travel snack pack

33 Easy Travel Snacks for your Airplane Carry-On Bag

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When I travel, the foodie in me always has to bring snacks for the trip. I always plan for easy travel snacks for a few reasons. For starters I’m not always sure what terminal I’ll be in at the airport so the food choices might get dicey once I get past security. Next, depending on the airline I’m flying there might not be great options once I board the plane (we’ve all been there). Lastly, I like to be prepared when I’m traveling even when I arrive at my final destination to have quick portable fuel sources on hand for when *hangry* hits in the form of easy travel snacks.

In this blog post I’ve compiled all of my favorite easy travel snacks into one ultimate packing list for your carry-on bag and I’ll walk you through my process for what to consider when selecting the best snacks to bring on a plane.

How to Pack Easy Travel Snacks for your Carry-On Bag

Depending on the length of my trip I usually bring a variety of snacks intended to carry-on a plane. I consider these easy to pack snacks, snacks that travel well, and also snacks that fall into the healthy(ish) convenience food category following these guidelines: 

• Food I can’t find at my final travel destination

Drink Mixers

• Airport Snacks (snacks to bring on a plane and at the airport terminal)
• Emergency snacks (for when I’m super hungry)
• Perishables
• Non-Perishables
• Sweet Treats/Comfort Items

These categories might look a little different for you but it helps to determine what you might need at least a week before your trip so that you have time to shop around. This will also help to keep your trip planning a little less stressful so that you can spend your time concentrating on the last minute things you need to do before you go out of town.

To verify what easy travel snacks you can and cannot carry on flights check out TSA’s security guidelines and the rules of each country for International flights. Keep in mind that TSA considers foods like yogurts and cooked oatmeal as “gels” and they will be confiscated at security (I learned this the hard way). For any other liquids review the guidelines but generally speaking most liquids and gels are allowed if they are less than 3.4oz/100 ml.

How to Transport your Easy Travel Snacks

My last consideration for packing easy travel snacks are the containers the food will travel in. For the most part I lean towards things that are easy to dispose of like foil, wax paper, plastic baggies, and repurposed takeout containers. However, in consideration of the environment I often try to lean to more sustainable options if I can, such as: silicon bags, collapsible cups, collapsible bowls, insulated containers, and beeswax paper. 

The con to these items is you will have to carry them in your luggage throughout your trip. But the pro of these items is being environmentally responsible, having a vessel you can reuse throughout your trip for something else, and some of these containers can keep your snacks from getting crushed, hot, or cold (triple bonus). 

I like Stasher Bags and Zip Top Bags for a reusable bag option. Both of these brands are super durable, always hold up really well for traveling, and are great to repurpose for other easy travel snacks on a trip. 

Silicone Bags

Stasher Bags

These are great reusable bags for packing your travel snacks on the go.

Zip Top Bags

We love these bags for items that can’t lay flat! The structure of the bag makes it easy to carry your snacks and keep them from being crushed in your carry-on luggage.

Collapsible bowls have also been one of my favorites for eating things like oatmeal on the go and pre-made meals I might travel with (in an effort to clean out my fridge before I head out of town). I also like these collapsible cups from Stojo to make drinks portable and they don’t take up much room. If you have space for something bigger I like using the Snack Swell thermos containers for some travel foods on my trips since its a small insulated container to keep food hot or cold.

Bowls and Cups

Stojo Collapsible Bowl

We are loving the STOJO Collapsible Bowl. This holds 36oz and is a reusable silicone bowl for hot and cold food which makes it perfect for travel, meal prep, to-go Lunch, camping, and hiking. This is also microwave & dishwasher safe.

S’well S’nack Food Container

We love the S’well S’nack Stainless Steel Food Container. It’s 24 ounces and great for holding food you are traveling with that you want to keep hot or cold. This will keep your food for 8 Hours Hot for 6 Hours Cold.

This is a smaller version of the bigger S’nack by S’well Food Container. Its 10oz and has Double-Layered Insulated walls to keep food and drinks cold for 10 hours and hot for 4 hours!

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

This collapsible travel cup comes with a straw and holds 16oz of liquid. Its reusable and pocket size for hot and cold drinks making it perfect for travel, camping, and hiking. Like the other Stojo products its microwave and dishwasher safe.

If you are traveling with any items that must stay at a colder temperature these PackIt Freezable pouches are a great option to transport your food. The PackIt Freezable pouch has groundbreaking cooling technology that includes freezable gel that is permanently built into the bag so that you don’t need to deal with separate ice packs.

To start collapse the bag flat and freeze in the freezer overnight until you are ready to use it. You can add any of the easy travel snacks that are perishable items in this post to store in this bag. You can also keep this item throughout your trip for other easy to pack snacks.

PackIt Freezable Pouch

This is our favorite travel product for traveling with items that are perishable and need to remain cold like yogurt and cheese. Simply pop the pouch in the freezer the night before your trip and it will keep your perishable snacks at the correct temperature for a few hours. This collapsible and folds up and comes in many colors!

My last favorite sustainable travel item is reusable wax paper. I like using the Bee’s Wrap brand. It takes a bit to get used to if you normally use regular wax paper. If you have a few baked goods, sandwiches etc. to carry while traveling it comes in handy to reuse a few times and store it completely flat in your carry on bag.

Bee’s Wrap

This Bee’s Wrap is an assorted 3 Pack great sustainable option. It’s plastic and silicone free reusable beeswax in 3 sizes great for traveling with sandwhiches.

Freezable Pouch

Freezable pouch

Order of Operations For Your Easy Travel Snacks

If you are planning to take some snacks to the airport for future travel plans my suggested cheat sheet of how to go about eating your easy travel snacks includes a simple order of consumption:

• Eat your perishable items first (for obvious reasons)
• Pack napkins and/or wet wipes (these are not always available as you are on the go)
• If you are bringing whole fruit wash these items before you get to the airport and use your napkin or paper towel as the vessel to carry the item (it also doubles as a napkin as you eat your fruit)
• Pack some travel utensils (for any snacks that require some deep diving or for complete meals)

Travel utensil set

Portable utensil set

Bamboo utensil set

My favorite snacks to bring on a plane.

Below is an easy travel snack list I’ve compiled of my favorite airport (and TSA) friendly snacks. I’ve grouped the items into perishable vs. non-perishable categories since I often will travel with a few perishable items that I strategize to eat first and then work my way through the rest of my snack stash either on the trip or eat other items during a longer flight to tide me over until I reach my destination. 

Perishable Easy Travel Snacks

For perishable easy travel snacks I always tend to pack food that can last a while at room temperature. Regardless of the length of your flight you’ll want items that won’t go bad in case it takes a while to get through security or to the airport (we’ve all been there!). Or even worse if your flight is delayed (done that!). On my list I usually include:

Cured Meats and Deli Meats

This includes salami, pastrami, pepperoni, ham, and turkey. These are great options because they can travel well at room temperature for short periods of time.

I think everyone loves cheese (even us lactose intolerant folks) and it travels well for short periods of time at room temperature. Some of my favorite cheese options are the Babybel Gouda Semisoft Cheeses. I like these because they have their own carrying case with the wax they are packaged in which qualifies the product as easy travel snack in my book.

My next favorite is Trader Joe’s Tapas cheese (it’s amazing! Grab it if you have a TJs near you). This includes several slices of three types of cheese including: Iberico, Cabra Al Vino (a.k.a. “ Drunken Goat “), and Manchengo. I really enjoy how the flavors in this set are so different and it feels very fancy while you are enjoying them.

Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are one of the best snacks for traveling. I typically boil eggs once a week so I’ll grab 2-4 for a flight or whatever is left over in my fridge for the week (this is also a good way to clean out your fridge before you head out of town). You can also purchase eggs that are already boiled from almost any local grocery store for an easy travel snack on an airplane.

Another fun option for hard boiled eggs is from a brand called Perfectly Peckish which sells hard boiled eggs in packs with a fun crunchy dip. Their selection includes:

• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & EVERYTHING Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & FRIED RICE Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCHEROS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & SALT & PEPITAS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCH Dip

Check out their store locator to find a store that sells these near you .

Crackers and/or Bread

I personally can’t have cheese and cured/deli meat without crackers or bread! These are easy to transport and can be stored at various temperatures which make them a great addition to your carry-on bag for an easy snack pairing (and crunch)!

I love fruit for an easy snack that travels well. The fruit that travels the best are apples, bananas, oranges, kiwi, and grapes. I like these fruits because they have their own “skin” which can serve as its own carrying case so that they don’t get squashed (thanks mother nature!).

For oranges you can even pre-slice these and add them to a travel container or baggie to eat right out of the peel (or peel them later). And for kiwi I like slicing these in half and using a spoon to scoop out the insides for easy eating. If you have never tried Golden Kiwi its a real treat (they taste like a cross between a mango and a strawberry)!

Putting It Together

Combining these items also creates a nice balance for traveling to ensure you have enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates for fuel while on the go. You can also pair the meats, cheese, and crackers or bread and make a makeshift sandwich in a pinch (great easy travel snack idea!). You can also grab some pre-made snack boxes for a perishable option to take through security.

Non-Perishable Travel Snacks

My favorite non-perishable easy travel snack list is a bit longer. I group these by foods I might eat on the plane or at my final destination as I get hungry or peckish.

I eat oatmeal almost daily when I’m home for breakfast so it’s an item I always travel with especially internationally since it’s not something that all countries will provide for breakfast. It’s also a really nice snack on a plane since you just need water to make it. You can use one of the collapsible bowls or cups I mentioned above as the vessel to make these in or any disposable cup at the airport. I typically use the McCann Irish Oatmeal brand because it’s very hearty as a travel snack or the Unsweetened Individual Oatmeal packets from Trader Joe’s .

Bringing nuts on a flight can be controversial so be sure to read your airline’s individual rules regarding what is allowed. I like going for the individually portioned nuts that are completely sealed in case I can’t eat them on a particular flight due to restrictions or nut allergies. If that’s the case I can always have them as a snack at my final destination.

My favorite nut options for an easy travel snack include: 

• Macadamia Nuts
• Trail Mix (for something different)

Crunchy Snacks

Personally I’m a big fan of crunchy snacks in general but definitely when I travel. I think it’s nice to have a variety of items on hand. For this category I pack:

I usually air pop popcorn and bring it in my reusable silicon bag for trips. Did you know that you can air pop popcorn in a brown paper bag in the microwave? I also like these individually wrapped White Cheddar Popcorn bags from Smartfood .

Peanut Butter Crackers

I also like bringing Peanut Butter Crackers as easy travel snacks for my final destination. These have saved me many times while traveling to have something to tide me over until my next meal.

There’s something nostalgic about Chex Mix that just makes it a travel staple! I use to have these all the time as a kid on trips. I usually will grab the individual baggies for my carry-on bag.

I also always grab Cheez-Its for a fun crunchy cheesy snack.

Moon Cheese

These are a newer to me product. I saw them once at Starbucks and then purchased them last year from Target and I’m a fan! These are little cheese balls that come in different flavors. If you like cheese and something with a crunch you’ll like these little cheese balls as a snack.

Anytime I think of pretzels I think of that Seinfeld episode “these pretzels are making me thirsty” but they still make for a great easy travel snack!

Veggie Straws

Veggie straws are the perfect easy travel snack to take on the go! They are both crunchy and salty which you is always needed on the road.

Marinated Vegetables

This might be an odder pick but eating vegetables on the go is hard so I love this option. POSHI Vegetable Snacks offers a marinated steamed portable snack option. If you like pickled vegetables you will like these! Plus you can add a little fiber to you day while in transit.

Snack Olives

If you’ve never had olives while on an airplane you are missing out! Something about eating olives at 42,000 feet cruising in the air is a totally different experience. I like buying these Olives to Go from the grocery store and Trader Joe’s also sells individually packed Olive packs which are so yummy. I was inspired to add Olives to my easy travel snack list after having the Mediterranean Travel Snack box on a United Flight which has a great mix of olives, bruschetta, hummus, and chocolate almonds as a great snack mix.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a really fun easy travel snack! My favorite picks are dried apples and mangoes. They make such a sweet treat and they are also crunchy (or chewy).

When traveling with dips always choose brands that are shelf stable so that they can fall into the perishable category. If you go this route you should plan to consume the entire package in your trip since they will need to be refrigerated once opened.

Something Sweet

Honey stinger organic waffles.

Honey Stinger Organic Waffles are sweet yummy waffles that double as a healthy(ish) treat. These pack really easily in your carry-on or a day pack on your trip and make them one the best snacks for traveling.

Brownies & Cookies

Brownies and Cookies fall into a comfort item category for me. It’s nice to always have a sweet treat on hand but also something you are familiar with. I like the Nature’s Bakery brand Brownies and old faithful Nabisco Cookies like Oreos.

Fruit Snacks

Pink panda/snack owl.

I recently discovered a new brand called Pink Panda which offers high fiber fruit snacks. Why high fiber fruit snacks? Because fiber is such a hard micro nutrient to consume when you are traveling and I like that these snacks trade the sugar for fiber when it comes to carbohydrates in the snack. These come in two varieties: Astro Blasters and Treasure Chews. I’ve had both and think they taste yummy (you’d really never know there is no sugar in these)! And it’s only 90 calories for the entire bag.

If you are interested in trying out this new brand use our code “BREADANDBUTTERPANDA10” for 10% off if you order directly on their website . Pink Panda fruit snacks are also available on Amazon below.

Smart Sweets

I’ve been eating SmartSweets for years! They are similar to the Pink Panda brand but I’m not really sure which I like more. These are also high fiber fruit snacks and I really enjoy them for traveling. My favorites to date have been the Sour Blast Buddies and the Peach Rings.

Other Fruit Snacks

As you can tell I really love fruit snacks! My other favorites for travel and just as a general comfort item are Gushers and Fruit by the Foot. I also really like fruit leather and the “That’s It” brand is a great option for something healthy(ish) when it comes to fruit snacking.

Honey Stinger Energy Chews

Honey Stinger Energy Chews is an organic candy that’s great to chew and eat before, during, or after activity (especially when flying if your ears ring at high altitudes). It has multiple carbohydrate sources including glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose.

I discovered this candy while on vacation in Hawaii. I think the best way to describe these are somewhere between candy and a gummy since they are chewy. I like Mango as my favorite flavor. Amazon offers a variety box if you want to check these out.

Protein Snacks

Protein is always hard for me to get in even when I’m not traveling so I always like to bring some protein snacks with me just in case. These are really great to cure hangry when you need some  stabilizing energy.

Pepperoni Sticks

These are new to me but I started eating Pepperoni sticks last year as a quick snack when I was out doing errands. That makes them perfect for an easy travel snack! The two brands I’ve liked so far are Vermont and Applegate Naturals. To me the flavors of these taste the most neutral for dried meat and come in a casing so it’s easy to eat and move on to the next thing.

Protein Bars

Protein Bars can sometimes leave an aftertaste in my opinion so there are not too many tasty ones that have a balanced calorie to protein ratio. My favorite pick so far as been Barebells Protein Bars which come in a variety of flavors and have 20 grams of protein per bar. I’ve been able to find these on Amazon and at Trader Joe’s so far. If you don’t typically like protein bars give these a try for something a bit different.

Protein Powders

I like to travel with protein powders that are individually wrapped since protein is often difficult to fit in when on the go. Most protein powder servings will have at least 18 grams of protein which is a great boost to hold you over until your next meal.

You can mix your protein powder in with some bottled water at the airport. As a great hack you can also find a bistro, Starbucks, or Dunkin Donuts in the airport and request a milk of your choice in a bigger cup to add your protein powder for an easy travel snack.

Collagen Peptides

I’m also a big fan of collagen peptides! Collagen is not a complete protein but it works well in a pinch to supplement other sources of protein for the day. It’s not completely tasteless but the flavor isn’t too strong. I prefer to dissolve these packets in water or hot coffee while traveling. They come in individual sticks which make them easy to transport. Collagen is also really great for nail and hair growth and has really helped my joints.

Granola and Fruit Bars

Something about granola bars are so nostalgic to me and I love to bring them as an easy travel snack. They travel really well on planes and are also great for in your day bag at your final destination.

I like the Nature Valley, Made Good, and Nature Bakery brands.

Peanut Butter

Again, a controversial pick for travel since usually peanuts are not allowed on all flights but I must have peanut butter with me as a basic comfort food while traveling! If I can’t have these on the plane I just eat them at my final destination. I like the JIF To Go Natural Peanut Butter cups that come individually packaged and will eat them as is, or with something I buy at the airport for some extra fat and protein. My second pick is the Justin’s Honey Peanut Butter brand which comes in a packet making it one of the best snacks for traveling.

Dehydration is real when you travel! I have two easy solutions to stay hydrated when you are on the go. These are not exactly an easy travel snack but they will come in handy while on the go.

I recently started using GoHydrate this spring as a way to stop my leg muscles from cramping and get my water levels up. GoHydrate is a water enhancer which makes it a great option if you are not particularly a fan of drinking water. I started thinking that this would also be excellent for travel due to the individual packets which make them great for on-the-go. GoHydrate provides almost instant hydration by delivering 5 electrolytes immediately to your body. Those electrolytes are: calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium.

