Portable Game-Day Snacks for Away Trips & Late Kick-Offs

CREATED BY: The Non-League Network

Introduction

Non-league football isn’t always glamorous. Long coach rides, late evening fixtures, and quick turnarounds can make fuelling properly a challenge. 

Unlike the pros, you won’t have a chef-prepared buffet waiting on the bus. That’s why packing the right portable snacks is crucial for staying energised, avoiding stomach issues, and recovering quickly after away trips.

The wrong choice — greasy service-station food or skipping meals — can leave you heavy, sluggish, or drained before you’ve even kicked a ball. The right choice keeps energy levels stable, digestion light, and performance sharp.

Here’s your guide to the best snacks to carry with you for game-days on the road.

Videos:

Best Snacks for Athletes | On-the-Go Nutrition

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiJM3oa_YSk

1. Bananas & Apples

Light, quick carbs with vitamins. Easy to pack and digest before kick-off.

2. Rice Cakes + Nut Butter

A perfect mix of carbs + healthy fats for slow-release energy. Doesn’t sit heavy in your stomach.

3. Trail Mix (Nuts & Dried Fruit)

Protein, healthy fats, and quick sugars combined. Make your own mix to avoid excess salt and chocolate.

4. Protein/Yoghurt Pouches

Squeezy Greek yoghurt or Skyr pouches provide protein on the go. Easy for pre-match or post-match recovery.

5. Wholemeal Wraps (Turkey, Tuna, Chicken)

Portable, filling, and footballer-friendly. Provides carbs + protein without the greasy aftermath of fast food.

6. Oat Bars / Homemade Flapjacks

Oats give long-lasting energy. Pick lower-sugar versions or make your own with oats, honey, and nuts.

7. Electrolyte Drinks or Tablets

Keeps hydration balanced during long coach trips. Add to water rather than relying on fizzy drinks.

8. Carrot or Cucumber Sticks + Hummus Pots

Fresh, light, and full of vitamins. A crunchy alternative to crisps that won’t drain energy.

9. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Compact, protein-rich, and easy to prep. Great for recovery after the game.

10. Dark Chocolate (in moderation)

A small square boosts energy and mood without the crash of milk chocolate or sweets.

Final Tip

When travelling for games, think like a pro. Pack snacks that are light, portable, and balanced in carbs, protein, and hydration. Skip the greasy service-station options — your body will thank you when you’re sprinting in the final 15 minutes.