When out in the hills, having a little something to give you a boost can mean the difference between a happy hike, or a long slog to the hut. Light in weight, but packing a calorie hit, these five snacks are easy to make and are perfect treats for the trail.

#1 Backcountry bliss balls

Backcountry bliss balls. Photo: Mark Banham

These bite-sized balls are the perfect solution to combining leftover tramping snacks. Filled with dried fruit, seeds and nuts, they are delicious, healthy and nutritious too.

#2 Afghans with a twist

Crumble-free Afghans. Photo: Maddy Bellcroft

A new take on a Kiwi classic, these biscuits won’t crumble in your pack and can be made gluten-free to cater for a range of diets. Made with sunflower seeds, coconut and honey, they are energy-rich too.

#3 Spicy nut clusters

Spicy nut clusters. Photo: Maddy Bellcroft

An option for those who prefer the savoury over the sweet, these spicy nut clusters are the perfect way to add variety to your tramping snacks. Made with chili flakes, garam masala and soy sauce, they are packed with flavour.

#4 Sesame honey slice

Sesame honey slice. Photo: Maddy Bellcroft

Sugar, butter, coconut, nuts – this will go the distance in the hills and goes perfectly with a hot cup of tea. It takes just 10 minutes to make and 10 minutes to cook.

#5 The 1000-calorie snack

The 1000-calorie tramping snack. Photo: Hazel Phillips

A treat developed by the Auckland University Tramping Club, this takes the tramping snack to a new level. Ingredients: a snickers bar, a layer of peanut butter, a layer of nutella, and all topped with a walnut.