This water enhancer also provides 40%+ of the recommended daily Vitamin D dose that most of of are deficient in due to sitting inside so often. To use GoHydrate just pour the pre-packaged stick into 20-24oz of water and drink. If you’d like to order GoHydrate I suggest ordering their mixed 10 stick sample box or their 30 stick sample box to see which flavor you like before stocking up on their 30 box sets of one flavor. My favorite flavors so far have been Lemon Citrus , Kiwi Strawberry , and Fruit Punch if you need a flavor recommendation.

True Honey Tea

We found this brand True Honey Tea at a farmers market last year and its been our favorite tea! Based in Virginia these are tea bags that have honey granules already in the tea. We really like the Earl Gray (add some half and half to make a London Fog) and also the Peppermint tea for a really great non perishable travel snack.

My next favorite drink mixer to travel with is from Cusa Tea . This brand was recommended to me by a friend who uses them while hiking. The best part is you don’t have to walk around with a wet tea bag once you prepare your tea. The flavors Cusa Teas has are unreal. I started with their Iced or Hot Variety Pack and the flavors are so delicious, truly premium tea with no sugar or artificial ingredients. I’ve tried this both in iced and hot tea and they work great. You can use these just by ordering hot water while on at the airport, on the plane, or at your final travel destination. 

If iced tea is more your style I’ve used them in even room temperature water (though cold water is better) and they dissolve no problem with no grainy stuff at the bottom. They are not sweetened so if you like sweet tea I suggest adding a sugar packet or something like Truvia to lightly sweeten the drink. My favorite flavors so far have been Blueberry Chrysanthemum and Hibiscus Rose . I recommend starting with the variety pack so that you can figure out which flavor you like before committing to an entire pack.

I typically buy a large water bottle once I get through security to keep with me in the airport and on the plane. If you don’t like buying water I suggest traveling with a stainless steel water bottle that you can fill up at the airport and throughout your trip. Our favorite travel options include Swell , Iron Flask, Yeti, and Stanley water bottles as great options that close.

Travel Water Bottles

S’well Stainless Steel Traveler

This S’well Stainless Steel Traveler is 20 Fl Oz and is Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated to keep Coffee, Tea and Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 15 Hours.

Stanley IceFlow Tumbler

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw is a Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for Travel, the Office or a road trip. Its a reusable cup with a straw Leakproof Flip. The Stanley IceFlow will keep your drink cold for 12 Hours or Iced for 2 Days. This comes in various colors!

YETI Rambler Bottle

The YETI Rambler Water Bottle holds 26 oz of liquid and is vacuum insulated with a Chug Cap.

Which Easy Travel Snacks Are Your Favorites?

What easy travel snacks do you like to bring on your trips ? Did I miss any easy to pack snacks that you would recommend? Keep these travel snacks in mind for your next trip to beat hangry.

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This post is perfect timing! We’re taking the family to Disney World in two weeks and I have “travel snacks” on my to-do list! I love the high fiber gummy options, my little one struggles while we travel, so these will be perfect! Oh, and I have both the Emerald Nut Packs and the Nature’s Bakery bars as my car snacks, they are perfect, so I never have to hit the drive-thru!

Disney World sounds so fun! Yes, any sort of extra fiber on a trip makes things so much easier for all of us. And in candy form even better. I hope you get to try them 🙂 -Monica

I often bring a small container (2-3 TBSP to 3.3 oz) of reconstituted PBfit (or other powdered peanut butter) with sugar snap peas or carrot sticks for a tasty healthy snack. Also bring small containers of the powdered peanut butter to mix with water later. Frozen grapes and frozen bean/veggie or egg and spinach wraps can be used to keep food cold and are healthy snacks when thawed.

Those are great ideas!

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The Best Healthy Travel Snacks You Can Pack in Your Carry-On

Eating healthy and traveling may not always seem like they go together. And just looking around at the airport food options, it's no surprise why. It can often feel like the odds are stacked against you and your desire to be healthy.

Your greatest defense against the abundance of unhealthy temptations on the road are healthy snacks. Whether you pack them ahead of time or grab them on-the-go, strategic snacking can help keep you on track to meet your health and fitness goals anywhere in the world.

When choosing snacks, focus on the nutritional value and the macronutrients to simplify the decision-making process. The foods you consume should provide you with vitamins, fiber, protein and healthy fats. Aim to limit things like carbohydrates and sugars, except in fruits and vegetables.

There are, of course, a few other things to consider when selecting snacks for air travel. TSA guidelines require that liquids carried on board aircraft be less than 3.4 fluid ounces, and this includes some foods (think: peanut butter and yogurt). You might also want to consider the smell of certain foods. While sardines, smoked salmon and tuna are great high-protein snacks, they are not the best thing to open on an airplane .

We've narrowed down the choices to three categories: protein, nuts and fruits and vegetables. All three will keep you energized and fill you up while you're on the road.

On-the-Go Protein

Protein is a macronutrient that does powerful things for our bodies, and numerous studies have shown that a high-protein diet will improve metabolic health and weight loss. Snacks that are high in protein will help you build muscle and strength, while keeping you full and reducing the likelihood of cravings and unhealthy snacking.

You know exactly what you're getting with RXBAR : the tasty, albeit very chewy bars have their ingredients printed in bold on the packaging. Typically egg whites, nuts and dates for sweetness. With all natural flavors and 12 grams of protein, it's a snack you can feel good about. (Try the chocolate sea salt one!)

Quest Bars also have a short list of ingredients, and there's no added sugar, though they do have a bit of an aftertaste. There's also a wide range of flavors — more than 20 that we know of — including Maple Waffle, Mocha Chocolate Chip, Rocky Road, Strawberry Cheesecake and Chocolate Peanut Butter. In addition to the variety, Quest also pack about 20 grams of protein in each bar.

With both an egg-white option ( Epic Performance Bars ) and the original grass-fed meat version — beef, pork, bison, even lamb and wild boar — Epic Bars are a great Paleo-friendly travel snack. Both contain approximately 12 grams of protein per bar and are gluten and soy-free.

EXO Protein Bars include an ingredient that might initially turn you off, but hear me out. Cricket powder is a great source of protein and there's no buggy taste! Plus, crickets are much better for the planet than more mainstream protein sources. They emit fewer greenhouse gases, use less water and require less space and food. EXO protein bars are now even available on some JetBlue flights.

Nuts are a great snack for traveling due to their small size and high concentration of healthy fats, protein and fiber. You'll feel energized and full, making it less likely that you'll indulge in unhealthier food options at the airport.

While many airlines offer a variety of nuts as an in-flight snack option, you can also plan ahead and pack your own. Sahale Snacks make all-natural nut blends that include almonds, cashews pecans, pistachios and peanuts, while also adding in dried fruits to sweeten things up.

There are also nut butters, which are incredibly tasty, but the TSA considers them a liquid, so opt for travel-friendly packets. A personal favorite of mine is Justin's Almond Butter . Combine almond butter with apple slices or celery sticks, and you'll have a complete, healthy snack for your next flight.

Farm-to-Flight

When it comes to healthy snacking, you must consider the nutritional value of food. Long days in airports and hotels can make it difficult to get the proper vitamins and nutrients your body needs, so concentrate on eating fruits and vegetables throughout the day.

Bare Snacks makes fruit and veggie chips that taste great and contain few ingredients: basically just sliced and baked fruits and vegetables, with no additives or preservatives. Banana, apple, sweet potato, beet and carrot chips are just a handful of the options available.

Kale Chips are also a great option, and Rhythm Superfoods seasons theirs with tasty flavors. The chips are crispy and the ingredients are recognizable (seeds, spices, cane sugar, apple cider vinegar and, of course, kale).

You can also pack your own fruits and vegetables before you fly. Baby carrots, apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries and blueberries all make for convenient snacks and are loaded with vitamins, nutrients and fiber. Try putting them in a small container and packing them in your carry-on for your next trip. Just remember, some restrictions apply if you're flying internationally or between certain US territories (or states like Hawaii) and the mainland.

The Bottom Line

Don't allow yourself to make bad food choices while traveling just because it may be more convenient. Plan for healthy snacking before you travel by packing food options that will satisfy your hunger while also fueling your body. Feeling great when you arrive at your destination is based largely on what you eat en route.

Chris Castellano is a travel fitness specialist and the founder of Fittest Travel . He recently self-published his first book, "Fit For Travel: Your Guide to Losing Weight and Feeling Great While Traveling."

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17 Dietitian-Approved Healthy Travel Snacks to Pack on Your Next Trip

Pack these dietitian-approved, healthy travel snacks on your next trip. Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, these are some of the most nutritious, filling, and tasty snack options to bring with you.

Never, and I mean never, travel without healthy snacks – that’s my motto. Snack options on the road or in flight can be unpredictable and aren’t usually the most nutritious. So, when “hanger” strikes mid-road trip or plane ride I like to be armed with some nutritious and filling, healthy travel snack options. Planning for and packing nutritious snacks is also proven to reduce hanger-induced fights with your travel companion. 😉

Why pack healthy travel snacks?

Picture this: you’re two hours into your road trip, your stomach is making more noise than the radio, and you have zero snacks in the car. What happens next? You find the next gas station, buy any and all snacks in sight, and devour them in ten seconds flat.

What happens after that? Thirty minutes to an hour later you’re craving more snacks! Why? When you wait for hunger levels to skyrocket and find yourself in the snack aisles of a gas station, you’re more likely to choose the Cheetos and Oreos over one of the few nutritious options.

Although tasty, these refined, fiber-less and sugar-rich snacks send your blood sugar levels on a roller coaster. You might get a quick boost of energy, which is inevitably followed by a steep crash in blood sugar levels, leaving you tired, moody, and craving more junk food.

That’s why planning for and packing some healthy travel snack options is a gamechanger when travelling! It’ll help you make more nutritious and less impulsive choices when you’re in a pinch.

What to look for in a healthy travel snack

You’re on board, you’re ready to plan some healthy travel snacks for your upcoming trip, but you have no clue what to buy. What makes for a healthy travel snack?

First, I typically avoid using packaging claims like “organic”, “natural”, or “non-GMO” to guide my snack choices. There’s a health-halo surrounding these claims – we assume they must mean the product is a healthy choice, when in reality, the claims have little to nothing to do with the nutritional value of a food.

Instead, I use a food product’s built-in cheat sheet, the nutrition label (when it applies)! I look for 4 things:

• Calories: Ideally you want a snack that’s around 150 to 250 calories. This is one of the few times I use calorie counts as a dietitian and that’s because I do feel it serves as a good measure of portion control here. If it happens to be slightly under or over, no biggie. Use this as a general guideline.
• Fiber: Fiber is my favorite f-word! It helps fill you up without filling you out, and helps keep blood sugar levels stable so you’re not hungry every 30 minutes of travel. I look for at least a few grams of fiber OR at least a 10:1 ratio of total carbs to fiber. For example, if something has 20 grams total carbs, at least 2 of those grams should be coming from fiber.
• Protein: Fiber and protein are a powerful, satiating and hunger-squashing duo. Look for at least 5 to 10 grams. If there’s more, great!
• Added sugar: Added sugars are the sugars added to foods and beverages during the manufacturing process. They are different from natural sugars – those found naturally in foods like fruits. The new nutrition label requires manufacturers to call out grams of added sugar, and most brands have adopted this new label by now. The closer to zero here the better, but ideally try to keep added sugar to no more than 5 grams.

In general, aim for a combo of protein and fiber in your healthy travel snacks – whether the snack item inherently has both (like roasted chickpea snacks) or you have to piece together more than one food to get both (like a banana with almond butter). 

Best Dietitian-Approved Healthy Travel Snacks

Keeping the guidelines above, plus convenience and portability in mind, here are my top X favorite healthy travel snacks.

First, let’s start with an easy one, fruit! I typically recommend fresh fruit when possible but understand eating some fresh fruits can get messy. If traveling with fresh fruit isn’t your thing, try unsweetened dried fruit instead.  It’s much easier to find unsweetened varieties than it used to be. You can find unsweetened dried fruits at many grocery store chains, like Trader Joe’s and even these tasty Good & Gather Unsweetened Dried Apple Rings from Target.

Even though fruit is rich in filling fiber and you can certainly eat it on its own, I always recommend adding some protein to it. Adding protein can help satiate you even more and can help slow digestion and buffer blood sugar spikes.

What are some good proteins to pair fruit with? See the next 6 snack choices listed!

Nuts are full of protein and fiber on their own but can also add a protein boost when paired with carb sources like fruit. Almonds and cashews make for great snacking options, but my personal favorite snack nut is pistachios. One serving of pistachios is 49 nuts – that’s a lot of nuts!

I recommend buying them in shell because taking the time to open each nut serves as a mindful eating technique and helps you slow down your snacking. I love these salt and pepper seasoned Wonderful Pistachios.

Nut Butter Packets

I repeat, nuts are a good source of protein and fiber, so this still holds true of them when blended into nut butter form. Just be sure to lookout for added sugar on the nutrition label. You can bring a whole jar with you or look for the individual nut butter packets which are very convenient for travel.

My favorite nut butter is the RXBAR Vanilla Almond Butter . It’s got an extra boost of protein from egg whites and it’s lightly sweetened naturally from the natural sugars in dates.

String Cheese

Is it string cheese or cheese sticks? Whatever you call them, they’re cheese in one of its most portable forms! Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium – a mineral that’s often lacking in the average American diet.

You can enjoy this protein-rich snack on its own, but if you need a little energy boost (hello, carbs), this is a good one to pair with some fruit!

Whisps Cheese Crisps

Cheese in portable form part 2. These cheese crisps are a newcomer to the cheese market. They’re essentially baked cheese that’s turned hard and crunchy. Whisps have at least 10 grams of protein per serving and are made from one ingredient: cheese!

You can enjoy this protein-rich snack on its own, but if you need a little energy boost (hello, carbs), this is another good one to pair with some fruit!

Hard-Boiled Eggs

So many great things to say about the incredible egg. Eggs are another excellent, yet smelly protein source. Just be sure to warn your travel companion about the smell before eating one! One egg has a whopping 7 grams of protein. Travel tip: peel the eggs before you pack them.

If you’re feeling fancy or simply bored of plain hard-boiled eggs, try these Peckish eggs. They’re convenient and portable pre-hard-boiled eggs served with delicious and crunchy seasonings!

To be honest, I don’t really like the taste or texture of jerky. But if YOU do, it can make for an excellent healthy travel snack option. Jerky is usually just protein and some fat, but be sure to check the nutrition label for  added sugars. Many jerky brands add sugar to their jerky to improve flavor and increase the weight of the final product (sugar costs less than meat by weight). Chomps sticks are not only free of added sugar, but also keto, paleo, and Whole30-approved. They’re also portable and very convenient to travel with.

Roasted Chickpea Snacks

Chickpeas are my go-to snack ingredient because of their impressive nutritional profile – a serving of cooked chickpeas (1/2 cup) has around 7 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. The protein and fiber combo helps fill you up, keep blood sugar levels stable, and satiate you until you get to your destination (or until your next meal).

You can now find chickpeas in conveniently pre-roasted and seasoned snack form at most grocery stores. Look for brands like The Good Bean, Biena , Saffron Road, and more. 

Hummus & Dippers

Speaking of chickpeas, did I mention they make for a very versatile snack option. When blended with a handful of other ingredients, they turn into beloved hummus. You can either portion out a big tub of hummus into small meal prep containers (like the salad dressing sized ones), or buy the single-serve ones for travel, and serve with one of the next two snack options listed (Simple Mills Crackers and Beet Chips).

It wouldn’t hurt to throw in some sliced veggies or baby carrots as dippers if you can, too. But I realize they aren’t always convenient for travel.

Simple Mills Crackers

These crackers are crackers minus the “ers”. Seriously, they taste almost too good to be true. They’re one of the few cracker brands out there without added sugars, plus they’re grain-free and gluten-free, making them paleo-friendly. One serving of their sprouted seed crackers has 3 grams fiber and 3 grams protein. 

If you love beets, it’s safe to say you’ll love them even more in chip form. Beets are surprisingly rich in protein and fiber – one serving of these Bare Beet Chips has 4 grams protein and a whopping 8 grams fiber. Plus, they’re made from just two simple ingredients: beets and sea salt.

You can also find Just Beets chips at Trader Joe’s, which, as the name implies, are made from just beets. 

Freeze-Dried or Roasted Edamame Snacks

Edamame are a type of soybean. Much like other legumes, edamame are rich in both protein and fiber, and are one of the most protein-rich among the legumes. Plus, they’re lower in total carbs compared to other legumes, like beans and chickpeas, making them the perfect snack for anyone following a lower-carb diet.

You can find roasted and seasoned shelled edamame snacks, or these new Good & Gather freeze-dried and salted edamame at Target! One half-cup serving has 12 grams protein and 4 grams fiber for just 130 calories.

