dry snacks recipes for travel

20 Recipes to Make Your Own Portable Travel Snacks

Food that’s easy to carry, quick to eat and keeps you fueled make the best portable travel snacks .

While there are plenty of road trip snack options at gas stations, we like to make our own! These homemade travel snacks are delicious and will help keep you full while you’re on the go!

Here are 20 great portable snacks for travel to take with you on the plane, in the car, or even in your backpack while hiking.

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Make your own healthy snacks.

• Healthy travel snack recipes
• Healthy road trip snacks for kids
• Healthy granola bar recipes
• Healthy protein snack recipes
• Gluten free snack recipes
• Vegan snack bar recipes

Find Healthy Snack Ideas

Portable Travel Snacks: 20 Recipes

Homemade Gluten-Free + Vegan Goldfish (Allergy-Free, Grain-Free)

Nothing says childhood more than Goldfish crackers! Now you can make your own Homemade Gluten-Free & Vegan Goldfish that are top 8 allergy-free, grain-free, sugar-free, and secretly protein-packed! A healthy travel snack recipe mom's and kids will love!

Raw Mint Chip Hemp Balls (Paleo, Vegan, Keto, Anti-Inflammatory)

These Raw Mint Chip Hemp Balls are a delicious, easy, no bake, on the go snack, with 16.6mg of full spectrum CBD oil to keep you cool, calm, and satiated while you travel.

Ninja Foodi Chickpeas Recipe (Garbanzo Beans Time and Temp)

These crispy garbanzo beans are suitable for vegan, vegetarians, and gluten free diets. Let Ninja roasted chickpeas become your new favorite way to get some plant-based protein in while you travel!

Healthy Banana Nut Muffins

These Healthy Banana Nut Muffins are refined sugar-free and are incredibly fluffy. They are naturally sweetened by ripe bananas, honey and pure maple syrup, making it a great travel breakfast or snack.

Mint Chocolate Sunflower Bites

The refreshing taste of mint paired with decadent chocolate is a match made in flavor heaven. These Mint Chocolate Sunflower Bites provide a hefty dose of flavor along with whole grain oats and sunflower seeds, making them the perfect gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan energy snack for travel!

Homemade Peanut Butter Granola Bars

These homemade Peanut Butter Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips are perfect for a quick breakfast in the morning or a snack while traveling.

Roasted Rosemary and Garlic Almonds

These Roasted Rosemary and Garlic Almonds make the perfect healthy snack and they are great on the go! These almonds are savory in flavor and you don’t have to feel guilty since these are loaded with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and other nutrients. Enjoy!

Easy Homemade Cheez-It Crackers | Recipe

You’ll love this tasty, unprocessed, kid-friendly homemade version that’s even better than the real thing. These quick and easy, tender yet crunchy crackers are cheesy, salty, and buttery, and are sure to be your new favorite travel snack food.

Healthy Cookie Dough Balls (No-Bake, High Protein)

These healthy cookie dough bites are a healthy travel snack. They are so easy to make. They’re vegan, gluten-free, high protein, and dairy-free (if dairy-free chocolate is used).

Cookie Butter Rice Crispy Treats Recipe {easy, no bake recipe!}

These cookie butter rice crispy treats are the perfect spin on the classic rice crispy treat. This is a super easy and no bake recipe that only uses four ingredients! This is a fun travel snack treat!

Easy Snack Mix (Keto, Paleo, Whole30)

A quick and easy snack mix recipe that's keto, paleo, Whole30, gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for snacking. This party mix recipe is perfect for on-the-go travel!

Super Simple Rocky Road Fudge Recipe

The easiest fudge to make! The recipe requires only a few ingredients and most of them are things we tend to have on hand. I find that almost everyone loves these ingredients! Because of the taste and texture, this fudge is always a hit with adults  and  kids.

Simple Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Learn all there is to know about roasting pumpkin seeds including how to season them! They are a tasty and portable travel snack!

Healthy Peanut Butter Energy Balls

These Sugar-Free and Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls are a delicious healthy sweet treat that will be ready in 15 minutes. They are a perfect mix of Sweet and Salty, Soft and Crunchy, and do not need to be refrigerated making them the perfect travel snack!

Sea Salt Chickpea Crackers (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Looking for a healthy travel snacks? Check out these super easy, healthy and delicious 5-ingredient Chickpea Flour Crackers with the perfect sea salt touch! These delightfully crunchy crackers are gluten-free, vegan, nut-free and are packed with protein + fiber!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Muffins Recipe

These chocolate peanut butter oatmeal muffins are super delicious and incredibly easy to make! Best of all? They are toddler (and parents!) approved. They are also gluten-free, sweetened with just a touch of maple syrup, and freezer friendly which is awesome for travel!

