Travelling often means facing long journeys, unpredictable meal times, and the temptation of unhealthy convenience foods. For those who want a wholesome, tasty, and portable option, dried apricots are a game-changer. They’re naturally sweet, rich in nutrients, and easy to carry, making them one of the best travel snacks for UK travellers.
In this guide, we’ll explore why dried apricots are perfect for travel, their nutritional benefits, how to store them, and creative ways to enjoy them on the go.
Why Dried Apricots Make Perfect Travel Snacks
When packing for a trip, choosing snacks that are lightweight, non-perishable, and satisfying is key. Dried apricots tick all these boxes:
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Compact and lightweight: A small pouch can hold enough for several days.
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Long shelf life: They keep well without refrigeration, making them ideal for road trips, flights, and outdoor adventures.
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Mess-free: Unlike fresh fruit, there’s no risk of bruising or juice spills in your bag.
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Nutrient-packed: They provide quick energy without relying on artificial sugars.
Whether you’re navigating an airport, hiking in the Lake District, or taking a train across the UK, dried apricots offer a fuss-free solution.
Nutritional Benefits for Travellers
Dried apricots aren’t just convenient—they’re packed with nutrients that can support your health while on the move.
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Natural Energy Boost
Dried apricots are rich in natural sugars like glucose and fructose, providing quick energy without the crash associated with refined sweets. This makes them a great snack before a long sightseeing walk or outdoor activity. -
High in Fibre
Travel often disrupts regular eating patterns, leading to digestive discomfort. The dietary fibre in dried apricots helps maintain healthy digestion, keeping you feeling light and comfortable. -
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
They’re a great source of vitamin A, essential for healthy vision, and potassium, which supports muscle function and hydration balance—especially useful during active trips. -
Antioxidant Support
Antioxidants in dried apricots help combat free radicals, which can be increased by environmental changes, pollution, and sun exposure while travelling.
How to Store and Pack Dried Apricots for Travel
To get the most out of your dried apricots on the road, follow these simple tips:
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Choose resealable pouches: They help maintain freshness and prevent spills.
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Keep them in a cool, dry place: Avoid direct sunlight or high heat, which can make them overly sticky.
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Portion control: Pre-pack small servings to avoid overeating and to make them easy to grab on the go.
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Combine with other snacks: Store them alongside nuts or seeds for a balanced snack mix.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Dried Apricots While Travelling
Eating them straight from the bag is the simplest option, but dried apricots are versatile enough for a range of travel-friendly snack ideas:
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Trail Mix Blend
Mix dried apricots with almonds, cashews, and dark chocolate chips for a satisfying sweet-savoury snack. -
Energy Bites
Combine chopped dried apricots with oats, nut butter, and a drizzle of honey. Roll into bite-sized balls for a compact, no-bake snack. -
Yoghurt Topper
If your accommodation offers breakfast yoghurt, add chopped dried apricots for flavour and texture. -
Cheese Pairing
Dried apricots pair wonderfully with mild cheeses like brie or goat’s cheese, creating a refined snack for picnics or train journeys. -
Oatmeal Upgrade
For self-catering stays, dried apricots can be added to instant oats for a warm, fruity breakfast.
Portion Sizes and Smart Snacking
Although dried apricots are healthy, they are calorie-dense due to their concentrated sugar content. A sensible portion is about 30–40 grams (roughly 6–8 apricot halves). This is enough to provide energy without overloading on sugar.
Pairing dried apricots with protein or healthy fats—such as nuts—can also help balance blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer.
Buying Quality Dried Apricots in the UK
When shopping for dried apricots, keep these points in mind:
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Look for unsulphured options: These have a natural brown-orange colour and are free from sulphur dioxide preservatives, which can cause sensitivities in some people.
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Opt for organic when possible: This ensures fewer pesticide residues and often better flavour.
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Check for freshness: Dried apricots should be plump and slightly soft, not overly dry or hard.
You can find good quality dried apricots at UK supermarkets, health food shops, and online retailers. Buying in bulk can be cost-effective if you travel often.
Sustainable Travel Snacking
Bringing your own dried apricots on trips can also be an eco-friendly choice. By portioning them into reusable containers or fabric snack bags, you can reduce reliance on single-use plastic packaging and avoid unnecessary food waste.
Many UK travellers are adopting this approach, not just for environmental reasons but also because it saves money compared to buying snacks on the go.
Final Thoughts
Dried apricots are a simple yet powerful travel snack. They offer natural sweetness, essential nutrients, and incredible portability—everything you need to stay energised and satisfied while on the move.
From quick bites on a train to mid-hike fuel in the countryside, they fit seamlessly into any journey. With a bit of preparation and creativity, dried apricots can make your travel snacking both healthier and more enjoyable.