DIY Snack Mix

Store-bought snack mixes, trail mixes, and granola can be loaded with added sugar and lacking filling fiber. That’s why I recommend making your own simple, easy, and filling snack mix! Start with a base of some pre-popped and lightly-seasoned popcorn, which has a little protein and fiber and provides a lot of volume for little calories. Next, add some freeze-dried fruit (Target, Trader Joe’s and Aldi’s have great selections) and nuts of your choice for an extra protein and fiber boost.

Then, get creative! Add spices, like cinnamon, for more flavor and maybe even a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips or Lily’s stevia-sweetened baking chips. 

These crunchy, cheese curl-like snacks are gluten-free, vegan, and made from plant-based proteins like chickpea and brown rice flours. They’re so tasty and come in a variety of delicious flavors like vegan white cheddar, bohemian barbecue, and nacho vibes. Even though they’re flavored, they only have one gram of added sugar per serving. 

Single-Serve Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the new Greek yogurt. Although it may not be ideal for all modes of travel, if you’ve got a cooler packed for a road trip you can easily slide a few of these single-serve containers in there. C ottage   cheese  is packed with nutrients, including B-complex vitamins, like vitamin B12, and calcium. It’s an excellent source of protein, with 1 cup of small curd  cottage   cheese containing nearly 25 grams of protein.

I recommend topping a plain one with a handful of berries (for some fiber). But if you can’t handle plain, Good Culture has a few flavored varieties that don’t have too much added sugar. 

Birch Benders Microwaveable Cups

Birch Benders’ Cups have protein and fiber, zero grams added sugar, are low in net carbs, and are grain- and gluten-free, making them paleo- and keto-friendly! Obviously, you need a microwave to make these, so they may be more of a snack you bring with you to keep at your hotel (although some gas stations and 7-Elevens have microwaves you can use). All you have to do is add water, microwave for 60 seconds, and voila!

They come in seven delicious varieties, but the brownie is my personal favorite. 

Protein & Snack Bars

Protein and snack bars are probably the most convenient, portable, and dependable travel snack out there, but buyer beware. Some bars can be high in added sugar and low in fiber. Here are my travel favorites:

Pressed Fruit Bars

These bars are essentially fruit that’s been dried and pressed into a bar shape. Like fruit, they’re rich in fiber, but lack protein. So, it’s a good idea to pair with one of the proteins listed earlier (i.e. string cheese, nuts, etc.). Look for brands like That’s It bars, KIND whole fruit bars , and Trader Joe’s fruit bars.

RXBARs are my personal favorite! They are also made up of fruit (dates in this case), but have added protein in the form of nuts and egg whites. 

Health Warrior

These Health Warrior chia bars are more like a mini snack (they’re only 100 calorie each). They’re perfect for when you just need a little something to hold you over. 

These original KIND nut bars have come a long way since they first entered the market. They’re relatively low in added sugar and are a good source of protein and fiber. Plus they’re straight tasty. 

Let me know what YOUR favorite travel snack is in the comments section below!

posted by Charlotte Martin on February 22, 2020

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6 comments on “17 Dietitian-Approved Healthy Travel Snacks to Pack on Your Next Trip”

YESS!! Haven’t tried Birch benders microwaveable cups, but I buy and eat all of the other snacks all the time. THESE SNACKS REALLY ARE THE BEST.

They have some of the BEST products don’t they?! Definitely try the brownie microwaveable cup if you can, it’s so tasty 🙂

LOVE this list! Whisps, nuts and dried fruits are all go-tos when I travel. I haven’t tried the Simple Mills crackers before, so I’m interested to try them out, thank you!

Hi Amanda! Glad you found the list helpful 🙂 Whisps are my FAVORITE! So addicting! Definitely get your hands on some Simple Mills crackers they are soooo good you won’t regret it

This is awesome! Thank you so much for sharing these, I am a big snack person. One of my go-to snacks is the Enlightened Bada Bean Bada Boom snack size packs!

Hi Bevan! I still have yet to try those! You just reminded me that I need to go snag some 🙂 Thank you!

Hi, I’m Charlotte!

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25 Best Travel Snacks For Your Next Trip

These picks are approved by our registered dietitians and taste testers for your next adventure.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

CHOMPS Grass Fed Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks

Purely Elizabeth Blueberry Walnut Superfood Oatmeal

Justin's Classic Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs

Frooze Balls Double Filled Energy Balls (6 Pack)

LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn (24 Pack)

Mariani Probiotic Prunes (4 Pack)

UNiTE Protein Bar Variety Pack (12 Pack)

Sweet Loren's Breakfast Biscuits, Cinnamon Sugar (30 Count)

Whisps Baked Cheese Bites (12 Pack)

Simple Mills Pop Mmms (3 Pack)

Ideal snacks for travel include ones that will keep in your backpack, purse or carry-on without melting or falling apart. If you're traveling by plane, you'll want to make sure the snacks are TSA-compliant , so no liquid or gel food items over 3.4 ounces. Most importantly, the best snacks should have a combination of protein and fiber to keep you fueled and satisfied. Try to aim for about four grams each of protein and fiber, and keep added sugar to a minimum (under eight grams is ideal per snack, which is the equivalent of two teaspoons). Always prioritize fresh produce when possible, since they offer a great combination of fiber and antioxidants to keep you feeling your best during your travels.

Fruits and vegetables also are packed with water, a smart way to stay hydrated during your trip. Hydration in general is the key to savvy travel — especially for long plane rides, so don't forget to bring an empty water bottle with you to fill after you go through security at the airport. Since the altitude is dehydrating, and turbulence/delays can make beverage service unpredictable, it’s worth the investment to buy a second, unsweetened drink at the airport. Pair that with these nutrient-dense snacks and you'll be sure to have a great vacation.

Made from sustainably sourced proteins, these convenient jerky sticks are a notch above from what you'll find at a traditional convenience store en route to your travel destination. The beef and venison varieties are 100% grass-fed and finished, and turkey options are free-range. Every CHOMPS option is hormone-free, antibiotic-free and has lower sodium counts than other options on the market.

Per serving (one stick): 90 calories, 6g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 25mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 0g total carb, 0g fiber, 0g total sugars, 9g protein

Oats are an easy base for when you're at a hotel or during any travel experience. Ones that come in a convenient cup like this from Purely Elizabeth just require a bit of hot water that you can ask for on the airplane. While oats can be a great source of fiber and whole grains, flavored varieties tend to be very high in added sugar and void of any protein. That's why these cups are a top pick for us since they only have six grams of added sugar and pack in nine grams of protein from collagen, creating a well-balanced choice.

Per serving (one container): 230 calories, 5g total fat, 0.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 37g total carb, 5g fiber, 9g total sugars, 6g added sugars, 9g protein

Nut or seed butter packs offer a great dose of healthy fats and you can add them to crackers, cereal, oatmeal, fruit or other snacks you've packed (or simply enjoy them on their own). Bonus: Packs smaller than 3 ounces, like these ones, get the thumbs-up from TSA . They even pack in seven grams of protein too.

Per serving (one pack): 210 calories, 18g total fat, 3.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 25mg sodium, 6g total carb, 1g fiber, 2g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 7g protein

These energy balls are the perfect bite to stash in your purse or backpack for your trip. Made from dates, nuts and fruit, each bite has two freshly made fillings inside and is seriously satisfying. Flavors include caramel chocolate peanut butter, chocolate hazelnut, dulce de leche, lemon, peanut butter and jelly, raspberry dark chocolate and triple chocolate fudge. The tiny packs are great for travel.

Per serving (two balls, peanut butter and jelly): 126 calories, 6g total fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 16g total carb, 2g fiber, 12g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 3g protein

Popcorn is a great volume-rich snack, meaning you can eat quite a bit of it for very little calories. It is also considered a whole grain and good source of fiber. Skip the movie theatre popcorn dripping in butter, and opt for air-popped or lightly oil-popped varieties. The convenient mini bags from LesserEvil are great to stash in your carry-on and are made with organic extra-virgin coconut oil.

Per serving (one bag): 50 calories, 3g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 7g total carb, 2g fiber, 0g total sugars, <1g protein

Between lengthy travel plans and a new environment, keeping things regular can be a challenge. That's why our dietitians suggest having some prunes on hand during any trip. Prunes have a slew of health benefits , and research suggests that prunes are as effective as over-the-counter products to help with constipation. We especially love these prunes from Mariani that add in probiotics for additional gut health and immune support to keep you healthy during your trip and beyond.

Per serving (five to six prunes): 100 calories, 0g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 26g total carb, 3g fiber, 16g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Protein bars can make for an easy travel snack, but not all of them are created equal (some mimic the nutrition facts of a candy bar more than anything else). We like these gluten-free bars from UNiTE that are nutrient-dense and made with dates, nut butters and whey protein. The churro flavor was a tester favorite and packs in 10 grams of protein and five grams of fiber at under 200 calories.

Per serving (one bar, churro): 190 calories, 9g total fat, 1g sat fat, 35mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 19g carb, 5g fiber, 9g total sugars, 7g added sugars, 11g protein

We can't get enough of these sweet breakfasts biscuits that come in convenient packets of three and are made with better ingredients than others on the market. One serving makes for a light breakfast on-the-go or a layover snack, and is packed with 19 grams of whole grains, 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and five B vitamins. Plus, the biscuits are gluten-free and come in blueberry, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate flavors.

Per serving (one pack): 200 calories, 8g total fat, 3g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 32g carb, 3g fiber, 11g total sugars, 11g added sugars, 4g protein

Bringing perishable foods like yogurts and cheese sticks might not be possible during your travels, but you'll get the best of both worlds with these baked cheese bites from Whisps that are shelf-stable. Whisps first ingredient is protein-packed cheese and each bite is super crispy and satisfying with a whopping 13 grams of protein per serving. They come in a few fun flavors as well and were a family-friendly hit in taste tests.

Per serving (23 crisps, parmesan): 150 calories, 10g total fat, 7g sat fat, 30mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 1g carb, 0g fiber, 0g total sugars, 13g protein

Looking for something to crunch on mid-flight? These bite-sized popped crackers are baked and made with 1/3 cup of vegetables per serving like organic butternut squash. They have a cheesy flavor and are light and airy. Throw some in a handy reusable snack bag that you can refill all trip long.

Per serving (44 crackers): 140 calories, 5g total fat, 1g sat fat, 5mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 21g carb, 1g fiber, 1g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 2g protein

Natural Delights Medjool Date Strips with Tajin

Who knew that fresh Medjool dates and Tajin chili lime seasoning would pair so well together? This snack offers a unique flavor profile for sweet and spicy lovers, and the simple ingredient list is one to rave about. "Loved the spicy flavor. A flavorful snack and good for on the go," one tester said.

Per serving (one pouch, six pieces): 100 calories, 0.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium, 22g carb, 3g fiber, 19g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Prevail. Grass Fed Beef Jerky (4 Pack)

Our dietitians are fans of this jerky from Prevail since it is 100% grass-fed and grass-finished beef jerky and is free from fillers and additives. Taste testers appreciated its tender texture and balanced flavor since it is cherrywood smoked and seasoned with organic spices. Most importantly, it has lower sodium and sugar counts than competitors, so you won't get bogged down on your trip. And with 12 grams of protein per serving, it's perfect to keep you fueled on those long rides in the car.

Per serving (one ounce, original): 70 calories, 1.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 30mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 5g total carb, 0g fiber, 4g total sugars, 12g protein

Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips (15 Pack)

A top performer in our potato chips taste test , these sweet potato chips from Jackson's come in perfectly sized snack packs for travel. They are made with premium avocado oil and cooked low and slow to maintain the stability and integrity of the oil's healthy fats. The brand uses non-GMO heirloom sweet potatoes , and while the sea salt is the healthiest options, the flavored choices are truly delicious.

Per serving (one ounce): 150 calories, 9g total fat, 1g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 150mg sodium, 16g total carb, 2g fiber, 3g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Junkless Chewy Granola Bars, Chocolate Chip (24 Bars)

An upgraded version of your favorite chewy granola bar, this snack is actually significantly lower in sugar than other brands and is free from high-fructose corn syrup or sugar alcohols. Made from simple ingredients, we love the soft and chewy texture of the bar and that it has no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. "Nice and chewy with just the right amount of chocolate chips to peanut butter," one taste tester said.

Per serving (one bar): 130 calories, 3.5g total fat, 0.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 22g total carb, 2g fiber, 5g total sugars, 3g protein

Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks, Sea Salt (10 Pack)

Crispy chickpeas are the perfect protein-packed snack to keep in your carry-on that won't crumble or fall apart. Of course you can make them on your own , but a pre-made pack like this is extra convenient for travel. We love that each portable pouch offers a filling combination of eight grams of both fiber and protein per serving.

Per serving (one pouch): 140 calories, 3.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 20g total carb, 8g fiber, 1g total sugars, 8g protein

Sweet Nothings Nut Butter Bites (6 Pack)

Wholesome and delicious, these disc-shaped, organic bites feature a chewy outer shell of dates, oats and flaxseed wrapped around a nut butter filling with all-organic, no-added-sugar ingredients. Free from gums, stabilizers, preservatives or artificial flavors, each package offers up to four grams of plant-based protein. The bite size treat is perfect for tiding you over at the end of your flight.

Per serving (one package, oatmeal raisin): 145 calories, 5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 23g total carb, 3.5g fiber, 15g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 4g protein

Siete Grain-Free Mexican Shortbread Cookies

Skip the oversized cookies at the airport and pack a few of these seriously delicious Mexican Shortbread cookies from Siete. Made with a lightly sweetened blend of almond flour and pecan pieces with a dash of cinnamon, testers couldn't believe that each cookie only has one gram of sugar. The grain-free treat has a crispy texture and won't fall apart in transit either.

Per serving (five cookies): 150 calories, 9g total fat, 5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 17g total carb, 1g fiber, 5g total sugars, 5g added sugars, 1g protein

Second Nature Antioxidant+ Protein Smart Snack Mix (12 Pack)

Trail mix is a favorite travel snack since it always keeps well and is also resistant to crumbling in your bag. These portion-controlled packets from Second Nature are great for stashing for a road trip or flight. We especially love the flavor combination in the antioxidant mix, and the filling fiber and protein makes this a smart choice. Plus, it doesn't have any chocolate chips like many other mixes which may melt in your bag in transit.

Per serving (one package): 250 calories, 17g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 60mg sodium, 21g total carb, 4g fiber, 13g total sugars, 5g added sugars, 8g protein

RIND Snacks Straw-Peary Skin-On Dried Fruit (3 Pack)

This chewy whole fruit medley is packed with dried strawberries bursting with jammy flavor, bosc pears and sweet fuji apples. Our dietitians love that RIND maximizes nutrition and minimizes waste by taking upcycled fruit that would otherwise go to waste, retaining their nutrient-rich peels and gently drying them into snackable slices. Plus, dried fruit like this keeps really well when traveling.

Per serving (1/2 cup): 140 calories, 0g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 33g total carb, 5g fiber, 15g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

RXBAR Chocolate Lovers' Protein Bars Box (10 Bars)

When it comes to simple ingredient lists, it doesn't get much better than RXBAR. These tasty bars come in a wide variety of flavors and are loaded with 12 grams of protein thanks to nutrient-dense egg whites. Plus, they are a good source of fiber too — the combo of protein and fiber can help keep you full for longer on those lengthy road trips and train rides. Our registered dietitians point out that these delicious bars are sweetened with dates for binding purposes and contain no added sugar.

Per serving (one bar): 210 cal, 9g total fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 23g carb, 5g fiber, 13g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 12g protein

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37 Road Trip Snacks You’ll Actually Like

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: May 22, 2020

Food is a big part of any successful road trip. No one wants to be stuck in a car with a hangry person! The key to great road trip snacks is packing food that won’t make a mess and can travel well at room temperature. Here are some of our favorite snacks for road trips.

Best Vacation Road Trip Snacks

If you’re cereal eaters, just opening your pantry can give you a multitude of options. Multi-Grain Cheerios are one of our favorites because they have just a touch of sweetness. They’re nut-free too! We also love Lucky Charms and Life.

We love to pack healthy snacks on vacation and fruit and veggies certainly fit the bill. Just remember if you’re driving across the border (i.e. Canada) you might not be able to bring across produce.

We love to buy the mini apples you can get in a bag. You can find them easily at Trader Joes, Target, and most grocery stores. The smaller sized apples are perfect for road trips.

Mandarin Oranges

Another healthy road trip snack idea is mandarin oranges, sometimes called clementines. These do have to be peeled and you’ll want some wet wipes (on my road trip essentials list), but the smell is amazing for freshening the car — as long as you like the fresh orange smell. :)

The other fruit we like to pack for road trips is grapes. They’re easy to grab and pop in your mouth and are fairly mess-free. Just remember to wash them before you leave.

Carrot Sticks

Vegetables can also make great healthy road trip snacks, and carrot sticks are easy. You can either buy the mini carrots in a bag or cut up your own from full-size carrots.

You could pack a dipping sauce in the car but we normally avoid dairy products in the car and we don’t want to worry about keeping the dip cold.

Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas are also a great snack that are easy to pack and pop in your mouth. They’re also a good source of fiber and very low in calories, making them healthy.