No Bake Chocolate Chip Walnut Energy Balls Recipe

You probably have all the ingredients in the pantry to make this No Bake Chocolate Chip Walnut Energy Balls recipe, so it’s easy to whip up a batch. You can keep these travel snacks in the freezer until you're ready to take them with you on your vacation or road trip.

3 Ingredients Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies

These Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies are delicious Breakfast Cookies and a great Healthy Snack. Made with 3 ingredients only, these kid-friendly soft and chewy cookies are super quick and easy to prepare with no eggs, no sugar and no flour. They are vegan and gluten-free friendly too!

Perfect Carob Covered Pork Rinds (AIP, Paleo, Keto)

A classic travel snack: pork rinds! But this is a healthy version. Due to its natural sweetness you don’t need to add sugar to these carob dipped pork rinds!

Healthy Chocolate Banana Muffins

Chocolate lovers will rejoice with this tasty way to sneak chocolate into their travel meals or snacks. These healthy chocolate banana muffins are great for breakfast or as a snack!

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21 Top Healthy Travel Snacks (Dietitian Approved)

Wondering what a registered dietitian brings to eat while traveling to stay healthy? I’m sharing my favorite dietitian approved healthy travel snacks that are nutrient dense and low in added sugar.

I love traveling but it quickly becomes no fun when I don’t feel my best (aka my digestion is off) or come home with a cold. These healthy travel snack ideas will help you fuel you up for any adventure, plus, they’re packed with the good nutrition you need to feel your best while traveling.

I’m sure there will be no shortage of delicious where ever you’re going, however it’s important to pack some strategic, nutrient dense snacks for planes, trains and all those other moments when you just need something in between meals.

I was also recently quoted with my picks for the best things for a quick travel breakfast in this Huffington Post article “ Best Breakfast Foods To Eat When You’re Traveling, And Why It Matters .”

Healthy Airport Dining Options

Being hangry with a delayed flight and limited food options is no way to kick off a trip or vacation. While you can’t control what curveballs might come your way while traveling, you can control what snacks you pack to have on hand for any travel situation! A little planning a head of time to pack snacks is to key to fueling up and feeling your best while traveling.

Airports have definitely come a long way when it comes to food choices. At O’Hare airport there are a few different local Chicago restaurants and a couple of Cibo Express locations throughout the airport that stock many of the snacks on my list of healthy travel snacks below and I know a lot of other airports are expanding their options which is great.

4 Key things to Look For in a Healthy Travel Snack

1. protein content.

Snacks with protein take longer for our body to digest vs. carbs. That’s the reason eating a snack that is all carbs doesn’t work to keep us full for that long. Packing high protein snacks will help ensure that the snack will keep you fuller for longer and fueled up for travel and activities.

2. Fiber Content

When you’re reading a nutrition label check the fiber content. Why? Fiber helps to keep us fuller for longer and is needed for healthy digestion. I would say it’s even more important while traveling because long flights and adjusting to new time zones can mess with our digestion and cause constipation.

To prevent constipation while traveling make it a point to incorporate fibrous foods like fruits, veggies and nuts and seeds. And for packaged snacks, anything above 3 grams of fiber is considered a good source of fiber, and 5 or more is considered “high in fiber”.

3. Sugar Content

Sugar content will vary from snack to snack. Fruit, veggies and dried fruits contain natural sugars, whereas some packaged snacks can contain a lot of added sugar. Bars are notorious for their sugar content, which is why you want to pick ones that are lower in sugar and contain protein and fiber.

4. Portability

Simple, mess free and easy to pull out of your bag when you’re running from gate to gate! This is a must for snacks which is why I like all of packaged items on the list below or packing fruits/veggies from home in a reusable stasher bag !

21 Dietitian Approved Healthy Travel Snacks

These 20 dietitian approved travel snacks include ones that are high in protein, low in sugar, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo-friendly options. They’re easy to stash in your bag and take with you whenever your travels take you!

• Nut Butter Packets
• Purely Elizabeth Individual Oatmeal Cups or Plain Oatmeal Packets
• CHOMPS Meat Sticks
• KIND Zero Added Sugar Bars
• That’s It Fruit Bars
• Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers Snack Packs
• Nuts or Low-Sugar Trail Mix
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Portable Fruit & Veggie Slices
• Olive Pouches
• Dried Fruit
• Air Popped Popcorn
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Ella’s Flats
• Low Sugar Yogurt
• Homemade Wrap/Sandwich
• Low Sugar Granola
• Nut Butter Stuffed Dates
• Roasted Chickpeas
• Baked Cheese Crisps
• Tuna Pouches

1. Nut Butter Packets

A good source of plant-based protein and fat for staying power, I love stashing these in my bag for a quick snack. Pair with a piece of fruit or add to oatmeal to make it a bigger snack / smaller meal.

