10 Best Road Trip Snacks Ideas to Keep Hangry Travel Days at Bay

As a digital nomad and traveler, you’re constantly on the move, and travel days are just a part of your life. Whether you’re hitting the open highway or just moving to your next destination, one thing is for sure: you’re going to need some tasty road trip snacks to fuel your trip!

But we know how challenging it can be to find the perfect snack to munch on while traveling. With fast food chains and convenience stores lurking around every corner, it’s easy to fall off the healthy lifestyle wagon or experience some serious hunger pangs.

Don’t worry though, because I’ve got your back with these easy and best road trip snacks that are not only super tasty and healthy but can be found just about anywhere in the world.

So, whether you’re channeling your inner “mom” by always having snacks on hand or just looking out for your own well-being, packing some road trip snacks is the way to go. Trust me, your body (and your wallet) will thank you for it!

Without any further ado, let’s move on to the 10 best road trip snacks.

1. Protein Bars

Protein bars are the bomb when it comes to snacking on the go! These road trip snacks are super convenient and easy to pack, making them the perfect choice for busy travelers. Plus, protein bars are chock-full of essential nutrients and a quick source of energy, which help to curb appetite and keep you balanced on the road.

There’s no question that our bodies need protein for building, maintaining and repairing muscles, but also to maintain your luscious locks and glowing skin, and keeping your nails looking fresh.

Now, there are tons of different protein bars out there, each with its own unique flavor and nutritional profile. When you’re choosing a protein bar, it’s important to look for ones that are low in sugar and high in protein and fiber.

By choosing, the healthiest one, you will stay fuller for longer and prevent any pesky blood sugar crashes. Pamela Reif’s products “Naturally Pam” are great road trip snacks options in that respect.

The best part is that you can find protein bars pretty much anywhere in the world! Whether you’re in Asia, Australia, America, or Europe, you’ll be able to snag some of these delicious road trip snacks that will easily fit in your pocket or bag.

2. Dark Chocolate

If you’re anything like me, you love a good sweet treat. But let’s be real – stopping for candy and soda at every rest stop isn’t exactly the healthiest and smartest choice. That’s where dark chocolate comes in! Not only is it a delicious and satisfying snack, but it’s also packed with health benefits that will make you feel good about your snacking choices.

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage, boost your overall health, improve your blood flow, and so on and so on. I guess you got it, I love dark chocolate and I manage to not feel guilty about it.

On top, dark chocolate is a great option for road trip snacks as it’s easy to carry, take on a plane and doesn’t require any refrigeration. So the next time you’re stocking up on snacks for your travel day, don’t forget to include some dark chocolate. Whether you prefer it plain or with added flavors like sea salt or almonds, it’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also nourishing your body.

3. Nuts

Nuts are some of the best road trip snacks – they’re portable, non-perishable, and packed with nutrients that will keep you going for miles. Whether you prefer almonds, cashews, or walnuts, these little powerhouses are a great source of protein and healthy fats that will help you stay full and satisfied.

Plus, nuts are also incredibly versatile. You can eat them on their own, mix them with dried fruit or dark chocolate for a sweet and salty snack, or even sprinkle them on top of your yogurt or salad for an extra crunch. They’re easy to find at any grocery store or gas station, so you can stock up on them no matter where your travels take you.

And the best part? Nuts don’t need to be refrigerated, so you can stash them in your backpack or purse and munch on them whenever hunger strikes. By bringing these road trip snacks on a plane, you also avoid the overpriced airport alternatives.

4. Hard Boiled Eggs

Eggs can be bought anywhere in the world, for really cheap, and if you are lucky enough to access a kitchen, then hard boiled eggs can be perfect road trip snacks for anyone on a budget. You don’t need any cooking skills as long as you know how to boil water and look at a clock, and on top, they are packed with protein to keep you energised.

Add a little seasoning like salt and pepper or a sprinkle of paprika to make them even tastier, or prepare a salad and sandwich with them.

Just be warned, they can be a little stinky, so be sure to eat them in a well-ventilated area or crack a window! I would avoid opening your Tupperware in a plane or bus, people might end up hating you.

5. Raw Fruits And Veggies

Certainly one of the easiest options when it comes to the best road trip snacks: raw fruits and veggies. They are not only delicious but also easy to pack, cheap, and can be found literally anywhere without requiring any preparation. Options are endless; you can choose between carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, grapes, bananas, apples, berries and so much more. Mix them to create fun and colourful snack plates to share with your travel mates.

Eating raw fruits and veggies is also a great way to stay hydrated (on top of water!) on a hot summer days. Fruits like watermelon, pineapple, and oranges are high in water content and can help replenish fluids lost through sweating.

One of my favorite fruits to eat/drink in tropical countries is the coconut. I mean, have you ever drunk fresh coconut water? You can buy them from street vendors or supermarkets at affordable prices or even sometimes find them in the wild. Simply drink the coconut water straight from the shell or crack open the coconut and scoop out the flesh. The water inside the coconut is packed with electrolytes and also comes with other great health benefits.