Grape Tomatoes

We have packed a container of cherry or grape tomatoes along for the trip, but it’s not necessarily one of our go-to snacks. They are easy to grab at the store and easy to eat, but they can make a mess if you drop one in the car.

Don’t miss my tips for How to Pack for a Road Trip !

Fruit leathers.

Our girls first fell in love with fruit leathers at Trader Joes and I have to say that it’s one of my favorite snacks, too. Just realize that they’re packed with sugar bc of the fruit concentrate. You can pick up single strips at Trader Joes or grab a big box of Stretch Island Fruit Leathers at Amazon or Costco.

Fruit Snacks

Another fruit treat snack is single-serving fruit snacks. While they aren’t really healthy, they’re popular with kids and you can buy a big box of the pouches at Target or Costco.

Crackers/Pretzels

Put some Cheez-its, Triscuits, Wheat Thins, or Pretzels in single-serve containers or baggies. You could keep the whole box in the back of the car and refill each when needed at stops. Just know they’re salty, so you might get thirsty.

This is a kid favorite but even adults can enjoy some cheesy fishies. While these count as crackers, I felt they were important enough for our family that I needed to call them out specifically.

Pirate’s Booty

This stuff is so good and SO addictive! They have different flavors but our favorite is the Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar. Trader Joes also has some flavored corn puffs that are tasty. This snack will require a napkin or wipe because of the seasoning.

You can either pop up a big bag of your own popcorn or buy one of the pre-packaged bags from the store. Popcorn can be addictive — as any movie-goer will know — and it makes a tasty, filling snack.

This is a family favorite and conveniently you can buy it as packaged food or make your own!

Granola Bars

I spoil myself on road trips and buy the chocolate-dipped chocolate chip granola bars for the trip, and they’re so good. But traditional granola bars can be a great snack for road trips since they provide some grains and protein.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to look for hidden sugar snacks (fruit snacks and granola bars) and try to limit those.

This might just be our family, but there’s just something great about taking Pringles on a road trip. One of the big perks is that the canister helps keep the chips from getting beat up in the car! Just make sure to pack a couple of cans since we all know, “once you pop, you can’t stop.”

If you’re a sweets lover, cookies can be great to bring on road trips. Just keep in mind that they do have crumbs. Girl Scout Cookies are especially yummy on road trips!

Animal Crackers

Animal crackers are really more of a cookie than a cracker, but they’re still a good snacking treat. Plus, even as an adult I like looking at what animal I’m about to eat. :)

Rice Crispie Treats

While you can make your own Rice Krispie Treats, you can also buy them pre-packaged. They’re another sugary treat, but oh so yummy! Just make sure you add wet wipes when you pack your car .

We love GoGo Squeez Applesauce because it’s easy to eat in the car and there are a lot of fun flavors. Applesauce pouches are a great mess-free (hopefully) snack.

Sunflower Seeds

We have a kiddo with a nut allergy, so sunflower seeds are a great “nut-like” road trip snack. You can get a package that is in the shell and have fun shelling them — just have a cup ready for the shells — or you can buy just the seeds.

Pepitas / Pumpkin Seeds

Another seed that we love to bring on our road trips is pumpkin seeds. Again, you can get the ones in the shell, or get just the seeds, called pepitas.

If you don’t have a nut-allergy then nuts are great snacks. Before we had my daughter I used to love eating honey-roasted peanuts on a road trip. My husband is a big fan of the tins of almonds and cashews, too.

You can create your own trail mix with your favorite mix-ins, or buy a pre-made one. The basic formula is nuts & seeds for protein, carbs for salt and energy, and something sweet like dried fruits or chocolate.

Roasted Chickpeas

We’ve really loved making our own roasted chickpeas . You can create any flavor you want and they’re a healthy snack option.

These are another odd-ball snack that people either love or hate. For some reason on every road trip we buy bags of corn nuts at a gas station. I like the BBQ flavor and Lizzy likes the Ranch flavor. They’re hard on your teeth but tasty!

Energy Bites

If you like to create your own snacks, no-bake energy bites can be great for your trip. They’re a bit like trail mix meets peanut butter in one protein-powered bite.

Peanut Butter Crackers

You can either buy some pre-made peanut butter cracker snacks, or grab some of those single-serve peanut butter cups and pair it with some pretzels, crackers, or apples.

Nutella & Go

If you love some chocolatey hazelnut goodness, grab some Nutella & Go snacks.

While now we’re mostly vegetarian, we used to love beef jerky on road trips. We would get the big bags at Costco. It’s a great protein source.

Pepperoni Sticks

These are similar to the idea of beef jerky but used to be another popular road trip snack we’d enjoy in the car. You can buy packages of little pepperoni sticks at most grocery stores.

Cheese Sticks

This is a snack that we don’t often pack because as I mentioned above we typically avoid bringing dairy in the car since it can smell bad if there’s a spill. However, cheese sticks are easy enough to eat, you just have to make sure you can pack them with an ice pack to stay cold on the drive.

Cheese & Cracker Dips

You can find these pre-packaged with one side of crackers and breadsticks and one side of cheese dip. These were popular with my girls when they were younger, but not so much anymore.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a great car snack since it’s so easy to pack. Our family loves dried pineapple and mangos, but you can get all kinds of dried fruit like apples, blueberries, and even bananas. Check Trader Joes and Costco for a good variety.

Dried Veggies

Like the dried fruit, you can also get some veggie snacks that are typically found in the chip aisle. We really like Veggie Straws and the Harvest Snaps dried pea pods.

We have very limited candy eating at home, so it’s a special road trip snack for us. Twizzlers and M&Ms are our road trip favorites.

Water Flavor

It’s a good idea to pack your own reusable water bottle for the road trip. But over time you might get sick of just drinking water. So, pack a small bottle of water flavoring that you can add to your refillable water bottle to make your own sweet drink and avoid buying a bottled drink at a gas station.

Did I miss any? Do you have a favorite road trip snack? Please share your own ideas! And if you’re looking for more snack ideas, check out this list of airplane snacks for kids .

Share and Save This Post:

Thursday 28th of July 2022

Going on a 4 hour road trip for our vacation this weekend. And this list gave me a few ideas that sound great to pack in our snack pack list! So thank you for helping me with ideas!

Sunday 27th of June 2021

Love the ideas,our family does water tubing trips in the summer, slot of these ideas will be great. I also came across putting snacks in empty Pringles cans so you don't lose it if they are bite size.

Wednesday 30th of June 2021

Nice! Sometimes storage is half the battle!

Recipe for Roasted Chickpeas - The Perfect Travel Snack!

Thursday 9th of March 2017

[…] Related Post: Road Trip Snacks for Family Travel Vacations […]

Sunday 3rd of July 2016

Great list!!! I also include the little jello or pudding cups for when we stop at a rest stop, it gives them something to look forward to and they won't mess up the car!

Friday 8th of July 2016

Yum! My girls would love those!

Suzanne Holt

Saturday 13th of June 2015

Mini vanilla wafers or goldfish are nice crackers because they do not crumble as much when you bite into them. Thanks for all of these suggestions. Pinned.

Sunday 14th of June 2015

Crumbly snacks can really ruin a road trip! We travel with a mini vac sometimes so we can clean out seats and floors that get crumbs. Thanks for the ideas & for pinning!

15 Essential Travel Snacks That Registered Dietitians Can’t Stop Munching On While Vacationing

• Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN , founder and director of Real Nutrition
• Kara Lydon, RD , registered dietitian and blogger behind “The Foodie Dietitian”
• Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD , registered dietitian and prenatal and postnatal health expert

Roxana Ehsani, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN , Miami-based registered dietitian nutritionist and National Media Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

• Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, MS, RD, CDN , registered dietitian and women’s health expert

That's why we spoke with five leading dietitians to find out what foods are part of their own essential travel snack arsenals —the noshes that help fuel them through many long days spent exploring with enough energy and stamina to enjoy every last lick of vacay. Ready to take on the incredibly important role of snack oversight? From nuts to superfood bars to chocolate (yay!), there’s a munchie here for every occasion.

The 15 travel snacks registered dietitians love to munch on while on-the-go

Kara lydon, rd, ldn, ryt, registered dietitian nutritionist, certified intuitive eating counselor, and owner of kara lydon nutrition, 1. a diy snack box filled with cheese, crackers, hummus, and fruit.

“One of my favorite snack hacks for travel is packing my own snack box. You can usually order these on a plane, but they're way overpriced and you don't get to choose your favorite items. I love to include crackers, cheddar cheese from Truly Grass Fed —a sustainable dairy brand from Ireland—grapes, and hummus in mine. This snack contains enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates to hold me over until I reach my destination.”

2. Oatmeal cups

“When traveling during the morning hours, I make sure to pack Bob's Red Mill Organic Oatmeal Cups . You can fill them with coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or your liquid of choice overnight for chilled overnight oats. And if you're flying, you can ask for hot water on the plane and mix it en route. They're packed with whole grain oats, omega-3s from the flax and chia seeds, eight grams of protein, and they're high in fiber and an excellent source of immune-boosting vitamin C.”

Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD , registered dietitian based in Charleston

3. dark chocolate.

“Chocolate is a non-negotiable snack when I'm on the go— it satisfies my sweet tooth and provides me with important anti-inflammatory polyphenols. UNREAL's Dark Chocolate Peanut Gems come in a smaller snack pack size, which is great for traveling. Bonus? These vegan gems get their colors from natural sources like beets, radishes, and spirulina instead of artificial ingredients.”

4. Probiotic fruit bars

“Maintaining my gut health is always a goal when I'm traveling. Snacking on That’s It mini probiotic fruit bars helps me fuel my body with beneficial probiotics that help support my balanced gut microbiota. And since these bars contain no added sugars and are made with real fruit, I can feel good knowing that I am doing what I can to meet my fruit intake goals by including these in my diet. I like buying a multi-pack at Sam’s Club before a trip and keeping them on hand when I need an energy boost.”

“ Sunsweet Ones are individually wrapped California prunes that make meeting my fruit quota super simple. Multiple studies even suggest that eating five to six prunes each day may help to prevent bone loss. With no added sugars and three grams of fiber per serving, these prunes are a staple in my travel bag. And since many of us experience gastrointestinal irregularity when we are away from our normal environment, including prunes in a travel snack plan may help support bowel movement regularity—and who doesn't want that?”

“Apples are an easy nosh to include in my snack rotation when traveling. Especially when traveling with kiddos, I love leaning on Envy apples, since their flesh stays fresh (read: not brown) longer and they have a naturally balanced sweetness with a delicious crunch.”

Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN , founder, and director of Real Nutrition

7. superfood bars.

“These vegan whole food bars by Elemental Superfood are delicious, satisfying, and keep me energized with ingredients like whole seeds, nuts, and dried fruit. They have no added sugar and all the great flavor. I never leave home without one.”

“I like to grab pre-portioned packets of pistachios or almonds that fit into my on-the-go fanny pack or backpack. Nuts provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep my energy up and my hanger at bay. Also, they pair really well with fresh fruit if you're looking for a slightly heartier snack.”

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9. Nut butter

“I love individual packets or cups of almond butter or peanut butter for traveling. You can eat them right out of the packet on their own, pair one with a piece of fresh fruit, shmear it on top of a piece of toast, or scoop one into a bowl of oats. Nut butters are a great source of heart-healthy fats, plus they provide a few grams of dietary fiber and protein. Almond butter specifically provides 16 grams of heart-healthy fat, seven grams of total carbohydrates, four grams of dietary fiber, and seven grams of protein per two tablespoon serving.”

10. Electrolytes

“A lot of people experience dehydration when traveling. Flying in a plane can cause dehydration due to the altitude, and simply sitting in a car for long periods of time can stop us from drinking as much as usual because we don’t want to have to stop to use the restroom. Having an electrolyte drink or keeping packets with you is a great way to keep your hydration levels up when you are traveling and once you finally get to your final distance to help rehydrate you.”

11. Whole-grain crackers or pretzels

“You can always find either whole-grain crackers or honey wheat pretzels in my travel bag. They provide carbohydrates plus a few grams of dietary fiber and protein, and they're great to carry along with you while traveling because they don’t go bad quickly. Again, traveling can be dehydrating, and if you're going to be in a hot climate, you may be sweating more than usual and need additional sodium. These two snack options can provide that, too.”

“Muesli is a great snack to take with you on the go. It’s a simple mix of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, which means healthy fats, protein, dietary fiber, carbs, and plenty of vitamin and minerals.”

Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, RD , registered dietitian and author of The Better Period Food Solution

13. nut bars.

“ Perfect Snacks ' bars are ideal for on-the-go travel because they are packed with heart-healthy, fiber-filled nuts like almonds and peanuts. The healthy fats will help keep you less focused on your growling belly and more focused on catching your flight in time.”

14. Chocolate bites

“The healthy real chocolate bites by Mid-Day Squares will both satisfy your sweet tooth and provide sustaining energy to your brain and body, which is crucial for a long day of travel. One square contains six grams of plant-based protein and even has some iron, helping to give you that reinvigorating bump to get you through and beyond a dragged-out travel day.”

15. Pistachios

“These on-the-go pistachio pouches from Wonderful Pistachios make for the easiest travel buddy because they can withstand all the jostling that comes along with a day of travel. Pistachios, whether they're plain, chili, or honey roasted, are a super high-fiber plant-based snack, so you’ll be nourished and filled with a ton of essential vitamins and minerals.”

Wonderful Pistachios — $6.59 Shop Now

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Healthy Travel Snacks for Your Next Roadtrip

BLOG > Nutrition > Clean Eating

Maybe you’re planning a quick weekend road trip, or maybe you’re venturing back into the world of air travel and faraway destinations.

Whatever your vacation plans look like this year, you’re going to need a stash of travel snacks.

We’ve rounded up a list of healthy, portable snack options to hold you over until you reach your destination.

Want to make it even easier to  eat healthy while you’re traveling ?

Pack your snacks in  Portion Fix containers  — they make it easy to measure out perfect portions, and they’ll keep snacks fresh on the go.

Here are 20 of the best travel snacks for your next trip.

1. Hard-Boiled Eggs

With  77 calories and 6 grams of protein  per egg, hard-boiled eggs are an easy travel snack you can eat with your bare hands in a pinch.

“I like to sprinkle Trader Joe’s Mushroom & Company Multipurpose UMAMI Seasoning Blend on top to add a little extra pizazz,” says  Jennifer Katz , R.D.N., a culinary medicine dietitian nutritionist.

2. Protein Pancakes

Need some energy for early-morning travel? Make a batch of these  Whole-Wheat Protein Pancakes  as an on-the-go breakfast.

Top with fresh fruit, or bring a small cup of honey for dipping, Katz recommends.

3. Homemade Energy Bites

Energy bites are perfect for powering through a long drive. Try this recipe for  Chocolate Matcha Energy Balls  — this vegan snack is made with nutrient-rich  matcha  (powdered green tea leaves) and sweetened with Medjool dates.

Beef jerky provides protein along with micronutrients, says  Kristin Gillespie , M.S., R.D., a registered dietitian based in Virginia Beach, VA.

Or pack a plant-based option like  Vegky Mushroom Jerky , which is made with shiitake mushroom stems.

5. Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

If you have a little more time to prep, these  Brussels sprouts wrapped in turkey bacon  are one of our favorite  2B Mindset recipes .

(To avoid spoilage, be sure to stash them in a cooler and eat them early in the trip.)

6. Protein Bars

Protein bars are a quintessential travel snack. Just look for brands that don’t have a lot of added sugar, Gillespie says.

BEACHBAR snack bars  are a crunchy, chewy, and delicious snack bar that is a good source of protein and just 150 calories — perfect for a wholesome snack.

Or make your own  No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Bars at home and pack them up for the road.

7. Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are a satisfyingly crunchy travel snack, and their protein and fiber content can help you feel fuller.

Make your own with this sweet-and-salty  Maple Chai Roasted Chickpeas recipe .

Nuts are a nutrient-dense snack, so pack some in your  blue container  before you go! Pistachios are a great option because they can be considered  a complete protein , meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids, says dietitian Julie Upton, M.S., R.D.

If you prefer flavored nuts, skip the store-bought versions and bake these  Cinnamon Roasted Almonds  before you hit the road.

9. Trail Mix

Store-bought trail mix can have a lot of added sugar, but making your own is a breeze.

Mix walnuts, almonds, or pecans with healthy seeds, dried cranberries, and some pieces of dark chocolate for a healthier trail mix. (Just keep an eye on your portion sizes!)

10. Protein Shake

You can’t exactly blend a smoothie while you’re driving. But you can still get in some delicious protein with  Shakeology  — just mix a scoop with water, shake, and enjoy.

11. Fresh Fruit

Fresh fruit is one of our favorite  office snacks , and it’s a great travel snack for many of the same reasons — it’s delicious, super-portable, and provides body-boosting vitamins.

12. Cheese Sticks

Snack cheeses like string cheese and  Babybel  provide protein and calcium for under 100 calories per serving.

They’re a great travel snack for a short trip — like most perishable foods, you’ll want to eat cheese  within two hours  of taking it out of the fridge.

