road trip food snack ideas

THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FOOD LIST: 50 Scrumptious Travel Snacks

Post Summary: The definitive road trip food list with 50 snack ideas and meals to keep you happy the entire car ride. Plus, tips for what else to bring and recommendations for the best road trip coolers.

Road trips are the classic adventure that everyone needs to do at least once in their life, whether you’re traveling solo, with your best buds, or packing in the whole family. What’s the secret to a great road trip? Besides having your maps already downloaded to your phone (travel must #1), it’s to have a collection of the best road trip food at your disposal. Being prepared with good travel food will ensure you don’t:

• Kill your travel mates because you’re hangry.
• Get killed by your travel mates because they’re hangry.
• Get lured in by every gasoline stop and somehow end up with bright orange Cheetos and Slim Jims.
• Waste your travel budget dining on Subway and Wendys road trip meals.

After road tripping with a toddler for half a year around the US, we’ve figured out the ultimate road trip food list so we can enjoy the journey together feeling nourished and happy. Our list includes road trip food ideas for adults and kids as well as healthy car snacks.

After the road trip food list, we’ve included non-food items you’ll want to bring and some tips on choosing the best road trip cooler.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check out our other articles below:

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 41 Essentials For The Road 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions 17+ Fun Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 40 Must Have Items To Have In Your Camper

*This road trip food list post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we genuinely think are helpful.

The Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Healthy snacks for a road trip

We’ll start with healthy snacks for the road. I don’t know about you, but when we go on road trips, we tend to fall back on fast food and junk food. In an effort to have a quasi healthy road trip we make sure to include some healthy options so we can at least feel like we’ve balanced out all our snickers bars and Wendy’s frosties. Here’s our list of the best road trip foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish at the end of the day. We also added in a few recommendations of some of our favorite brands.

Healthy Snacks For Car Rides 1. Fruit: Bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, apples, oranges 2. Sliced veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, pickles, radishes 3. Cherry tomatoes 4. Olives (buy the pitted kinds) 5. Salsa 6. Deli sandwiches or wraps (already made from home or pre-purchased) 7. A simple charcuterie spread (summer sausage, pepperoni, sliced cheese, dried apricots, olives, crackers, etc.) 8. Popcorn 9. Yellow corn chips, blue corn chips, kale chips 10. Granola Bars and Energy Bars ( Munk Bars are our favorite! ) 11. Dried Fruit 12. Crackers (cheese crackers, saltines, whole wheat crackers, these almond crackers are my favorite!) 13. Pretzels 14. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews, macadamia, walnuts, pecans) 15. Trail mix 16. Tuna (Get the kind that doesn’t need to be refrigerated! It can become a snack on crackers, a sandwich, or added to a salad) 17. Coconut chips ( Dang chips are our favorite. ) 18. Dark chocolate 19. Wasabi peas 20. Fruit leather 21. Whole-grain muffins 22. Bread (pretzel rolls, pita bread) 23. Water (Preferably in a water bottle like a Hydro Flask that will keep your water cold for hours.) *The following are all still healthy snacks for a road trip but will require a cooler. Skip them if you are going sans cooler. Further down, we’ll talk about the best road trip coolers. 23. Hard-boiled eggs 24. Small yogurt containers or drinkable yogurts 25. Humus 26. Guacamole 27. Pasta salad 28. Lentil salad 29. Grocery store salad kits (Can be eaten out of the bag! Just cut the top, pour in the salad dressing, and shake it away. You can also opt to do salads in a jar) 30. Cheese

Essential Road Trip Snacks

These road trip snacks might not be the healthiest, but look…you can’t always be perfect!

Road Trip Snack List 32. Beef Jerky 33. Chips 34. Fun candy (Any kind of candy that brings you joy for your road trip. Gummy bears, reeses pieces, airheads) 35. Ranch dip to go with your healthy veggies 36. Fun drinks (Just make sure the drink is able to be resealed or small enough that you’ll drink it all quickly. My favorite road trip drink is coconut water!) 37. Cookies

Road Trip Snacks For Kids And Toddlers

While we don’t put a distinction between road trip food for the adults and road trip food for kids, here are some fun ideas you can add in addition to the travel food listed above. We found that allowing for leniency with what we let our kid snack on will mean a more fun time for everyone in the car.

Road Trip Snacks For Toddlers and Kids 38. String Cheese or Babybels 39. Peanut butter pretzels 40. Clementines 41. Squeezable applesauce 42. Squeezable nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) 43. Graham crackers 44. Goldfish 45. Fruit snacks 46. Fruit roll ups 47. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich 48. Dry cereal 49. Nutella 50. Snap pea crisps ( I love the wasabi ones from Harvest Snaps . I can only get them online because my grocery store never has them!)

Essential Non Food Items

Now that you’ve got your travel food and made your road trip food list, let’s talk about non food items to have on your road trip packing list. We are both advocates for minimal waste living so we do advise using reusable items like real utensils, glass containers, and reusable straws rather than single-use items. I know it can feel like a nuisance, but once you get used to doing it, it’s easy to integrate it into your habits. We’ve provided links to different products, so you can check out some good options.

-Trash bags (old shopping bags work well) – Stackable glass or plastic containers (While glass may feel like a hazard, I find that most of them are built for endurance and would require some extreme throwing around to actually break. Either way, bringing containers rather than an entire bag of snacks is a great space saver.) -Reusable straws (we like this multipack option here ) -Bento boxes (another option is to make individual bento boxes with everyone’s preferred snacks put in. It’s essentially a healthier version of a Lunchable. Great option if you’re traveling with kids.) Check out these cute bento boxes here . -Utensils -Plates -Paper towels -Hand sanitizer -Ziplock bags -Wipes -Cups if you want to share drinks -Ice packs for the cooler (We prefer to use reusable ice packs like these , but frozen water bottles or ice cubes in a ziplock back will do the job as well.) -Reusable grocery bag to carry your non-perishable stuff -Plastic tub (If you’re going on a long road trip and will have lots of snacks, a good option is to pack all your non-perishable items in a tub like this .) -Cooler

Related : A Comprehensive Guide To the Best Toddler Carriers For Traveling

Best Road Trip Coolers

If you’re going on a long road trip, you’ll definitely want to bring a cooler so you can have more options for the journey. Things to consider when deciding what kind of road trip cooler to bring.

• How much space will you have in your car?
• How many days will you be driving and subsequently how much food will you need?
• Cost of the cooler
• If you road trip or camp a lot and will use a cooler several times a year.

Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

Our choice for the best road trip cooler is the Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler . It’s a mid-sized cooler that can fit a bottle of wine standing upright. We like its lightweight design and that its compact size can fit on the ground behind the passenger seat.

It has a mid-range price point, so if you are wanting something more economical, you’ll probably want our next pick.

Igloo MaxCold Cooler

If all you need is a no-frills cooler to keep your food cold, the Igloo Maxcold Cooler is a great option. The thin design also makes it a great choice for someone wanting to save room in the car.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

If you like a soft cooler, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze consistently offers the best bang for your buck.

Yeti Tundra 45

Lastly, if you are wanting a high-end cooler that will be great for camping and can take the wear and tear of consistent use, the Yeti Tundra 45 is your best bet. Yeti is the reigning champion of coolers and you can’t go wrong with anything you purchase from them.

Before you head out on your epic road trip, we suggest packing the night before. Alleviating as much stress as possible on the day you leave, especially when you’re doing a road trip with a toddler , is key to enjoying the road trip journey. We find that the night before, it’s best to:

• Wash, cut, and peel all vegetables and fruit.
• Pack up all non perishable food and supplies.
• Prepare any road trip sandwiches you plan to eat.

Lastly, don’t forget to make sure all your tasty road trip snacks are within reaching distance in the car.

We hope you enjoyed our complete road trip food list. Happy road tripping!

** For more road trip inspiration follow us on Instagram . We travel… a lot.

NEED SOME TRAVEL INSPIRATION? A Complete Guide To A Utah National Parks Road Trip How To Plan A Cross Country Road Trip + Fun Routes To Take 10 National Parks To Visit In The East 50 Family Bucket List Experiences In The US

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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21 Best Road Trip Snacks for Long Drives

From granola bars and cookies to chips of all kinds, here are some of the best road trip snacks to take with you on your next road trip.

Road trips aren’t complete without snacks. Be sure you’ve packed enough nourishment for the long drive!

Whether you’re in the mood to indulge or want something clean to nibble on, I have you covered.

This last has everything from healthy roasted chickpeas to sinful caramel corn.

Fill up the tank and get your itineraries ready. This list will take care of the snacks.

21 Healthy Snacks for Your Next Road Trip

1. trail mix   .

Let’s start things off with a snack that’s loved both by kids and adults. This trail mix isn’t just about nuts and dried fruit.

Also loaded with pretzels, Cheerios, mini-marshmallows, and M&M’s, it gets a 12/10 for color, flavor, and texture.

It’s so good, it’s almost impossible to stop snacking on it.

So instead of packing it in one big bag, I suggest you place it in smaller bags so everyone gets their own.

2. Puppy Chow  

Puppy chow, also called muddy buddies, doggy bag, and reindeer chow is a snack made of rice cereal squats (such as Chex) coated in peanut butter and chocolate and dusted with powdered sugar for good measure.

While its sounds like something a dog would it, it is nothing of the sort.

In fact, no matter how your pup begs for it, you mustn’t give in. Remember, it contains chocolate.

3. Beer Nuts  

Personally, I don’t find peanuts a fun and exciting snack. Beer nuts, however, is an entirely different story. These nuts I can eat all day!

Cocktail peanuts are cooked in sugar syrup. Once it sets, the sugar crystallizes, forming a sweet and crunchy coating covering the nuts. 

Finishing it off is a sprinkling of sea salt, adding a nice salty contrast to the sweet sugar coating.

4. Popcorn  

If you’re a sucker for caramel corn, you’ll love this recipe.

If you think there’s no way to make your very own without making a huge mess, think again.

This recipe for caramel popcorn takes place in the microwave. This is not a drill, people!

Yes, you can achieve that sweet, crunchy, beautiful golden brown caramel popcorn by only using this nifty kitchen appliance.

5. Texas Trash  

The name may be disgusting, but Texas Trash is a treasure.

It’s a sweet, salty, and savory mix of Cheerios, pretzel crisps, peanuts, and a variety of Chex cereals.

It doesn’t end there, though. The medley of crunchy munchies is coated in a garlic-y, buttery, and umami-rich sauce to tie all the flavors together. 

Finally, they’re popped in the oven to give them that extra crunch.

6. Granola Bars  

Granola bars are awesome at keeping you energized throughout the day. The only thing is, they cost a lot.

Don’t spend all your money on granola bars. Save it for pocket money and souvenirs. With this easy, budget-friendly recipe, your problem is solved. 

A mix of almonds, oats, peanut butter, maple syrup, and dates, these homemade granola bars are just as delicious, if not more, than any you can find in stores.

The best part? You’ll get to enjoy as many granola bars as you can at a fraction of the cost. 

7. Chocolate Chip Cookies  

Nothing adds more joy to a road trip than chocolate chip cookies do. These classic treats are iconic for a reason – they’re seriously delicious.

These aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies, though.

This recipe is a copycat of the famous Doubletree cookies – gigantic cookies that are outrageously buttery and chewy.

They’re not just packed with chocolate chips, but walnuts as well – a wonderful combination of gooey and crunchy.

8. Fire Crackers  

Let’s be honest – saltines are no fun. If there’s any way to put a damper on your road trip, it’ll probably be saltine crackers.

That’s not to say you can’t turn the boring crackers into something exciting, though.

This recipe for fire crackers will revamp those squares from bland to banging.

Saltin crackers are drizzled with spiced melted butter and baked until golden. The difference it makes is simply astonishing.

9. Apple Chips  

Excursions with friends and family are generally fun, but the long drive can get boring.

What better way is there to pass the time than with a bag of chips?

Sure, potato chips are king, but if you’re looking for a cleaner option, these apple chips have you covered.

They’re just as crispy and crunchy as potato chips, but they won’t make you feel guilty. 

10. Fantasy Fudge  

These fantasy fudge squares are truly a dream come true.

They’re chewy, ooey-gooey, and oh so chocolatey. They’re loaded with walnuts, too, giving you a crunchy surprise in every bite.

Here’s a bonus: fudge is so easy to make. It’s impossible to fudge up!

The hardest part is waiting for it to set. It takes 4 hours, but the wait is worth it.

11. Bagel Chips   

Got some stale, leftover bagels? Put it to good use and turn it into bagel chips. You’ll be snacking on these crispy-crunchy delights all day and night!

It couldn’t be easier to make. You can use seasoned bagels for a flavorful snack, or use unseasoned and flavor them yourself.

You can make them smokey and savory with BBQ seasoning, or sweet and spicy with cinnamon sugar. Either way, these chips will be a road trip hit.

12. Apple Fritters  

Got a hankering for fall flavors? Scratch that itch with these glorious apple fritters.

Pillowy cakes are bursting with sweet apple chunks and bathed in a sweet cinnamon-sugar glaze.

These fritters are extra special, too, because, for this recipe, we’re using donut batter.

That’s why they’re so plump and pillowy. Move over, Krispy Kreme! 

13. Roasted Chickpeas  

Chickpeas aren’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to road trip snacks.

But trust me, you’ll definitely want to take this treat with you wherever you go.

Canned chickpeas are soft, sometimes mushy. But when you pop them in the oven, a magical transformation occurs. 

They become wonderfully crispy and addictive. Seasoned with a slew of herbs and spices, they’re so tasty they’ll blow your taste buds away.

14. Banana Muffins  

Muffins are always a good idea for road trips. These grab-and-go snacks aren’t only mess-free, but insanely delicious as well.

These banana muffins are dense and moist at the same time.

Flavored with sweet, overripe bananas, their delicious banana flavor can’t be denied.

The recipe calls for Bisquick for the batter, so you know it’s an easy one.

15. Peanut Butter Pretzels  

Pretzels are already a fun snack, but you can always take it up a notch.

Coat those crunchy treats with a mixture of melted chocolate and peanut butter, and they become a thousand times better.

Drizzled with even more melted chocolate garnish, these pretzels are as tasty as they are pretty.

16. Coconut Chips

I love all things coconut. Whether it’s in cake or cookie form, I’ll eat it all. So when I saw this recipe for coconut chips, I just had to give it a try. 

These coconut chips are mind-blowingly amazing! They’re sweet, nutty, and unbelievably crunchy.

They’re sprinkled with a bit of salt, so they also have that sweet and salty contrast going on.

Best of all, these chips are healthy.

17. Baked Veggie Chips

Just because you have diet restrictions doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an addictive snack.

These veggie chips are oil-free, vegan, gluten-free, and definitely guilt-free. 

Most importantly, they’re delicious. With this recipe, you get a mixed bag of crispy beetroot, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and rutabaga.

How fun is that? The colors alone will make your mouth water.

18. Blueberry Muffins  

Need some last-minute road trip snacks? These blueberry muffins are here to save the day. 

They’re soft, moist, and bursting with fresh blueberries. Also, they’ll only take you 15 minutes to make – and that’s not a typo!

Thanks to Bisquick, these muffins come together in no time, without sacrificing flavor. 

19. Green Bean Chips  

If you have a dehydrator, I know exactly what you should make.

These green bean chips are a billion times tastier and healthier than store-bought veggie sticks, and they’ll cost you a lot less.

Flavored with just a bit of salt and nutritional yeast and dehydrated overnight, these green bean chips are surprisingly crispy and delicious.

Believe me, even the kids will love them. 

20. Chocolate Covered Almonds

Almonds and chocolates are great. Put them together and you’ll get a snack that’s even better.

I can never say no to chocolate-covered almonds.

They have the perfect combination of smooth and crunchy, sweet and nutty. They’re absolutely addictive.

Instead of buying them, I prefer making them myself. It’s more affordable and tastes just as good, if not better.

If you want to stay within budget, this recipe is a must-try.

21. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

How about some thirst quencher? If you’re looking for a sweet, hearty, and refreshing drink to bring on your next road trip, this smoothie perfectly fits the bill.

Bananas and peanut butter are an age-old combination that never disappoints.

Turn them into a smoothie, and you’ll have an outrageously tasty refreshment that’ll keep you full throughout the long drive.

21 Best Road Trip Snacks For Long Car Rides

These road trip snacks are a must for your next car trip! From roasted chickpeas to caramel corn to trail mix, don’t hit the road before packing these tasty snacks.

Ingredients

Texas Trash

Granola Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Fire Crackers

Apple Chips

Fantasy Fudge

Bagel Chips

Apple Fritters

Roasted Chickpeas

Banana Muffins

Peanut Butter Pretzels

Coconut Chips

Baked Veggie Chips

Blueberry Muffins

Green Bean Chips

Chocolate Covered Almonds

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Instructions

• Select your favorite recipe.
• Organize all the required ingredients.
• Prep a road trip snack in 30 minutes or less!

