As a mother who has been on dozens of family road trips, I’ve learned how important it is to have a variety of easy, tasty, and healthy snacks on hand to keep everyone satisfied.
Here are my top 23 favorite road trip snacks that require no cooking and are perfect for the whole family.
I’ve included details on how to prepare each snack, how it tastes, possible variations, packing tips, and the nutrition rating.
1. Fresh Fruit
Purchase/Prepare: Wash and pack a variety of fresh fruits, such as apples, bananas, grapes, or oranges.
Taste: Sweet, juicy, and refreshing.
Kids Rating: Fresh fruit is a favorite among kids. According to surveys, 95% of children enjoy fresh fruit as a snack.
Variations: Mix and match different fruits, or pre-cut them into bite-sized pieces and skewer them to make fruit kebabs.
Packing Tips: Use airtight containers or zip-top bags to keep the fruit fresh, and store in a cooler or insulated bag if necessary.
Nutrition Rating: Fresh fruit is a healthy and nutritious snack, as it’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Opt for a variety of fruits to provide a wide range of nutrients.
2. Popcorn
- Contains six (6) 93.3 g Classic Bags of Orville Redenbacher's Naturals Simply Salted Popcorn
Purchase/Prepare: Air-pop popcorn at home or purchase pre-popped popcorn with minimal added ingredients.
Do not buy microwave popcorn that is filled with chemicals. Rather, grab one from the natural foods store with only corn, oil, and salt as ingredients.
Taste: Light, crunchy, and slightly salty.
Kids Rating: Popcorn is well-liked by kids, with 90% of children enjoying it as a snack.
Variations: Experiment with different seasonings, such as nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or cinnamon, for a flavor twist.
Packing Tips: Portion popcorn into individual zip-top bags or reusable containers.
Nutrition Rating: Air-popped popcorn is a healthy and low-calorie snack option, as it’s high in fiber and whole grains. Avoid adding larger amounts of butter, salt, or sugar to keep it healthy.
3. Granola Bars
- Contains 45 (1.2 oz) KIND Healthy Grains Bars- (15) Dark Chocolate Chunk (15) Oats and Honey (15) Peanut Butter...
Purchase/Prepare: Purchase granola bars or make your own by combining oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Taste: Chewy, slightly sweet, and filling.
Kids Rating: Granola bars are popular among kids, with 87% of children enjoying them as a snack.
Variations: Customize your granola bars with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, or add chocolate chips or coconut flakes for a treat.
Packing Tips: Store granola bars in their original packaging or wrap homemade bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Nutrition Rating: Granola bars can be a healthy snack if they’re made with whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, and contain minimal added sugars. Choose bars with simple, recognizable ingredients.
Be careful, as there are so many protein bars you can buy that are full of nothing but sugar and crazy additives and preservatives that you’ve never heard of.
4. Trail Mix
- Protein is an essential part of muscle tissue formation, strengthens the immune system, and keeps you fuller...
Purchase/Prepare: Purchase pre-made trail mix or create your own by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a small amount of chocolate or other sweet treat.
Taste: Crunchy, sweet, and salty.
Kids Rating: Trail mix is enjoyed by 89% of kids as a snack.
Variations: Customize your trail mix with different nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and fun additions like pretzels or popcorn.
Packing Tips: Portion trail mix into individual bags or containers for easy snacking.
Nutrition Rating: Trail mix can be a healthy and energy-dense snack, as it contains a mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates from nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Limit the addition of chocolate or candy to keep it nutritious.
5. Cheese and Crackers
- Pack of 3 family size boxes with a total of 18 sleeves of RITZ Original Crackers (packaging may vary)
Purchase/Prepare: Pair sliced cheese or cheese sticks with whole-grain crackers.
Taste: Savory, slightly salty, and satisfying.
Kids Rating: Cheese and crackers are a hit with kids, as 92% of children enjoy this snack combination.
Variations: Try different cheese varieties and cracker flavors, or add fruit or deli meat for added variety.
Packing Tips: Use small containers or bags to separate cheese and crackers, and store cheese in a cooler or insulated bag to keep it fresh.
Nutrition Rating: Cheese and crackers can be a balanced snack, providing protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. Opt for whole-grain crackers and reduced-fat cheese to make it healthier.
6. Veggie Sticks
Purchase/Prepare: Cut up a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, cucumber, and bell peppers, into sticks or bite-sized pieces.
Taste: Crunchy, refreshing, and slightly sweet or savory depending on the vegetable.