2. Purely Elizabeth individual oatmeal cups or plain oatmeal pouches

Great for breakfast or a snack in between flights, oatmeal will give you extra fiber (extra important for digestion when you’re off your routine!) Get plain pouches and add your own fruit and nut butter or opt for these from Purely Elizabeth that are low in sugar and high in fiber.

3. CHOMPS meat sticks

A great on-the-go source of protein that you can eat while walking, each stick has 9-10 grams of protein per stick, no added fillers and no added sugar — it doesn’t get much better than that! They’re also gluten free, dairy free, AIP friendly, whole30 approved and low carb.

4. KIND Zero Added Sugar Bars

With around 7 grams of fiber per bar and 5 grams of protein these are a no brainer to stash in your bag for any type of travel. I love the caramel almond sea salt flavor!

5. That’s It Fruit Bars

Made from fruit, these bars are a good option to pair with a snack that contains protein like nuts or a meat stick for a well rounded snack that’s bright and flavorful from the fruit bar.

6. Simple Mills almond flour crackers

These are my favorite crackers because they’re made with nutrient dense ingredients and nothing artificial. They’re gluten free and perfect for pairing with any kind of dip or hummus.

7. Nut packets or low-sugar trail mix

Think pistachios, almonds, or walnuts. You can find Wonderful Pistachios at most airports and I really like these pistachio snack packs that are easy to stash in any purse.

Trail mix is another great option, but be sure to check the ingredient label as many contain added sugars and extra oils. If you have the time, throw one together at home with nuts and seeds!

8. Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber and magnesium. Magnesium also known as the calming mineral can help with calmness and relaxation which we could all use while traveling, you know?!

9. Portable Fruit & Veggie Slices

Think apple slices, berries, or a banana. Cut them up ahead of time and store in a stasher bag to snack on in flight or in any other on-the-go travel situation. Prepare some carrots, celery, or pepper slices in a bag ahead of time to snack on on-the-go.

10. Olive Pouches

If you love a salty snack these olive pouches are perfect plus they’re a good source of healthy fat. Pair with crackers and cheese for the start of an adult lunchable.

11. Dried Fruit

Think dried mango, apple rings, prunes, unsweetened banana chips. Here again it’s important to look at the label because there can be added sugar included. Dried fruit is sweet enough as is, so just make sure you see one ingredient (the fruit) only! Target has a great selection of dried fruit from their Good & Gather line.

12. Air Popped Popcorn

Popcorn contains about 3 grams of fiber and 3 grams of protein per serving depending on the type and is another easy one to pack to satisfy the taste for something a little salty. I like these individual bags from Pipcorn .

13. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Eating hard-boiled eggs on a plain might be controversial (!!) but if you’re in a travel situation where you feel like you can bust them out, go for it because they’re a great source of protein (around 7 grams per large egg) and other essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and B vitamins to help you feel your best.

14. Ella’s Flats

Getting enough fiber while traveling can be hard, plus it’s normal for our digestion to be off after a long flight, little sleep and time zone changes. These high fiber seed crackers are great to have on hand when travel constipation strikes. Dress them with hummus or avocado for a good high fiber snack.

15. Low Sugar Yogurt

Grab this on the other side of security (yogurt is not TSA approved) and opt for one that’s low in sugar and contains simple ingredients like siggi’s or fage.

16. Homemade Wrap/Sandwich

This is one of the best ways to make sure you have a snack/meal that is balanced and will keep you full for most of your travel. I recommend using a whole-grain bread, adding a source of protein like turkey, a veggie or two, and hummus.

17. Low Sugar Granola

Granola can make for a good snack but it’s important to be aware that many are packed with added sugar. I love Purely Elizabeth granola because it’s lower in sugar than most.

18. Nut Butter Stuffed Dates

Dates make for a great travel snack because they’re high in fiber and easy to take on-the-go. Opt for pitted dates, and fill with almond or peanut butter for a balanced snack with staying power.

19. Roasted Chickpeas

A good snack that contains plant-based protein and fiber if you’re sick of nuts are roasted chickpeas . They’re also easy to make at home, so you can make a big batch and share with your travel partner.

20. Baked Cheese Crisps

With 9 grams of protein per serving, these baked cheese crips are a fun snack with staying power. Perfect to pair with a meat stick for a savory snack situation or toss into a homemade trail mix for some flavor and texture diversity.

21. Tuna Pouches

I recently discovered these very inexpensive and convenient tuna pouches that make for a great pantry staple and travel snack. Pair with some crackers for a quick, protein packed snack (15 grams of protein per pouch!) and I didn’t find that these omitted a fishy smell when opened so that’s a plus!