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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!)
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• 18 Amazing “Are We There Yet” Road Trip Activity Bags
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• 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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25 Best Road Trip Snacks That’ll Fuel the Family

They're sweet, salty, healthy, and everything in between!

Every item on this page was chosen by a The Pioneer Woman editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

It's been years since the entire Drummond clan took a proper family road trip, but Ree took the kids on lots of by-car adventures when they were younger, especially as part of homeschooling lessons. Ree got the kids in the car bright and early to avoid traffic, and would always make sure to pack a Thermos of hot coffee. "Mornings are my favorite part of the day to be on the road," she says. "Most people are just waking up, the roads are significantly less populated…coffee tastes better."

No matter where you're traveling this year, these road trip snacks will fuel you and your family through even the longest drives. Have a safe trip!

Country Archer Beef and Turkey Jerky Variety Pack

Ditch the carby snacks and opt for beef or turkey jerky when you're craving some protein. This variety pack comes with six different flavors and is big enough to share!

That's it. Fruit Bars Variety Pack

For a satisfying chew without the added sugars, try fruit bars. They're healthier than candies and gummies but still bursting with fruit flavor for when you want something sweet.

Combos Pizzeria Baked Pretzel Snacks

You'll find these filled snacks in the chip aisle at most gas stations. They're low-crumb and delicious.

YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears

Who said gummy bears are just for kids? These gluten-free gummies are great for the whole family—and they taste delicious, too!

Kar's Sweet 'n Salty Trail Mix

Is the highway kind of like a trail for cars? Either way, this sweet and salty trail mix will satisfy your hunger on long trips.

Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn

For the ultimate sweet and salty snack, try this kettle corn. It's made with 100% whole grains and is gluten free and non-GMO, so it's a snack you can feel good about!

JUSTIN'S Classic Gluten-Free Almond Butter Squeeze Packs

Whether you're spreading it onto another snack like an apple (without any mess!) or enjoying it on its own, an almond butter squeeze pack is a great on-the-go snack.

CLIF BARS - Mini Energy Bar Variety Pack

These miniature energy bars are perfect for giving you a little boost when you're on the last leg of your trip. Buy this variety pack to find your favorite flavor.

Newtons Soft & Chewy Cookies Variety Pack

Satisfy your sweet tooth and skip the crumbs with a few Fig Newtons. This variety pack comes with fig and strawberry cookies.

Goldfish Crackers Big Smiles Variety Pack

Goldfish are always a crowd-pleaser. Get the variety pack so everyone in the crew can enjoy their favorite flavor!

Happy Bites 3 Flavor Covered Coffee Beans

When you need a little caffeine but can't stop for coffee, reach for these chocolate-covered coffee beans. Just be sure to keep them away from the kids. 😂

Garden Veggie Straws

The whole family can enjoy this snack, from toddlers to teens to adults. Try a fun flavor like Zesty Ranch to mix things up.

Organic Roasted Seaweed Sheets

Get your greens on the go with these roasted seaweed snacks. They're kid and parent-approved!

Dried Mango Slices

Traveling with fresh fruit can be tricky—it's so frustrating to reach for a banana, only to find it smushed at the bottom of a bag. Plus, what do you do with that pesky peel when you're on the road? We recommend packing dried fruit for no-fuss snacking.

Fritos Scoops! Corn Snacks

Satisfy a salty craving with some simple corn chips. There's a reason they've stayed popular for more than 80 years. And if you're looking to dip, Scoops! will help you avoid a mess.

Honey Nut Cheerios

Cereal is delicious even without milk. Fill a baggie with your favorite kind for a great on-the-go snack.

CraveBox Care Package

If you're heading on a cross-country road trip, one or two kinds of snacks might not cut it. So buy a wide variety instead! This CraveBox comes with a mix of 45 different salty and sweet snacks.

Snyder's of Hanover Pretzels

Skip the plain salty pretzels that just leave you feeling parched. These twists are seasoned with a buttery blend of spices including onion, garlic, and pepper.

Glico Chocolate Pocky Sticks

Why choose between sweet and savory when you can have both in the form of chocolate Pocky sticks? They're easy to eat with one hand, too!

Harvest Snaps Green Pea Snack Crisps

These dried snap peas are a healthier alternative to potato chips. We promise they're just as addictive!

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101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Posted on Published: November 18, 2020  - Last updated: June 21, 2023

Who doesn’t love a good road trip? Better question: who doesn’t love a good road trip snack? Well here’s a mega list of road trip food ideas that you’ll want to pack along.

One of the worst things that can happen on a road trip is running out of food and dealing with a hangry family member. Don’t let that happen! Keep your ride peaceful with these road trip snack ideas!

This list of road trip snacks goes beyond gas station junk food and difficult-to-eat-on-the-go meals. The best road trip foods are convenient, satisfying and healthy (but also sometimes not!)

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

On this mega list of 101 road trip food ideas, you’ll find:

Healthy road trip snacks, homemade road trip snacks.

• High energy foods on the go

Road trip snacks for kids

Vegan road trip snacks, ideas for your sweet tooth, meals for road trips, packing tips and food containers.

• Essential supplies you’ll need

Best road trip food

As someone who checks off bucket list locations and takes many road trips every year, I know my road trip food. 🙂 It’s important for food to be portable, easy to eat in the car and it needs to be able to travel well.

Some of the food ideas below you’ll want to prepare and package up at home before you hit the road. Be sure to pack a cooler to keep foods fresh as needed.

Note: stick around to the end of the list for the best packaging solutions and containers . Because it matters when packing food for a road trip!

You want something convenient and healthy, right? Well it’s just as easy to grab an apple for a long car ride as a bag of Doritos!

Now, before you head to the store to buy a bunch of fruit, make sure to think through them all. Like bananas…

Bananas are not a good option for road trips, as they get mushy. On my road trip to Moab, Utah, the bananas I packed split open and made a mess of my reusable grocery bag. So skip the bananas, okay?

Here’s the list of healthy road trip snacks

• Sugar snap peas and ranch
• Healthy granola (think savory seasoning, not sweet ingredients)
• Popcorn (my favorite budget-friendly snack using this air popper )
• Homemade trail mix
• Carrots and ranch
• Strawberries
• Sugar-free, gluten free muffins
• Veggie chips (store bought or homemade)
• Blueberries
• Basil, tomato and mozzarella salad
• Rice cakes with nut butter
• Cottage cheese and almonds
• Pita chips and hummus
• Healthy zucchini muffins
• Yogurt with mix-ins (just watch the sugar content)

Next let’s dive into the things you can make – or bake – from home. My kiddos always ask for a few of these on every road trip. Their favorite on our way to Glacier National Park was # 20 below!

• Rice crispy bars
• Or their yummy cousin, fruity pebble bars
• Other cereal bars – think Cheerios, Lucky Charms…the possibilities are endless!
• Paleo, keto and Whole 30-friendly nut bars
• Cheese quesadilla
• Pretzel hugs (just don’t pack a bunch – they’re addicting!)
• Ditch the flour with these black bean brownies
• Sweet trail mix (DIY – just throw pantry staples together!)
• ‘Cookie’ protein balls
• Almond bark with mix-ins
• Spicy roasted cashews
• Peach oatmeal muffins

High energy foods on-the-go

Sitting in the car can be B-O-R-I-N-G and an energetic snack can help to pick you up. Or if you’re driving an all-nighter like I did from Omaha, NE to Gulf Shores, AL , you’ll need some energy to get you through the long drive.

Here are some of my favorite high-energy snacks for the car:

• Greek yogurt
• Ham, chive and cream cheese pinwheels
• String cheese
• Cinnamon apple energy bites  
• Hard boiled eggs
• Energy bars ( RX bars are my favorite for road trips and hiking snacks)
• Salmon in a pouch
• Favorite energy drink (as needed) for driving over night

Let’s focus for a minute on food for little ones. While most road trip food on this list can be given to kids, there’s just some foods that are naturally designed for kids.

Pro tip: make sure to give the kids healthy road trip snacks first. It’s way harder to get them to eat an orange after having a bunch of chocolate. Don’t ask me how I know. 😉

Just a quick note: many of these food are pre-packaged which isn’t the most eco-friendly way of traveling. However if you balance it with homemade and reusable packaging when possible , it lessens the environmental impact.

Kid-friendly road trip snacks:

• On-the-go yogurt
• Homemade double chocolate zucchini muffins (my kids go crazy over these!)
• Kid-friendly trail mix
• Suckers (or any long-lasting sucking candy)
• Applesauce pouches
• Pirate’s Booty
• Fruit snacks (save money by buying them at a bulk bin grocery store)
• Pepperoni slices and cheese cubes
• Baby carrots
• Juice boxes or pouches
• Kid-friendly pinwheels
• Fun cheeses, like Baby Bell or Laughing Cow
• Raisins or cranberries
• Healthy toddler mini muffins

Also make sure out check out the 15 Things to Pack on a Road Trip with Kids

If you’re more comfortable with the vegetarian or vegan diet, here are some great options for your next road trip. Many of these will need to be prepared or portioned out ahead of time. (See recommended containers below.)

• Veggie chips (sweet potatoes, beets, parsnips, etc.)
• Bell pepper slices and hummus
• Celery and nut butter
• Pumpkin cake pops
• Cherry tomatoes with vegan ranch
• Cinnamon apple chips
• Cajun roasted chickpeas
• Roasted pumpkin seeds
• Vegan lemon blueberry muffins (homemade)
• Chocolate-drizzled caramel popcorn

Okay there comes a point in the road trip where cravings take over. Some of my favorite food to take on a road trip are the special sweet treats. I just try not to pack too many!

• Yogurt dipped pretzels
• Puppy chow / muddy buddies
• Chocolate covered almonds
• Medjool dates
• Scotcharoos
• ‘Crack’ popcorn (candy covered popcorn with sprinkles)
• Homemade cookies
• Candied almonds (make them in the crock pot before you leave to save money)
• Gummy bears, or chocolate covered gummy bears
• Your favorite candy bar (mini size bags are perfect for sharing)

It’s sometimes nice to plan stops for gas or stretching around mealtime. And eating out is nice and convenient when on the road!

But it can also really add up! If you’re on a budget trip , then eating out every meal isn’t always a great option.

Pro tip: make sure to pack items that you won’t mind eating cold or room temperature. I sometimes freeze snacks and to keep them longer and prolong ice in the cooler from melting.

One strategy my family uses for road trips is to pack food for the first meal in a cooler. We’ll stick other road trip snacks in there too, and if it’s a long road trip we’ll pack multiple meals.

Anyways, back to best meals for road trips:

• Egg salad sandwich
• Cranberry almond chicken salad wrap
• Pre-portioned salads (homemade or store bought)
• Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
• Packaged tuna (not canned) and crackers
• Fruit salad (misc. fruit with a splash of honey and lime)
• Deli meat and cheese sandwiches
• Chips and guacamole (buy the small portion guac so it doesn’t go bad)
• Banana bread muffins for breakfast
• Gluten free strawberry oatmeal bars
• Milk, orange juice or iced coffee

More snacks to pack on-the-go

We’re almost there! Here are a few more ideas to add to your road trip food list:

• Water (of course this needs to go with!)
• Peanut butter filled pretzels
• Store-bought breakfast bars
• Mints or tic-tac’s (helps to pass the time)
• Traditional chips
• Sweet Tarts
• Hot Tamales (my husband’s favorite!)
• Yogurt covered raisins
• Dried fruit
• Jelly on rice crackers (use jelly packets for this)
• Mini cheese and cracker sandwiches
• Almond butter packets
• Sunflower seeds (what gets me through overnight driving)

So now that you have a ton of ideas, let’s move onto packaging. Breaking foods up into convenient portion sizes ahead of time saves a lot of headache – not to mention mess – in a moving vehicle.

Here are my favorite packaging solutions that are convenient, eco-friendly and ultimately will save you money.

Coolers – my family usually travels with a small, collapsible cooler in an easy-to-reach spot in the car that’s filled with drinks and snacks. Then we put meals and back-up drinks in the large cooler in the back.

Collapsible containers – great for making meals ahead of time and takes up less space in your car.

Mini containers – perfect for dips, trail mix, salad dressings and kid portions. I love these mini containers for road trips! I’ll even use them for snacks that I buy while on the road.

Reusable water bottles – my whole family has reusable bottles that we use for water on road trips. We usually put filtered water in old milk jugs (that have been cleaned) to refill water bottles throughout the trip. These water bottles are perfect for hiking or beaches, too!

Portable silverware set – perfect for meals, yogurt and to eliminate the need for plastic utensils during drive-through’s.

More supplies for your car

Alright now that you have your food list and packaging solutions, it’s time for the extra supplies that may help on the road . These are items I pack that help with snacks and meal times.

• Paper towels/napkins
• Gallons of filtered water for refills
• Wet wipes for sticky fingers
• Anti-bacterial gel
• Sharp knife for food prep (as needed)
• Plastic bag for trash

Road trip food – that’s a wrap!

Well there you have it! 101 ideas for road trip food! With a huge variety of options, you’re bound to find some you can buy or make ahead for your upcoming trip.

Hope you have a great trip, stay safe and satisfied!

Check out these fun road trip destinations you’ll love: Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See 16 Midwest Road Trips: Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Awesome Activities You Need to Do Denver to Moab: 16 Gorgeous Stops Along the Way

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Wednesday 12th of May 2021

These are great ideas, thanks! We are just doing a big road trip in a few weeks, so this is perfect timing! Thanks!

Welcome, Erin! Have a great time on your road trip!!

Tuesday 11th of May 2021

Wow great ideas! Love this list and so many options!

Thanks... it was a fun one to create!

Awesome list! I definitely saved on Pinterest for later 😊

Glad you got some inspiration from this list! :)

Sunday 22nd of November 2020

Wow! This is one epic list of the best road trip snacks! Love it!

Monday 23rd of November 2020

Thanks - glad you found it helpful!

These are such wonderful and creative suggestions! :) Need to bring some peach oatmeal muffins for my next road trip :)

Oh yes Jiayi! They're so good!!

30 Healthy(ish) Road Trip Snacks To Bring on Your Next Adventure

This post may contain affiliate links.

We share our favorite road trip snacks (and which types of snacks you should definitely avoid!) 

We lived on the road for over two years, and we also run a camp cooking blog. So we feel uniquely qualified to share our thoughts on what foods make great road trip snacks. We have given this topic A LOT of thought. 

We’ve learned a lot over the thousands of miles we’ve travelled and countless hangry meltdowns we’ve had, and we’re excited to share our best road trip snack recommendations with you. 

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We feel snacks are an essential part of any long distance road trip . And we never leave home without them! 

Sometimes you need a little energy boost, sometimes you need to stabilize your blood sugar, and sometimes you need to munch on something just to stay alert and keep blood flowing to your brain.

Snacks can also dramatically improve the overall road trip experience. They turn an otherwise monotonous process into a moveable feast. 

Below we share our thoughts on what snacks you should bring on your next road trip (and which snacks you shouldn’t). 

What snacks should you bring on a road trip?

This will largely depend on your personal taste, but the general rule is that road trip food should be easy to access and easy to consume. They should keep your body fueled, your blood sugar stable, and your mind alert. Keep reading for some of our favorite suggestions!

While there are lots of foods that are great for long road trips, there are few food categories you will absolutely want to avoid. 

Here are some of the worst foods for a long road trip: 

• Food that creates lots of crumbs or waste (e.x. crackers, pistachios) 
• Powdery foods (e.x. Cheetos)  
• Greasy or oily foods (e.x. olives) 
• Foods with strong smells (e.x. some soft cheeses, bananas) 
• Foods that can spoil on a dime (e.x. avocados) 
• Food in excessive packaging

Eating While Driving 

Snacking while driving can be done safely if you have taken the time to properly set up your cab area beforehand. Food should be within easy reach and not require you to take your eyes off the road. 

When driving with another person, delegate as much as possible so you can stay focused on the road. For example, asking them to grab a snack, unwrap it (if necessary), and hand it to you.  

While eating on the road is possible, whenever possible, we highly recommend stopping at roadside rest stops. Taking a 10-15 minute break to eat, go to the bathroom, stretch, and readjust your setup is sooo worth it. 

We know the urge to press on is strong, but taking a few small breaks can improve everyone’s mood. 

The Best Road Trip Snacks 

These are some of our favorite road-tripping snacks. We’ve personally consumed every item listed below at some point or another and can attest to their roadworthiness and superior snackability. 

Greenbelly Meal Bars

Taking a page from hikers & backpackers, these Greenbelly meal bars contain 650 calories per serving, which is as much as a complete meal. While we don’t recommend skipping meals on the road, if you need to, one of these could be a good option.

Energy Bars

There are a million kinds of energy bars, so our advice is to go for variety. Just stay away from those super crumbly ones like Nature Valley. Here are some of our favorite brands: Bobo , RX Bars , GoMacro , Lara Bar , Dang , Aloha , and 88 Acres Seed Bars .

