By Camryn Buckman
It’s finally winter everyone! No doubt if you are a cold weather enthusiast it’s been the best time of your life under a bunch of blankets and clutching a hot cocoa. But I think we can all agree that we miss summer, right?
To reminisce about the warm nights and blissful poolside moments, let’s talk about some of our classic childhood snacks.
No.1: Ice cream! You scream!
It’s a classic summer treat. Whether it’s a sugary creamy Milo cup or an icy Calippo that drips syrup down your fingers and makes you sticky, or a sorbet if you’ve got the right places, ice cream is the perfect treat for your sweltering days.
No.2: Hot chips and gravy
A staple for every Aussie family during a day out. The sizzle of the golden sticks as they come out fresh and covered in that almost nuclear-coloured chicken salt … baby there’s nothing better. And the gravy is thick and salty with that nice meaty taste we can all agree is like heaven on earth.
No.3: Fruit
That sweet smell of a strawberry or that sour taste of the juicy flesh of a pineapple. There’s something almost primal about being able to chow down on a mango or a watermelon without a care of the mess. It’s that scent of the nostalgia hanging in the air, and it makes you appreciate the moment.
No.4: Lollies
Another sweet, I know. But what’s a pool day without the classic Allens snakes with that delicious fruity taste and waxy coating? Or a bag of musk sticks, or red frogs … whatever your poison, those crinkled lolly bags are a must have when you’re out and diving for those pool rings.
No.5: Sandwich
A nice soft sandwich? Cheese and tomato? Chicken salad? Count us in! Nobody can deny the magic of a fresh sandwich late in the afternoon. The sound of crunchy lettuce and the funky smell of mayo … it’s that crisp summer food which will make you smile with every bite.
No.6: Chippy bags
Bags of chips. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of Dorito dust on your fingers and the nostalgic smell of chlorine in the air. Or settle for a bag of Burger Rings, even if they just disintegrate in wet hands. Grab a bag of Red Rock or some Smiths.
No7: Crackers/biscuits
Oh, a sweet Iced VoVo, a personal favourite of yours truly. That thick pink layer with the buttery biscuit and the fruity jam? It’s heaven. Or maybe you go for a true Aussie classic. Or a big box of Chickadees? Also a favourite of mine. What kind of biscuits or crackers would you guys choose?
No.8: Zooper dooper
That syrupy goodness of a Zooper Dooper can’t be beaten. Try iconic flavours such as bubble gum or fairy floss, which are my personal favourites, or cool yourself off with a tangy lemon or a pineapple.
So what are your favourites? Jump in the pool this summer.
Featured images (clockwise from left): Calippo, Iced Vo Vos, mango, and Doritos. Photos: Ben Sutherland/CC/Wikimedia Commons, Bilby/CC/Wikimedia Commons, Ancelin Bonnet/CC/Wikimedia Commons, Pahz/CC/flickr