High Protein Snacks for Travel

Out of all of these snacks, if you’re looking specifically for higher protein snacks for travel (or at least more than 5g per serving), I recommend the following:

• CHOMPS meat sticks
• Pistachio Packets

More Healthy Snack Suggestions

• 25 Healthy Road Trip Snacks Nutritionists Swear By
• Best Protein Packed Snacks for Women
• 20 Healthy Dairy-Free Snacks Approved By Dietitians
• 13 Healthy Crackers Approved By Dietitian

Hydration Essentials for Healthy Travel

• Electrolyte packets. For international travel, I recommend one packet per day plus a couple extra. I cannot stress enough how important it is to travel with these to help prevent dehydration and in case you start to not feel good while traveling. The European sun is no joke in the summer and when you’re walking around all day dehydration can definitely happen. I recommend this brand and this brand .
• Empty Water Bottle. BYO bottle to refill at the airport to help with hydration. Sometimes it’s hard to drink enough water especially after a long flight and when your first adjusting to a new time zone so having a water bottle with you is a great way to help keep hydration up.

This post contains affiliate links which means I may get a commission if you click one of the links and end up buying something.

This article has been updated and edited. Originally Posted: June 20, 2019

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17 Snacks That Are Perfect for Your Next Road Trip

To save you money and time.

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

While most folks are all about the adventure on long car rides, for me, it's really all about the road trip snacks . Sure, stopping at gas stations for chips and candy is great, but it's much cheaper (and better) to make them at home, just as you're filling up your travel coffee mug before you go. With road trip season in full swing, we gathered our all-time favorite road trip snacks that include everything from the best homemade beef jerky to at-home Chex party mix and beyond. These snacks are made to be packed and are guaranteed to not only save you money and time, but be delicious during your next journey.

Homemade Beef Jerky

"This is a fantastic and easy recipe! I like spicy jerky so I added a tablespoon of powdered cayenne to the marinade (as well as two teaspoons of liquid smoke). Totally worth the effort and the family raves about it! Talk about a money saver!" — Chris Findlay

Original Chex Party Mix

"This was super easy to make. I've always made chex mix in the oven and it takes so long but cooking in the microwave was super fast and taste the same. I will be using this recipe from now on." — Sarah Walker Woodring

Energy Balls

"My entire family loves these just as written. The only thing I do differently is put all ingredients in my food processor and pulse until blended, scoop out and press flat in a glass dish which I then freeze. We can then cut them into bars! takes out a ton of the work from rolling into balls and mixing by hand!" — Natalie Witwer Metzger

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

"Made them over and over again, if you remove the ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, then use this recipe as a basic cookie recipe. I have even made them with chocolate chips, white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts, cinnamon chips and raisins. Just a very good versatile soft cookie recipe." — Cherri Timmer

Party Pinwheels

"I have been making these pinwheels for over 20 years. They are always a big hit." — Janlee445

Frittata Wrap with Ham and Cheese

"A very nice idea for a lunch on-the-go. I skipped the broiler part and cooked it like a regular frittata flipping it over to cook it on both sides. Thank you for the recipe." — Buckwheat Queen

Homemade Pita Chips

"These pita chips were so good and so simple to make. You can really use whatever spices you like. My daughter loved them and said they were way better then the store bought pita chips. Will be making these regularly." — DBellino

Classic Bran Muffins

"Oh my gravy all over my two scoop rice (that's OMG in my world)! These are the best bran muffins I've ever made, really! I doubled the Vanilla and Cinnamon; I also added in 1/2 cup each of craisins and chopped Pecans. I got 15 smaller muffins. Be careful not to over mix or bake and you will be rewarded with a beautiful textured muffin." — Auntie Doni

Granola Bars

"Great recipe – I make this every Sunday to last us through the week. I bake for 6 to 7 minutes at the end so they still hold their shape. Thanks for the recipe!" — Anna

Homestyle Potato Chips

"This is an amazing recipe and tastes miraculous, I definitely recommend this recipe." — Haya Sleiman

Cowboy Caviar

"This is my go-to recipe. I love to make this for lunch at work and for family functions. It's delicious. You can make it hotter by using jalapenos or you can make it mild by using green chiles. Delicious! Love it! It also makes a huge portion." — Carol

PBJ Kid's Bento Box

"This is fantastic! But I like to add thin sliced strawberries in the tortilla and instead of chocolate syrup I use honey." — ChefDad1337