If you’re looking for a more substantial road trip snacks, think about pairing raw fruits and veggies with dips such as hummus or guacamole. Guacamole, for example, is easy to prepare; simply mash up avocados with diced tomatoes, onion, lime juice, coriander, salt and pepper and that’s basically it!

And for kids (as well as adults), something which often works well are Apple Chips. You need an oven, apples and cinnamon. Preheat your oven to 120°C, slice your apples, place them on a baking sheet, then sprinkle them with cinnamon and bake for about 1h30. Be patient and let them cool down before eating.

6. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a protein-packed snack that’s perfect for travel days. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a great option for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. Greek yogurt is also a good source of probiotics, which can help promote digestive health and boost your immune system.

One way to enjoy Greek yogurt on the go is to portion it out into individual cups or containers before your trip. You can also purchase pre-packaged options that come with mix-ins like granola, fruit, or nuts. However, be mindful of added sugars in these pre-packaged options.

Another way is to bring along some toppings and mix-ins for your Greek yogurt. Fresh fruit, nuts, and honey are all delicious additions that can help to make your road trip snacks even more flavorful.

Lastly, Greek yogurt can also be used as a substitute for other ingredients in recipes. For example, you can use it in place of sour cream in dips or as a creamy base for salad dressings.

7. Granola

Whether you prefer it in bar form or loose, granola is packed with energy-rich ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit. It’s also incredibly customizable, meaning you can create your own flavor combinations and tailor it to your dietary preferences.

Busy travelers can easily purchase pre-made granola bars or loose granola from a grocery store. Look for options that are low in sugar and high in protein and fiber. Many brands offer gluten-free, vegan, or organic options as well.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own granola bars at home before your trip. This way, you can control the ingredients and avoid added sugars and preservatives that are often found in store-bought options. Homemade granola bars are also a great way to incorporate additional protein sources like nut butter or seeds.

One yummy way to enjoy granola is to mix it with some Greek yogurt or sprinkle it over a bowl of fresh fruit. This creates filling and nutrient-dense meals that will keep you satisfied for hours.

And since granola doesn’t require refrigeration, they are the perfect road trip snacks to bring on the road or in-flight.

8. Rice cakes

If there is one product that’s easy to pack and store, it’s rice cakes. Rice cakes are crunchy and made from puffed rice. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with toppings. They can also be used as a substitute for bread or crackers in recipes like sandwiches, wraps, and mini pizzas.

As they are low in calories and fat, it’s a great option for those who are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle on the road. And with so many different flavors and varieties available, you’re sure to find a rice cake that suits your road trip snacks taste buds.

However, it’s worth noting that they are relatively low in fiber and protein compared to other road trip snacks. Additionally, it’s important to check the nutrition label before buying rice cakes because some brands may contain high levels of sodium or added sugars.

9. Peanut Butter

My all-time favorite! Peanut butter is a delicious and nutritious spread made from ground peanuts. It’s a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, and a great option for those who are on the move, as it is easy to pack and can be paired with a variety of snacks.

When choosing peanut butter, it’s important to look for brands that are low in sugar and sodium and made from natural ingredients. You can also try different types of peanut butter, such as crunchy or smooth, or even almond butter for a different flavor and texture.

One of my favorite recipe with peanut butter are Frozen Banana Snickers. You only need bananas, peanut butter and nuts. Cut your banana in half, spread natural peanut butter on both sides, top with crushed nuts and drizzle with melted dark chocolate (or drip for the more greedy!). Freeze for at least 2 hours or better, overnight, until they are frozen. And then it’s time to enjoy your new fav road trips snacks!

10. Smoothies

Smoothies are a refreshing and delicious way to get in some extra nutrients on your travel day. If your rental has a blender, you’re in luck! You can easily whip up a tasty smoothie using ingredients you can find at any grocery store or local market. If you don’t have a blender with you, you can also find pre-made smoothies. In Asia, Koh Phangan for example, you can buy them easily from street vendors for super cheap.

If you do these road trip snacks yourself, add in fresh fruits and veggies like spinach, kale, berries, and bananas, along with protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt, nut butter, or protein powder. You can even sneak in some veggies that you might not normally enjoy eating on their own.

---

Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trip Snacks

So here you are: some of the best road trip snacks that are a great alternatives to fast food or supermarket prepared snacks. Of course, there are many more road trip snacks options out there but these have never failed to save me during travel days and road trips. From protein bars to raw fruits to smoothies, there are plenty of choices to suit digital nomads and travelers’ taste buds and dietary needs.

With a little bit of organization, you’ll be ready to hit the road and travel with a happy stomach and a full heart. Don’t forget to share your favorite road trip snacks in the comments below for more inspiration!