Road trips are full of adventure, excitement, and probably a few hunger pangs along the way. To avoid any hangry moments, we’ve made a list of the best and healthiest snacks to keep energy high and stomachs happy. Just don’t forget the cooler and some ice packs, so the perishable ones can stay cool and fresh. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or protein-packed, these road trip snacks have got you covered.
And for the ultimate convenience, consider carrying your snacks and drinks in North Goose’s eco-friendly insulated water bottles. With 8 oz. of detachable snack storage, you can easily bring along your favorite treats and stay hydrated without any hassle.
Sweet Snacks
- Sour Watermelon Patches
For those with a sweet tooth, sour watermelon patches are a tangy and refreshing choice. Made with real fruit juice and without artificial colors or flavors, they’re a sweet you can eat guilt-free.
- Fruit
Fruit is packed with vitamins and minerals and is refreshing to eat. Choose fresh whole fruit like apples, oranges, and bananas that are easy to grab and eat on the go, or dried fruit such as apricots, raisins, and mango slices for a convenient and portable option. Fruits’ high water content and fiber-rich composition help keep you hydrated and satisfied during long drives.
- Dried Fruit
Want something a little less messy? Dried fruit offers a naturally sweet and satisfying option packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Choose from apricots, raisins, or mango slices for a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while on the road.
- Apple Chips
For something even healthier but just as crunchy as potato chips, apple chips are an amazing alternative. Packed with fiber and vitamins, they’re a naturally sweet treat that everyone in the car will love.
Savory Snacks
- Peanut Butter Pretzels
This incredible combo of salty pretzels mixed with creamy peanut butter gives you the perfect blend of flavors and textures. High in protein, they can give you an extra boost of energy.
- Vegetables
Baby carrots, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper strips are all light and refreshing. Pair them with dips like hummus for game-changing taste and extra protein.
- Beef Jerky
Easy to hold and easy to chew, this classic road trip snack is perfect for munching on the go. It’s also a great source of protein.
- Trail Mix
A mix of nuts, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate, trail mix is a versatile and energizing snack. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, it’s a balanced blend that’ll keep you going mile after mile.
- Guac and Chips
Avocado dip paired with crispy tortilla chips is a winning combo that everyone in the car will be reaching for. Avocados are loaded with healthy fats and fiber.
- Edamame
Steamed soybeans are filled with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Just top with sea salt and enjoy!
Protein-Packed Snacks
- Protein Bars
If you’re feeling hungry and need a quick refuel, protein bars are a great go-to. Packed with protein, fiber, and other healthy goodness, bars can keep your energy up so you don’t lose steam.
- Oath Clear Whey
A convenient and refreshing protein drink that’s perfect for staying fueled during your road trip. Packed with high-quality whey protein and available in delicious flavors, it’s an easy way to hit your daily protein goals.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are an amazing source of protein and are easy to prepare ahead of time to keep hunger at bay during your trip.
- Beef Sticks
Beef sticks are savory, protein-rich, and perfect for on-the-go munching. Made from lean beef and seasoned with herbs and spices, they offer a blend of flavor and nutrition.
- Mixed Nuts
A combo of flavors and textures, mixed nuts offer a wealth of nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They’re convenient road trip food for staying fueled on the road.
- Ham and Cheese Wheels
Savory deli meat meets soft cheese, rolled together for easy eating. They provide a protein-packed option that you can down in seconds.
Healthy Snacks
- Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a light, crunchy snack that is low in calories and high in fiber. You can also add seasoning to it, such as parmesan, to elevate the flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait
Made with Greek yogurt, layered with fresh fruit, and topped with granola, this filling snack is packed with protein and probiotics. The fruit adds natural sweetness and essential vitamins, while the granola gives a satisfying crunch and added fiber.
- Hummus
Hummus is creamy and flavorful, pairing well with veggies, crackers, or pita chips. Made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, it’s a nutritious snack that’s high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Rice Cakes with Almond Butter
Rice cakes are low in calories and provide a crunchy base, while almond butter adds healthy fats, protein, and a delicious nutty flavor. Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Indulgent Snacks
- Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. Look for varieties with a high cocoa content for maximum health benefits.
- Dark chocolate-covered nuts
The mixture of rich chocolate and crunchy nuts gives you the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, while also offering a dose of heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Poppi Soda
A healthier soda alternative with only 5 grams of sugar and 25 calories per can. Enjoy the refreshing taste without guilt.
- Licorice
Its chewy texture and sweet taste make it easy to munch on throughout your trip.
- Chips and Salsa
The snack that nobody will be able to stop eating. It’s incredibly tasty and easy to pass around the car.
Extra Snack Ideas
- M&Ms
- Skittles
- Cheetos
- Cheese Puffs
- Spicy Pickles
- Potato Chips
- Air Heads
- Nerds Gummy Clusters
- Ruffles
- Chocolate Bars (Snickers, Twix, Butterfinger, etc.)
- Gummy Bears
- Pirouline Sticks
- Goldfish
- Twizzlers
- Chex Mix
With a little bit of prep work, you’ll have a bunch of good road trip snacks packed and ready for your adventure, saving you time wandering gas station aisles or overspending on drive-thrus. And with North Goose’s water bottles, you can easily carry both your drinks and snacks in one convenient container, making them the ideal companion for your journey. Now that’s our kind of trip!