Sweet and Spicy Turkey Sandwich

"Great sandwich that's a savory combination of sweet and spicy! I would have never thought to pair turkey, pepperjack cheese, and strawberry preserves but this works and is a nice departure from your "run of the mill" turkey sandwich. I used light pepperjack cheese and low sugar Smucker's strawberry preserves. Thanks Snowspiral!" — Jilian

Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)

"I used this recipe several times to make bento for work. I love adding fillings like tuna mayo and chicken mayo to give the onigiri flavor. I am not a fan of the bonito flakes but I also used a mentaiko and mayo filling as well which worked out really well! Thanks for the awesome recipe! I will be using this again soon!" — AuthorMeganMarie

Scrambled Egg Muffin Cups

"I make these often and like to keep some in my freezer to take to family get together. They are just as good as when fresh out of oven after heating in microwave. Even good cold." — Ruth Jolly

Banana Muffins

"Turned out great! I made half a dozen, followed the recipe exactly. Just make sure you don't mix the wet ingredients and the dry ingredients too much. That's the key to making good muffins." — Orangette

Microwave Caramel Popcorn

"I can't begin to count the number of times I've made this stuff. It is so easy and so yummy. It travels well and makes a great bake sale item. I tell everyone the hardest part about it is finding someplace to get the paper bags." — Jayne Olivieri

More Inspiration

• Our 15 Best Air Fryer Snack Recipes Are So Delicious You Won't Want to Share
• The 7 Tastiest Food-Themed Road Trips You Can Take This Fall
• 7 Easy Ideas to Save Money on Your Summer Road Trip

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25 Best Travel Snacks For Your Next Trip

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

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

The best vacations start with being prepared, from strategically packing your suitcase to stashing some healthy, filling snacks for the journey ahead. Whether you're traveling for fun, work or both, you'll want to try new foods and partake in the local culture wherever you go. But having some nutritious snacks on hand can help you make better choices when you're in a pinch . Here are some of our favorite travel snacks that both our registered dietitians and panel of taste testers gave the thumbs up.

Our top picks:

CHOMPS Grass Fed Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks

Purely Elizabeth Blueberry Walnut Superfood Oatmeal

Justin's Classic Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frooze Balls Double Filled Energy Balls (6 Pack)

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

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

LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn (24 Pack)

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

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

Mariani Probiotic Prunes (4 Pack)

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

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

UNiTE Protein Bar Variety Pack (12 Pack)

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

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

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

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

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

Whisps Baked Cheese Bites (12 Pack)

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

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

Simple Mills Pop Mmms (3 Pack)

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

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

Natural Delights Medjool Date Strips with Tajin

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

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

Prevail. Grass Fed Beef Jerky (4 Pack)

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

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

Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips (15 Pack)

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

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

Junkless Chewy Granola Bars, Chocolate Chip (24 Bars)

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

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

Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks, Sea Salt (10 Pack)

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

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

Sweet Nothings Nut Butter Bites (6 Pack)

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

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

Siete Grain-Free Mexican Shortbread Cookies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RXBAR Chocolate Lovers' Protein Bars Box (10 Bars)

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

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

Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.

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7 Healthiest Travel Snacks to Pack Before You Hit the Road

Nutritionist-approved mini-meals to bring on the plane, in the car, to the beach, or wherever else you're headed.

Abbey Lossing

Whether you're heading to the local beach or flying across an ocean, one key to a successful trip is packing the right travel snacks. Sure, there's a certain novelty to greasy boardwalk onion rings or those salty little airplane pretzel packs (perhaps accompanied by an in-flight martini)—until we start to feel parched, sluggish, and cranky, which is not a recipe for a good time. We asked nutritionists for the healthy travel snacks they bring along to stay well fueled for summer adventures.

• Lauren Slayton, RD, is the founder of Foodtrainers , a nutrition consultancy in New York City.
• Cynthia Sass, RD , is a plant-based performance nutritionist in Los Angeles.
• Kéra Nyemb-Diop, PhD, is a nutrition scientist in West Orange, New Jersey.

Fruits and Veggies

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Long hours of sitting in a car or folded into a doll-size airplane seat can cause the gas in your digestive tract to expand while also slowing muscle contractions. “Travel constipation is real,” says Lauren Slayton, RD. To disinvite this unwelcome travel companion, she suggests eating snacks that are good sources of fiber, like apples , pears , strawberries , carrots , and jicama , which will help keep you hydrated as well.

If you're flying across a few time zones, consider snacking on tart cherries and nuts, suggests Cynthia Sass, RD. Tart cherries contain melatonin, your body’s natural sleep hormone, so they're a particularly good option, Sass says, "when you’re flying east and want to fall asleep earlier than your usual bedtime."

