a range of consistencies and indistinguishable nut flavours), mixed herbs and even a little sweet dried fruit number. So easy and filling, not to mention a perfect crunchy partner to the cashew cheese.
Coconut Wraps
Coconut wraps are sooo amazing. I buy the Sunfood brand and they tick all the boxes; raw, gluten-free, vegan and non-gmo. You can literally put whatever you like in them. If your buying them from iherb, you can use my rewards code and get a discount: KIG694.
Chicken Salad is a great go-to when you’re craving a burst of freshness amongst all that stale recycled air. Rich in protein from the chicken, it will keep you feeling full. And the fibre from the leafy greens are vital in keeping everything ‘running smoothly’, when your body is stagnant for so long. Once again, you can flesh it out with whatever tickles your fancy (keeping in mind your oh-so-close neighbours when experimenting with flavours that bite the nose).
I have screamed of the benefits of activating your nuts, BUT LET ME SCREAM SOME MORE! By soaking nuts overnight, it helps break down the enzymes that can’t naturally be broken down by sensitive stomachs. It is vital these enzymes are broken down in order to sponge all of the nutrients the nuts possess. After soaking, pop them in the dehydrator to crunch them back up again (sticking to the same 48C rule to keep them raw). This spicy Za’taar mix incorporates the beautiful flavours of oregano and thyme. Definitely ‘nut’ to be left unattended.
Making jelly with grape juice is an excellent way to get both protein and collagen from a sweet treat. Collagen is not only essential for healthy bones, skin and hair, but a vital component of having a healthy gut. Your stomach lining strengthens with added collagen (found in gelatin), helping to repair damaged tissue and build muscle. Their quivering bodies hold the secret to not only a satiated sweet tooth, but also are a great go-to when you are unsure about if your stomach is ready for something more complex. I add lemon juice in mine for that sour-y kick. Watermelon is also a fun flavour!
To get all the recipes (and a few more) download my e-book for free!
A big thank you to Trudeau for generously supplying me with their amazing Fuel range. My experience was so simple and clean (no annoying zip lock bags or spillages anywhere!).