Energy Cookies 

If you prefer your energy bars in a circular form, then perhaps you would be interested in the growing energy cookie sector. (This is just a way to stand out from the 8 billion energy bar brands!) Nevertheless, we are fans of MunkPack Cookies and Lenny & Larry Cookies

Fig Newtons

Fig Newtons are by far our preferred road trip cookies. They’re soft, don’t generate crumbs, and are absolutely delicious. 

Nut Butter Packets

Yum Butter nut butter packets make them super easy to eat while on the road. Sometimes we eat it straight from the packet, but it would also be good with sliced apples or bread if you’re taking a break at a rest stop. This resealable squeeze packet means you don’t have to dirty a knife or spoon to scoop it out of a jar.

Roasted Rye Chips 

Rye chips are our go-to gas station pick up. They are fairly robust and don’t generate crumbs like other chips. When compared to the other deep-fried options in the chip aisle, this is on the healthy-ish-er* side of the spectrum. 

*Healthy, only by comparison to other very unhealthy options. 

The Good Crisp Co. 

While these potato chips violate our no-crumb rule, these Good Crisp Co. chips are just too good to leave out. These are basically a healthier version of Pringles and feature the same cylinder, which protects the crips from getting crushed. 

Chocolate Covered Espresso beans

These are a great little caffeine and sugar burst all at once. We like to reserve these guys for the end of our trip when we’re likely at our most fatigued. 

Yogurt Covered Raisins

These are a real treat and can easily be picked up at a bulk bin in most grocery stores. If you are able to keep these chilled in a cooler, we highly suggest it! 

Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels 

We love these things. We often pick them up from Trader Joe’s and Quinn’s makes a gluten-free version you can find on on Thrive Market . We find that the bags tend to split down the middle, so we like to repack these into a sealable container or a big ReZip bag . These also make great hiking snacks !

Fresh no-peel fruit 

Grapes are great for road trips because they don’t need to be peeled and don’t have cores. Apples and pears are also good options. Oranges, clementines, and tangerines will hold well in a sealed container if you peel and segment them ahead of time.

*Do not throw fruit cores (or anything else for that matter) out the window. Just because something is biodegradable doesn’t mean it will decompose sitting on the shoulder of the freeway. It just attracts wildlife, which leads to more roadkill and more accidents. 

Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables are one of the healthiest road trip snack options out there. Baby carrots, sliced cucumbers, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes are all super healthy and easy to eat while driving.

Veggie Chips 

Veggie chips are another snack we often pick up at the bulk bin or from Nuts.com . These are the perfect “bored/hungry” snack and don’t need to be refrigerated.

Plantain Chips

Healthier than potato chips, less pungent than a fresh banana, plantain chips are slightly sweet, salty, and crunchy—which checks a lot of boxes!

Opt for trail mix with large pieces. You don’t want to deal with a handful of finely chopped nuts and tiny seeds. They’re just going to get all over the car. The bigger the pieces, the better. 

We prefer cashews or almonds when driving. They are big enough to easily handle and don’t need to be shucked. Peanuts are just a little too small for us and pistachios and sunflower seeds are the worst.

Cheese 

Hard cheese that doesn’t need refrigeration is a great option. We also LOVE the Trader Joe’s Baked Cheese Bites as well as Parmesan or Cheddar Whisps (the latter are a bit less sturdy though).

Jerky And Meat Bars

Unlike a lot of the carb-heavy options on the list, Jerky and meat bars have some serious sticking power. We are big fans of Epic Provisions, Wild Zora, and other meat products that don’t have a ton of additives (looking at you Slim) 

If you or your road trip buddies tend to feel a little queasy on those winding roads, ginger is a natural way to settle your stomach without causing drowsiness like over-the-counter meds can. We like to keep a bag of Gin Gins ginger chews in our snack bin for this reason.

Need help staying alert while driving? In addition to the usual caffeinated remedies, there has been a lot of scientific evidence that suggests that the act of chewing gum can help focus and alertness.

Masticating (the act of chewing) increases blood flow to your head and helps increase cognitive ability and focus. So if you often get drowsy when driving, consider picking up a pack of gum . 

Best Road Trip Drinks 

This is where having a small soft sided cooler really comes in handy. After a couple of hundred miles, a cold drink can really make a big difference to revive you. 

Sparkling water/seltzer

Take it from us, it’s really easy to get dehydrated on long drives. So be sure to drink water along the way. There’s a world of sparkling water out there, but our favorite brand is Spindrift ! 

Iced coffee

A can of iced coffee or even nitro cold brew coffee can be a great pick-me-up to carry you through that final stretch. 

Another lightly carbonated, non-alcoholic option, kombucha is another one of our favorite drinks on the road.

Best Road Trip Snacks For Kids 

If you’re road tripping with kids, having a strong snack game is an absolute must! Some enticing snacks may not prevent a meltdown entirely, but it can buy you some time. 

However, unlike snack time at home, the kids will be strapped in the backseat. So whatever snacks you choose, they’ll have to be able to deal with themselves.

Sliced vegetables 

Cut slices of bell pepper, carrot, celery, or snap peas are a great snack option for kids since they are healthy and don’t have the potential to become a mess or leave crumbs everywhere.

Fresh fruit

Likewise, fruit that has been pre-sliced makes a great snack for kids. Choose fruit that isn’t overly juicy or soft. Apples, pre-peeled oranges, and grapes (for older kids) are good places to start. 

To keep apples from browning, try soaking them in a water & lemon juice bath for a few minutes before packing them.

String cheese

Kids love these and they’re a great way to add some protein into their diet. Ideally, these should be chilled in a cooler or insulated lunch bag.

Kid-sized energy bars

If the kids see mom or dad partaking in an energy bar, you can bet they’re going to want one too! These “kid-sized” bars are a great way to include them, without having to split your own bar!  Clif Minis and Lara Bar minis are a good place to start.

Annie’s Snack Mix

You’ll probably be cleaning these out from between the car seat cushions, but this is just such a popular snack – particularly if your kids like salty & crunchy things. For toddlers, pair this type of snack with a snack-catching cup, like this one by Munchkin .

Annie’s Bunny Grahams: 

Annie’s Bunny Grahams are usually a crowd favorite! Since they are bite-sized graham crackers, there won’t as many crumbs left behind as there would with full-sized graham crackers.

Mini Peanut Butter Sandwiches

Bite-sized mini peanut butter sandwiches are perfect for little hands. They are a nice balance of carbs, protein, and fats to help satiate your backseat companions.

Organic Fruit Tape

Ok, fruit rolls might not make it to the top of every parent’s “Healthy Road Trip Snacks” list, but they are just so nostalgic for us! 

This version is organic and made from real fruit and not much else, so it’s gotta be healthier than whatever we were eating in the 90’s, right?

These can also be used (leveraged?) as a reward or perhaps as a last resort if things start to really go sideways.

Helpful Snacking Items

You don’t need much, but there are a few pieces of gear that we find to be very useful on long haul trips. 

Soft-Sided Cooler : Generally speaking, you should select road trip snacks that don’t need refrigeration. But having a way to keep some items cold can be very helpful—particularly fresh fruits & veggies. 

Mini Trash Can / Large Sealable Container : We like to keep a mini trash can or sealable container nearby to help us keep the front cab area clean and tidy. Don’t let this be you . A clean, uncluttered car can really improve your overall driving experience. 

Insulated cup with lid : An insulated cup with a lid can keep your morning coffee hot or your afternoon kombucha cold for hours. It can really extend the enjoyability range of your beverage.  It’s also reusable, so your car doesn’t fill up with paper coffee cups.  

ReZip Bags : Ditch the single-use baggie, and consider using these reusable zip bags instead. They are great for sliced fruit and veggies, bulk bin items, or pre-portion out serving for kids. 

Wet Wipes : Sticky, greasy fingers are the worst. Having some easily accessible wet wipes handy is a great idea. 

Megan & Michael are the creators of Fresh Off The Grid, a blog dedicated to helping you fuel your adventures by sharing camp cooking recipes, backpacking meals, and outdoor travel guides. Their recipes and outdoor cooking expertise have been featured in Backpacker Magazine, Outside, REI Co-Op Journal, Food & Wine, and New York Times Cooking.

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I love pistachios. I buy a big, shelled bag at Costco for road trips. And no shells!

Oh, smart! I love pistachios, too, but always find the shells to be a hassle. Good to know you can pick them up pre-shelled!

I really enjoy reading all your tips and tricks from your various trips. They are all SO helpful and well communicated. Keep ‘em coming!!

I’m so glad to hear that! Thanks, Danielle 🙂

I love you guys! Such good ideas and great information. I’ll be looking into an Oregon trip for sure!

50+ Easy, Healthy Road Trip Snack Recipes: Road Trip Foods

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Planning a road trip? It’s important to keep up your energy, and avoid the lows of sugar crashes by bringing along some easy to pack road trip foods and snacks. We’ve rounded up the best healthy road trip snack recipes to make your trip planning a breeze. 

From energy balls and granola bars, to cookies, muffins, salty mixes, and heartier savoury snack foods we’ve got it all. Making our own road trip snacks are a family tradition for all our road trips. These are all kid and adult approved travel snacks.

Satisfy all your travel companions cravings (and your own). A lot of these homemade road trip snack recipes also have gluten free, vegan, or low carb options . So no matter what your dietary requirements are, there’s something specially for you.

Are you ready for some quick, healthy road trip snacks to make? Grab your car cooler and Let’s go!

Table of Contents

How to Eat Healthy on Road Trips

First things first is to plan out your travel snacks and meals.

The times we’ve not prepped ahead, inevitably we’d end up starving in the middle of nowhere, with only a gas station for food. And end up feeling low energy or tired afterward.

Bring a cooler and shop at your local market / grocery store.

When driving long distance you should bring and eat a combination of proteins, fats, fibre, textures and tastes . As well as nutrient dense whole foods to curb your cravings, and satisfy your hunger.

Delicious and healthy homemade road trip snacks will help make sure you and your family stay nourished and energized.  Use our free Road trip templates to make things easier.

Some of the best road trip snacks include:

• Granola Bars
• Energy Balls / Energy Bites
• Sweet and Savoury Muffins
• Salty or sweet  crunchy snacks: Roasted Chickpeas, Kale Chips, Dried Fruit
• Dips / Spreads & Veggies, Crackers or Pretzels
• Veggie Fritters
• Fresh Spring Rolls
• Chicken Kabobs or Poppers

Easy, Healthy Road Trip Snack Recipes

Prepping your road trip snacks, and meals is just as important as finding a great deal on your car rental , and booking your accommodations.

We’ve gathered easy & tasty recipes together to make this easier for you.

Homemade Road Trip Snacks 

While it may take a bit of extra time, bringing homemade road trip snacks can save you time, and money on your journey with family or friends.

We’ve broken these DIY road trip snacks into the following categories:

• Energy Balls / Bites  and Protein Bites Recipes

Healthy Snack Bar Recipes

• Healthy Cookie Recipes
• Sweet and Salty Road Trip Snack Recipes
• Dried Fruit and Veggie Chips
• Roasted Chickpea Recipes
• Road Trip Muffin Recipes – Sweet and Savoury
• Granola and Overnight Oats Recipes
• Savoury Make Ahead Road Trip Snacks

We’ve rounded up some delicious, healthy and easy to make recipes for you to try. Let us know which ones are your favourites!

Please note : All the photos you see in this post belong to the website / bloggers the recipes are from.

Grab your Free Road Trip & Meal Planner HERE :

More road trip snack ideas here.

Quick Road Trip Snack Recipes: Energy Balls, Energy Bites, Protein Bites

Whether you call them energy balls, bites, bliss balls or protein bites , they all have something in common.  They are super quick and easy to make, nutritious and versatile enough to fit all your travel companions road trip snack preferences and dietary needs. 

Plus they are no-bake and can be made in under 15 minutes. 

Sweet, salty, protein filled bites of goodness, these one bite wonders are easy to pack and store in your cooler. The perfect quick road trip snack recipes for busy parents.

1. Coconut Date Balls | Healy Eats Real

Easy No Bake Coconut Date Balls have only three ingredients, and are a naturally sweet paleo and vegan snack. Crunchy coconut taste on the outside combined with creamy, soft inside = bliss in one bite. Plus no nuts!

2. Dried Fruits Ladoo – Easy Energy Balls | Dassana’s Veg Recipes

Dry Fruits Laddu is an easy, nutritious recipe of energy balls that are healthy and tasty. Packed with nutrients, good fats and fibre, these energy balls are made with dates, figs and various nuts. An ideal long road trip snack.

3. Lemon Coconut Chia Balls | Cathy’s Gluten Free

Lemon Coconut Chia balls are a refreshing and sweet snack. With only 5 nutrient packed ingredients, they are easy to make and bring along for the day.

If you want a little more protein, check out this similar recipe for Coconut Protein Balls

4. Pumpkin Energy Balls | Plant Powered Cooking

Looking for a unique energy ball recipe? You’ve found it. Pumpkin Energy balls are made with inexpensive chickpeas, lots of spices, and are gently sweetened with dates. Pumpkin pie in  hand held form.

5. Pistachio Energy Balls | Hoorah to Health

Pistachio energy balls are great for road trips, as they don’t need to be refrigerated and provide a nice energy boost so your travelers don’t get too cranky!

6. Low Carb Peanut Butter Balls | Cassidy’s Craveable Creations

Looking for an alternative to eating cookie dough straight from the bowl? This recipe has got you covered. These sweet, peanut butter cookie dough flavoured balls will satisfy your cravings and hunger. 

7. Salted Caramel Bliss Balls | It’s Not Complicated

With just 5 ingredients, these delicious Salted Caramel Bliss Balls are so easy to make. A perfectly healthy sweet road trip snack or treat, they are vegan, gluten and refined sugar free.

8. Vanilla Coconut Bliss Balls | My Plantiful Cooking

Vanilla coconut bliss balls are a wonderful, healthy sweet treat to have on hand. Naturally sweetened with dates, they are perfect for a midday pick-me-up after a long hike or drive.

🚙 You may also like Simple Ways to Save Money on Road Trips

9. Apple Pie Oat Bliss Balls | Kidgredients

Yummy and portable, these apple pie bliss balls are the perfect road trip snack. Plus they are super kid-friendly, nut free, and no bake. When you are craving the apple pie taste, without all the work, or mess on the road, these will satisfy.

These healthy snack bar recipes are easy to make, with minimal ingredients, so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, than preparing for it. Add these to your list of healthy snacks for road trips.

10. Low Carb Granola Bars | Wholesome Yum

These homemade Kind Bar copycats are the easiest low carb, gluten-free, sugar-free granola bars you can make at home. Plus they take only about 10 minutes to make, so you are ready to head out on your adventures in no time at all.

11. Coconut Candy Bars | A Sweet Alternative

If you are looking for an alternative to store bought chocolate bars, and love coconut, then you have found the right recipe!

These coconut candy bars are refined sugar free (sweetened with maple syrup, YES!) and made from simple, nutritious ingredients. They’re easy to make and so satisfying. 

12. Homemade Protein Bars  | Masala Herb

Homemade protein bars without protein powder are enriched with nuts and dried fruits. Know what’s in your protein bars!

13. Vegan Raspberry Rhubarb Bars | By The Forkful

Raspberry Rhubarb Bars are my dream breakfast snack on the go. Quick and easy to make, portable, and filled with fresh summery fruit. What more would you want?

14. No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars  | Vegan Huggs

Five ingredients + fifteen minutes  = No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars. A cross between a Rice Krispie treat and Nutty Buddy bars this portable snack is perfect for indulging any time of day.

🎒 Check out this Road Trip Packing List & tips too

15. Healthy Carrot Cake Protein Bars | Any Reasons Vegan

Carrot Cake Protein Bars are a perfect road trip snack made of carrots, dates and pistachios, a no bake dream. These nutritious bars are full of protein, vitamins and iron, but shhhhhh don’t tell the kids they’re healthy.

16. Peanut Butter, Banana Oatmeal Bars | My Plantiful Cooking

Peanut Butter, Banana, Oatmeal Bars have only three ingredients, are vegan and a wonderful on the go snack. Whether you are looking for breakfast to go, or a snack mid day these chewy moist bars will satisfy.

17. Two Ingredient Nutella Brownies  | Momma Lew

Two ingredient fudgy, rich nutella brownies will satisfy your sweet tooth. Cooked in a muffin tin, they are easy to transport wherever you travel. Sometimes you just need to indulge a little.

18. Homemade Granola Bars | Ottawa Mommy Club

Homemade granola bar recipe is slightly different as it does not contain any oats. It is also a great snack for when you are hungry, but want an alternative to store bought bars.

19. Oat and Honey Granola Bars | Healthy Life Trainer

Chewy No-bake Oat and Honey Granola Bars are quick and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes. They are loaded with wholesome ingredients such as oats, almond, honey, butter, and cranberries.

Homemade Road Trip Snacks – Cookies

Cookies! Now who can resist a delicious cookie especially homemade ones. They are portable, easy to make and pack, and can be full of nutritious and delicious add ins, so are ideal for road trips.