Dried fruit can be another handy snack, says Kéra Nyemb-Diop, PhD . A small portion is nutrient-dense and can be satisfying—but if dried fruit isn’t a fairly regular part of your diet, you might want to steer clear: “Prunes, for example, are great, but if you’re unaccustomed to eating them, that can cause its own kind of discomfort,” Nyemb-Diop says. (No one wants to spend their trip stuck in an airport lavatory or a roadside rest stop.)

Protein Bites

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Stress —whether travel-related or otherwise—can raise glucose levels, Sass says, putting you on a direct route to Hangryville. To help stabilize your blood sugar and your mood, she recommends snacks that contain a blend of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber . "They all slow the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates, so combining them will keep you fuller longer and result in better blood sugar regulation and steadier energy," she says. Sass makes protein bites by mixing plant protein powder (try SimplyFuel Chickpea Protein Powder) with nut or seed butter, rolled oats, and dried fruit. If you'd rather go the prepackaged route, she likes the protein bars from Amrita and Skout, which are made with simple ingredients like dates, plant protein, and seeds.

Josiah S/iStock/Getty Images Plus

For something a little more substantial, fill a bento-style container with small portions of various bites. Again, you’re aiming for a combo of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and carbs. Slayton recommends olives, jerky, walnuts, Brazil nuts, and seed crackers, like Ella’s Flats. It’s like one of those airplane snack boxes, only a lot tastier and better for you, as it’s less processed and lower in sodium . 

DIY Trail Mix

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Trail mix was made for traveling. Otherwise it’d be called couch mix, no? Store-bought mixes tend to be super sugary, but you can easily make your own, Slayton says, by adding dark chocolate chips, coconut, and goji berries to your choice of nuts.

Portable Salads

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You’ll be less tempted to hit up a burger joint if you’re stocked with something satisfying. If you have room for a cooler or insulated lunch bag, bringing a protein-packed salad will keep you energized and hydrated—and if you stuff it in a pita or roll it in a wrap, it's instantly portable. Sass likes to combine chickpeas, tofu, or lentils with spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and celery and toss it with a tahini-based dressing.

Protein-Packed Sandwiches

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For sustained energy, go for protein in your sandwiches too. Slayton recommends fillings like organic turkey and avocado, or smoked wild salmon and cream cheese—and for an even bigger protein punch, roll it all up into protein-packed almond flour wraps. Or check out these other sandwich options , which are so delicious you'll want to eat them all year round.

Homemade Frozen Treats

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When you're at the beach, in the car, or any other place where you can bring a cooler, frosty treats are guaranteed to put everybody in a good mood. Sass likes freezing bananas covered in dark chocolate. (Microwave dark chocolate chips in 30-second bursts until melted, pour over banana on parchment paper, and freeze.) Bananas have “nutrient-rich carbs and potassium , an electrolyte we lose when we sweat,” she says. She also makes ice pops with plant milk, frozen fruit, and dark chocolate chips, and smoothie pops with green juice, avocado, and banana or mango. Remember: Like summer itself, ice pops are fleeting—so enjoy every drop before they’re gone.

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75+ Easy Road Trip Snacks To Pack, Grab & Go

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Road trips are fantastic adventures to take with friends, family or solo. You’ll definitely need a road trip food list and all the best and easy road trip snacks for a successful trip. Because who wants hangry travel companions? Not to mention all those fast-food stops can really add up cost-wise. 

We’ve taken our share of road trips over the years, from cross country adventures to many, many multi-day road trips back and forth between our current home and where our extended family lives. Both as adults, and with kids ranging from months old to teenagers, and everything in between. 

With young kids, there is a strategy for finding the best road trip snacks . One’s that aren’t too messy, too crumbly, won’t stain or are low risk for choking.

Our road trip food list includes ideas for kids, adults, healthy car snack ideas , keto & gluten-free snacks. Plus tips for packing and what you’l l need to bring to pack all the snack essentials.

Ultimate Road Trip Food List: Best Road Trip Snacks

There is something about road trips that lends itself to snacking on junk food and grabbing something somewhat edible to go from the gas station.

Vibrant orange Cheetos and a snickers bar are ok on occasion (hey, snickers has peanuts, that’s protein, right?).

While I’m all for a bit of indulgence on the road, let’s balance it out with foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish or weird at the end of the day.

Here are some of the best road trips snacks around.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

Let’s focus first on healthy road trip snacks. Many non-refrigerated prepared snacks are full of sugar and things that are hard to pronounce or spell.

While I do like the convenience, as there are soooo many details when planning a road trip (like this one from Boston to Acadia) . Just make sure to check the ingredient list first. 

We’ve broken up the healthy road trip snacks into those requiring a cooler and those that are non-perishable, to make planning a bit easier.