13. Cinnamon-Spiced Popcorn

Want something a little bit crunchy and full of fall flavor? Make a batch of this  Cinnamon Spiced Popcorn  to take on your travels.

Made with coconut oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this 21-Day Fix Snack Hack has 4 grams of fiber and only 139 calories per serving.

14. Kale Chips

Kale might not seem like an obvious choice on a list of yummy travel snacks, but these easy-to-make  Kale Chips  will satisfy your crunchy cravings and help you boost your daily veggie intake.

15. Breakfast Banana Muffins

Make a dozen of these wholesome  Breakfast Banana Muffins  before you go, and you’ll have travel snacks for days!

You’ll get fiber from the whole-wheat flour, and they’re sweetened with bananas and a touch of honey in place of sugar.

16. Seaweed Snacks

Roasted seaweed snacks are crunchy and delicious — and they’re a great alternative to a bag of greasy chips.

Even better: Roasted seaweed typically has around  30 calories per serving . (Just check the label first!)

17. Carrots and Hummus

Baby carrots are a great travel snack: They’re crunchy, they won’t make a mess, and they provide beta carotene and vitamin C.

Eat them plain, or pack a blue container with hummus for dipping. This easy  homemade hummus recipe  makes 10 servings — perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends.

18. Protein Boxes

If you forgot to pack healthy travel snacks, head to the nearest Starbucks and pick up one of their  pre-made Protein Boxes .

“You’ll get a nutritious and filling snack consisting of fresh fruit, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, nuts, and other real ingredients — no processed junk here,” says Sofia Norton, R.D., a registered dietitian at  Kiss My Keto .

Or pack your own snack boxes — try these easy snack boxes you can make at home.

19. Bean Chips

Chips made from beans “are great for anyone who follows a gluten-free diet,” says  Leah Forristall , R.D., L.D.N., a registered dietitian at Simply Nutrition.

Try  Beanitos  — they come in nine road-trip-worthy flavors and have 5 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving.

20. Pumpkin Seeds

Roasting the seeds from your  pumpkins  might seem a little strange, but they’re a delicious snack that provides nutrients like magnesium, zinc, iron, and fatty acids.

Make your own  Roasted Pumpkin Seeds  with this easy recipe.

20 Best Travel Snacks To Keep You Healthy

Traveling requires a lot of planning, food included! To stay nourished while away from home, don’t forget to pack your healthy travel snacks.

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Science-based and reviewed

Table of Contents

Whether for fun or work, traveling is an excellent opportunity to expand your palate and try the local cuisine. But being on the road doesn’t have to derail your health and wellness goals . Eating healthy on the road is possible! That’s where healthy snacks come into play.

Healthy and filling snacks can help you stay on track with your nutrition while traveling. Packing snacks can help you make nutritious choices in a pinch and keep you going as you embrace all that traveling has to offer. This article provides a round-up of healthy travel food ideas for the whole family to enjoy, whether you’re traveling by road, air, or train!

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20 Nourishing Travel Snacks Ideas You’ll Love 

It’s easy to lose sight of well-balanced nutrition when traveling , but we can set ourselves up for success by planning our snacks ahead of time. To maintain stable blood sugar levels , it’s essential to bring multiple options, so you don’t go more than four hours without eating. Prioritize snacks that are good sources of protein and fiber to help keep you full, and don’t forget to hydrate!

Healthy Travel Snacks for Road Trips

Snacking on the road can be tricky, but being prepared with nutritious snacks can keep you from hitting the fast-food drive-thru in a pinch. Check out these healthy road trip snack ideas for adults and kids alike:

1. Greek Yogurt 

Greek yogurt can be an excellent travel snack if you have access to a cooler or refrigerator. It’s low in calories and packed with protein. 1 Stick to the unsweetened versions and add your own toppings, like dried fruits or nut butter. Pro tip: if traveling by plane, you can’t bring containers larger than three ounces through security, but you can usually purchase yogurt from within the terminal.

2. Hard-Boiled Eggs 

Hard-boiled eggs can be an efficient way to get protein on the go, and they’re easy to prepare ahead of your travels. One large hard-boiled egg provides six grams of protein and less than 80 calories. 2 You can boil several eggs the day before your trip and pack them on ice so they stay fresh until you’re ready to eat them. Consider peeling them ahead of time to make snacking in the car as easy as possible!

3. Hummus and Celery

If you crave a crunchy snack, hummus and veggies are more nutritious than typical high-sodium options like chips or pretzels. Look for pre-packaged hummus to make traveling easy, and consider pairing it with high-fiber vegetables like crispy celery, bell peppers, and baby carrots. Not a hummus fan? Try pre-packaged cups of almond butter or guacamole.

4. Fresh Fruit 

Fruit is a refreshing and easy-to-pack travel snack. It’s rich in micronutrients, supporting many aspects of health. You can shop for pre-cut fruits or cut your own ahead of time, and try to pair your fruits with a protein source to help you stay fuller for longer. If you run low on time, opt for applesauce pouches with no added sugar.

5. Cheese Sticks

Single-serve cheese sticks are a great way to get protein while on the road. Options include mozzarella, Colby jack, and cheddar, among others. Consider pairing your string cheese stick with a carb source to increase the nutritional value of your snack.

6. Single-Serve Tuna Packs

Tuna is a versatile snack for road travel. Packed with high protein, it can be a satisfying snack on its own or elevate your lunch on the go. Add it to a salad or put it on a wrap with some crispy veggies to enjoy a delicious, well-balanced meal. Plus, it doesn’t need to be kept cool!

7. Protein Bars

Low-sugar protein bars can be an efficient way to meet your protein needs while on the go. Protein bars are easy to grab and eat when out and about. Plus, they can help keep blood sugar levels stable between meals. Nutrition facts will vary between brands—look for bars with less than 10 grams of added sugar and at least three grams of fiber.

8. Peanut Butter Sandwich

A peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread can be an efficient and nutritious snack to pack in the car. The whole grains in bread are an excellent source of fiber, and the peanut butter provides healthy fats, which help keep you full as you travel. Use gluten-free bread if you have a gluten sensitivity, but be mindful of added sugars in these bread varieties.

9. Cheese Crackers

Cheese crackers are a satisfying snack. Plus, they’re high in protein! You can buy the pre-packaged options or prepare your own ahead of time by slicing the cheese into small squares that fit on top of your crackers.

When driving in the car, you may not notice your thirst like you would at home. It’s easy to overlook when traveling. Pack water and have it accessible to stay hydrated on your road trip.

Healthy Travel Snacks for Plane or Train Trips

Planning snacks for plane and train travel takes more forethought. Trains and airlines have TSA restrictions that affect what you can bring aboard. Consider these train and plane snack options:

11. Baked Chickpeas 

Baked chickpeas are a delicious source of fiber and plant-based protein. One half-cup of roasted chickpeas provides almost eight grams of protein, 22 grams of carbs, and more than six grams of fiber. 3 Plus, they pack easily in a carry-on bag!

12. Nuts 

Single-serving bags of unsalted nuts, like peanuts, cashews, and almonds, can be a delicious and easy snack to travel with. They don’t require refrigeration, and they pack a punch nutritionally. Nuts contain healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. And with such a rich flavor, they can help satiate cravings until you can get to your next meal.

13. Trail Mix 

Trail mix is an easy-to-pack snack that can satisfy both salty and sweet cravings. The typical trail mix combines healthy fats and proteins from nuts and sunflower seeds with carbohydrate sources like dried fruit and sweet additions like dark chocolate. Be mindful of added sugars, and watch your portion sizes when traveling.

14. Fresh-Cut Veggies 

Fresh veggies are allowed through security at airports and train stations. Packing fresh-cut vegetables, like cucumbers or snap peas, in your carry-on is a great way to ensure you meet your fiber needs. Additionally, the crispiness of a fresh-cut veggie can help satisfy cravings for crunchy snacks.

15. Oatmeal Cups

Oatmeal cups are an airport-friendly, nutrient-dense snack. You might even consider bringing a few extra cups to enjoy at your destination. Whether you’re making breakfast in a hotel room or need a snack between meals, oats can give you a boost of nutrition. Oatmeal cups are packed with fiber and protein, making them a satisfying snack. Plus, most oatmeal cups are low in added sugar. 

16. Unsweetened Beverages

Hydration can easily be forgotten in the chaos of traveling, and research points to increased dehydration risk while flying. 4 While you cannot take beverages over three ounces through security, buying an unsweetened beverage at your gate may be beneficial. Unsweetened drinks can support hydration without causing an unwanted blood sugar spike . You could also pack an empty water bottle and fill this up once you pass through security.

17. Granola

Granola is an easy-to-pack snack that is allowed in your carry-on bag. It offers a satisfying crunch and a delectable sweet taste. However, some granola bar brands are high in sugar, so it’s important to be mindful of your portion sizes.

Dried meats can be an excellent snack when traveling by plane or train. Jerky is a low-carb snack that provides decent protein and fat to keep you satisfied until your next snack or meal. Look for brands with simple ingredients and low sodium.

19. Dried Fruits

Consider packing dried fruit instead of reaching for processed baked goods to satisfy that sweet tooth. Look for options without added sugar when possible, and opt for dried fruits that don’t contain extra ingredients—just the fruit themselves.

20. Protein Powder

While you may not be able to bring a protein shake through security, you can bring protein powder. Pack your protein powder in a permitted container and bring an empty shaker bottle. When you get to your gate, look for a water fountain to fill up your shaker bottle and add your protein powder to get a boost of protein before your flight.

How To Pack and Keep Cold Travel Snacks: Tips 

Packing the car for a road trip can feel like a game of Tetris, trying to fit everything in as efficiently as possible. Packing snacks and keeping them fresh can take time and effort. These tips can help:

• Ditch the packaging: Once you’ve bought your snacks for traveling, pull everything out of its store-bought container and re-package it in smaller, stackable containers. This helps you pack the car efficiently, and it keeps your snacks accessible.
• Bring a snack tote: Instead of tossing your non-perishable snacks in the backseat, put them in an open tote so they’re organized and accessible.
• Don’t forget other necessities: Be sure to bring paper towels, hand sanitizer, and utensils. You might even bring baby wipes and a trash bag to help with clean-up as needed.
• Pack the cooler in order: If you plan to bring a cooler, pack it with snack times in mind. Pack the snacks you intend to eat first on top, so they’re easy to grab. You don’t want to be digging around a cooler while driving.

Learn More About Healthy and Balanced Nutrition while Traveling with Signos

Staying on track with nutrition can be challenging while traveling, but you don’t have to abandon your health goals while away from home. Healthy travel snacks can keep you nourished while on the road, giving you more flexibility to enjoy the local culture on your trip. And continuous glucose monitoring can support your efforts here, there, and everywhere.

Signos CGM provides real-time data to help you understand your food's impact on blood glucose levels and overall health. Signos can improve your health and empower you to make educated decisions about your nutrition. Learn more about nutrition and healthy eating habits on Signos’ blog , and find out if Signos is a good fit for you by taking a quick quiz !

Topics discussed in this article:

Healthy Lifestyle

Counting Calories

Dietitian-recommended

Doctor-recommended

• US Department of Agriculture. (2019, April 1). Yogurt, Greek, plain, low-fat . https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170903/nutrients  
• US Department of Agriculture. (2019, April 1). Egg, whole, cooked, hard-boiled . https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173424/nutrients
• US Department of Agriculture. (2019, April 1). Chickpeas (garbanzo beans, Bengal gram), mature seeds, cooked, boiled, without salt . https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173757/nutrients
• Zubac, D., Stella, A. B., & Morrison, S. A. (2020). Up in the Air: Evidence of Dehydration Risk and Long-Haul Flight on Athletic Performance. Nutrients, 12 (9), 2574. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12092574

About the author

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois is a registered dietitian nutritionist with several years of experience working in the clinical setting. Once a track and field athlete on a competitive stage, she now finds joy in combining her passions as a health writer to help people embrace their wellness through nutrition and fitness.

Please note: The Signos team is committed to sharing insightful and actionable health articles that are backed by scientific research, supported by expert reviews, and vetted by experienced health editors. The Signos blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Read more about our editorial process and content philosophy here .

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50 Healthy Travel Snacks for Your Next Adventure

You pack outfits designed to suit your travel destination, so why not do the same thing with your snacks? After all, you wouldn’t wear the same thing in the mountains as you would on the beach.

To help make your travel snacking experience as specific to your trip as your outfits, we put together a list of healthy travel snacks suited for a variety of destinations and activities.

These wholesome travel snacks are easy to pack and eat, and we hope they add a little something to your travel experience. Bon voyage!

Travel Destination: The Lake

1. seabear ready-to-eat wild salmon.

Salmon captures the spirit of your lake adventure, and it’s also packed with good-for-you nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, that will keep you energized for long days of swimming and sunning. SeaBear makes salmon snackable by packing it into convenient pouches that are perfect for travel snacking.

2. Roasted Pine Nuts

The fresh, herbaceous air of your lakeside retreat demands fresh, herbaceous flavors to snack on. These roasted pine nuts from Healthy Recipe Ecstasy feature the nuanced flavors of thyme and parsley, and they serve up magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E to make you feel good.

3. BareSnacks Apple Chips

These wholesome apple chips help you get your daily apple fix when you’re on the go. Toss a few bags of bare in your suitcase so you can enjoy the flavor of fresh apple slices without worrying about browning or refrigeration.

4. Incredi-Puffs

Bring on the jet skis and the parasailing! Incredi-Puffs (available in a flavor for any craving) are incredibly light and incredibly flavorful. They satisfy your hunger without weighing you down, so you can be free to swim, jump, float, and play.

5. Field Trip Turkey Jerky

You can’t weigh down your boat with heavy snacks! Choose a snack that packs a lot of satisfying nutritional oomph into a lightweight, protein-rich package that will annihilate any hunger pangs that strike mid fishing trip. Bring Field Trip turkey jerky on all your lakeside excursions.

6. Pistachios

Snack on some in-shell pistachios to keep your hands busy while you spend hours listening to soft lake waves lapping on the rocky shore. While you’re relaxing and snacking, you’ll also be getting a champion dose of protein and fiber.

7. Ginger Root Thrive Bites

Thrive Bites provide serious nutrition in a convenient little bite, so you can get your snack on and get back to your lakeside activities in no time. Munch on them when your friend takes over rowing or when there’s a lull in your cornhole game.

Light and airy popcorn is the perfect way to satisfy your snacking tendencies while keeping yourself looking svelte in that swimsuit you’ll be living in at the lake.

9. In-Shell Sunflower Seeds

Packed with heart-healthy selenium, in-shell sunflower seeds make the perfect snack for those lazy lake days. You could pound a few bags of potato chips in a few hours, or you could spend the same amount of time slowly munching on some healthy in-shell seeds.

Travel Destination: The Beach

10. seaweed snack roll-ups.

Grab your favorite packaged seaweed snacks, rice, and veggies and roll up some nutritious snacks that will become a beach-house favorite and a healthy vacation staple for years to come. Get the recipe from Veggies Don’t Bite .

11. GimMe Organic Seaweed Snacks

If you don’t have time to turn seaweed snacks into the roll-ups above, then eat seaweed alone from GimMe Snacks for a super light and nourishing snack that will make you feel at one with the sea. One serving of these mineral-rich beach snacks has only 25 calories. Does that even count?

12. No-Bake Coconut Crack Bars

Blame it on the smell of sunblock or those gorgeous tropical trees, but whatever the reason, it’s a universal truth that coconuts and beaches belong together. These sweet coconut treats from Chocolate Covered Katie are packed with nutrient-dense coconut, and they’re super easy to make.

13. Dried Mango

Available at any grocery store, healthy dried mango will make the perfect mid-afternoon snack when you’re lounging on the beach. It won’t fill you up, it has fresh and satisfying flavor, and it has plenty of natural sugar to give you energy until sunset.

14. Stretch Island Fruit Leather

These fruity strips each contain 1/4 cup of real fruit. Throw them into your beach bag for a quick, healthy, and satisfying snack that’s also beachbody friendly.

15. Lemon Macadamia Nut Cookies

Beach trips require fresh island flavors that taste right at home in the sun and the sand. These nutty, lemony cookies by Cotter Crunch cover everything we look for in a beach snack. They’re a little sweet, super refreshing, and vegan.

16. Macadamia Nuts + White Chocolate + Dried Bananas

Trail mix is a thing, so why not beach mix? Just toss your favorite beachy flavors into a bag for some healthy anytime snacking. We love the combination of white chocolate, manganese-rich macadamia nuts, and crispy dried bananas.

17. Plantain Chips

The salty, tropical flavor of plantain chips just seems to belong on a beach. Plus, plantains are packed with vitamin C and vitamin A to make you feel good. Snack on plantain chips all day or serve them alongside some healthy grilled fish to make a beachy side dish.

We recommend barnana’s new line of plantain chips .

18. The Real Coconut Tortilla Chips

Add some beachy flavor to your average chips and salsa by swapping your standard corn chips for some subtly sweat, tropical coconut-flour chips .