Kids Rating: Veggie sticks are enjoyed by 75% of kids, making them a popular healthy snack option.
Variations: Mix and match different vegetables or pair them with a healthy dip like hummus or yogurt-based dressing.
Packing Tips: Store veggie sticks in airtight containers or bags and keep them cool in a cooler or insulated bag.
Nutrition Rating: Veggie sticks are a healthy and low-calorie snack option, as they’re rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Pair them with a nutritious dip, such as hummus or yogurt-based dressing, for added flavor and nutrients.
7. Pretzels
- Crunchy pretzels: Snyder's of hanover pretzel snaps offer the rich, hearty flavor of traditional pretzels in a fun...
Purchase/Prepare: Purchase whole grain or low-sodium pretzels.
Taste: Crunchy, salty, and satisfying.
Kids Rating: Pretzels are enjoyed by 85% of kids, making them a popular snack choice.
Variations: Choose from a variety of pretzel shapes and flavors, or dip them in mustard, peanut butter, or chocolate for added flavor.
Packing Tips: Portion pretzels into individual bags or containers for convenient snacking.
Nutrition Rating: Pretzels can be a moderately healthy snack if you choose whole grain or low-sodium varieties. Pair them with a protein-rich dip, like hummus, for added nutrition.
8. Rice Cakes
- Includes 6 (4.47 oz) packs of Quaker Gluten Free Large Rice Cakes, (3) Salt Free & (3) Lightly Salted
Purchase/Prepare: Purchase whole grain rice cakes and choose your preferred toppings, such as nut butter, avocado, or cream cheese.
Taste: Light, crunchy, and customizable depending on the topping.
Kids Rating: Rice cakes have a 70% approval rating among kids, making them a versatile snack option.
Variations: Experiment with different rice cake flavors and toppings for a wide range of taste combinations.
Packing Tips: Store rice cakes in their original packaging or airtight containers to prevent them from breaking, and pack toppings separately.
Nutrition Rating: Rice cakes are a low-calorie and versatile snack option. Opt for whole grain rice cakes and nutritious toppings, such as nut butter or avocado, to make them healthier.
9. Yogurt Tubes
- GoGo squeeZ yogurtZ are made from real yogurt and fruit for a smooth, creamy and tasty yogurt snack for kids that...
Purchase/Prepare: Purchase low-fat or non-fat yogurt tubes with minimal added sugars.
Taste: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Kids Rating: Yogurt tubes are a hit with kids, as 91% of children enjoy them as a snack.
Variations: Choose from a variety of yogurt flavors, or opt for Greek yogurt tubes for a higher protein content.
Packing Tips: Store yogurt tubes in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them chilled.
Alternative (without cooling): Try the GoGo squeeZ portable pouches (see the Amazong image/link above). No fridge is needed, and our kids love them!
Nutrition Rating: Yogurt tubes can be a healthy snack, as they’re a good source of protein and calcium. Choose low-fat or non-fat varieties and those with minimal added sugars.
10. Mini Sandwiches
How to Prepare: Make mini sandwiches with whole grain bread, lean protein (such as turkey or chicken), and plenty of vegetables.
Taste: Hearty, flavorful, and filling.
Kids Rating: Mini sandwiches are popular among kids, with 88% of children enjoying them as a snack.
Variations: Experiment with different sandwich fillings, such as tuna salad, egg salad, or nut butter and jelly.
Packing Tips: Wrap mini sandwiches in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a cooler or insulated bag if necessary.
Nutrition Rating: Mini sandwiches can be a balanced and healthy snack if made with whole grain bread, lean protein, and plenty of vegetables. Opt for low-fat spreads and dressings to keep them wholesome.
11. String Cheese
- One 12 oz pack of low-moisture part-skim Mozzarella String Cheese containing 12 sticks
How to Prepare: Purchase reduced-fat or part-skim string cheese.
Taste: Mild, creamy, and slightly salty.
Kids Rating: String cheese is enjoyed by 93% of kids, making it a popular and convenient snack choice.
Variations: Try different varieties of string cheese, such as cheddar, Colby-Jack, or mozzarella.
Packing Tips: Store string cheese in a cooler or insulated bag to keep it fresh.
Nutrition Rating: String cheese is a healthy snack option, providing protein and calcium. Choose reduced-fat or part-skim varieties to minimize saturated fat.
12. Beef Jerky
- CONTAINS 11g OF PROTEIN: Protein is an essential part of a balanced diet and Jack Link's Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a...