20. Anzac Biscuits | Mama Loves To Cook

Tap into a  tradition from Australia and New Zealand with some buttery, caramel flavoured Anzac Biscuits. These coconut oat cookies are quick and easy to make, travel well and last for ages.

21. Best Road Trip Breakfast Cookies | Boulder Locavore

The name says it all, but don’t be fooled by the title. You don’t have to be on a road trip or only eat them for breakfast. As the name suggests they are a great source of nutrition in a few bites without a crazy amount of sugar and processed ingredients. They pack a great amount of protein, fiber and essential fats into their two-bite form as well.

22. Besan Ladoo – Chickpea Flour Sweet Cookies | So Yummy Recipes

Make these chickpea flour  sweet treat balls for your next trip and enjoy them as your scrumptious sweets that offer an energy and protein boost.

23. Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies | Just As Tasty

Combining two of my favourite things into one is heavenly. Carrot Cake Breakfast cookies are soft, bursting with flavour, and can be eaten as a snack any time of the day.

24. Flourless Chocolate Chip Cookies | Living Healthy With Chocolate

Amazing flourless,  gooey and  soft cookies, filled with chocolate chips that are super easy to make (and eat). This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and Paleo with Keto and Vegan options.

Road Trip Snack Ideas – Sweet and Salty Recipes

If you are looking for healthier, homemade road trip snack ideas to replace the frequent stops at gas stations, and grabbing a bag of chips and pop, then this section is for you. 

Trail mix is a must bring travel snack for all our road trips, camping trips and adventures. Kids love it when you add a bit of smarties & gummy bears.

25. Smoky Trail Mix | Boulder Locavore

Snackers unite! Trail Mix is a perfect snack when on the go or for traveling. This version takes it up a flavor notch with smoked almonds as the central ingredient. The mix to sweet, salty and crunchy can’t be beat. If not a lover of the smoky almonds, regular almonds may be substituted.

26. Sweet and Salty Trail Mix | Neighbor Food

Curb your crunch craving with this sweet and salty trail mix. The beauty of homemade trail mix is you can mix and match your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits and extras to your liking.

27. Instant Pot Popcorn | Nourish Plate

This recipe just blew my mind. Popcorn in an instant pot is a brilliant idea. Cheap, easy to make, popcorn travels well and is a tasty snack, with many seasoning choices to try.

28. 3 Ingredient Popcorn Balls | Crave The Good

Delicious 3 ingredient popcorn balls are a sweet addition to your day. Technically the base recipe is 2 main ingredients, with customizable options. Popcorn + Honey + Seasonings = endless options for hand held snacks.

29. 5 Minute Cheese Snack Mix | Recipes From A Pantry

Need a quick last minute snack before heading out on your road trip? This 5 minute cheese snack mix will save the day. Plus it can also be used as last minute snacks for guests, holiday gifts, potlucks, so it’s a good one to keep in your back pocket. 

30. Snickerdoodle Muddy Buddies | The Short Order Cook

Chex sweet treat meets Snickerdoodle taste equals an addictive road trip snack. Plus it’s no bake, which is a bonus for prepping in the summer months.

31. Seasoned Ranch Pretzels  | Budget Delicious

Nothing says road trips more than a pack of pretzels. Take your snacking up a notch with ranch seasoned pretzels. If you aren’t a fan of ranch, not to worry there are many other variations you can try as well.

32. Slow Cooker Candied Nuts | Casserole Chrissy

Poppable, sweet and crunchy, these candied nuts make the perfect on-the-go snack, any time of year.  You can choose any combination of nuts that you like for a unique blend each time.

Need road trip ideas? Check out this One Day in Zion National Park or this 4 Day Itinerary in Acadia National Park , both are family friendly .

Easy Road Trip Snack Recipes: Dried Fruit & Veggie Chips

One of the simplest, whole food ways to prepare foods is by dehydrating. Dried fruit and veggie snacks make for some delicious crunchy, sweet and salty road trip snack ideas.

33. Easy Homemade Fruit Rollups | Amanda’s Cookin’

Plum fruit rollups have just 3 ingredients and are a fun and healthy snack that the whole family will love. Plus they’re easy to pack and carry around for all your family vacations.

34. Crispy Air Fryer Apple Chips | Recipes From A Pantry

Addictive, crunchy and healthy,  cinnamon apple chips are the next best thing to add to your road trip snack list. Using an air fryer cuts down dehydrating time to a fraction of what you need for the oven so makes this snack even easier.

35. Chewy Dried Bananas | Healthy Green Savy

Sometimes you just want something a little sweet with a chewier texture. Dried bananas do just this. It’s a great way to use up those fast ripening bananas on your counter, and have an easy road trip snack to bring with you. 

36. Dried Mango  | Masala Herb

Dehydrated mangoes can turn into a food obsession. They are super good and ridiculously easy to make from scratch.

37. Dehydrated Pears | Emily Fabulous

Dehydrated pears are so easy to make and are a healthy snack, that’s perfect for kids, adults anytime, anywhere. 

38. Oven Baked Beet Chips | Pink Fortitude

Crispy, curled beet chips, are a slightly sweet and salty chip alternative, that adds a little colour to your palate. Plus beets are high in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, protein, folate, and manganese, so you’re getting your vitamins and satisfying your crunchy salty tooth.

39. Baked Kale Chips | Healthy Green Savy

Kale chips are a delicious new fad, that I hope doesn’t go outta style. Kale chips are a great way to get your kids, or partners in to travel to eat more veggies. Easy to make and very addictive, they help curb your  salty-crunchy cravings. The only problem is trying not to eat them all right away. They may not make it into your car for the road trip.

Roasted Chickpea Snacks 

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, salty alternative to too many potato chips on the road. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy my salt n’ vinegar chips, but sometimes  you need something a little heartier that packs a protein punch.

Not to mention roasted chickpea snacks are vegan, full of fibre, iron and folate. 

40. Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas | Little Sunny Kitchen

Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas are spicy, crunchy, and packed with plant protein.  Using an Air Fryer makes sure that every single chickpea is perfectly crunchy.

41. Curried Air Fryer Chickpeas | That Girl Cooks Healthy

This easy to make recipe is packed with protein and flavour from herbs and spices. Plus they are easy to make in large batches, right in your air-fryer. The hard part will be not eating them all before you pack them away for your road trip.

42. Healthy Roasted Chickpeas with Seasonings | Amy Gorin Nutrition

If you don’t have an air fryer try this general roasted chickpea recipe  with over 10 seasoning options. Packed with all the tips you’ll need on how to make a grab-and-go chickpea snack that keeps it’s crunchy texture. 

Healthy Snacks for Road Trips: Muffin Recipes

I have a confession to make. Muffins are not my favourite. There I said it, don’t judge me too harshly. Mostly because I find commercially they are made too sweet, and taste more like cake. 

But muffins are super handy to have on hand for long (or short road trips), especially with kids. Which is why I often tend to make and pack savoury muffins or lean towards recipes that use alternatives to white sugar. 

We’ve rounded up some yummy, healthier road trip ideas with these muffin recipes to expand your snack offerings. My favourite “sweet” recipe is below:

43. Packed for Life’s Kid Favourite Muffin Recipe – The Best Banana Muffin Recipe

This is my favourite muffin recipe by Chocolate Covered Katie. I make it 2-3 times a month, and everyone I’ve fed them to have loved them.  So if you are looking for an easy recipe, you can’t go wrong with this one. 

Sweetened only with ripe bananas, easy to make, they are kid-friendly and delicious. To make them gluten-free I use GF oat flour, plus add my own spin by adding  ½ tsp to 1 tsp each of ground cinnamon, and  ginger and about  ¼ tsp of ground cardamom. 

I am excited to add some of these next sweet and savoury muffin recipes below to my regular muffin rotation.

Savoury Road Trip Muffin Recipes

44. Broccoli and Cheese Breakfast Muffins | End Of The Fork

Savoury muffins filled with broccoli and cheesy goodness. These muffins are delicious warmed up at breakfast time or for an on-the go road trip snack. Light, fluffy, fits in your hand and so easy to make, your kids can help you.  

45. Greek Breakfast Egg Muffin | Always Use Butter

Not just for breakfast, these greek egg muffins are packed with feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and black olives. Savoury goodness in a couple of bites, to fill your belly on the road.

46. Air Fryer Pizza Rolls | Crave The Good

Ok, so these are not technically a muffin, but air fryer pizza rolls would be soooooo good for a road trip snack, or an afternoon snack, or breakfast, or anytime really. Stretch, gooey mozzarella cheese, and delicious tomato sauce wrapped in pizza dough cooked to perfection in an air fryer, can’t be beat.

Road Trip Snack Ideas: Sweet Muffin Recipes

47. Peanut Butter Banana Muffins | Wholesome Family Living

Peanut Butter and Banana muffins are versatile, packed with protein, and are delicious any time of day. Plus this recipe makes a big batch, so whether you’re road tripping with hungry kids or friends, there will be more than enough to share.

48. Vegan Blueberry Lemon Muffins | Get Set Vegan

Not just for vegans! These Blueberry Lemon Muffins combine the best things, fresh berries and lemon for a moist, delicious portable snack.

49. Banana Pear Muffins  | Mrs. Jones’s Kitchen

Banana Pear Muffins will be  well loved by the kids in your life, big and small. With no added sugar, they are  naturally sweetened with banana and pear, and travel really well.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks: Granola & Overnight Oats Recipes

50. Cocoa Fig Granola | Healy Eats Real

Cocoa Fig homemade granola is a flavour explosion filled with crunchy clusters of chocolatey goodness.  Sugar free, paleo and vegan,  pack this granola snack for the road and don’t look back. It’s ok if you don’t want to share.

51. Cinnamon Vanilla Granola | Brooklyn Active Mama

Cinnamon Vanilla Granola is so full of dried cranberries, chia, flax seeds, nuts, and yummy goodness, this will quickly become your favourite on the go snack.

52. Chunky Peanut Butter Banana Protein Granola | My Plantiful Cooking

Peanut Butter and Banana is such a classic taste combo.This high protein granola is chunky, crispy & utterly delicious. Happens to also  be naturally vegan & gluten-free. A portable snack to have on hand. Grab a handful whenever you are feeling snacky.

53. Dark Chocolate Cherry Granola | Aspen On Main

Chocolate and cherry are such a classic taste combination, that this granola is sure to please even the crankiest of road trip companions. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and includes other healthy ingredients like oats and flax seed, making it a great on the go snack with or without yogurt.

54. Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats | Plant Powered Cooking

These banana cinnamon overnight oats are a  well-balanced, easy to pack and eat  breakfast that tastes like banana bread!

What I love about overnight oats are: 

• They are easy to make even while on the road, as long as you have a few simple ingredients and a container. 
• Versatile – don’t like bananas, switch them out for applesauce, or berries.
• Can be eaten any time of day, not just for breakfast.
• One of the best road trip snacks for kids as they can combine good fats, proteins, and other nutrients.

Road Trip Foods: Savoury Make Ahead Road Trip Snack Recipes

Sometimes you just want something a little more substantial than an energy bite, or a handful of trail mix. Take a look at these delicious, savoury make ahead road trip snack receipes. Easy to grab and eat as snacks on your next adventures.

55. Chicken Seekh Kabob | So Yummy Recipes

These succulent chicken seekh kebabs are delicious to have as they are. But you can have them rolled in tortilla wraps, naan bread, flatbread or just in hot dog buns. Making them easy to take with you for a quick snack or meal on the road.

56. Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken | Budget Delicious

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is the perfect recipe for making an appetizer or a road trip snack that will be well  loved by the whole family. 

57. Cheesy Smashed Chickpea Spread | Veeg

Looking for a protein packed, delicious spread to dip your veggies, pretzels, or crackers on the road? This cheesy smashed chickpea spread is just the ticket and it’s kid approved. 

58. Fresh Vegan Spring Rolls | Happy Kitchen

Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce are a family favourite while being a healthy mess-free portable snack. Mix and match your favourite veggies, add in some tofu or tempeh if desired roll em’ up and away you go. 

If you are wanting a non-vegan version we usually add cooked prawns/shrimp to ours.  

59. Vegan Zucchini Corn Fritters | Happy Kitchen

Crispy, delicious and full of veggies such as zucchini and corn, these fritters are a perfect addition to your family road trip snack list.

60. Vegan Pinwheels | Get Set Vegan

If you are trying to avoid dairy, or just want to expand your recipe horizons, these vegan pinwheels are a great addition to your road trip. Full of beans, beets, avocado and veggies, these pinwheels  will provide a delicious on the go snack or lunch.

Conclusion: Road Trip Foods: 50+ Easy, Healthy Road Trip Snack Recipes

Whether you are heading out for a day trip or an epic week long family road trip up Vancouver Island, there are 50+ easy, healthy road trip snack recipes to inspire your vacation planning and taste buds.

Enjoy the journey while munching on these scrumptious yet nutritious bites that’ll keep your energy levels high and your taste buds satisfied.

So, buckle up, hit the road, and let these wholesome goodies fuel your wanderlust. Don’t forget to bring a cooler, and share your favorites with friends and fellow travelers. Because great snacks and epic road trips are always better together!

Happy snacking, explorers!

What’s your favourite road trip snack recipe? Let us know in the comments below, or connect with us on social media. We’d love to hear from you.

ROAD TRIP IDEAS & RESOURCES

Here are our favourite resources we use to research and book our trips. They offer competitive deals, and good customer service. Plus itineraries and more travel ideas for Acadia area: Bryce Canyon in One Day Tips for Zion National Park with Kids Road Trip Meals Ideas Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary Boston to Acadia: New England Road Trip —- 150 Car Conversation starters to beat boredom Essential road trip packing list Easy Toddler & Kid Road Trip Activities Simple ways to have a budget road trip RV Travel gift ideas Booking.com – Book your accomodations here. Excellent booking site for lowest lodging rates. VRBO – Book family friendly accommodations here, but no cleaning! Viator – Find & book even more experiences, tours & lessons world wide. Discover Cars – Make finding the cheapest or best car for your trip easy (worldwide) Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – Find cheaper flights Anything else? Check out our Family Travel Resources & Tips page

Packed for Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.ca.

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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Road Trip Food List Ideas and Easy Snacks for Travel

Are you planning a road trip? Planning is key to success on the road, and part of that is packing good food and snacks. Check out our road trip food list and what we pack when we head out on the road.

When planning your road trip food list you want food that is healthy, convenient and easy to eat on the road. Food that is portable, can be kept in a cooler, or not-refrigerated items work best. We go into detail for the best foods for a road trip and what you should pack.

Road trips are one of our favorite ways to see new places and experience awesome family vacation moments. There is always something unexpected and exciting about planning a road trip vacation with kids.

For a long road trip it is a good idea to pack make-ahead meals that the whole family will like.

We always put together a road trip food list for our trip to make sure we have all the snacks and food we need on the road.

Why Have a Road Trip Food List

Part of the fun of a road trip is stopping at fast food spots or a gas station to enjoy junk food right? Well…sort of!

I’ve learned after many road trips with the kids that it is better in the long run to pack your meals, snacks, and treats to prevent any unforeseen sickness or stops.

I like to balance healthy snacks with road trip snacks that I know my kids like.

Often fast food is greasy and doesn’t sit well during long car rides and this can make the trip not fun at all.

Also packing road trip food allows you to be more prepared and have less stops. This means you will arrive at your destination even quicker.

If it is a long trip, I prefer to stop at the grocery store to pick up our own food before we even hit the road.

We like to maximize our driving times and prefer to save our stops for fuel and restroom breaks. If you have a full day of driving 8-10+ hours you may want to pick one meal to get out of your car to stretch at a rest stop.

Road Trip Food List: Non-Food Items

Before you decide what food to bring on a road trip you need to have a place to put them all. You want storage for your non-cold items like pretzels and dry cereal. I have a day trip bag that I use whenever we are in the car.

You also want to pack a cooler for the items that need to stay cool as well as drinks. You will need ice packs and be sure everything is located where you can have easy access as you are driving.

After food storage it is a great idea to think about containers and cleaning supplies. I always bring a few essential items for our road trip. This may be an upfront extra cost but it will save you on the road.

• napkins/paper towels/wipes
• Cups to distribute snacks. We pick them up the character ones from the dollar store but any cup will work. It is helpful if it fits in a cup holder to prevent spills.
• water bottles
• A large bag to carry everything. We like the CleverMade Snap Baskets.
• A cooler to store items. Check out the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler
• If you have little kids you may want to pack towels to keep your car seats clean.

Related Post: 10 Family Road Trip Essentials for an Amazing Trip

How do you pack meals for a road trip.

If you are spending an entire day driving you will probably have to pack meals for your road trip. You can do this a few ways. Pack all 3 meals and don’t include any stops for food.

We find the best way is to pack breakfast and lunch. Some road trip lunch ideas are cheese and crackers paired with carrotts and fruit. Sub sandwiches have been a favorite road trip lunch lately.

For dinner we like to stop for an hour to eat and stretch. After a long drive this allows us to recharge and we end up driving more.

It breaks up the day and it really helps with everyone’s energy for the long car ride.