19. Hawaiian Luau BBQ Kettle Style Potato Chips

Whether your beach trip takes you to Hawaii or not, these luau potato chips need to make an appearance on your trip. They pack all the flavor or a real luau into a convenient bag, and they’re kettle cooked in healthy oils, following the Hawaiian tradition. You do not have to be in Hawaii to eat and party like a Hawaiian, especially when you have these chips on hand.

Travel Destination: The Mountains

20. clif bars.

Even if you’re not rock-climbing like the dude on the famous Clif Bar wrapper, you can still enjoy one of these bars on your mountain journey. These bars are packed with rolled oats and soy protein, and they’re designed to provide lasting energy for a variety of adventures.

21. Chukar Cherries Dried Rainier Cherries

With no sugar added, t hese dried organic Rainier cherries capture all the crisp sweet flavors of mountain air. (We know you’ll be getting enough of that on your mountain adventure, but these cherries make one awesome anytime snack.) They’re filled with fiber and natural sugar for lots of energy.

22. Moon Cheese

If you’re a cheese lover, then you’ve probably daydreamed of a cheese that doesn’t require refrigeration, a cheese you can take anywhere. Meet Moon Cheese . The manufacturers developed a process to remove the moisture from cheese. They packed the delicious result into a handy package that lets you eat cheese anywhere.

If you ever go to the Moon, you could probably eat this snackable cheese there, too.

23. Thunderbird Cacao + Hemp + Walnut Bar

These vegan, grain-free bars taste like adventure. They’re packed with rich cacao, earthy hemp seeds, creamy coconut, and a burst of mint. They taste a bit like a powerhouse brownie, and they’ll keep you energized whether you’re traveling up or down a mountain or just sitting by the fire.

24. That’s It! Bean and Pea Bar

We love how the world is embracing the savory protein bar! The name of these bars says everything you need to know to be sold on this snack. Each one is packed with high-protein beans and peas—that’s it!

That’s It bars are gluten-free and non-GMO. They’ll give you hours of energy that only sets you back 90 calories. We recommend them for a pre-hike or mid-mountain snack.

25. 5-Minute Peanut Butter Energy Bites

A quick visit to any grocery store (or the general store) will get you all the ingredients you need to make these tasty energy bites from Ambitious Kitchen . They travel well, so you can throw them in your bag for a quick pick-me-up when you’ve halfway up your summit.

And of course, they only take 5 minutes to make, so you can have your snack packed and ready to go before your friend gets out of the shower.

26. Justin’s Classic Almond Butter Packets

Justin’s almond butter packets are pure goodness in a pouch. Healthy high-protein almond butter will help you power through your day. Plus, these handy little packs won’t weigh down your bag or your body. Spread the almond butter on some apple chips or just eat it alone—we won’t judge.

27. Barnana Original Banana Bites

These awesome travel snacks are made from bananas and nothing else. They’re perfect when you’re craving sweets, and they provide an invigorating jolt of potassium.

28. HannahMax Original Cookie Chips

Mountain living leaves no time for baking cookies. If a cookie craving strikes when you’re enjoying the wonders of nature, then reach for these handy Cookie Chips.  HannahMax Cookies combine the convenience of a chip with the wholesome, comforting flavor of Grandma’s cookies.

They’re made of fresh butter, cage-free eggs, and cane sugar. One serving has just 130 calories.

29. Made in Nature Kale Chips

If you’re camping in the mountains, you might be missing your usual daily salads. Get your kale fix with Made In Nature Kale Chips , available in lots of tasty flavors. The chips pack all the benefits of kale into a convenient package that can survive in your car or the bear locker.

Travel Destination: A Road Trip (aka The Car)

30. diy “road mix” formula.

Now that we’ve tried trail mix and beach mix, it’s time to give “road mix” a chance. To make it, we recommend combining one dried bean or legume, a whole grain, a protein-rich nut or seed, and a fruit. We love dried chickpeas, granola, pumpkin seeds, and blueberries.

31. Dried Wasabi Peas

Available in the bulk-food section of most grocery stores, healthy dried wasabi peas are perfect for car rides because the extreme flavor of the wasabi keeps you from overdosing on your snack, even as the monotony of winding roads has you munching endlessly.

32. Dried Edamame

Crispy dried edamame makes a satisfying and healthy stand-in for potato chips. Edamame is full of protein and fiber to sustain you on long car rides. You can find it at any grocery store, or you can even roast it yourself.

33. Carcorn (Popcorn for the Car)

Popcorn is the perfect on-the-road snack. You can eat cups of the stuff and that’s okay, because a serving size of popcorn is usually about 3 cups. Popcorn is light, and it provides a huge amount of crunchy fun in a minimal calorie package. Make you “carcorn” stand out by trying a fun recipe, like this sweet-and-spicy wasabi version from Kitchen Confidante .

34. Healthy Homemade Lollipops

When you were a kid, did your parents give you lollipops when you went on family road trips? Maybe they were just trying to keep you quiet, but wasn’t eating the lollipops still a fun and delicious experience?

Snack on the Food Network’s healthy versions of the classic lollipop, made with fresh citrus zest, to keep your taste buds busy while you’re on the road.

35. Healthy Homemade Fruit Gummies

Healthy fruit gummies are super satisfying to chew when you get stuck in that traffic you forgot to navigate around. These better-for-you gummies from A Side of Sweet feature wholesome honey and fruit or vegetable juice, so you don’t have to feel guilty about eating them.

36. Healthy Homemade Hard Candy

Hard candy is another boon for long car rides. Hard candy lasts forever, and it’s pretty much made for relieving stress and boredom. This hard candy recipe from Manu’s Menu includes honey and lemon juice.

37. Pamela’s Oat Blueberry Lemon Whenever Bars

These gluten-free bars combine oats, chia seeds, and tasty coconut sugar into a snack you can eat any time you want, even when you’ve been driving for so long, you really can’t remember whether it’s time for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Travel Destination: The Great Outdoors (aka Campsite)

38. healthy s’mores bars.

Camping and s’mores? It’s predictable but totally necessary. The surprise here is that you can make better-for-you vegan s’mores bars to get your chocolatey, mallowy, graham-cracker fix. These bars from the Conscientious Eater feature whole-wheat flour, oats, and vegan marshmallows.

39. Country Archer Hickory Smoke Turkey Jerky

This jerky packs the magic smells and flavors of camping into a healthy snack filled with clean protein. Country Archer turkey jerky provides you with plenty of energy for chopping wood, building fires, pitching tents, and so much more.

40. Healthy Chex Mix

You might not be in the Scouts anymore, but the snacks of your childhood camping trips are as good as they ever were. This mix recipe from Simple Roots Wellness puts an adult spin on your favorite snack by combining healthy coconut, dried cranberries, wholesome walnuts, and rich molasses.

41. Sinless Samoa Balls

Eat Bird Food’s lightened-up version of a quintessential camping treat features dates, almond butter, and coconut, so you can get your fix of the summertime camping flavors you crave without all the calories.

42. AgStandard Ranch Almonds

Big-on-flavor  ranch smoked almonds are perfect for satisfying those inevitable real-food cravings that spring up during camping trips. Plus, lean, protein-rich almonds will leave you feeling much better than any ranch dip ever did.

43. Forager Project Wasabi Greens Pressed Vegetable Chips

Camping is all about getting back in touch with nature. We don’t recommend foraging for yourself unless you know what you’re doing, but we do recommend snacking on the Forager Project’s Wasabi Greens Pressed Vegetable Chips . You can practically taste the nature in these chips, which are packed with cucumber, kale, spinach, and more.

44. Smashmallows

A healthy marshmallow that’s designed for you to snack on shamelessly? Yes, it does exist. Smashmallows are made with organic sugar and they’re gluten-free. Plus, many of the flavors have only 80 calories per serving.

45. Rosted Actually Spicy Crunchy Lentils

Rosted’s packaged crunchy lentils do something we’ve been yearning to do for years—make lentils snackable. These roasted lentils are low in calories and high in protein and fiber, making them the perfect clean snack for any kind of camping excursion.

46. Healthy Nut/Seed Butter Sandwiches

Give your favorite lunch-box sandwich a healthy shake-up that will fuel your high-energy camping vacation. Just swap out boring white bread for some seeded, whole-grain goodness; we’re talking about the kind of bread with chunks.

Then choose your favorite unsweetened nut or seed butter and trade in sugary jelly for some naturally sweetened jam, sliced fruit (like bananas, strawberries, and figs), or even carrot slices.

47. Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Medjool Dates

These organic, non-GMO dates have the kind of natural fruit sugar your body can turn right into energy. Snack on a few during a biking excursion for a quick energy boost. These powerhouse fruits also contain potassium and iron.

48. Annie’s Homegrown Organic Honey Graham Crackers

Even if you’re not planning to make s’mores on your camping trip, you’ve gotta have some graham crackers. And if you’ve gotta have some graham crackers, you better make sure they’re the healthy kind. Annie’s Organic Honey Graham Crackers are made with organic wheat flour, so they contain 8 grams of whole grains.

49. Quinn Popcorn Popping Kernels

Light, plant-based, and 100% natural, popcorn is a great choice when you need a healthy snack. Quinn makes the finest popcorn available, and you can use their wholesome popping kernels, foil, and few simple ingredients to make fresh, whole-grain popcorn over the campfire.

50. Bear Real Fruit YoYos

The cute bear on the package of these real-fruit snacks fits the camping theme perfectly, but that’s not the only reason these healthy snacks are perfect for camping. Each fruit YoYo is made with real fruits and vegetables, has no added sugar, and gives you one of your recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

They also pack and store well—a major bonus.

What’s your favorite travel snack? Let us know in the comment section below!

(PS – Be sure to join our  Dollar Snack Club  and get 6 delicious & healthy snacks for only $1! )

Additional Resources: 

• 121 Easy & Delicious Healthy Snacks For Every Type of Snacker
• 32 Tasty & Healthy Vegan Snacks to Fight Off Cravings
• 31 Guilt-Free Healthy Sweet Snacks That Will Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
• 23 Incredibly Tasty & Healthy Snacks to Buy Right Now
• 25 Healthy Snacks That Are Perfect For When You’re On The Go
• 35 Healthy Protein Snacks to Keep You Feeling Full & Satisfied
• 30 Field-Tested Healthy Snacks for Kids
• 31 Healthy Low-Carb Snacks to Keep You Full and Energized
• 50 Healthy Gluten-Free Snacks That Taste Amazing
• 28 Guilt-Free Healthy Snacks For Diabetics
• 45 Super Easy & Healthy Low-Calorie Snacks
• 33 Healthy Snacks for Adults Who Need to Refuel
• Sweet, Salty, Sour, or Spicy: These 30 Healthy Snack Bars Cover It All
• 37 Healthy Salty Snacks for When You’re Craving Something Savory
• 30 Healthy Packaged Snacks You Can Feel Good About Eating
• 30 Healthy Filling Snacks to Conquer Your Hunger
• 80+ Healthy Crunchy Snacks Made from Fresh Ingredients
• 20+ Healthy Late-Night Snacks You’ll Crave & Love
• Sweet or Savory: Choose Your Healthy Party Snacks
• 20+ Healthy Snacks for Weight Lose That Are Under 200 Calories
• Here’s How to Enjoy Your Favorite Healthy Snacks on Any Diet
• 20+ Healthy Road Trip Snacks for Feel-Good Traveling
• 30+ Healthy Pregnancy Snacks with Essential Nutrients
• 30+ Healthy Fruit Snacks That Will Change the Way You Look at Fruit

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Road Trip Food List: Easy to Pack Meals & Snacks

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a road trip food list that includes the best road trip snacks and other food to bring on a road trip?

Road trips can range from being budget-friendly to out-of-this-world expensive if you do not plan ahead, especially when it comes to eating food.

The temptation to grab a snack at every gas station, as well as to eat out at restaurants or gorge on fast food, can really start to add up in terms of money and wasted time.

One way to save money and time while road tripping, however, is to bring your own food!

By making a road trip food list and packing fun road trip snacks, you’ll avoid having to stop and spend as much.

Our road trip food list includes easy road trip snacks, as well as portable breakfast, lunch, and dinner options – plus, a FREE Road Trip Food List printable to take with you to the grocery store.

The links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Road Trip Food List: Breakfast

One of our absolute best family road trip tips is to leave bright and early in the morning when starting a long road trip.

As the most important meal of the day, luckily, having breakfast on the road is the easiest meal to eat cold and on the go.

If you decide to hit the road early, or if your hotel en route doesn’t offer a free breakfast, plan ahead by bringing along these simple road trip breakfast foods.

Our tried-and-true road trip food list awaits!

Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

• Yogurt tubes and granola bars
• Muffins, donuts, and scones
• Bagels and cream cheese
• Squeezable applesauce
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Peanut butter, banana, and granola wrapped up in a tortilla
• Make-Ahead Fruit & Yogurt Breakfast Parfaits

Additional planning tip: For added morning fun, use the category “breakfast foods”, “brands or cereal”, or “types of fruit” while you play a road trip word game .

Road Trip Food List: Lunch

When it comes to planning for lunch and beyond, your road trip packing list should always include a reliable portable cooler .

Whether you chill made-ahead sandwiches, salami & cheese, fruits, or veggies, there are so many awesome road trip food ideas when it comes to having lunch on the go.

What we love about these road tip lunch ideas is that they keep us out of congested cities and fast-food drive-thrus during the busy noon hour.

Road Trip Lunch Ideas

• Premade sandwiches with deli meat and cheese (make them extra fun by using shaped sandwich cutters !)
• Peanut butter sandwiches (skip the jelly to avoid sogginess)
• Pita pocket with mozzarella, tomato, basil, turkey, cheese, hummus, cucumber, and/or tuna salad
• Home-ade Lunchables with summer sausage, cheese, and crackers
• Tortilla with cream cheese, sliced olives, and pepperoni
• Veggies and single-serve packs of ranch dressing, hummus, or guacamole
• Pre-assembled Salad In A Jar

Road Trip Food List: Dinner

If there is one meal that you choose to splurge on, I recommend stopping to have dinner at a roadside restaurant or cafe.

Though this may not be your final destination, experiencing another city in this way will help you check more places off of your family travel bucket list !

If you’re not keen on stopping, however, here are the road trip foods we enjoy that are tasty and hearty enough to serve as dinner.

Road Trip Dinner Ideas

• Cold rotisserie chicken, chunked and served with a garden salad (package in a disposable salad container )
• Pre-made pasta salad, such as Pizza Pasta Salad
• StarKist ready-to-eat tuna salad in an avocado half or on a bun
• Chicken and pickled veggies in pitas
• Hummus veggie wrap

Additional planning tip: If you’re road tripping in the winter when driving conditions are much more unpredictable, packing extra road trip food is an essential component of your winter road trip packing list .

Road Trip Food List: Snacks

In my opinion, snacks   are the No. 1 way to keep everyone (including you!) happy on a family road trip.

Homemade snack mixes and individual pre-purchased snacks are also a great way to help cut costs associated with buying food on the road.

For this reason, I suggest assembling an entire tub filled with fun and appetizing snacks and surprises that you know your kids will love.

We use these  16-quart storage tubs from Sterilite  that are the perfect size, price, and durability!

Road Trip Snacks Ideas

• Chips and pretzels
• Animal crackers (Suprise them with Barnum’s Originals !)
• Filled crackers (peanut butter, cheese)
• Nuts (cashews, almonds, peanuts)
• String cheese, Babybel, Laughing Cow cheese wedges
• Fresh or dried fruit
• Healthy no-bake cookies
• Candy and gummy candy

Be extra organized for your family road trip by clicking the following image to get your FREE family vacation packing list that is both customizable and printable!

Travel Snacks for Toddlers

Road tripping with toddlers presents its own set of challenges and requires additional thought when it comes to toddler-friendly road trip activities and food.

(It’s much harder to keep a close eye on them when they’re in the backseat, and you’re in the front.)

When considering toddler road trip foods, the most important thing is to avoid giving them anything to eat that could be deemed a choking hazard.

In addition, opt for healthy versus overly sweet options that may give them a tummy ache.

Our favorite healthy toddler car snacks and road trip foods include:

• Graham crackers
• Snap pea crisps
• Applesauce and/or yogurt pouches
• Cheese sticks
• Soft mini muffins
• Whole-grain crackers
• Bananas and/or this apple slices

9 Essential Tips For Traveling With Food

As seasoned travelers, we’ve assembled a list of tips for traveling with road trip foods and make-ahead hotel room meals.

• Use up your most delicate fruit first when on long-haul road trips.

In other words, start by eating bananas and berries, then move on to more sturdy produce such as apples and oranges that don’t spoil as easily.

2. Every family needs an organized packing strategy !

When it comes to road trip food, tortillas, pitas, or other sturdy flatbreads work better to bring along than do loaves of bread. They take up a lot less room and do not risk getting smashed.

3. When packing a cooler with items that need to stay chilled, be sure to lay the ice on the top, versus the bottom of the cooler.

This is because cold air sinks and will, therefore, disperse itself more evenly if laid on top of the food.

4. Aim to open the cooler only 1 or 2 times a day in order to maintain its refrigeration and keep the ice from thawing.

5. Also, make all food, including snacks, easily accessible throughout the duration of your family road trip.

This prevents someone (likely mom or dad!) from having to constantly bend over the back seat or stop to open the trunk every time hunger or boredom hits.