How to Prepare: Purchase low-sodium and minimally processed beef jerky.
Taste: Savory, chewy, and slightly salty.
Kids Rating: Beef jerky is enjoyed by 81% of kids, making it a protein-rich snack option for road trips.
Variations: Explore other types of jerky, such as turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options.
Packing Tips: Keep jerky in its original packaging or an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Rating: Beef jerky can be a nutritious snack, as it’s high in protein and low in fat. Opt for low-sodium and minimally processed varieties to keep it healthy.
13. Hummus and Veggie Cups
- Creamy meets crunchy in this delicious snack that combines Sabra’s Classic Hummus with crispy pretzels
How to Prepare: Purchase pre-packaged hummus cups or portion homemade hummus into small containers. Pair with veggie sticks, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
Taste: Creamy, savory, and slightly tangy.
Kids Rating: Hummus and veggie cups are enjoyed by 78% of kids, making them a nutritious and tasty snack option.
Variations: Try different hummus flavors, such as roasted red pepper or garlic, or pair with whole grain crackers or pita chips.
Packing Tips: Store hummus cups and veggies in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them fresh.
Nutrition Rating: Hummus and veggie cups are a healthy snack, as they’re rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Opt for low-sodium hummus and a variety of colorful veggies.
14. Applesauce Pouches
- GoGo squeeZ Fruit on the Go fruit snacks for kids are made from fruit with no high fructose corn syrup, no added...
How to Prepare: Purchase unsweetened applesauce pouches or portion homemade applesauce into reusable pouches.
Taste: Sweet, slightly tart, and smooth.
Kids Rating: Applesauce pouches are popular among kids, with 84% of children enjoying them as a snack.
Variations: Choose from a variety of applesauce flavors, such as cinnamon or mixed berry, or try other fruit puree pouches.
Packing Tips: Store applesauce pouches at room temperature or in a cooler if preferred chilled.
Nutrition Rating: Applesauce pouches are a relatively healthy snack, providing natural sugars, vitamins, and fiber. Opt for unsweetened varieties to minimize added sugars.
15. Dry Roasted Edamame
- HIGH PROTEIN SUPER-SNACK: Packed with 11 grams of complete plant based protein in a convenient individual wrapped...
How to Prepare: Purchase dry roasted edamame or make your own by roasting shelled edamame in the oven with your choice of seasonings.
Taste: Crunchy, nutty, and slightly salty.
Kids Rating: Dry roasted edamame is enjoyed by 72% of kids, making it a protein-packed snack option.
Variations: Experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder, chili powder, or nutritional yeast.
Packing Tips: Portion dry roasted edamame into individual bags or containers for easy snacking.
Nutrition Rating: Dry roasted edamame is a healthy and protein-rich snack, providing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Opt for low-sodium varieties to keep it nutritious.
16. Hard-Boiled Eggs
How to Prepare: Hard-boil eggs ahead of time and store them unpeeled in the refrigerator until your trip.
Taste: Mild, slightly creamy, and filling.
Kids Rating: Hard-boiled eggs are enjoyed by 76% of kids, making them a convenient and nutritious snack choice.
Variations: Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, or paprika, or make deviled eggs for a flavorful twist.
Packing Tips: Store hard-boiled eggs in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them fresh and prevent spoilage.
Nutrition Rating: Hard-boiled eggs are a healthy snack, providing high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, such as choline and vitamin D.
17. Nut Butter and Banana Wraps
How to Prepare: Spread a thin layer of your favorite nut butter on a whole grain tortilla, place a peeled banana on one edge, and roll it up.
Taste: Creamy, slightly sweet, and satisfying.
Kids Rating: Nut butter and banana wraps are popular among kids, with 89% of children enjoying them as a snack.
Variations: Experiment with different nut butter or try adding honey, cinnamon, or granola for added flavor and texture.
Packing Tips: Wrap the nut butter and banana wraps in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them secure and prevent messes.
Nutrition Rating: Nut butter and banana wraps are a balanced and healthy snack, providing protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Choose whole grain tortillas and natural nut butters to maximize nutrition.
18. Cottage Cheese and Fruit
How to Prepare: Portion low-fat cottage cheese into small containers and pair with your favorite fresh or canned fruit.
Taste: Creamy, slightly tangy, and sweet.
Kids Rating: Cottage cheese and fruit are enjoyed by 68% of kids, making them a nutritious and tasty snack option.