⭐️ Or check out some healthy & delicious snack recipes here

Healthy Road Trip Snacks Non-Refrigerated

Sometimes you need a boost of energy and nutrients on the road. Having a few non perishable snacks for travel on hand makes things easier.

From dried fruit to granola bars, here are some fun ideas for non-refrigerated road trip food to pack:

• Fruit; apples, blueberries, grapes, cherries
• Fruit Leather
• Dried fruit – dates, apricots, figs, mango
• Granola Bars
• Protein & Healthy Snack Bars
• Trail Mix / Homemade Trail Mix
• Roasted Legumes 
• Cheese Crisps 
• Homemade muffins
• Mary’s Gone Crackers
• Tuna – the little cans (come in many flavours) with pull tab 
• Bread – pizza buns, PB&J, pretzel buns etc.

Learn some tips for making a trip meal plan.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks That Require A Cooler

Many of these car snacks can be replenished along the way at a local grocery store. If you know there will be long distances between towns, make sure to stock up on travel food, and ice for the cooler before you leave for the day.

• Pre-Cut veggies – carrots, peppers, cucumbers, radishes, celery
• Cut up fruit for a sweet treat – pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew melons
• Energy Balls / Protein Balls
• Crackers and cheese
• Charcuterie plate – get all “fancy” with crackers, cheese, olives, salami, pepperoni, dried fruit
• Sliced meat -roast chicken, turkey, beef
• Yogurt / Yogurt drinks
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Broccoli Cheese Bites
• Egg Bites – ham, cheese, peppers, spinach
• Egg Muffins – olives, feta and sundried tomato
• Sausage rolls
• Stuffed Grape leaves (or buy canned food version for ease)
• Chicken wings
• Hummus Packs & pita bread/pita chips ( my daughter loves dipping pretzels in hummus)

Essential Road Trip Snacks

A road trip is not a road trip without your favourite road trip snacks. I mean hey, you gotta live a little, and you are on vacation, right. Splurge a little. These are good additions to add on occasion. 

I fondly remember our summer road trip each year where we were given a 5 pack of Hubba Bubba gum to chew as we pleased throughout our holiday. As the flavour would be gone in 5 minutes, we soon had chipmunk cheeks full of gum. 

Whether you are road tripping through the States to Bryce Canyon National Park , or taking a weekend trip up Vancouver Island, Canada to the sea side town of Parksville, BC , you’ll want to pack some yummy snacks.

Essential road trip snacks non refrigerated

These non perishable road trip food ideas are a great option for a little bit of a treat when you’re craving a little bit of sweet or salty goodness.

Sweet non-refrigerated snacks for your sweet tooth:

• Dark Chocolate
• Cookies – Homemade chocolate chip is the best 
• Candy – I like to add some gummy bears and smarties to the trail mix to get a little indulgence and some protein/fat at the same time.
• Licorice, small packs of oreos
• Rice Krispie Squares
• Black Bean Brownies

A salty non-refrigerated snack or two :

• Potato Chips
• Corn Chips & Salsa
• Plantain Chips
• Salted, roasted sunflower seeds

Road Trip Snacks For Kids

In addition to the other essential family road trip snacks mentioned previously, here are some additional classic road trip snacks kids will love. These aren’t just for kids. I like checking out the lions and camels in animal crackers with the best of em’.

Packing their favorite high-protein snack with some healthy fats, will tide them over til their next meal.

Here are some easy kid-friendly travel snacks for your next long road trip:

• Cheese strings
• Babybel Cheese
• Fruit Pouches or Smoothie Fruit Pouches (no refrigeration needed)
• Nut butter pouches
• Moon Cheese
• Seaweed Snacks
• Green Pea Crisps (Black Pepper is our favourite)
• Apple Crisps
• Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks
• Yogurt – small containers or drinks
• Veggies & dip – Baby carrots, snap peas, cucumbers
• Ants on a log – Peanut butter & raisins on celery
• Fresh Fruit
• Goldfish crackers
• Animal Crackers
• Kids Trail mix – combine pretzels, goldfish, smarties, cereal, nuts (almonds, cashews, macadamia, brazil, hazelnuts etc.)
• Bagels & cream cheese or nut butter
• Cereal 

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Staying hydrated is an integral part of any road trip. I know the tendency is to try not to drink too much, so there are fewer bathroom breaks. Gas Station and pull-out restrooms are NOT my favourites either. 

Drinking water is essential and should be the number one choice, but sometimes you want something a little more exciting. Here are some other healthy road trip drink options:

• Coconut water
• No sugar added fruit juices 
• Flavoured Sparkling water (or fizzy water as we call it in our house)

Road Trip Food List: Road Trip Snacks for Special Dietary Needs

If you are road tripping with special dietary requirements or restrictions, packing your own food will be the best option. Taking a rest stop and buying travel food at convenience stores may or not pan out.