When planning meals on the road I like to keep it simple, easy, and not messy. I involve the kids the week before with meal planning and making a shopping list for our trip.

We all pick out a few favorite healthy items as well as a few treats for the road. This may mean fruit cups and potato chips. The goal is to keep everyone happy!

Road Trip Food Ideas: Breakfast

Breakfast is one of the easiest meals to plan on a road trip because a lot of it is grab and go. We can easily pack breakfast items that everyone likes.

• Granola bars
• Cereal bars
• Bananas/Apples
• Pre-made fresh fruit salad.
• Pre-made egg/cheese sandwiches. Make at home, wrap in foil, eat within 1-2 hours.
• Bagel with cream cheese.
• Pre-made oatmeal in a hot thermos.

Road Trip Food Ideas: Lunch & Dinner

Lunch and dinner can be a bit more difficult than breakfast but when on the road it is best to keep it light. Save your big meals for your destinations. These lunches may need a bit of prep at home but they will keep you satisfied while on the road.

• Pasta Salad
• Cheese Plate
• Deli Sandwich on Pretzel Bun
• Cut up chicken and vegetables
• Fruit salad
• Premade Salad
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

Road Trip Food Items: Snacks

Snacks are the best part about a road trip and these are some of our favorite picks. Always consider the age of your kids and if any of the items may be a choking hazard. These are some of the best road trip snacks:

• String Cheese
• Peanut Butter and Pretzels
• Cream Cheese and Crackers
• Cut Up Veggies (Peppers, Celery, Carrots) and Hummus
• Apple Slices
• Protein Bars
• Veggie Straws
• Dark Chocolate

My favorite road trip snacks are the ones that make minimal mess and keep everyone happy and full between meals.

Road Trip Food to Avoid

We’ve talked about foods to eat on a road trip but what can you not eat on a road trip? I avoid anything that can be really messy or greasy. The last thing you want is a sick family member on a long drive.

• Fast food- Avoid greasy and fried items.
• Anything that needs utensils: Yogurts & Fruit Cups.
• Any cracker that seems to explode or make crumbs easily!
• Donuts and pastries. We have learned the hard way that an early morning sweet combined with driving can lead to motion sickness and throwing up. We now save the treats for once we arrive at our destination.
• Juice or sugary drinks. I find drinks like this always upset stomachs on the road and it is better to stick with water. It also cuts down on bathroom stops.

Road Trip Food Tips with Kids

Let your kids be part of the planning. This will help avoid meltdowns on the road. A great option to help them in the planning is to ask them what their favorite snacks are.

Use a lunch box from home to keep everyone’s meals organized and put together. It is easier to pass out lunch when it is all prepacked.

Consider the age of your kids and how much mess they may make while eating in the car. When the kids were small I kept a beach towel under their car seats. That way if things got really messy I could remove the towel, wash it, and put it back; the car stayed clean.

Keep a garbage bag in the kids seating area. We drive a van and have a garbage bag in the front with us as well as in the third row. Empty it often during road trips!

A surprise treat can change the mood in the car when things start to feel exhausting.

Road trips can be the ultimate family vacation and we hope these road trip food ideas will help you enjoy your time on the road.

Are You Planning a Road Trip? Check out these great posts!

9 day southwest road trip itinerary: desert, beaches, and theme parks, 8 awesome stops for a family fun tennessee road trip, road trip to myrtle beach from rochester, new york (family road trip).

Leah has been traveling with her family of 5 since 2012 and sharing her expertise on planning family vacations and visiting theme parks since 2016. Leah has been featured in Visit Rochester , Undercover Tourist , and Home Publications . She has worked with brands like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Hersheypark, Toyota, and various Tourism boards and destinations. Leah creates family travel itineraries based on real trip experiences with her family. Her guides and tips help others plan great family vacations. Learn more about Leah and Five for the Road .

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The Best Road Trip Food Ideas: 46 Delicious Meals & Snacks

Going on a road trip is always fun — well, almost always. There are many things that can make or break your trip, and one of them is the food you take along the way.

I personally can’t go on a road trip without the right meals or snacks packed in my bag. 

However, including the right snacks and meals can be a bit challenging if you don’t have a road trip guide of sorts. You need to have food that won’t spoil for hours, and it needs to be easy to eat in the car or during stopovers.

I’ve got you covered there; here are 46 of the best road trip food ideas that you can try on your next adventure!

Also read: 10 Easy Delicious Hiking And Backpacking Lunch Ideas

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. I only provide unbiased and completely honest recommendations. Read more about the site’s privacy policy.

Best road trip food ideas from meals to snacks.

1. Puppy Chow

This may sound like some kind of wet dog food, but it is not! Puppy chow, also known as reindeer chow or muddy buddies, is made of rice cereal pieces (such as Chex) covered in peanut butter and chocolate and then dusted with powdered sugar. 

You could mix Nutella and these cereal pieces for your long road trip drives!

2. Fresh Fruit

Fresh fruit is always a good choice to have on the road. It lasts a pretty long time as long as you keep it in a cooler, and it’s a nutritious and delicious way to keep yourself full.

I recommend fruits such as clementines, apricots, cherries, and sliced apples. 

3. Banana Oat Muffins

Sometimes I have it for breakfast and sometimes for road trips — for these banana muffins, all you need are two cups rolled oats, choc chips, milk, 3 large bananas mashed, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon baking powder, dash of vanilla essences and spiced cinnamon.

Bake it in the morning or the night before for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Voila hot fresh oven-baked muffins!

If you’re not a fan of banana, a delicious option are these vegan spiced persimmon muffins .

Popcorn is one of the most convenient snacks out there, making it perfect for road trips! Not only is it delicious, but it also contains a good amount of fibres and complex carbs that provide you with energy and keep you full.

You can also do so many things with popcorn, such as adding cinnamon and a bit of sugar, mixing it with your favourite nuts or candy, or dusting your seasoning on it. 

5. Granola Bars

Some of the best road trip food are granola bars

Granola bars are a classic snack that is easy to eat and will keep you energized throughout the day. However, it can be difficult to find one that isn’t just loaded with sugar and preservatives.

Try making them at home by mixing together almonds, oats, dates, peanut butter, and maple syrup. You’ll make granola bars just as good without having to spend much. The best part is that you know exactly what goes into them. 

6. Trail Mix

Trail mix is an old favourite that you can keep snacking during road trips far from boring. You can opt to buy a pre-made pack, but I love to create my own combination of snacks.

Try putting together Cheerios, peanuts, Chex cereals, pretzel crisps, and M&Ms for a sweet and salty, satisfying mouthful each time. 

7. Beer Nuts

Peanuts can be a bit ho-hum for me on road trips. One way to spice them up a bit is to turn them into beer nuts , which are coated in crystallized sugar. Be careful not to eat too much though since this snack does run a bit sweet!

Also Read: 20 No-Cook Delish Camping Food Ideas and Meals

8. Hard Boiled Eggs

Simply put, hard boiled eggs are delicious, easy to prepare, and nutritious. They’re a fuss-free snack to eat and great to pair with other snacks too if you season them right with salt and pepper

9. Sliced Veggies

To keep things healthy, I recommend slicing up some veggies like cucumbers, celery, radishes, and carrots. It also helps if you bring your favourite dip with you such as cream cheese, Ceasar salad dressing or honey mustard!

10. String Cheese

String cheese is a childhood favourite that never gets old! Instead of eating them alone, try pairing your cheese with apple slices to balance out the taste and nutritional value. 

11. Sandwiches

Sometimes you’ll need more than just a handful of trail mix. A sandwich recipe I like to prepare beforehand is a BLT with an avocado spread topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and my favorite dressing. 

If you’re looking for a fruit that isn’t messy to eat in the car, then grapes are your best bet. Just make sure not to go overboard since they do have a lot of sugar in them. 

13. Baby Carrots

Having baby carrots on hand will prevent you from eating unhealthier options, especially when you’re looking to eat because you’re bored.

Carrots are high in fiber and vitamin A, making them a delicious, nutritious snack to have on the road. 

14. Chocolate chip cookies

There’s nothing wrong with having a couple of treats on the road, so bringing a few classic chocolate chip cookies is a great idea!

Everybody has their own favourite, so load up on the chewiest, gooiest cookies you can find and get ready for your trip. 

15. Apple Chips

Potatoes may be king in the chip department, but they’re not that healthy. One of my favourite alternatives is apple chips.

They’re just as crispy and crunchy but they won’t leave you feeling guilty after finishing off an entire bag of your own. Lay your apple slices on baking sheets, sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for one hour.

Also Read: 15 Best Hiking & Backpacking Snacks That Are Healthy To Munch On!

16. Sweet Potato Chips

Sweet potatoes are another healthier alternative to regular old potatoes when it comes to chips! They have plenty of vitamin A and vitamin E. Aside from that, they have more fiber than traditional chips. 

Slice the sweet potatoes finely, lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake for 30 minutes!

17. Salted and Roasted Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are a classic travel snack. They’re fun and easy to eat, and they’re loaded with vitamin E and flavor too.

18. Reese's Snack Mix

Though it’s a bit on the indulgent side, the Reese’s snack mix is peanut buttery sweet and will give you a burst of energy. Remember not to eat too much of it, though. 

19. Dried Mangoes

As great as fresh fruit, dried mangoes is to eat on a road trip.

Eating dried fruit mangoes instead gives you a no-fuss snacking experience on the road and a way to hit your sweet tooth. Try the organic thin cut version !

20. Hummus and Celery

Hummus is a great snack; I can never get enough of it. Take a generous amount of this with you on your road trips with several sticks of celery and you’ll have a healthy but delicious dipping snack on the road!

21. Honey Nut Cheerios

Cereal can be delicious, even without the milk. Simply fill up a bag with Honey Nut Cheerios or your favourite kind of cereal and hop into the car. 

22. Yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is loaded with protein and will keep you full until your next stop. I like to place this and some chopped fruit in the cooler until I’m ready to take it out to munch on when I’m feeling hungry on the road. 

23. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich

Peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a classic combination, but it might not be the best for road trips since it can get messy.

Besides, jelly has a ton of added sugar that isn’t the healthiest to eat. Instead, try peanut butter and banana sandwich for a good dose of healthy fat and protein. 

24. Snyder’s of Hanover Pretzels 

I love pretzels, but salted ones can leave me feeling a little bit parched after a few pieces.

The pretzels from Snyder’s of Hanover aren’t as salty and are seasoned with a blend of spices that are more delicious than just straight up sodium. 

25. Pistachio Nuts

Pistachio nuts are great because they are chock-full of plant-based protein, unsaturated fat, and fiber. I also prefer them because they have fewer calories compared to other nuts. 

26. Pocky Sticks

Chocolate covered biscuit sticks ? I’m in!

27. Baked Chickpeas

Baked chickpeas are super easy to make and are a great source of fiber. Simply drain and dry a can of chickpeas, toss them in some olive oil, season with salt and other spices, then bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 450°F. 

An alternative is organic store-bought ones by Hippeas !

28. Bagel Chips

If you’ve got some stale leftover bagels, then you can make bagel chips for a crunchy snack on your trip. Season with whatever you’ve got and you’ll have a great alternative to potato chips!

29. Coconut Chips

Another option for chips is coconut ! They’re sweet, nutty, and super crunchy. Best of all, these chips are super healthy and have a nice sweet-salty contrast from the seasoning. 

30. Dried Snap Peas

Dried snap peas are much healthier than potato chips, but they’re just as addictive!

31. Ham and Cheese Wheels

Ham and cream cheese rolls are a great source of protein and some healthy fat. This combination will keep you full during trips and halt any major cravings you’ve got.

I personally like preparing these because they’re easy to make ahead of time. Simply lay out a piece of ham, add a dollop of cream cheese in the middle, roll the ham up, and slice it into bite-sized pieces.

32. Chocolate Covered Almonds

I can never say no to chocolate-covered almonds! It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, nutty, and sweet — absolutely addictive.

You can choose to buy them in bulk or make them yourself. This is a great recipe to try if you’re trying to prepare snacks on a budget, too.

33. Apple Fritters

If you’re in the mood for fall pastries, then I suggest whipping up a batch of apple fritters to pack on your road trip!

Different recipes work best for different people, so choose one that you and your family enjoy.

But make no mistake — these chewy but pillowy soft cakes are bursting with flavour from apple chunks and a light dusting of cinnamon-sugar glaze that’s just super comforting!

34. Roasted Seaweed

Seaweed isn’t just reserved for sushi and salads. Head on over to any Asian grocery store to pick up a pack of roasted, salted seaweed to snack on while you drive.

35. Almond Butter and Strawberries

Almond butter is so yummy I could eat it by the spoonful! Try pairing strawberries with some almond butter during your road trip for an indulgent yet protein-filled snack.

36. Pesto Chicken Wraps

If you’re not a big fan of sandwiches, then this pesto chicken wrap might be better for you. Place pesto sauce, roasted chicken, arugula, and tomatoes on a wrap and roll it tight.

I like to prepare some of these ingredients the night before a trip and finish up any last-minute prep the morning of.

37. Pringles

A can of Pringles is an easy snack to have. Plus, it fits right into the car’s cup holder!

38. Tuna Salad

You can pair a tuna salad with fresh vegetables and a blueberry muffin for dessert for a good on-the-road meal.

39. Soup and Bread

Sometimes a hearty meal is what you need at a rest stop. Load up a thermos with hot soup and enjoy it with some buttered bread during one of your stopovers.

40. Homemade Vegetable Chips

It’s easy to make your own veggie chips at home. My favorite is kale. Simply rip freshly washed kale into bite sized pieces, toss with olive oil, lay out onto a baking sheet, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F.

Let it cool before packing it into an air-tight container and setting off on your trip.

41. Fudgy Brownies

Rich, chocolaty dairy-free brownies made completely from scratch that are gluten-free and to die for! You don’t want something that is fattening especially when you’ll be sitting in for long drives.

The best way is to opt for a healthier treat and bake them yourself opting for high-quality dark chocolate! If you don’t have access to chocolate, you can even try baking cocoa powder brownies .

Let’s not forget about drinks!

Here are some of my favourite drinks to pack on the road:

42. Unsweetened carbonated Drinks 

Drinks like LaCroix quench your thirst and add that fizzy sensation at the same time.

43. Coconut Water

Refreshing and light, coconut water takes the cake for one of the healthiest drinks you can take practically anywhere. 

44. Reduced Sugar Kids Drinks

If you have kids with you, then try out organic juice boxes from Costco that have reduced sugar.

45. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie

On some trips, I like to prepare peanut butter and banana smoothie. It’s a combination that never disappoints, and it offers a super tasty refreshment that’ll keep you full on long drives.

46. Just Plain Water!

Never forget to drink enough water! Do you have any other go-to snacks for your road trips? Share with me in the comments below!

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Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip

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The Best Road Trip Snacks for Your Road Trip Travels

Planning a road trip is fun! Once you’ve done the big stuff like where to go, it’s time to think about the finer details. That’s where road trip snacks come in! Snacks are the dopamine of food, they’ll give you pleasure, make you feel rewarded and help your attention span, keeping you sustained through those long driving hours.

We all love to snack, and what you want for your snack mix comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for some inspiration, these road trip snack ideas will get you started.

In our search for good road trip snacks, we’ve chosen snacks that are easy to eat, easy to store and delicious. Hopefully, you’ll find something for your tastebuds to get excited about.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

It doesn’t get healthier than fruit! Even on a road trip you still need your five a day. On the road snacks like grapes and berries are easy to eat just as they come, or juicy mangos, oranges and any kind of melon can be pre-cut into a container to avoid unwanted stickiness. There really is nothing better than fresh fruit snacks.

Nuts, mixed or on their own, are delicious, heart healthy, and make some of the best snacks for road trips. There are so many varieties to choose from not to mention, the many different ways they come – natural, salted, roasted, spicy or honey glazed to name but a few. They all make great healthy snacks for road trips.

Popcorn is so tasty and a superfood to boot, full of nutrition like protein, vitamin E and vitamin D. It’s also rich in antioxidants, with twice the amount that fruit contains. No longer relegated to a cinema snack, you can choose from flavours like plain, salty or sweet, or my personal faveourite sweet and salty together. You just can’t go wrong with popcorn, it’s perfect for long car rides and a great vegan travel snack to boot!

While they might not be the most exciting, vegetables make easy-to-eat healthy car snacks. Peeled and pre-sliced they are crunchy and full of flavour, you can eat as much as you want without feeling guilty.

Jerky or Biltong is chock full of protein and vitamins as well as being a low-fat snack. The most popular is beef jerky, however, you can get turkey or pork jerky as well. Look for low sodium & sugar varieties, or you could even try making your own.

Veggie cakes are similar to rice cakes but made from lentils or corn, or even roasted chickpeas. Kallo does a great range of different flavours including tomato salsa, lime & coriander cakes, beetroot cakes and sea salt & balsamic vinegar cakes. They also have sweet flavours, like apple & cinnamon and blueberry & vanilla, and both make great travel snacks.

