Embarking on long road trips invites the allure of the open road, the excitement of exploring new scenic routes, and the inevitable question of what road trip food will keep you and the whole family satisfied and energized. Gas stations, convenience stores, and truck stops often become the go-to spots for a quick snack, but the typical fare of potato chips, fast food, and sugary treats can leave you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied.
However, with a little planning, finding healthy road trip snacks that cater to both the taste buds and nutritional needs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. From protein bars and beef jerky to apple slices and string cheese, there are ample options that are not only easy to pack and keep at room temperature but also provide the healthy fats, great sources of protein, and the perfect balance between sweet snacks and salty snacks to please everyone from young kids to adults.
Whether you’re stopping at a rest stop, grocery store, or convenience store along your journey, or you decide to prepare your own trail mix and snacks before leaving, choosing the best road trip snacks is one of the best ways to ensure your next adventure on the long drives is as enjoyable as the destinations you’re heading to.
When you are stocking up on goodies for your next adventure in the car, be sure to think about individual-sized items that are easy to manage on a bumpy road. There are three things to consider when creating your shopping list – convenience, size, and flavor.
You can make your own little to-go baggies at home or purchase pre-made items from your favorite store. Odds are each member of your family has a few personal preferences that you’ll want to take into account when filing up your cooler.
What are the most popular road trip snacks?
The most popular road trip snacks are typically healthy and easy to pack. Some options include trail mix, fresh fruit, vegetables and dip, whole grain crackers, yogurt, granola bars, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, popcorn, whole-wheat pretzels, and dark chocolate. These snacks are all healthy and easy to eat on the go, making them perfect for road trips.
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10 Road Trip Snack Ideas That Are Healthy And Easy To Pack
1. Trail mix – A healthy mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit is the perfect road trip snack. It’s easy to pack and will keep you full until your next stop. This is an item you can either make on your own or purchase pre-assembled.
2. Fresh fruit – An apple or a banana are both easy to eat on the go and much healthier than processed snacks. It might be a good idea to include some of these healthy treats for the kids. Just remember to have a garbage bag ready for the peel.
3. Whole-grain crackers / Multi-grain crackers – These are a healthy alternative to chips and other junk food snacks. Choose a whole-grain variety for added fiber and nutrition. If your kids don’t like this option, be sure to look out for whole-grain Goldfish!
4. Cut up vegetables – Add carrots, celery, or cucumber and pack them with your favorite dip. This is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies while you’re on the road.
5. Dried fruit – Remember that dried fruit can be really high in sugar, so serve this treat in small doses.
6. Granola bars – Granola bars are a healthy and easy snack to pack for the road. Choose a variety with no added sugar for the healthiest option.
7. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich – A classic PB&J is always a good choice for a road trip snack. It’s easy to make ahead of time and you can eat it anytime, anywhere. This is a great option for when the kids start begging to start for a proper meal and you really want to continue driving.
8. Popcorn – Popcorn is a healthy snack option that’s easy to pack and eat on the go. Just be sure to avoid the varieties loaded with butter and salt.
9. Turkey jerky – In moderation, this is a great way to add a handful of protein to your snack trays. Just remember, turkey jerky is loaded with salt.
10. Dark chocolate – A small piece of dark chocolate is a healthy treat that can help satisfy your sweet tooth. Just be sure to choose a brand with a high percentage of cacao for the most health benefits.
These are just a few great road trip snacks to consider. You can also make baggies of Whole Grain Cheerios, Harvest Snaps Green Pea Snack Crisps, rice cakes, seasoned roasted seaweed, or our favorite – BRAD’S KALE CHIPS. YUM! These will blow your MIND.
Of course, don’t forget to hydrate! Stock up on water for the road and save money in the long run. Most people tend to drink more when they are bored. So, prevent unnecessary pit stops for overpriced plastic.
How do you bring snacks on a road trip?
There are a few different ways to bring snacks on a road trip. You can pack them in a cooler, in a bag, or even in your car’s cup holders. If you’re packing perishable items like yogurt or fruit, be sure to pack them in a cooler with ice packs to keep them fresh.
Non-perishable items like granola bars and whole wheat pretzels can be packed separately per passenger. It’s important to keep everything within reach so everyone can grab what they want at ease. The last thing you will want to do is have to PULL OVER and open the trunk to get a snack out whenever your little one is hungry.
Should I eat before a road trip?
It’s a good idea to eat before you hit the road on a road trip. This will help you avoid getting too hungry and will give you the energy you need to make the drive.
It will also save you time by avoiding having to stop for a full meal. The snacks that you are packing – which should be filled with either protein or complex carbohydrates – are meant to sustain you for long stints, but they won’t be able to replace a proper meal. It’s critical you stay full and focused during your trip. So, plan accordingly.
Eating before you hit the road on a road trip is a good idea. This will help you avoid getting too hungry and will give you the energy you need to make the drive.
It will also save you time by avoiding stopping for a full meal. The snacks that you are packing – which should be filled with either protein or complex carbohydrates – are meant to sustain you for long stints, but they won’t be able to replace a proper meal. You must stay full and focused during your trip. So, plan accordingly.
As you anticipate your next road trip along the scenic route, remember that the variety pack of healthy road trip snacks you choose can significantly enhance your experience. Gone are the days when long trips meant relying solely on corn nuts, celery sticks, and the occasional stop for fast food. Today, with options ranging from sunflower seeds and dark chocolate chips to baby carrots, hard-boiled eggs, and water bottles to stay hydrated, there’s no shortage of healthy, tasty, and convenient choices for the whole family.
Whether your go snack is string cheese, beef jerky, or you prefer making your own mix with healthy fats and proteins, these snacks are not only good options for maintaining energy and mood but also for making those long drives feel shorter and more enjoyable.
So, before you hit the road for your next adventure, take a moment to plan and pack a selection of these favorite road trip snacks. They’re not just food; they’re fuel for both the body and the spirit, ensuring that your journey is as memorable as the places you’ll visit. Safe travels, and may your taste buds and health be as well cared for as your miles are long. It’s always a great idea to plan ahead with a pre-packaged snack.