6. Avoid bringing anything made of glass on your road trip, including glass food containers. Glass is heavy, bulky, and very dangerous when broken within the confines of your family vehicle.

7. Assemble and bring along a road trip kit with the following road trip essentials for spills, clean-ups, and car sickness:

• Anti-bacterial wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Garbage bags
• Ziplock bags
• Napkins/paper towels
• Saltine crackers and motion sickness medicine

8. Each time you stop while on a road trip, don’t forget to pitch any garbage that has accumulated.

This prevents build-up and smelliness.

9. Head to the grocery store with our FREE printable checklist and purchase all of your road trip food in one shopping trip!

If you enjoyed reading our best Road Trip Food List , click here to check out our Related Posts:

• Top 10 Tips for Planning a Family Road Trip (And Enjoying it Too!)
• 7 Road Trip Word Games to Play in the Car With Kids
• 18 Amazing “Are We There Yet” Road Trip Activity Bags
• Top 16 Tips for Flying With Kids & Ways to Keep them Calm
• The Ultimate Guide for International Travel with Kids
• 8 (Unexpected) Benefits of Traveling With Kids

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Thank you for the road trip food list and travel tips.

You’re welcome! Was there something you saw that you hadn’t thought of before? Happy travels!!

This is a great list as we also big in road trip. Snacks is so important especially to keep them from asking are we there yet. Haha… I myself like peanuts to keep me awake when it’s my turn to drive.

Thanks for reading and for sharing your favorite road trip snack!!

This is such a comprehensive list and it is so helpful as I predict a lot of us will be going on more road trips once we can. Prepping these meals will definitely save some money and help the kids feel less bored. I know that my kids are usually pleased munching stuffs during road trips. I also like that it is more likely for the road trip snack to be more healthier than what you’ll buy elsewhere.

Thank you! Yes, the health factor of pre-packing is a big one, as is the enormous cost savings 🙂

I like to have a good mix of healthy (kids like apples, those are easy to eat) and snacky/salty. I am also very particular. about road trip drinks. Big coffees, la croix, iced tea!

I like your ideas! We’d be good road trip buddies!

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17 Healthy Airplane Snacks You Can Bring Through TSA

Published September 23, 2019

Written by:

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

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At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Can you bring your own snacks on an airplane? Yes, absolutely!

To avoid spending money on expensive airport food and make sure you have lots of healthy options while flying, bring your own DIY snacks and food packed in your carry on or personal item .

For health-conscious and budget-savvy travelers, there’s even more motivation to pack your own airplane snacks. Bringing food from home helps you avoid unhealthy choices at the airport, saves money, and gives you something to look forward to on your flight. 

You don’t have to be a master chef to level up your in-flight food game, either. Many of our favorite in-flight snacks are quick to make and easy to pack. If you’re not sure where to start, these packable, healthy, airplane food ideas will keep you and your travel crew satiated.

Can You Bring Snacks on a Plane?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks from home as long as they’re TSA compliant. Spreadables, like peanut butter, and liquids, like yogurt, must follow the standard 3-1-1 liquid rule . 

Read the Travel Toiletries Packing List for more details on carry on liquid rules.

Foods you purchase after the security checkpoints at the airport do not need to follow the 3-1-1 rule. As long as you’re buying it at the airport, you can enjoy all the in-flight hummus and coconut water you want.

TSA Food Rules: What Snacks Can You Bring on a Plane?

When we talk about food that’s not allowed on an airplane, we’re actually talking about food that’s not allowed through TSA. As mentioned above, you can bring solid foods like chips, crackers, sandwiches, and pasta through TSA in your carry on , but anything liquid or spreadable will have to follow the 3-1-1 rule. So, a 1.15 ounce squeeze pack of Justin’s nut butter is fine, but a four ounce tub of yogurt will be thrown out.

Once you’re past security, this rule no longer applies, and you can bring liquids and spreadables of any size purchased in the airport. So, yes, you could technically bring a sixteen ounce bowl of soup on your flight from the Panera Bread at the airport.

The TSA’s snacks page states:

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage.

Common foods you can’t bring through airport security include:

• Any liquid (e.g., yogurt, juice, coconut water) over 3.4 ounces
• Any paste (e.g., peanut butter, hummus) over 3.4 ounces

If you have questions about a specific food item, check TSA’s foods page .

What Snacks Can You Bring on an International Flight?

For international flights, there are no restrictions on what you can or cannot bring on the flight. However, at some borders, there are restrictions on what you can or cannot bring into the country. For example, Australia has strict regulations on what travelers can bring past customs and will confiscate any fresh produce or homemade meals you have in your luggage.

If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to eat your food in-flight so you don’t get it tossed at the border. If you want to pack something just in case you’re hungry, but aren’t sure if you’ll eat it, go for a packaged snack like crackers or a protein bar.

Snacks Not to Bring on a Plane

While technically allowed, you should also avoid smelly foods and allergens as a courtesy to your fellow passengers. For your own sake, skip messy foods you could easily spill.

Foods to avoid bringing on an airplane include:

• Smelly foods like tuna
• Allergens like peanut butter or any peanut-based snack
• Liquids that are likely to spill and harder to get through security due to size limits

Also, a word about yogurt. We all know it’s a good last-ditch breakfast option when your airport has few healthy options, but it has a tendency to explode when you open it at high altitudes. If you choose to bring yogurt on your flight, open it veerrrry slowly to escape an in-flight disaster. The same goes for anything else that feels pressurized at altitude.

The best airplane snacks are un-messy, un-stinky food you can enjoy at room temperature, like dried fruit or a sandwich. If you’re bringing anything from home, make sure it’s TSA compliant, and won’t stink up the cabin.

If you’re not sure what to bring, use this list of healthy, packable airplane snack and meal ideas. Even the most amateur chef can pull off these recipes.

Healthy, Packable Meals (with Recipes)

If you have the time and motivation, make one of these healthy, easy-to-pack airplane meals before you hit the road.

Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Cookie (Vegan, Dairy-Free)

For a quick, in-flight breakfast that won’t get smashed, explode, or cause a mess, reach for one of these nutrient-rich and antioxidant-filled blueberry oat breakfast cookies.

Banana Bread (Vegetarian)

Banana bread is another packable airplane breakfast option. For health-conscious travelers, choose a whole-wheat recipe that uses coconut oil instead of butter. Whatever you don’t pack, you can freeze until you’re back from your trip.

Chickpea Salad (Vegan, Dairy-Free)

This easy lunch recipe also works as a make-in-advance airplane meal. The salad is healthy, TSA-approved, and doesn’t need to be reheated. Plus, the recipe is flexible: toss in some feta cheese or cucumbers to make this meal your own.

Chicken and Vegetable Wrap (Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Options)

Wraps are one of the best sandwiches for flights. For a healthy option, make this chicken and vegetable-filled version from the New York Times. If you’ll be on a long flight, skip the lettuce to avoid a wilted mess at mealtime.

Fruit, Vegetable, and Cheese Bento Box (Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, and Dairy-Free Options)

Fancy-looking but simple to make, a DIY snack pack is a versatile and easy-to-pack homemade airplane snack. Simply cut up a variety of fruits, cheeses, veggies, and meats. Throw in a few crackers or a piece of bread if you’d like.

Grapes and blueberries are good options for fruits. For cheeses, stick to something low-odor and hard, like parmesan. For meat, go for a dried salami, which is preserved and doesn’t need refrigeration. 

Kale Chicken Salad (Gluten-Free Option)

Salads, the world’s go-to for a healthy meal that’s still tasty at room temperature, are another good airplane food option. To make sure your salad isn’t a mushy mess by the time you board, keep your dressing in a separate (smaller than 3.4 ounce) container. Also, opt for a heartier green like kale, shaved brussels sprouts, or cabbage, which won’t wilt like lettuce or arugula.

Cold Asian Noodles (Gluten-Free and Vegan Options)

You’re an intrepid eater, so why not give your airplane food an international twist with an Asian-inspired cold noodle dish? Sesame soba noodles are a simple classic, but if you want more ideas, check out Brit+Co’s line-up of cold noodle dishes.

Vegan Pasta Salad (Vegan)

For vegans and omnivores alike, recipes like this creamy vegan pasta salad from Love and Lemons are a great food option for air travel . Not only is it delicious, but meat and dairy-free dishes don’t require refrigeration. Even if you don’t end up eating it until halfway through a long flight, it’ll keep.

Chickpea Pan Bagnat (Vegetarian)

A French picnic classic, the pan bagnat is an easy and delicious make-in-advance sandwich option that actually gets better (not sad and soggy) the longer it sits. However, the original recipe has tuna, a major airplane no-no. Instead, try this vegetarian twist with chickpeas to make one of the best sandwiches for long flights.

Airplane Snacks

For short flights or just-in-case-I’m-hungry moments, toss one of these healthy airplane snacks in your bag.

• Dried fruit: Unlike real fruit, you can’t crush these babies. If you’re crossing time zones, go for dried berries. Target (Good & Gather) and Trader Joe’s both have good options without added sugar. I’m partial to Target’s dried mango and pineapple.
• Popcorn: The perfect accoutrement to your in-flight movie binge.
• Almonds: A protein-filled snack to keep you feeling full for longer.
• Crackers: Go for a healthier whole-wheat option that’s great for kids and adults.
• Fruit and veggie slices: Pack a bag of snap peas, apple slices, or any other fruit or veggie you love. 

There are also a few snacks you can make with hot water from the drink service.

• Miso soup : For a warming, in-flight snack, bring a packet of instant miso soup. Just be sure to keep your cup ¾ full, or use a thermos with a lid to avoid any turbulence-induced soup burns.
• Instant oatmeal : Grab a packet of oats or throw some quick oats in a thermos with your favorite toppings.
• Instant noodles : Choose a low-sodium instant noodle, since salty foods exacerbate the dehydration caused by air travel. Again, keep your bowl or food jar only ¾ full.

How to Pack Snacks for an Airplane

With most homemade airplane meals, your food is only as portable as its container. When packing your carefully crafted sandwich, salad, or noodles, make sure to choose a leak-proof container that will keep your food intact. 

Vremi Collapsible Food Container ($20)

Vremi’s line of collapsible containers is leak-proof and will keep your food safe in transit. After you’ve finished your snacks, the container collapses flat so you can stash it in your bag without it taking up as much room as traditional Tupperware.

Zojirushi Food Jar ($28+)

Japanese brand, Zojirushi, makes an affordable but high-quality line of thermoses and food jars designed to keep your warm food warm and cold food cold. If you prefer sturdier Tupperware or want to keep your food hot or cold in transit, use Zojirushi’s food jar to transport your pasta, salads, or snacks.

Stasher Bags ($8+)

Use a reusable, silicone bag from Stasher to transport your sandwich, pretzels, dried fruit, or any other snack you’d normally toss into a Ziploc bag. These bags pack even smaller than collapsible Tupperware and can be reused during your travels or on your return flight home. Like Bee’s wrap, they’ll also help you create less trash while you travel.

Bee’s Wrap ($15+ for 3)

Unlike foil or plastic wrap, you can wash and reuse these natural, beeswax-covered wraps — a plus for eco-friendly travelers who want to reduce the amount of trash they create on the road. Use them to transport sturdier foods, like sandwiches or carrot slices, and pack them on the outside or top of your bag.

Humangear Spork ($4)

If you’re bringing a dish like noodles or salad, you’ll need a utensil. Toss one of these petite, BPA-free sporks by Humangear  in your bag, instead of disposable forks and spoons from airport stores. Go for the titanium spork ($14) for an upgrade.

Snow Peak Chopsticks ($38)

Prefer chopsticks with your noodles? Grab a pair of portable chopsticks from Snow Peak . Made from high-quality stainless steel and bamboo, these chopsticks break in half when not in use and, when put together, form a full-sized chopstick. They’re expensive compared to the $4 spork but incredibly well-made and designed to last. My partner, Jon, has been using his for over ten years.

Snacks on a Plane

You can eat healthier while saving time and money by packing your own foods and snacks in your personal item . Just make sure your food:

• Follows TSA’s 3-1-1 rule : Spreadables, liquids, and liquid-ish foods like hummus, yogurt, and nut butter must be in 3.4 ounce containers or smaller.
• Tastes good at room temperature : Consider sandwiches, cold noodles, and salads.
• Isn’t smelly or messy to eat : Just say no to in-flight tuna.

When packing airplane snacks, consider using eco-friendly collapsible Tupperware, beeswax wraps, silicone sandwich and snack bags, and camping sporks you can reuse throughout your travels.

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Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

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The Road Trip Snack Hack You Need to See Before Your Next Trip!

Before you set out on your next traveling adventure, learn how to make a snackle box, an easy-to-pack charcuterie board road trip snack box for kids and adults! They are a fully customized travel kit for each person and filled with the best travel snacks for a stress-free vacation!

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Our extended family lives in Idaho and Wyoming, and we don’t. This means whenever we want to see them, we have to go on a road trip. When we lived in Utah, that meant a trip of about 4 hours one way. Now that we are in Arkansas that is a 20+ hour trip one way! 😩

But during these trips, we have found ourselves engaged in a snack war. With one bag of snacks, child 1 asks for a snack. Then child 2. Then child 3. Child 4 finally asks for some. All just in time for Child 1 to ask for more snacks. And so it continues round and round, for the entire trip. And Mom never gets a rest! I don’t know about you, but this mama gets pretty tired of being on snack duty for the entire trip.

❤️ Why You Will Love the Snackle Box

The Snackle Box is seriously the best traveling hack that will save your sanity and make traveling so much easier! Here are just a few of the benefits of using a snackle box for your next trip:

• Easy road trip snack boxes  for kids!
• Awesome travel snack kits  for adults! Yes, adults love these too!
• Fully Customized  to each person.
• Keep snacks compartmentalized  so it prevents your snacks from getting crushed or mixed together.
• No more handing out snacks  – everyone already has their box for the trip.
• Keeps snacks within a set portion  – less overeating on the trip.
• No more big bags of snacks  to get squished, keep track of or tip over and make a mess. Each person is in charge of their own box.
• Save money  – you can actually buy non-perishable snacks ahead of time in bulk, and fill up each snackle box before leaving. Then save the rest of the bulk snacks at home for another occasion or road trip.
• Not just for traveling!  They make excellent snack boxes for a day at the beach, lake, park, movie night, or even for a birthday party activity!

I’ve tried ziplock bags. But all the snacks get crushed during the trip. I’ve tried a little lunch box, but all the snacks get mixed together and then the picky ones complain. Trust me, after we started using these travel snack kits, a  snackle box is SO MUCH EASIER  when you are traveling with kids!

🤔 What is a Snackle Box?

The term Snackle Box is a play on words between the words  Snack  and  Tackle  coining the term Snackle. 

Snackle boxes are a fun and creative way to serve snacks.  They are essentially portable charcuterie boards that can be made from any type of container with compartments. Most are made with tackle boxes, although I’ve also seen them made in bento boxes. Both are great options for snackle boxes because they are durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of sizes.

To make a snackle box travel kit you only need a few items. And they are all very easy to get! Ready for this?

You need a  tackle box  or  bento box  and your favorite snacks! That is it! See I told you it was easy! For the best results, find a tackle box that lets you customize the size of the compartments.

Let’s dive deeper into the different ideas so you can make the best travel snack kit possible for you and your kids.

What type of box can I use for a snackle box?

There are many different types of boxes you can use to make a travel snack box. You can use a bento box or a  tackle box . I’ve seen both. Some are made out of metal and some are plastic. I prefer plastic simply because I don’t have to worry about rust after washing or loud noises when the kids drop them. You can get them in all kinds of sizes too!

You can find these tackle boxes all over like Amazon, Walmart, and hobby and craft stores. Don’t limit yourself to just the fishing section. Check out craft departments and look for craft, sewing, utility, etc storage boxes as these also work really well! 

Recently I just found this adorable  snack spinner  that would work also. It is so cute and little kids would really have fun with it.

🚨 SAFETY TIP!

When looking at a tackle box, check the bottom for a recycle symbol with a number in the middle. This number indicates the type of plastic material and whether or not it is safe to store food in.

If the number is 2, 4, or 5, the plastic is considered food-safe.

What should be in a snack box?

When I pack a charcuterie-style snack box I try to have a variety of snacks to cover all the bases. Fill your snack boxes with a variety of sweet, salty, healthy, and charcuterie foods. Include textures such as crunchy, chewy, creamy, and juicy. And don’t forget drinks! But above all, all snacks need to be finger food friendly!