Sweet Road Trip Snack Ideas

Caramel waffles, or as they are called in the Netherlands, Stroopwafels, make good snacks for road trips. Place these on top of your morning coffee to go and the caramel will soften, or eat them as they come. Either way, they are seriously delicious.

Mikado’s are a great little biscuit, inspired by the Japanese name for the game of pick-up sticks. Thin long biscuits covered in milk, dark or white chocolate. They have a handy little uncovered biscuit section, so you can eat without getting messy. These are perfect for a family road trip when you want to give the kids a treat.

Buttery and delicious, shortbread biscuits will be a lovely mid-afternoon snack whilst out on the road. Coming plain or coated in chocolate, they will satisfy that sweet tooth craving.

Light and crispy wafer biscuits are a perfect road trip snack. Coming in multiple flavours, these are an instant pick me up.

Savoury Road Trip Snacks

If you prefer a savoury snack to sweet, then you can’t go wrong with pretzels. My favourite are Pennstate, sour cream and chive, so moreish the bag will disappear before you know it.

This is a great snack for the whole family, especially the kids. Babybel small mini cheeses, are full of protein and calcium and come in three flavours – original, Cheddar & Emmenthal. As an added bonus they are vegetarian and lactose-free. If you can’t find Babybel, string cheese is a good alternative.

No list would be complete without potato chips or crisps. Whatever flavour floats your boat, they’re a must have travel snack, and you can even get veggie chips if you’re fed up with potato! Steer clear of any dusted crisps such as cheese puffs unless you want orange fingerprints everywhere! These are super convenient as a snack, no prep is needed and you can pick them up at any gas station when the munchies strike!

Mini cheese crackers have different names across the world! In the US they’re Goldfish, in the United Kingdom, Mini Cheddars, and in Europe Croco Crackers. These are cheesy, crunchy and delicious little snacks, what’s not to love?

Corn nuts, either on their own or as part of a trail mix, are not actually nuts but corn kernels that have either been roasted or deep fried. These crunchy little morsels have a deep nutty flavour, known as Cancha in Peru and Chulpi in Ecuador.

If you like a little heat in your snacks then Wasabi peas are for you – green peas roasted and coated in Wasabi, which have a satisfying crunch and delicious warm heat. Yum.

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Road trip snacks from the bakery.

Is there anything better for breakfast or indeed a mid morning snack than a croissant? Flaky and buttery and oh so good, go on, indulge yourself.

I’ve never met anybody who didn’t love a brownie! Are you a purist or do you like them with nuts? Either way, they will sort out your chocolate cravings while on the road.

These amazing little French Madeleines are a truly delightful cake and kids love them. Light and airy, they come in all kinds of flavours. I personally believe the originals are the best, but lemon comes in a close second.

The Brits call them Flapjacks, Americans know them as Granola bars. Whichever, they are made with oats, butter, syrup and raisins, all baked together to make a wonderful gooey treat, perfect for a long drive pick me up.

Donuts, oh yes. Sugared, filled, glazed or coated in sprinkles, they are the rock and roll of baked goods. Colourful, fun and crazy good.

Delicious Homemade Road Trip Snacks

Rocky road is one of my favorite road trip snacks and super easy to make, with only a handful of ingredients and no baking required:

• 200g digestive biscuits
• 135g butter
• 200g dark or milk chocolate
• 2-3 tbsp spoons golden syrup
• 100g mini marshmallows
• 100g raisins
• Melt butter, chocolate and golden syrup in a saucepan.
• Let cool slightly.
• Stir in crushed biscuits, marshmallows and raisins.
• Spread into a lined baking tin and chill for two hours.
• Cut into squares and pack for your trip!

This wonderful savoury little treat, commonly known as a sausage roll, is a great road trip snack idea. Keeping it simple, these mini sausage rolls will keep you coming back for more.

Protein balls or bars come in all flavours and can be made at home without too much hassle. One of my favourite recipes is for almond butter energy balls, they can also be made with other nut butters, such as cashew or hazelnut.

Chocolate chip cookies, need I say more? These NYC style chocolate chip cookies are gooey and utterly epic!

Blueberry muffins are a fantastic way to start your day on the road. Packed full of the super-food that is blueberries, they are moist, yummy and healthy.

• 100g butter
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 300g self-raising flower
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 150g of fresh or frozen blueberries
• Preheat oven to 180℃ or gas mark 4.
• Line a muffin tray with paper cases.
• Cream together butter & sugar until fluffy, then add the eggs.
• Add the flour and baking powder to make a thick batter, then stir in the vanilla, milk and blueberries until combined.
• Spoon the mixture evenly into the cases and bake for 18 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Leave to cool, and enjoy!

Sweets – Plain and Simple – Possibly a Treat Instead of a Snack!

The perfect road trip snack for the whole family, Gummy Bears, namely Haribo, are the best, and they have a huge selection of gummy snacks from sours to coke bottles. Go steady though, they’re hard to stop eating!

Chocolate covered raisins are simply the best. These healthy little dried fruits are taken to the next level when covered in your choice of chocolate, white, dark or milk, take your pick.

Do you like to suck them or crunch your boiled sweets? Are you a lemon sherbert or rhubarb and custard lover? Maybe you go off-piste and have a Chupa Chups lolly, either way, they’re the best no fuss no mess road trip snacks.

Milk chocolate, peanut, crispy, pretzel or peanut butter? These are just some of the M&M’s on offer. Personally, it’s the peanut ones for me every time and ridiculously the yellow and green ones. Do you have a favourite colour?

Marshmallows are my guilty pleasure! As a kid, they were called Flumps and I loved them, and still do. Nothing better than munching on soft squidgy marshmallows as you’re driving off into the great unknown.

Hands up if you always have mints in your glove box? It’s a bit of a stretch to call these a snack, however, no road trip is complete without some sort of mint. Hard, chewy or strong they’re good for breath and also for settling your stomach.

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50+ Tasty Road Trip Food Ideas and Tips [Ultimate Road trip Food List]

Wondering what food to pack for a road trip? Discover the best food for road trips in this comprehensive road trip food list (complete with my top travel food tips!).

Danny Newman

I hope this road trip food list helps you plan the perfect travel food for your upcoming trips!

You’ve planned the route.

You’ve made your road trip playlist.

Now all that’s left to do is pack a trunk full of road trip food !

But what should you take?

With no fridge to keep things fresh nor kitchen to prep meals, deciding what to put on a road trip food list is tough.

Want help deciding what food to take on a road trip? Check out this comprehensive list.

Heads up, this post contains affiliate links.

Unsure what what road trip food to take on your upcoming trip? Here are 50+ ideas that should go down a treat!

You might also like these:

• 20 road trip games for couples
• 50 funny road trip quotes
• Quotes about roads in life
• 85+ road trip trivia games and questions
• Gifts for road trippers

Food for Road Trips: The Essentials

Just like the essentials you stock in your kitchen cupboards, the coming road trip food ideas are versatile, flavourful, and should mean you never go hungry.

If you don’t take any other food on your road trip, I recommend packing:

1. Peanut butter (100% peanuts)

Delicious, filling, and somewhat nutritious (full of protein and good fats), I eat an ungodly amount of peanut butter both in general and on the road.

Put it on crackers, in sandwiches, on your cereal (trust me), or consume straight off the spoon! You can’t beat it.

2. Bananas &/or apples

Bananas are another tasty, nutritious, and hunger-busting snack that also count as one of your 5-a-day.

I love bananas by themselves, sliced and put on top of almost everything (especially cereal, crackers, or toast) or mushed up and made into pancakes (mash the fruit and mix in some oats for an easy batter).

Same goes with apples! These have practical benefits too though.

For one thing, you get some refreshing fresh fruit into your system. For another, they’ll keep for longer and are at less risk of being squashed compared to softer fruit!

3. Oats/Oatmeal

I eat oats/oatmeal every single day for an unbeatable breakfast. They’re also ideal as a snack between meals (try oats, cinnamon, sliced banana, mixed nuts, pumpkin seeds, and chopped dates with a spoonful of peanut butter on top).

They’re awesome for road trips (almost as awesome as these road trip questions to spark conversation in the car) for numerous reasons:

• First, they’re healthy.
• Second, they fill you up.
• And third, they stay fresh (once opened) for ages.

Nuts are a perfect snack to take along in the car. Packed full of protein, good fats, and various vitamins and minerals, they’ll fill you up and fuel your body at the same time.

I eat them as road trip snacks, on my breakfast, and sometimes in salads too.

5. Pita bread, bagels, or tortilla wraps

I like having some sort of easy carb in the car for lunches and dinners (and an occasional extra meal if I’m particularly hungry).

Tortilla wraps are my go-to because they last for ages in the packet (make sure it’s re-sealable) and are less carb/calorie-dense.

They’re versatile too.

You can put whatever you want inside- regardless of the meal. My favourite?

Chickpeas (from the can), hummus, a sauce of some kind, avocado, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, and other salad stuff I have in the car/van.

It’s tasty, filling, and full of good, healthy stuff.

Even better, you can keep most of it in your vehicle/cool box for a while without it going off.

Pita bread, bagels, or even ordinary sliced bread could work as well. Just be prepared for these to go stale quicker.

Being stocked up on essentials is one of my number one road trip food ideas! Here are a few more basics that are sure to come in handy on the road…

6. Crackers

There’s no shortage of cracker varieties out there! Pick your favourite and stick it in the car for a super quick and easy snack to eat on the road.

I tend to get flavoured rice crackers, which are relatively tasty by themselves, but even better with toppings (think avocado and hummus, peanut butter and banana, and so on).

7. Tinned legumes/pulses

Legumes/pulses of one form or another are an ideal travel food too.

Full of protein and unlikely to ever go off (when you buy them in cans/tins), they’re a great meat-substitute to put in your meals.

You can’t go wrong with chickpeas. But I also like to take kidney beans, black beans, and cannelloni beans on occasion too.

Tins of pre-cooked lentils are great as well.

You can stick them in things like veggie pasta for a quick protein boosting addition.

Tip: if you do buy tins/cans of legumes, make sure you have a sharp knife or a can opener too- just in case they don’t come with a ring pull!

8. Spices, herbs, salt & pepper

Going on a long road trip (AKA a week or more)? I recommend taking something to flavour your travel food with.

Even if it’s just salt and pepper, you’ll be grateful for the added taste at the end of a long day on the road.

I always pack:

Salt and pepper, dried cinnamon (for my breakfast), dried cumin, dried coriander, dried turmeric, dried chilli flakes, dried smoked paprika, dried mixed herbs.

9. Plant-based milk

Switching from cow’s milk to plant-based milk (such as soy, almond, oat, or rice milk) might not be on your agenda. But it would make a difference on long road trips! Why?

Because unopened, you don’t have to store these types of milk in the cold.

They stay fresh until you open them, which means you save some all-important space in the cooler. Simply pop your plant-based milk with everything else until you need it for your cereal/tea!

10. Sauces (ketchup, mustard, BBQ…)

Sauces serve the same purpose as the herbs and spices.

It might seem a little bit ‘extra’, but having your favourite sauces in the car can turn an average meal into something far more enjoyable.

11. Olive/coconut oil

Aside from adding extra flavour to things, having olive or coconut oil in your pots and pans should stop them becoming a nightmare to wash-up.

Having travel food in the car is perfect for when you want/need to pull over. You can stop, eat a snack, and get back behind the wheel feeling refreshed.

Love road trips? You might enjoy these blog posts too:

• 40 Things to Do On a Road Trip
• 125 Road Trip Questions to Spark Conversation in the Car
• 25 Fun RV Accessories
• The Advantages & Disadvantages of Travelling By Car
• Expert Tips for Full-Time RV Living

Road trip foods for Breakfast

With the staples sorted, it’s time to move onto the main meals. Here’s a selection of quick-fire ideas for what to take/eat for breakfast when you’re on a road trip:

(Be sure to refer back to the ‘Essentials’ section above for specific ideas on how to use/consume them.)

12. Oats (whole or rolled)

13. Dry cereal

14. Peanut butter (& banana) bagel/crackers

15. Sliced bread + topping of choice

16. Fresh fruit

17. Nuts and seeds (eat alone or with cereal)

18. Breakfast burrito (hard boil the eggs and keep any meat/cheese in the cooler!)

19. Sweet/savoury muffins

20. Tea/Coffee (not strictly food, I know, but you can’t miss your morning cup of Joe when you’re driving and having to concentrate all day long!

Love coffee? Check out these travel French presses for ideas on how to brew it up and take it away.

With lots of ground to cover, being well stocked up on food for road trips is all-important! Here’s what I’d take for lunch:

Best Lunchtime Food for Road Trips

With breakfast down, let’s move on to lunch. Here are some top travelling food ideas for what to eat on a road trip at lunch:

21. Leftovers!

Leftovers are literally my go-to meal of choice for lunchtime on the road.

I cook up a big meal in the evenings and make sure I have enough to eat for an easy and filling lunch the next day.

Pop the leftovers in a container/sealable bag, stick them in the cooler, and voila- lunch is served whenever you want it the next day.

22. Pita pockets/tortilla wraps

Your choice of filling! Meats, cheeses, legumes, salad…It’s all good in a pita pocket or wrap.

23. Filled sandwiches/bagels

As above, sandwiches and bagels (filled with whatever you have in the car/feel like eating) are a quick and easy meal to eat on a road trip.

You can either prepare them the night before or pull over and prep them at a pit-stop.

24. Premade falafel & salad

I love falafel! It’s healthy, filling and packed full of protein- a winning combo in my eyes.

However, it can be a hassle to make from scratch when you’re on the move. That’s why I recommend buying it pre-made from the store to eat in wraps and with salads (just remember to store in the cooler!).

25. Mixed salad

Most salad stuff goes bad quite quickly when it’s left out of the fridge/cooler.

Nevertheless, I still recommend taking it (in small quantities) on a road trip because it’s nice to have something fresh and nutritious to eat.

Eat it alone or in sandwiches/wraps, but be sure to keep it in the cooler when not in use.

26. Hard-boiled eggs

Alas, taking ordinary eggs in the car is a recipe for mess. That’s why (if you want some eggs for lunch) you should always try to hard-boil them ahead of time. Put them in a salad, stick them in a wrap, or eat alone for a quick protein fix in the middle of the day.

27. Veg & dips

Looking for something quick, no-nonsense, and really good for you? Chop up some peppers, carrots, and celery and pair with whatever dips you want!

Whether you make or buy them, guacamole, hummus, and spicy tomato salsa always go down well.

Road trip foods for dinner can be particularly hard to choose. Here are a few ideas that should provide an easy, filling, and nutritious meal in the evenings:

Food to Pack for a Road Trip: Dinnertime

Last but not least: dinner! It isn’t just your car that needs refuelling.

After a long day of driving, you need something that’ll both fill you up and provide all the nutrients you need to feel replenished and energized. At the same time, you don’t want to spend forever preparing it, cooking it, and cleaning up!

The following meals should tick all of those boxes- simple, healthy, and hearty:

28. Chicken salad

If you eat meat and can keep it fresh in the car, then there’s no reason not to buy it for your road trip!

Fry up some chicken with a basic marinade, combine it with a simple salad (think lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, etc…), and away you go.

29. Lentil Dahl

If you don’t eat meat or don’t want the hassle/risk of transporting it in a hot car, then try cooking up a lentil dahl.

Simple, and nutritious, you can make it in one pot, boil up some rice in another, and bob’s your uncle! A delicious and nutritious meal.

However, you will need some spices to make it taste like anything other than lentils and rice…

30. Lentil Bolognese/Pasta

Prefer pasta? Use those lentils in a pasta sauce instead.

31. Veggie Curry

Veggie curry is one of my favourite travel meals.

Super cheap, you can buy a bunch of veg (I like combining onion, garlic, broccoli, carrots, zucchini, and spinach), pop in some spices, legumes (chickpeas work well) and tinned tomatoes, and let it cook away for 30 mins or so.

Eat with rice for another hearty, healthy meal.

32. Stuffed Tortilla/Pita Bread

Remember the essentials I talked about before? It’s time to break them out for a super quick and easy meal with minimal prep or cleanup required.

Stuff your wraps/pita bread with anything you want/have in the car. Legumes, meat, refried beans, cheese, eggs, salad, sauces, leftovers from the night before…You name it, and it’d (probably) go well inside.

33. Bean Burrito

Bean burritos are another personal favourite road trip food of mine.

I’ll cook up some black/kidney beans (with onions, garlic, tinned tomatoes, cumin and paprika) and put them inside a tortilla wrap with rice, avocado, lettuce, and hummus. It hits the spot every time.

Don’t want a burrito? Do everything the same as above but without the wrap. Instead, break open a bag of chips and serve yourself a hearty plate of nachos.

Top tip: take it up a notch and serve with guacamole and a tin of sweetcorn.

36. Stir Fry

Slice up an assortment of veg and fry it up with chicken (or chickpeas if you’re veggie).

Add a packet of pre-bought stir-fry sauce and away you go- another quick, delicious and nutritious meal. You could also buy a packet of pre-steamed rice to pad it out a bit.

