Whether you’re heading out on a cross-country adventure or taking a weekend getaway, road trips offer the perfect opportunity to explore new places and enjoy the open road. One of the best parts of any road trip? The snacks! After all, nothing makes a long drive more enjoyable than having a stash of tasty treats within reach. But with so many snack options out there, it can be hard to know which ones are worth the space in your cooler or bag.
To help you prepare for your next road trip, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Snacks to Pack for Your Next Road Trip—including the essential beef jerky! These snacks are all easy to store, not overly messy, and perfect for fueling you up during pit stops or while you’re cruising down the highway.
1. Trail Mix: The Ultimate Customizable Snack
Trail mix is the perfect snack for a road trip. You can make your own mix with a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chocolate, and other add-ins, or you can buy a pre-made variety. The beauty of trail mix lies in its versatility—you can create a sweet and salty blend that satisfies any craving.
Nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts provide healthy fats and protein to keep you full, while dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots add natural sweetness. You can also toss in some dark chocolate, M&Ms, or pretzels for an extra crunch. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an endlessly satisfying option for munching during your drive.
Pro Tip: If you’re trying to eat healthier on the road, opt for unsweetened dried fruits and raw or roasted nuts without added salt.
2. Beef Jerky: The Classic Road Trip Snack
Beef jerky has long been a road trip staple, and for good reason. It’s portable, shelf-stable, and packed with protein, making it an ideal snack when you’re on the go. Whether you prefer classic beef jerky, teriyaki, or spicy varieties, there’s a flavor for everyone. Jerky is also high in protein, which can help keep you satisfied for hours, especially during long stretches of driving.
Beef jerky is also great because it doesn’t require refrigeration, making it perfect for keeping in your bag or glove compartment. Plus, it’s easy to portion out so you can snack without overdoing it. For a fun twist, look for jerky made from other proteins, such as turkey, bison, or even plant-based jerky for vegetarian or vegan options.
Pro Tip: Look for jerky brands with minimal preservatives or artificial additives for a healthier option. Some small-batch jerky brands also offer unique flavors, such as maple bacon or ghost pepper, if you’re in the mood to try something new.
3. Granola Bars: Easy to Pack, Easy to Eat
Granola bars are another classic road trip snack that’s both convenient and nutritious. They’re easy to pack, don’t make a mess, and come in a variety of flavors to suit your taste. Whether you’re into chewy, crunchy, or protein-packed bars, there’s a granola bar for everyone.
Look for bars with whole ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits, or go for high-protein options if you need something more substantial. You can also find gluten-free or vegan varieties if you have dietary preferences or restrictions.
Pro Tip: Choose bars that have minimal added sugar and artificial ingredients. Some brands offer bars with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which are healthier options.
4. Fresh Fruit: A Sweet and Refreshing Choice
When you’re road-tripping through the countryside or cruising along the coast, it’s nice to have some fresh fruit on hand. Apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes are easy to pack and require no prep work. They’re refreshing, hydrating, and a healthy option when you need a break from the heavy, salty snacks.
You can also take along pre-sliced fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or berries in airtight containers if you have a cooler to keep them fresh. For a more filling option, pair your fruit with a small serving of cheese or nut butter for added protein.
Pro Tip: Choose fruits that don’t bruise easily (like apples or oranges) so they stay fresh and intact during the drive.
5. Cheese and Crackers: A Savory Combo
For a more substantial snack that’s still easy to pack, consider bringing along some cheese and crackers. You can pick up individual cheese portions or small blocks of your favorite cheeses, and pair them with your choice of crackers. The saltiness of the crackers complements the creamy richness of the cheese, making it a satisfying snack.
Opt for whole grain or multigrain crackers for a healthier option, and include some olives, jerky, or cured meats to make a mini charcuterie board on the go.
Pro Tip: If you have a cooler, bring along soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which are a little more indulgent but equally delicious when paired with crackers.
6. Veggie Chips: A Crunchy, Healthier Alternative
If you’re craving something crunchy but want to avoid the usual greasy potato chips, veggie chips are a great alternative. Made from a variety of vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, kale, or carrots, veggie chips provide a similar texture to regular chips but with the added benefit of being lower in fat and higher in nutrients.
Many brands offer baked versions that are lower in calories than fried chips, making them a healthier snack option when you’re on the road.
Pro Tip: Combine veggie chips with hummus or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.
7. Popcorn: Light, Tasty, and Low-Calorie
Popcorn is a low-calorie, high-volume snack that’s perfect for road trips. It’s light, easy to eat, and you can enjoy it without feeling overly full. Popcorn is also rich in fiber, which can help keep your digestive system running smoothly during long trips.
You can pack pre-popped bags of popcorn, or you can pop your own ahead of time. If you’re looking for more flavor, try seasoning your popcorn with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, chili powder, or a bit of Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tip: Stick with air-popped or lightly salted versions to keep things healthy.
8. Energy Balls: Homemade and Wholesome
If you like to prepare your snacks ahead of time, energy balls are a great DIY option. Made from a mixture of oats, nut butter, honey, and seeds, energy balls are easy to make and provide a quick energy boost when you need it most.
You can experiment with different ingredients, such as dried fruit, coconut flakes, or chocolate chips, to create a flavor combination that you love. They’re compact and won’t make a mess in your bag, making them perfect for a no-fuss road trip snack.
Pro Tip: Make a big batch before your trip and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
9. Yogurt Tubes or Pouches: Protein on the Go
If you need something creamy and satisfying, yogurt tubes or pouches are an excellent choice. These convenient, squeezable yogurt snacks don’t require refrigeration (as long as they’re not opened) and are perfect for a quick protein fix during your drive.
Greek yogurt varieties are higher in protein and lower in sugar than traditional yogurt, making them a more filling and nutritious option. You can also look for yogurt pouches with added probiotics for digestive health.
Pro Tip: If you have a cooler, you can pack full-sized containers of yogurt and add granola or fruit for a more substantial snack.
10. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Simple, Nutritious, and Satisfying
Hard-boiled eggs are one of the best snacks you can bring on a road trip if you’re looking for something that’s both nutritious and filling. They’re a great source of protein and healthy fats, and they’ll keep you feeling full longer.
The beauty of hard-boiled eggs is that they’re easy to make ahead of time, don’t require refrigeration for a few hours, and are incredibly portable. Plus, they can be seasoned with salt and pepper or paired with avocado or crackers for extra flavor.
Pro Tip: Peel the eggs ahead of time to make them even more convenient for snacking.
Conclusion
Packing the right snacks can make your road trip much more enjoyable. With a mix of protein-packed options like beef jerky, sweet and savory treats like trail mix, and refreshing fruits and veggies, you’ll be set for any stretch of the journey. Whether you’re in the mood for something crunchy, creamy, or fruity, there’s a snack on this list that will suit your cravings.
So next time you hit the road, be sure to pack some of these top 10 snacks for a smoother, more satisfying ride. Bon appétit and safe travels!