Here is a great list of ideas to get you started:

Sweet Snacks

• Homemade snickerdoodle cookies
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chips cookies
• Swedish Fish
• Sour Patch Kids
• Gummy Worms
• Chocolate dipped Goldfish crackers
• Twizzlers Trail Mix
• Honey Maid Grahams
• CHIPS AHOY!
• OREO Cookies
• NILLA Wafers
• Mini Smore’s Popcorn Balls
• Mother Goose Popcorn
• Fruit Snacks
• Chocolate candies like M&M’s or chocolate-covered raisins
• Mini Marshmallows
• Sweet Cereals that kids love to snack on like Lucky Charms or fruit loops
• Homemade Breakfast cereal bars
• Yogurt-covered pretzels
• Granola bars
• Animal crackers
• Nerd Clusters
• Licorish nibs

Salty Snacks

• RITZ Crackers
• WHEAT THINS Snacks
• TRISCUIT Crackers
• Goldfish Crackers
• Cheese-It crackers
• Kettle Corn
• Jerky Strips
• Veggie straws
• Goldfish Trail Mix

Healthy/Charcuterie Snacks

• String cheese
• cubed cheese
• Sliced meats
• Peanut Butter Sandwich Bites
• Celery Sticks
• Apple Slices
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• dried fruit
• sliced cucumbers
• small tomatoes
• broccoli florets

Drink Ideas to put in your travel snack kit

• Juice boxes
• Bottled water
• Propel Flavor packet to add to water
• Small chocolate milk

👩🏻‍🍳 How Do You Make A Snackle Box?

The very first thing you should do is thoroughly wash your tackle box with soap and water. And then dry it completely. it is essential that it is completely dry to keep your snacks fresh.

The great thing about using a tackle box is that many of them let you personally set up the dividers inside. So you can create custom cubbies of the perfect size. I always begin by making sure I have one spot that will fit a juice box and string cheese. If your chosen drink is too big for the snack box, that is alright. You can carry it separately and you don’t have to worry about a compartment to fit the drink.

Then insert the rest of the dividers to create individual compartments to the size you want.

When it comes to filling up the snack compartments, you have a lot of freedom here.

I like to give my kids choices in snacks when we travel. I like a balance of fun snacks and a little more health-conscious. And all snacks need to be finger food friendly.

Don’t forget a napkin or wet wipe of some kind. Traveling and snacks can get a little messy.

Fill in the various compartments with your kid’s favorite fruit and snacks.

For the younger kids like toddlers, you can simply create a small snack kit with a smaller utility box or the  snack spinner .

For the older kids, I let them put their own snack box together, picking their favorites from the choice platter I set out.

Once all the snack kits are completed, they can easily be snapped shut and packed up for the drive.

Easy as that! Now whenever the kids want a snack, they each have their own little easy snack box they can enjoy as they please.

Many times we have leftovers once the kids get their snack kits packed. There are three very easy options for the leftover treats.

• Pack up the extra snacks in the luggage, and let the kids remake their trip snack kit for the drive home. For this option, you will need to make sure you have room in the luggage and probably need to keep them hidden while on vacation so they don’t all get eaten before you begin your trip home.
• Store in the pantry for later.
• Let the kids have an easy movie party or outdoor water party with friends before the road trip.

💡 Snackle Box Ideas

As I mentioned earlier, snackle boxes aren’t just for a car road trip. There are so many fun ways that you can use these snack boxes for kids and adults! Here are some popular ideas to get you started:

• Road trips – obviously
• Fishing trips
• Picnic at the park
• Airplane travel – just ensure the snacks you pack meet  TSA regulations
• Day at the beach or lake
• Sports tournaments
• School extracurricular activities where your kids need to pack a snack
• Church youth activity where your child needs to bring a snack
• A day at the pool
• A day hiking – this is if you are using a small bento or tackle box – remember to pack light.
• A movie party – Have a snack station full of your favorite snacks for movie parties. Each person gets their own bento or tackle box and fills it up with their treats before the movie begins and then no one needs to get up to get more snacks! 
• A Kids Party! This would be an excellent idea for an activity at a kid’s party. Have a station where each kid can make their own snackle box to take home! 

❤️ Did You love it? ❤️ Consider giving this article a 👍🏻 Like.

YIELD: ONE SNACKLE BOX

Easy Customized Snackle Box Ideas

PREP TIME  15 minutes

ACTIVE TIME  5 minutes

TOTAL TIME  20 minutes

ESTIMATED COST  $10-20

• 1 Tackle Box or Bento Style Box - Adjustable compartments recommened.
• Napkin or wet wipe
• String Cheese
• Sweedish Fish
• Other than your favorite snacks, a tackle box, and napkin - no other tools are required.

Instructions

• Thoroughly wash the tackle box with mild soap and water
• Allow to fully dry
• Gather your favorite road trip finger food snacks
• Insert the compartment dividers to create the sized compartments of your choosing
• Add in a napkin or wet wipe along
• Place your juice box in the largest box.
• Add string cheese to the desired compartment
• Add your favorite snacks into the appropriate compartment, keeping each one separate from the others.
• Close the lid and latch tightly closed
• Pack for the adventure

When selecting a tackle box, check the bottom for a recycle symbol with a number in the middle. This number indicates the type of plastic material and whether or not it is safe to store food in. If the number is 2, 4, or 5, the plastic is considered food-safe.

You can include perishable foods such as sliced meets if you have a way to keep the snackle box cool.

We advise including a mixture of sweet, salty, and healthy snack options.

You will want all foods included to be finger food friendly.

Pick the size of the tackle box that will fit your needs. A toddler will need a smaller tackle box or a snack spinner. A teenager or adult will probably enjoy a larger tackle box.

Do you love easy-to-make family friendly Crafts and DIY projects? Check out our  DIY Catalog  for more ideas! You can also subscribe to our  email newsletter  and follow Busy Creating Memories on  MSN ,  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  and never miss a new project!

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17 Best Road Trip Snacks for Kids

Snacks are mandatory when it comes to traveling, but what snacks travel well? 

The best road trip snacks are ones that don’t melt easily, are mostly on the healthier side, and curb that hunger before the hanger sets in.

I’m not a nutritionist, but these snacks are what we pack for our road trips with our girls (ages 4 & 7 at the time of creating this list). My husband and I take road trips with our girls every month. Our weekend road trip distance can often take up to 6 hours to get to our destination.

We’ve gone on road trips with our kids to multiple National Parks, Las Vegas, and Monterey Bay. We’ve driven long distances for snowboarding weekends and dozens of camping trips. As Magic Key holders, we also make the 2-hour drive to Disneyland very often.

It’s amazing what a good road trip snack can do. I’ve had snacks help prevent meltdowns, stop whining, and help keep a positive attitude.

So let’s take a look at my favorite options and narrow down the best road trip snacks for your kids.

(And don’t forget, my girls aren’t babies or toddlers anymore so some of these snacks will need to be bite-sized or not given to your youngest ones)

Best Protein Snacks

With a sugary road trip snack, your kid might ask for another snack 10 minutes later. Protein snacks help them feel full for longer . 

Nuts and dairy are great sources of protein for kids!

1. Kate’s Real Food Energy Bars 

We love Kate’s Bars, and I’m not just saying that as an ambassador of the brand.

I don’t normally like protein bars. Many are pasty and taste like protein powder. 

My husband loves tons of protein bars- he’s not a picky eater like I am. Our girls have been hit-or-miss with protein bars, but most of Kate’s Real Food flavors are approved on their list.

The bars are organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and made with honey. There are 2 servings per regular-size bar, or single-serving mini bars to help refuel, reenergize, and curb that appetite.

There are so many flavors with either peanut butter or almond butter. My favorites are lemon and coconut, mango and coconut, and peanut butter milk chocolate.

We take them in the car as road trip snacks, on planes, on hikes, for camping- you name it! The minis are a perfect size for our kids’ lunches.

2. Non-Perishable Yogurt Pouches

Sometimes your kid isn’t in the mood for a new flavor or chewing a granola bar, so it’s great to go back to a classic: yogurt.

It’s easy to eat with kid-friendly flavors like blueberry and strawberry. We get the GoGo Squeeze Yogurtz pouches because they are shelf-stable. They have 4 grams of protein plus calcium and vitamin D.

You can stick them in the cooler if you want, but they don’t need to be refrigerated. Store them in the cupboard, pack them in your road trip snack bag, and hit the road!

3. String Cheese

This travel snack can be a bit difficult. Some people say string cheese can last up to 2 hours without refrigeration while others say 2 weeks since it’s individually wrapped.

For me, I don’t like strong cheese that’s room temperature. For my girls, one likes string cheese and the other wants nothing to do with it.

If you know your kid likes string cheese, it’s one of the best road trip snacks you can pack. I would just stick it in the cooler and transfer it to the hotel fridge, but that’s up to you and your preferences.

4. Nuts & Trail Mix

Nuts or nut-based trail mix fits easily into travel-size containers. If your kid loves peanuts or almonds, those are great nuts to snack on for an extra protein boost. 

Keep in mind: if your kid is too young to chew nuts or hasn’t tried them yet, don’t pack them. They can be a choking hazard for babies and toddlers or a possible allergy.

My girls don’t like most nuts, but they go crazy over pistachios. 

It’s cheaper to buy pistachios already shelled, but I recommend splurging on pre-shelled pistachios or taking the shells off before your trip. They get very messy.

Stay away from trail mix with chocolate added if it’s going to be a warm-weather road trip because chocolate melts. 

Extra Tip: Always have wet wiped in the car for messy snacks, carsick kids , or any other clean-up necessities.

5. Peanut Butter or Hummus

Peanut butter or hummus is a perfect road trip snack for kids. 

Eat it with a spoon or dip vegetables in it. Carrot sticks, celery, or slices of bell pepper go great with hummus or peanut butter.

We forgot spoons for the travel peanut butter packets, but we had carrots. 

Our girls thought it was so funny to use the carrots as a spoon, and they ended up loving the taste of peanut butter with carrots! Now it’s a road trip staple, and perfect for eating in the car.

The Dollar Tree has small cups of peanut butter or you can use these travel-size peanut butter squeeze packs .

Best Energy Snacks for Kids

If you’re on a long trip, you want your kids to sleep in the car, but you also want them to have energy for your adventures. 

These snacks are great for on-the-go pick-me-ups, minimizing the “I’m hungry” whining between meals. 

Fruits, vegetables, and honey are healthy sources of carbs that give your kid energy.

6. Honey Stingers Waffles 

Honey Stingers Waffles are made with real honey. They are sweet and delicious and our girls can’t get enough of them.

On a snow hike one year, we stopped to snack on a few mini Honey Stinger waffles . The snack gave us all the extra boost we needed to dig us out of a tired, grumpy mood.

The best road trips are full of active adventures. It’s great to have a snack like these for on-the-go fun.

7. Carrots 

Carrots are the best healthy snack for road trips with kids since they are a vegetable that doesn’t have to be refrigerated.

As long as your kids are old enough to eat carrots, I recommend always bringing some with you for a travel snack.

They go great with peanut butter and help balance out other snack options.

8. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are another great option if you’re in the car. Cut them into long strips and keep them fresh in a car cooler .

Dip the bell peppers into hummus or peanut butter to add some extra protein to your kid’s snack.

Picky eater on your hands? Try the different colors of bell peppers. 

They taste slightly different and it can be made into a game to guess what color your kid is eating.

Fun fact: the reds, oranges, and yellows have the most vitamins.

Cuties are one of our favorite road trip snacks for kids because they take longer to eat.

You can give your kid one slice at a time to help make it seem like it’s more than one snack.

We use this trick all the time on the road but also while waiting in line at Disneyland .

Grapes are a road trip food you need to be careful with. It’s best to cut the grapes lengthwise unless you’re sure your kid can handle chewing whole grapes well.

That being said, they are refreshing whether they’ve been in a cooler or not. Grapes are easy to pack and travel with.

Just like the bell peppers, you can get different colors of grapes to mix things up and make snack time on a road trip more exciting.

11. Apples 

Apples travel well and are refreshing, crunchy, and healthy road trip snacks.

If your kid is better at eating slices than the whole apple, then pre-cut them. Add a bit of lemon juice to help the apple slices not brown as quickly.

At ages 7 and 4, our girls love eating the whole apple. It’s a great snack for the care, especially after one of our family hikes .

Best Behavior Reward Snacks for Kids

I have a major sweet tooth my daughters inherited, but I know too much sugar makes them CRANKY. Do yourself a favor and use the candy sparingly so it’s more meaningful and you avoid that sugar-crash attitude.

Also, avoid chocolate. It melts into one big chocolate mess.

12. Skittles or Jelly Beans 

Since candies like Skittles and Jelly Beans have multiple pieces per package, it’s easy to make it a longer-lasting snack.

We try to give candy as an occasional treat instead of a general snack. If your kid is being well-behaved in the car, it’s a fun snack to reward them with.

Predetermine how much candy you’re good with your kids eating on your road trip and think through the timing of when they can eat it.

13. Fruit Snacks

Fruit snacks are a favorite in our house, and also good travel snacks for kids to share or stretch out over time.

They fall into the extra treat category for us since most brands have added sugar and fruit flavoring.

Because our girls don’t eat fruit snacks all the time, they get extra excited when we bring them as a snack on road trips.

Other Snack Ideas

14. cheerios .

Cheerios go everywhere with us. The regular cheerios are low in fat and are made from whole grains.

It’s the perfect road trip snack for kids because it can work as breakfast on the go or a bite between meals. 

The only problem is they aren’t exactly mess-free snacks. We gave the baby car seat to my sister when our daughter upgraded to a booster seat. When taking it out of our car we found a bucket full of Cheerios!

15. Raisins

One girl likes raisins, one doesn’t. They sure are a convenient travel-size snack for kids though. 

Any dried fruit is a yummy option for younger and older kids, just make sure your little kids are good at chewing them before using them as a car snack.

You can get a whole jar to refill a travel container, or just buy the tiny snack-size boxes.

10 Reasons the Disneyland Grand Californian Hotel is Completely Worth It

“The window is open, so is that door- I didn’t know they did that anymore…” The lyrics from Frozen’s “For the First Time in Forever” ran through my head as I watched our toddler run down Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel hallways in her Anna dress. Pure magic. Happiness. Excitement. Family togetherness. Our vacation had it all. The planning, the saving- all worth every minute and every penny. I metaphorically sat back and enjoyed the ride as I watched our plans unfold, soaking in every memory. Our girls’ first trip to Disney was a huge success.

16. Fruit Pouches

We try to buy fruit pouches that also have vegetables in them. Our girls love them and the pouches are perfect for on-the-go adventures and in the car!

Most brands don’t have to be refrigerated, but it’s good to stick them in your cooler on warm-weather road trips. This makes it more refreshing, plus fruit pouches are great for kids and toddlers!

17. Crackers

There are so many crackers to choose from! We rotate through Goldfish crackers, wheat thins, peanut butter crackers, Triskets, and Ritz crackers. 

You can also get crackers specifically for your baby or toddler. We used to love these teething crackers when our girls were younger.

They are a good car snack for kids but do leave a lot of crumbs behind. Just be ready for that!

Road Trip Drinks for Kids

Water is so important to bring everywhere for everyone.

You might think not drinking as much when you’re stuck in a car for hours will help prevent extra pit stops, but 1) that’s not good for you, and 2) you’re still going to have to make extra pit stops. Might as well stay hydrated.

We have tips on how to encourage kids to drink more water while hiking , but a cool water bottle is the best tip for family road trips.

Electrolytes

Kids don’t need anything other than water for hydration, but after a long day of tough hiking or extra running around, we like to give our girls some electrolyte drinks. 

If you’re not sure what might be okay for your kid to drink, just stick with water and ask your pediatrician for recommendations if you think your family adventures will leave them needing to replenish their electrolytes.

The best electrolyte mix we’ve found is Ultima. If we’re splurging we might get the girls some Gatorade, but Ultima has zero sugar and is our preferred option. Ultima has so many flavors and we all love the taste.

This is coming from someone who usually hates electrolyte powder mixes. Ultima is delicious and has zero sugar with zero carbs.

Road Trip Snack Storage

Reusable zip bags or travel containers are our go-to snack to pack on road trips.

Our favorite is a stackable snack tower we got at Costco. It’s a great way to keep the snacks organized and have a little dish for them to eat out of.

Always have a snack bag and water bottles for the car ride separate from your trip’s food. This way you know what you can eat now without digging into the snacks for your vacation too early.

Plus, it’s a good opportunity to make the road trip snacks for your kids stand out and have something special on the long car ride.

Road Trip Snacks for Kids Summary

What are the best road trip snacks for kids?

Snacks that have a good source of protein like Kate’s Real Food mini energy bars or non-perishable yogurt pouches are great for kids on long car rides. It might be a few hours until the next meal, so the protein will help curb their hunger.

Sometimes an energy booster is needed. Fruit and veggies are easy road trip snacks. There’s only so much napping a kid can do in the car, so a treat with carbs will keep kids happy.

Cheerios are always my go-to snack for road trips or any trip and are good at any time. 

Fruit snacks work great for rewarding good behavior. We try to avoid too much sugar so it’s appreciated when they do get a goody, and there’s less chance of a cranky sugar crash or upset tummy.

What snacks will you pack for your next road trip?

Travel Blogger

Family Travel Folio was created in 2019 by Katie to help and inspire parents to travel with their kids from Camping to Disneyland and everything in between.

Katie is a Disney obsessed bookworm who loves to explore with her husband and their 2 girls. You can find her learning fun facts about animals or eating sour candy while planning another fun adventure.

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