Want to make it even quicker?

Prep everything in advance (chop the veggies etc) and place it in a container/re-sealable bag so you can put it straight into the pan at dinner time.

36. Burger & Salad

It doesn’t matter whether it’s veggie or meat-based, you could fry up a patty (or two) that you’ve been keeping in the cooler, pop it between some bread (or inside a pita), slather over some sauce and eat with a side salad!

37. Cold Pizza

Whether you made or purchased pizza the night before, eating it cold for dinner on the drive makes for a fast, filling, and tasty meal on the move.

38. Eat Out!

If you’re not on a budget, then you could always eat out for dinner as well.

Pull over, explore a new town, and find somewhere with good reviews that serves nice food at a reasonable price.

Aside from eating restaurant-quality meals, you save the hassle of cooking and cleaning up after yourself too.

The best food for road trips is usually quick and easy to make! These quick-fire road trip food ideas tick both boxes:

Quick & Easy Road Trip Food Ideas

Cooking might be the last thing on your mind at the end of a long day’s driving. Looking for road trip food ideas you can prep and eat in a hurry?

These five options should help:

39. Avocado (sliced or smashed) on crackers/bagels/bread (with hummus)

40. Peanut butter & jelly/banana sandwiches

41. Hummus & chopped veggies (in a wrap, with salad, or by themselves)

42. Pita bread/tortillas wraps with varied fillings

43. Eat your leftovers

Good Road Trip Food for Snack Time!

If you’re anything like me, then you’re sure to get hungry outside of meal times too. Want some good road trip food ideas to eat as snacks as you drive?

Check these out:

44. Dried Fruit

Dates, raisins, apricots, banana chips, cranberries…Dried fruit’s a firm personal favourite when I’m on a road trip. It doesn’t matter which fruit you go for either- delicious, healthy, and long-lasting, they’re ideal for the road.

45. Fresh Fruit

Harder to carry and quicker to go off, fresh fruit isn’t always ideal from a practical perspective. However, the all-important vitamins contained inside justify its place in the car!

I tend to go for hardier fruit (such as apples, bananas and pears) because they’re usually less messy.

Tasty, nutritious, & filling, nuts are an ideal snack for any road trip. They’re also easy to eat when you’re trying to keep your eyes on the road and will last for ages without going bad/off.

47. Trail Mix

Whether you put it together yourself or buy it ‘ready-made’, you’ll have a tasty and nutritious snack that’s sure to stave off hunger on your road trip.

48. Potato Chips

Not the healthiest of road trip snacks, but potato chips are definitely a tasty treat to munch on when driving! Just be wary of crumbs…

49. Dark Chocolate

Another not-so-healthy option, but I love having a bar of dark chocolate with me on the road. It’s perfect when you need a pick-me-up on a long drive.

Road trips should be fun, and there’s nothing more fun (especially if you’re a child) than having some candy to chew on as you go!

Pop some family favourites in the car for a sugar kick when you need it.

51. Granola/Protein Bars

You can’t go wrong with granola bars. Sweet and filling, they’re great for keeping the wolves at bay until your next stop/meal.

Just be wary of the sugar content, which can be crazily high (even in supposedly healthy options!).

52. Beef Jerky

Look no further than beef jerky if you’re looking for a carnivorous, protein-filled snack that won’t go bad for days/weeks.

Now you know the food to pack for a road trip, it’s time to think about how you actually pack and keep it fresh in the car…

Tips for Packing Road Trip Food

You’ve got the food and the gear. Now it’s time to get it all packed up into the car. Unfortunately, this is another task that can be easier said than done.

How do you pack your road trip food so that it:

• Can be accessed easily, and
• Won’t go off too soon…or roll/slide around in the back…or get squished…or (my personal pet peeve) jiggle and jingle annoyingly as you drive?

If you’re asking yourself those kinds of questions, then this next set of ‘packing food for road trips’ travel tips should help:

i) Use a cooler

Taking a cooler (or two, if you’re feeding lots of people) isn’t just a handy way to keep your food fresh. It should help you keep everything that’s inside it organized and in one spot as well.

Pack the cooler up (remembering the ice/ice packs), sandwich the whole thing in place inside the trunk to stop it sliding around or falling over, and away you go.

Oh, and avoid cramming too much other stuff around and on top of it- you want to be able to get inside with minimal fuss at the end of the day!

Try putting frozen gel ice packs around the inside of the cooler instead of putting actual ice in there. It’ll:

• Keep everything cold without ice melting and making a watery mess
• Prevent food from being ruined by said water (more on this next), and
• Mean you can re-use the ice packs on the homeward journey

ii) Make sure packages are watertight

The last thing you want is ice-cold water from the cooler getting into your bag of sandwiches!

If you’re packing food into a cooler and putting plain old ice inside, then make sure nothing could be ruined by the meltwater.

iii) Separate meals before you go

Want things to be nice and organized in advance? You could plan your meals before you leave and separate everything into individual containers or zip-lock bags.

Imagine having a chicken salad for dinner.

You could take sliced, pre-cooked chicken and pop it into a re-sealable bag with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and so on; then put it into the cooler.

At dinner time, you’ve got everything ready-made to put onto a plate and eat. This saves time, reduces clean up, and means you’ve got less to worry about all-around.

iv) Take the right food

Packing your road trip food will be a thousand times easier if you take the right food in the first place!

Make sure everything will keep (aka remain edible) without spoiling, breaking, moving around too much, and so on.

Quick tip? Anything canned (be it baked beans or entire meals) or pre-made (such as falafel burgers) will usually work well.

v) Separate your stuff into different boxes/bags

When I was travelling around Australia in my van, I had boxes in the back that were full of particular things:

One had my dried food (rice, pasta, tortilla wraps etc) and spices. Another had my breakfast stuff and teas/coffee. And then I had two more that were full of my pots, pans, and cutlery.

Oh, and then I had my mini-fridge with all my fresh stuff.

This worked well for me for two main reasons:

First, I knew where everything was at any given time, which made prepping meals more efficient. Second, the boxes kept it all in place and meant I didn’t have food flying everywhere as I drove!

You could try doing something similar in your car/truck to enjoy the same advantages.

Food for travelling can get tricky when you’re on the road! These tips should make life a little easier:

Road trip Food Tips & Ideas

Last but not least, here’s a bunch of my best travel food tips that might prove useful on your road trip:

1. Use free water refill stations whenever possible

It isn’t just food you need to think about when road-tripping! Staying hydrated will be just as important.

Sure, you could fill the car up with water bottles.

But for a more eco-friendly and cost-effective choice, try taking advantage of the free water refill stations that you’ll come across along the way.

State parks, rest stops, and water fountains in cities are all useful sources of water.

2. Collect & stash napkins in the glovebox

Eating in the car can be a messy business! Having some napkins to hand at all times can be a life-saver when you’ve got ketchup all over your hands and face…

Want my advice? Get into the habit of grabbing a handful whenever you go to a cafe or rest stop! Nobody will bat an eyelid and you’ll never be short of napkin when you need it.

3. Keep the essentials in reach! (cooler, snacks…)

Life on the road is always easier when you keep things organised. With that in mind, try keeping the most important food and drinks close-by and easily accessible!

You won’t be digging around at the bottom of the cool box for a beer, rifling around the backseats for a snack, and so on.

4. Don’t open the cooler too much

Having a cooler is great. But it can’t do its job if you keep opening it every few minutes!

Warm air gets in every time, which jeopardises the temperature of whatever you have inside; fresh food won’t stay fresh for as long as it could have done.

Do yourself a favour and only open the cooler when you have to.

5. Cook double quantities at dinner

Leftovers always make for the quickest and easiest of travel meals. That’s why I always try to cook up double portions at dinner.

Do the same, and you’ll have lunch ready and waiting for you whenever you want it! You won’t have to stop and go through the hassle of preparing (and cleaning up) yet another meal.

Food for Road Trips: Gear Ideas

Stocking up your car or truck with road trip food is one thing. But it’s also important to think about how you’ll store, cook, and keep things fresh on the move.

That’s where having the right gear comes into play.

From prepping dinner and storing leftovers to keeping the beers cold, taking a few simple pieces of equipment on a road trip can make an almighty difference to your culinary experience.

With that in mind, I thought I’d begin with a few key culinary items that I recommend anybody takes on a road trip (especially long-distance ones):

1. Cooler/Coolbox

Of all the gear to take on your road trip, having a cool box is arguably the most important!

Without the fridge-freezer you’re used to at home, you need something to keep any fresh food, well, fresh (…and the beers ice cold!).

The easiest way to do it? Grab yourself a cool box (or two), pop some bags of ice and/or ice packs inside, and away you go.

–> Check out this Yeti Cooler on Amazon!

2. Cooking Equipment

Whether or not you decide to cook on the road is up to personal preference and the type of road trip you’re going on.

For example, someone going on a day-long (or even two-day) drive might not need or want the bother of cooking on the go; stopping in at restaurants or cafes could be preferable instead.

But if you’re driving huge distances over days and weeks, then being able to cook can:

• Help you save money, and
• Provide greater control over your diet as you travel.

That’s where having a camping cooker or something similar can come in handy. Without it, you’ll be stuck eating cold meals or eating out for the duration of your trip.

…Using a gas cooker? Don’t forget to take a lighter or some matches too!

–> Check out this Coleman cooker on Amazon!

3. Plates, bowls, cutlery…

There’s a good chance you’ll need some plates/bowls on which to serve the meals you prepare and some cutlery with which to eat it too.

Keep the porcelain at home though! Too brittle for the rigours of the road, you’re far better off with some unbreakable camping crockery instead.

Check out these mess kits if you’d like some further ideas on what you could take.

–> Check out this camping crockery set on Amazon!

4. Insulated Flask (Growler)

Having a high-quality insulated flask isn’t essential for the road, but it does make a difference.

For instance, you can brew up your tea/coffee in the morning and keep it hot all day long, keep your soup hot overnight to eat as a quick and easy lunch the next day, or stop your water from going warm to quench your thirst on long, hot driving days.

–> Check out this Stanley growler on Amazon!

5. Food storage containers/bags

Leftovers from the night before are a lifesaver when you’ve got miles of road to cover (and can’t be bothered to cook/prepare anything new up).

That’s where food storage containers or re-sealable bags come into play.

You can put your leftovers inside and stow them in the cool box for whenever you next get the munchies.

Of course, they’re also ideal for storing anything that might otherwise spill/leak in your car, as well as any food you might want to keep fresh as you travel.

–> Check these Rubbermaid tupperware containers out on Amazon!

6. Mini-Fridge

When I travelled around Australia in a campervan last year, there was one bit of kit that made all the difference to the experience (aside from the camping shower !):

A mini-fridge.

Sure, a cool box could have sufficed. But I would have had to buy ice from supermarkets as I went, which would have been both expensive and inconvenient.

Instead, powered by the van’s cigarette lighter, I could plug in the fridge and drive for days in sweltering heat without having to worry about my fresh food going bad.

It was a game-changer on that trip and I fully recommend anyone does the same if they’re going on an extended road trip!

–> Click here to see this AstroAI fridge on Amazon!

Don’t Forget This Road Trip Food List!

Planning a road trip? Well, taking the perfect road trip food is sure to add to the experience.

You’ll stave off pesky hunger pangs, stay in better control of your diet, and save money. Alas, not all food is made equal when you’re travelling in a car!

Hopefully, though, the road trip food list above has helped out.

Keep it in mind (along with the food for traveling tips), and you should be a step closer to packing the perfect road trip food for your upcoming trip.

Unsure what to listen to in the car? Check out these top adventure songs next!

Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids on Long Road Trips

Last Updated:

Road trips are exciting adventures for families, offering opportunities to explore new places, bond, and create lasting memories. However, the journey can sometimes be long and challenging, especially when traveling with children. One aspect that can make or break a road trip experience is snacking. Keeping kids well-fed and nourished throughout the journey is essential for their energy levels and overall mood. In this article, we’ll explore some healthy snack ideas specifically tailored for kids on long road trips, as well as touch upon crucial aspects of road safety.

Table of Contents

Healthy Snack Ideas

Fresh fruits and vegetables.

Pack a variety of fresh fruits and veggies like apple slices, carrot sticks, grapes, and cucumber slices. They are refreshing, hydrating, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Consider pre-cutting them for easy access and less mess.

Create a custom trail mix with a combination of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds. Almonds, cashews, raisins, and pumpkin seeds make for a satisfying and nutritious snack that provides a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Whole Grain Crackers and Cheese

Opt for whole grain crackers paired with cheese slices or cheese sticks. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while whole grain crackers offer fiber and sustained energy. Look for low-sodium options to keep sodium intake in check.

Greek Yogurt Parfaits

Prepare individual servings of Greek yogurt layered with granola and berries. Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, while granola adds crunch and fiber. Berries offer natural sweetness and antioxidants.

Homemade Energy Bars

Make your own energy bars using oats, nut butter, honey, and dried fruits. These bars are customizable, free from preservatives, and provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

Air-popped popcorn seasoned with a sprinkle of salt or nutritional yeast is a light and crunchy snack option. It’s whole grain and provides fiber, making it a healthier alternative to conventional chips.

Mini Sandwiches or Wraps

Prepare mini sandwiches or wraps with whole grain bread or tortillas, filled with lean protein sources like turkey, chicken, or hummus, along with veggies like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. They’re convenient and satisfying.

Alongside snacks, ensure kids stay hydrated by packing plenty of water. Consider reusable water bottles filled with water or diluted fruit juices to keep them refreshed throughout the journey.

Road Trip Safety Tips

While snacks are crucial for keeping kids happy and energized during road trips, ensuring their safety is paramount. Here are some road safety tips to keep in mind:

Ensure that all passengers, including children, are properly restrained in age-appropriate car seats, booster seats, or seat belts. Double-check seat belt adjustments and car seat installations before hitting the road.

Take Regular Breaks

Plan rest stops along the route to allow everyone to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and take a break from sitting in the car. Aim to stop every 2-3 hours to prevent fatigue and promote circulation.

Avoid Distracted Driving

According to car accident lawyers in San Diego , distracted driving is one of the top contributors to collisions. Minimize distractions while driving by refraining from using mobile phones, eating messy foods, or engaging in activities that take your attention away from the road. Designate a passenger to handle navigation and entertainment tasks.

Long drives can lead to driver fatigue, increasing the risk of accidents. Ensure the driver gets enough rest before embarking on the journey and consider sharing driving responsibilities if possible. Signs of fatigue include yawning, difficulty focusing, and drifting between lanes. If you feel drowsy, pull over in a safe location and take a short nap.

Obey Traffic Laws

Adhere to speed limits, traffic signals, and other road regulations to minimize the risk of collisions. Teach children about road safety rules and lead by example when crossing streets or navigating parking lots.

By combining nutritious snacks with vigilant road safety practices, families can enjoy smoother and more enjoyable road trip experiences. With proper planning and preparation, the journey becomes just as memorable as the destination.

Post-accident nutrition: foods that will speed up your recovery

Checklist: How to prepare for a road trip with the whole family?

Road Trip Activities for Kids + Tips, Tricks, Snack Ideas, and More!

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Dips and Trips

Best Road Trip Snacks at Buc-ee’s You Have To Try

Posted: March 18, 2024 | Last updated: March 18, 2024

If Costco and Cracker Barrel had a baby on the interstate, it would be Buc-ee’s! It’s a larger than life convenience store / gas station with dozens of gas pumps, clothing, and food items.

The company started in Texas and is now slowly taking over interstate exits across the southeast. Not only is the gas reasonable and the restrooms squeaky clean, but the road trip snacks are first rate.

After multiple road trips and sampling the snacks at various locations across the Southeast, we have a pretty good feel on what the best (or most unique) snacks at Buc-ee’s are. Be sure to give these a try, and let us know what your favorite road trip snacks from Buc-ee’s are.

The wall of Icee

Towards the tea and coffee despensers and along the back wall, you will find several varieties of Icee drinks at an unbeatable price. They have the normal icee flavors like blue raspberry and cherry but the standout flavor is the elusive Dr. Pepper Icee. Don’t forget to put on the clear dome topper before filling your cup, as you don’t want to miss a drop!

The brisket and the pulled pork

The brisket and BBQ pork at Buc-ee’s is iconic and unique to this chain. You will hear the meat choppers (wearing cowboy hats, of course) yell “fresh brisket on the board” over and over as they slice and chop meat all day. You can also order brisket or BBQ by the pound.

The burritos are easy to miss since they are sometimes closer to the bakery than the hot brisket table. They are fajita style meats with peppers and onions in a generous portion size. Sometimes they also have a cheesesteak burrito in addition to beef and chicken!

Cookie Dough Bites

These balls of cookie dough bites are in a clear plastic cup and come in either confetti sugar cookie or chocolate chip varieties. They are sometimes located in the refrigerated islands or in a mini fridge near the fudge counter.

The check-out line snacks

I’m a sucker for the check-out line snacks too. They have assortments of giant rice crispy bars, chocolate beaver heads and their own line of mints (like Altoids but in a Beaver tin).