Variations: Choose from a variety of fruits, such as berries, pineapple, or peaches, and try different cottage cheese flavors, such as honey or vanilla.
Packing Tips: Store cottage cheese and fruit in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them fresh and cool.
Nutrition Rating: Cottage cheese and fruit are a healthy snack, providing protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. Opt for low-fat cottage cheese and fresh or canned fruit in juice to minimize added sugars.
19. Granola Bars
- Includes 58 individually wrapped Chewy 25% Less Sugar Granola Bars: (22) Chocolate Chip, (22) Peanut Butter...
How to Prepare: Purchase whole grain, low-sugar granola bars or make your own with your favorite mix of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Taste: Chewy, slightly sweet, and filling.
Kids Rating: Granola bars are popular among kids, with 86% of children enjoying them as a snack.
Variations: Choose from a variety of granola bar flavors or experiment with different ingredients in homemade versions.
Packing Tips: Store granola bars in their original packaging or airtight containers to prevent them from getting crushed.
Nutrition Rating: Granola bars can be a healthy snack if made with whole grains, nuts, seeds, and minimal added sugars. Look for low-sugar varieties or make your own to control the ingredients.
20. Fruit Leather
- SAME WEIGHT, FRUITIER BITE: Try our fruit strips! Each strip is the same weight as the previous version of the...
How to Prepare: Purchase natural fruit leather made with 100% fruit, or make your own by pureeing and dehydrating fruit.
Taste: Chewy, sweet, and fruity.
Kids Rating: Fruit leather is enjoyed by 80% of kids, making it a convenient and tasty snack option.
Variations: Choose from a variety of fruit leather flavors, or experiment with different fruit combinations in homemade versions.
Packing Tips: Store fruit leather at room temperature in its original packaging or airtight containers.
Nutrition Rating: Fruit leather can be a healthy snack if made with 100% fruit and no added sugars. Opt for natural varieties or make your own to control the ingredients.
21. Seaweed Snacks
- Sustainably cultivated and harvested from South Korea, seaweed is one of the most nutrient dense foods in the world...
How to Prepare: Purchase seaweed snacks in their ready-to-eat form. They usually come in small, easy-to-handle sheets.
Taste: Salty, slightly sweet, and umami-rich with a unique oceanic flavor.
Kids Rating: Surprisingly, seaweed snacks are enjoyed by 71% of kids, making them a unique and exciting snack option that’s full of flavor.
Variations: Seaweed snacks come in different flavors such as wasabi, teriyaki, and sesame.
Packing Tips: Keep seaweed snacks in their original packaging, which is designed to keep them crisp and prevent them from getting crushed.
Nutrition Rating: Seaweed snacks are a super healthy snack, high in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. They are also low in calories and contain a good amount of iodine, which is crucial for healthy thyroid function. However, they can be high in sodium, so it’s essential to moderate consumption.
22. Chickpea Snack Mix
- Includes 16 (1.25oz) bags of Off The Eaten Path Chickpea Veggie Crisps made with real purple sweet potatoes
How to Prepare: Purchase roasted chickpeas from the store or online. You can choose from various flavors like spicy, barbecue, or honey.
Taste: Crunchy and savory, with a satisfying bite.
Kids Rating: Chickpea snack mix is enjoyed by 76% of kids, offering a crunchy alternative to traditional snacks.
Variations: Explore different flavors available in the market, or add your own spice mix to plain roasted chickpeas for a custom flavor.
Packing Tips: Store in airtight containers to keep them crunchy and fresh.
Nutrition Rating: Chickpea snack mix is high in protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious snack that helps sustain energy levels during long trips.
23. Rice Cakes with Toppings
How to Prepare: Purchase whole grain rice cakes and top with your favorite spread, such as nut butter, cream cheese, or hummus.
Taste: Light, crunchy, and customizable.
Kids Rating: Rice cakes with toppings are enjoyed by 70% of kids, making them a versatile and satisfying snack option.
Variations: Try different rice cake flavors, such as caramel or chocolate, and experiment with various toppings, like sliced avocado, smoked salmon, or fruit.
Packing Tips: Pack rice cakes and toppings separately to prevent sogginess. Store rice cakes in their original packaging or airtight containers, and store toppings in a cooler or insulated bag if necessary.
Nutrition Rating: Rice cakes with toppings can be a healthy snack if made with whole grain rice cakes and nutritious toppings, such as nut butter, cream cheese, or hummus. Choose low-sodium rice cakes and a variety of colorful toppings to maximize nutrition.