The Fried Chicken Sandwich

This is one of the best chicken sandwiches while traveling that could easily rival Chick-Fil-A. I adore the chipotle mayo and juicy fried chicken. Simple, hot and easy to grab on the run.

Chocolate Chunk Cookies

I am a self proclaimed cookie connoisseur and I really enjoyed these chocolate chunk cookies from Buc-ee’s. They are available at the bakery by the cookie or in plastic wrapped 6-packs. I hate hard cookies, so I ask the bakery staff which ones are the softest and they sometimes take them straight from the cookie sheets. They also offer white chocolate macadamia and oatmeal raisin.

Kolaches (pronounced Ko-LOTCH-shes) are pillow-soft yeast rolls filled with your choice of sausage, beans and rice, jalopenos, or cheese. They are available 24/7 and sometimes sell out. Be sure to ask for them heated in order to melt the cheese inside.

Nuts and trail mix

On another wall, you will see a variety of nuts, trail mix and sweet and salty bags of snacks. My two favorites are the deep fried cajun pecans (not too spicy but the heat builds after each bite) and the bagel seasoning cashews. If you prefer oven-roasted nuts, check near the fudge counter for warm sugared varieties wrapped in paper. If they aren’t busy, they will sometimes provide samples!

Beaver Nuggets

This snack really sets Buc-ee’s apart and I consider it to be their “signature” snack. It’s puffed corn coated in many different flavors. I think the taste is similar to Honey Smacks cereal. The original beaver nuggets are coated in a thin caramel coating. There are also other varieties like cinnamon sugar and sea salt caramel. I’m always buying extra bags of nuggets for gifts.

Ice Tea and Coffee Wall

The back wall of Buc-ee’s is devoted to drinks and there is no shortage of options. The tea and coffee dispensers are self serve with an island of sugar packets, creamer and flavor pumps nearby.

Beaver Tails

Beaver tails are fried dough in the shape of a “tail” and covered in cinnamon and sugar. You can find these in the bakery section. My mother used to call these pastries elephant ears. They are similar to a churro and melt in your mouth! Be sure to ask for them to be heated!

Healthy snacks and Keto boxes

If you are looking for healthy road trip snacks, the refrigerator “islands” contain fresh veggies and dip, cold cuts of meat, cheese cubes, hard boiled eggs and special Keto snack boxes. These are perfect for grab and go when you are on a diet.

Made to order food at the touch screen kiosk

The brisket and the BBQ sandwiches are located in the center of the store and hard to miss, but if you look carefully, you’ll see touch screens to order fresh sandwiches, wraps, french fries, grilled cheese, and chicken fingers. You will place your order on the screen and pick up at the bakery. They will also call your name when it is ready. The sandwiches can be customized unlike the pre-made sandwiches at the Brisket Bar or the refrigerated islands with plastic wrapped cold sandwiches.

Homemade Fudge and brownies

The fudge is made fresh daily and they offer a dozen different flavors. My favorite is the birthday cake or fun-fetti fudge but I’ve been known to get the sampler box so I can try them all. If you are fan of fudge brownies, they are located near the check out lines and not to be missed.

Jerky is the most plentiful item in the store. You will find not only a wall of jerky but also a pile of jerky at a counter near the bakery to order jerky by the pound. The sheer amount of dehydrated meat and endless flavors is impressive.

Club Melt Sandwich

If you love meaty sandwiches, you’ll love this hot ham, cheese, bacon and turkey sandwich slathered with chipotle mayo and a tomato pesto spread. This is available during lunch and dinner hours at the hot brisket table.

These cake balls give Starbucks a run for their money! They come in three flavors: Chocolate, Red Velvet and Italian and the bakery will package them in a sturdy box to transport.

Beaver Chips

Beaver Chips are just homemade potato chips. They are found at the meat/briskey counter during lunch and dinner times. Beware: if they have been sitting under the heat lamp for some time, they will be hard.

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The 14 Road Trip Essentials You Should Always Pack

Make your next road trip even more fun and comfortable with this essential gear.

In This Article

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• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

It’s road trip season and whether you decided on driving instead of flying to your next destination, find yourself moving across the country, or are taking an extended road trip to enjoy the open road, packing your car smartly and with the right gear will make your life easier. I take extended road trips each spring and fall, usually heading from Montana down to the desert in Southern Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. I camp in the bed of my truck, so it's crucial that I pack well and pack prioritizing comfort.

I’ve included here some of my favorite items for on-the-road camping as well as items great for people with smaller vehicles who plan to stay in hotels or campgrounds throughout their journey. From packable blankets to essential tech items to keep boredom at bay, here is my essential packing list for every road trip.

Best Blanket

Rumpl the down blanket.

This cozy insulated blanket can stand up to the wear and tear of car camping and road tripping.

The dirt-shedding exterior isn’t super soft to the touch.

Sleeping in the car, front-country camping, or truck-bed overnights are better with a giant blanket. Rumpl’s line of outdoor blankets combine the dirt-shedding exterior of a picnic blanket with the lofty synthetic-filled baffles of a cozy quilt. I’ve used the single blanket for a while, but even when I’m on my own I’m a convert to the spacious two-person. The 80 x 84-inch real estate is more than enough to stay wrapped up, plus you can spread it out over the backseats and allow your passengers a little nap cocoon between their turns driving. It has a DWR coating to help keep it even cleaner, and the surface fabric is ripstop nylon that isn’t super soft, but will last season after season.

Best Travel Pillow

Nemo fillo backpacking & camping pillow.

The memory foam backing lets this pull double-duty as driving lumbar support.

At 17 x 11 inches, it’s a little small for an overnight pillow.

While a road-trip or car camping pillow might seem like overkill, this smart little design from Nemo fits right in the middle between ultralight, packable pillows, travel pillows that don’t compress, and larger home pillows. This pillow deflates and flattens out (or rolls up right) for easy packing, but it has a plush cover and a layer of memory foam backing that adds to the support, combining air inflation with extra cushion. Partially deflated, this also doubles as lumbar support in case your back starts to get tired from driving. It also comes with its own stuff sack and has a removable, washable cover.

Best Car-camping Mattress

Exped megamat duo 10 sleeping pad.

The padding is plush and extremely comfortable.

It is self-inflating, but it takes a while to get all the way up.

My upgrade from a smashed piece of memory foam was long overdue, and I went full-out with the Exped Megamat. Like the two-person blanket, I decided to go for a double-sized sleeping pad for the versatility, and this one comes in multiple sizes to fit different dimensions of sleeping areas. I recommend the medium-double size for most vehicles, which is plenty big for two people at 72 x 41 inches. It has reinforced seam lamination as well as open-cell foam for loft without too much extra weight. It has a super warm 8.1 R-value, and a durable face material that is as puncture-resistant as possible (though nothing is truly immune to dog claws). This is technically self-inflating, but it does take a while to inflate and deflate, so don’t be in too much of a rush to get to sleep.

Travel + Leisure / Margot Cavin

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Slip-on Shoes

Chaco ramble puff clog.

These have the comfort of a slipper with the outsole of an outdoor shoe.

The lighter colors look a little like orthopedic shoes.

Have you ever dreamed of wearing a house slipper with an outsole that actually has traction and is built like a combination of a cloud and a clog? Even if that thought has never crossed your mind, this puffy shoe will change your tune. These shoes quickly became my go-to pair to leave by the door, take my cat on walks around the neighborhood, and yes, go on road trips. They have a slight lip at the back so they don’t slide off while I’m driving, but they’re also easy to kick on and off, are insulated and baffled for warmth but open for breathability, and are sturdy enough to walk around town or stop for gas. The men’s version also comes in an ankle-boot style .

Best Water Bottle

Bivo trio insulated water bottle.

Biking-inspired gravity spout is combined with a cup-holder friendly shape.

The drinking spout and non-squeeze sides can take some getting used to.

It took me embarrassingly long to figure out how to drink from this bottle until I realized you just have to pull the spout, tip the bottle, and the water flows out. Tap the spout down and you have an incredibly leak-proof bottle. This is the most truly one-handed bottle I’ve ever used. It fits in most cup holders, it’s insulated, made with stainless steel, and built in the “bidon” style of cycling water bottles (basically just a bottle made for bike cages). It holds ice for a full day, doesn’t leave a weird plastic taste in your water, and cleans out easily in case you use flavoring or electrolyte powder.

Best Backpack

Gregory rhune 25l pack.

This is the clown car of backpacks. You will not believe how much you can cram in this thing.

It may not be the best option if you plan to stop for hiking.

This is my go-to travel bag for everything from an under-the-seat personal item on planes, to my daily commuter pack, to my in-cab road trip backpack. I keep my essentials in here, including my laptop in the padded sleeve, notebook in the secondary padded sleeve, and small items that I don’t want to misplace in my larger gear bins or the bed of my truck. I also keep a few snacks, toiletries, and any paperwork in here and it sits right behind my driver seat during road trips. It also has a secure pocket hidden on one side for wallet and keys in case you have to wander around town during your trip, and in a pinch it’s fine as a hiking day pack even if it’s not built for that.

Best Cooler

Yeti roadie 24 cooler.

The rugged design and ability to keep things cold is still unparalleled.

This is definitely an investment item.

I’ve been sold on the Yeti since before other roto-molded coolers landed onto the scene, and I continue to be a fan. The brand itself is known for quality and I’m a sucker for the color options. I have a much bigger cooler that I use for extended trips in my truck bed, but this 24-can size fits well behind the passenger seat of my truck and holds enough food and drinks for long days on the road. I can keep ice in here for multiple days, and it comes with a suspended rack to keep deli meats and cheeses out of the melting ice. I like how secure the latches are, and if you throw a lock on it, it’s certified bear proof.

Best Gear Bin

Rei co-op trailgate gear bin.

The collapsible sides and rigid top is a good compromise between portability and structure.

Some people might want a hard-sided gear bin for more protection.

This is a rugged tote made with 300-denier recycled polyester and a full-zip closure, and I keep my larger gear items stowed in the 140-liter version. I use this bin for organizing clothes, food, camping gear, and basically everything I won’t need while driving, but want to have readily accessible during pit stops or overnights. REI also sells gear cubes for organizing within the bin, though it would be nice if the bin itself came with dividers. If you’re looking for other supply organization options, Gregory just came out with a 45-liter hard-sided latching bin and an open-top 70-liter “basket,” which I have for this season but haven’t tested yet.

Best Roof Carrier

Thule 614 pulse rack medium.

This is a great middle-ground size for most people.

If you’re packing to move, you’ll want something larger.

I have a truck bed, so I haven’t needed an extra roof-rack storage solution for a few years, but my friends and road trip partners with smaller vehicles swear by this mid-sized, lockable roof carrier. It has a proprietary attachment system to the roof bars, which keeps it secure, and I’ve found it to be more streamlined than other roof boxes. This means less wind resistance, which in turn means (slightly) better fuel economy. This is a great solution for smaller vehicles where you need to haul outdoor gear, larger items, or have several people’s luggage to pack, though the 14 cubic feet is on the small side for any large-scale moving adventures.

Best Sunglasses

Nathan sunglasses.

These are lightweight, polarized, and versatile for sports and town wear.

Some people might prefer more wrap-around coverage.

Out of all of the sunglasses I’ve worn for hiking, running, traveling, and driving, I always go back to these durable, classic, comfortable pair. They stay on my face during sweaty, bouncy runs, are comfortable and lightweight for long days of driving, and polarized with 100 percent UV protection for long hours in the sun. They have a wide front-coverage design and come in a variety of classic colorways. I have the tortoiseshell frames with the brown lens, and feel like they go really well with most of my outfits. This is the pair I leave in my truck for town trips as well as road trips, and I know they’ll be great for any hikes I do during the trip as well as stylish enough to wear in town.

Best Phone Mount

Peak design mobile car mount vhb.

A strong magnet is perfect for hands-free phone visibility.

The adhesive mount is great on flat surfaces, but the front can peel up on curved dashboards.

With my Apple CarPlay connected to a screen in my truck, I kind of thought this car mount was overkill. But paired with a MagSafe phone case (I use this one from Peak Designs) it’s stable, secure, and makes it easy to tap buttons on my phone without fumbling in my lap. You can buy a charger-compatible version , but since it has to be plugged in anyway, I opted to leave my phone plugged into the truck port and slap it (corded) to this mount. The mount head swivels and is easy to turn, and it secures to your dashboard with a strong adhesive.

Best Power Bank

Anker portable charger.

A faster unit charging time and better battery life than similar power banks.

There isn’t any USB-C output, so gear charging external items could be faster.

I always carry a portable charger, whether I’m flying or road tripping. This 20,000-mAh power bank is a good price and has plenty of power, plus it holds a charge for longer than others I’ve tested. It’s fairly lightweight, and I keep it stashed (fully charged) in my glove compartment if I need to power more than one item at a time and my car charger is being used. I suggest fully charging this in a wall outlet before you leave town—it takes approximately four days to fully charge in a 12-volt car port.

Best Charger

Smartish crown joule usb-a to universal cable.

The cord is six feet long so front and backseat passengers can share the cable with ease.

You can only charge one item at a time.

When it comes to packing lighter and more efficiently, one of the first things you should look at is your case of tangled cords, and this nifty little charger can tackle three types of charging ports with one cable. It drives me nuts that my battery pack uses a different port than my headlamp and my iPhone uses one that nothing else uses, but the Smartish Crown Joule comes with charging ends for Lightning ports, USB-C, and micro-USB, allowing me to charge my battery pack, phone, and headlamp. Just not all at once, so plan ahead. I’ve used this for the past six months, and unlike other after-market chargers, it hasn’t had any connectivity issues.

Best Cleaning Wipes

Armor all car cleaning wipes.

Good for interior and exterior, these smell nice and won’t scratch any finishes.

The tub is too large for some door-side pockets.

I keep a big tub of these in my truck all year round, but they are especially useful for extended trips when you’re spending all day in your car and can’t handle the grime, grease, dust, and crumbs. I like the Armor All because they’re a great all-in-one wipe. I use them for my rearview mirrors and headlights as well as the center console, steering wheel, and upholstery. They remove dust as well as they clean smears and pick up crumbs, and they don’t shred when you scrub really hard.

Tips for Buying Road Trip Gear

Prepare your car for the miles ahead.

Plan out your estimated total mileage and then make sure your car won’t be due for an oil change in the middle of it. While you have the car in the shop, have them check the air pressure in the tires, make sure the tire tread is still at a safe depth, and always have a roadside emergency kit handy. These can come pre-made or you can put your own together, but all of them should include jumper cables, a tow rope, tire patch kit, flashlight, and a basic tool kit.

One of my truck tires has a slow leak, so I have a battery-powered tire pressure gauge that doubles as an air compressor to inflate the tire. I also recommend carrying a basic first aid kit in your glove compartment, including medications like Ibuprofen and allergy medicines as well as sunscreen, bandages, hand sanitizer, and more.

Consider your passengers

Unless you’re road tripping alone, you’ll have passengers to consider. In the best case scenario, they’ll also help with driving, but either way, you’ll have to keep them entertained. If you have kids in tow, bring travel games and make sure the tablets are charged and loaded with movies. 

When I’m traveling with friends, I like to make a shared playlist we can all contribute to, and we come up with a list of podcasts to listen to during the drive. For nostalgia’s sake, one of my favorite games is the classic Interstate Highway Bingo .

Since I have a truck, I keep all of my camping gear and larger items in a bin in the bed of the truck, separated with sleeping gear for easy access and then any extra clothes or gear for when I get to my destination. For people with SUVs or smaller cars, these items would go in the trunk.

In the front of the vehicle, I keep a cooler with drinks and snacks, any items I might need during the drive or easily accessed at gas stations, and a small backpack with my necessities. This includes toiletries, my notebook and computer, and any small apparel or gear items like charging cables and electronics. I hang a grocery bag over a seat rest and try to toss my trash in there instead of the floor, and empty it at every fuel stop.

It can be hard to stay hydrated during long days on the road—you aren’t super active so you might not feel as thirsty, and it’s more fun to drink sugary bottles of gas station iced coffee than water. But I recommend keeping a gallon jug of water in the cab and refilling your water bottle, and having a variety of snacks on hand, both chilled in the cooler and drygoods out of the cooler.

My favorite healthy and packable snacks are Fuel for Fire Smoothies , and my favorite less healthy and less packable snacks are dill pickle chips . If you’re trying to keep your vehicle clean(ish), stay away from super crumbly items, and you can always pre-make and peel hard-boiled eggs, pack easy-to-eat fruit like apples, and bring bread and a jar of peanut butter for roadside stops. It can be easy to fall into a junk food trap, but you’ll feel better once you arrive at your destination with something in your body besides Monster Energy drinks and Twizzlers.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Maggie Slepian is an avid hiker, backpacker, and trail runner with more than a decade of professional gear testing experience. She has road tripped across the country multiple times and she takes extended car-camping road trips every spring and fall from Montana down to the desert.

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

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21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.