Best to be prepared with your favorite road trip snacks on hand. Just in case.

Keto Road Trip Snacks

If you are strict keto, then packing some low-carb snacks will help prevent the temptation to stray, “just this once.” Not to mention these are all yummy, so the non-keto peeps in your road trip party will enjoy them as well.

• Beef sticks
• String Cheese
• Cheese Crisps
• Seaweed Sheets
• Giant Pickles
• Pecans, Macadamia nuts, Brazil Nuts
• Olive snack packs 
• Berries – raspberries, blueberries
• Coconut Chips
• Cherry tomatoes, Cucumbers
• Celery sticks & Peanut Butter or cream cheese
• Fat Bombs or Keto Nut Butter with MCT Oil packaged

Gluten-Free Road Trip Snacks

The majority of items listed above can be gluten-free, as long as you watch the ingredients list and check the labels of pre-packaged food. Here are a few of our favourite gluten-free snacks/brands:

• Seaweed Snacks – Sea Snaxs – salty cruncy goodness!
• Cheese Crisps – Whisps and astronaut cheese Moon Cheese
• Gluten-Free Bars – favs include these mini Gluten-Free Bars and their cousin the Gluten-Free Bites
• Nut Butter packets – Yumbutter (twist-off tops)
• Chips – Late July (often available at Costco too)
• Jerky – Country Archer Jerky or their beef sticks
• Beef Sticks – Paleo Valley Beef sticks
• Crunchy, Salty, Protein Snacks – Hippeas Puffed Chickpeas

PRO TIP: We pack everything in small stackable Rubbermaid containers.

Non-Food Items To Add To Your Road Trip Packing List

Now that we’ve got the most crucial thing sorted, SNACKS, let’s move on to the non-food items you’ll need to add to your road trip packing list. 

Reusable Items; Cutlery, Water bottles, Containers and more

We like to bring reusable items on our trips as much as possible to cut down on waste. It’s also quite easy once you get the hang of it and make bringing these along part of your routine.

Here are reusable items you’ll feel good about using and bringing on your next road trip:

• Cutlery – Knives, Forks, Spoons, 
• Dishes – Cups, Plates, Bowls
• Coffee Mugs, Thermos
• Straws of many colors
• Plastic, glass or stainless steel containers
• Water Bottles
• Cloth Fruit Bags 
• Bento Boxes
• Chopping Board
• Garbage bags – reuse grocery bags

Pro Tip: A few empty plastic, stainless steel or glass containers are super handy to have in the car just in case. Empty containers can do double duty as dishes, store leftover food, and hold sandwiches or snack packs for the next day. They also can become emergency crayon/toy holders in a pinch.

👉 You may also like Tips to save money on road trips .

Storage & Cleaning Supplies

• Reusable Ice Packs 
• Hand sanitizer
• Paper Towels & Wet Wipes (not just for kids, awesome for road trips)
• Washing items: Sponge, tub, biodegradable dish soap

PRO TIP – We pack everything non-perishable into small stackable Rubbermaid containers to keep things organized.

Travel Backpacks

We like to make sure both adults and the  kids have their own travel backpack for the road trip.

A good travel backpack can be used for many things. These include hiking, storing road trip activities and entertainment, using as a pillow in a pinch, plus provides easy access to a couple of snacks, and a handy change of clothes.

Essential for when you have a fully packed vehicle. Staying organized is easier.

How to Pack For a Road Trip: Tips for Keeping Snacks Organized

Snacking Tote – Yes, those Pinterest road trip hacks will come in handy. Grab a small plastic Dollar Store Caddy / Open Tote that you can throw your snacks into that don’t need to be cooled. As well it can hold entertainment items (crayons, books, small toys, magazines etc.). Reorganize and restock at the end of the day, for your next day’s adventures.

Water Bottles – Bring a stainless steel water bottle for each person. If you are travelling in the summer or in hot weather, freeze the bottle the night before, take it out in the morning, and it will melt as the day goes on. 

Handing out food – For young kids, bring a spill proof snack cup (it will fit in the cup holders), and fill with snacks.

Snack Bags – For older kids/adults, make each person a snack bag before your trip; they can keep with them. Avoids the constant asking for snacks, and they can monitor their own snacking. Of course, this will depend on the age of your kids. 

Clean-Up Kit – Kids, adults, toddlers all on occasion make messes. Have a clean-up kit handy just in case; wipes, paper towel, extra water, change of clothes.

Garbage Bag for the car – Have a designated garbage bag for the car, to keep the garbage contained. Empty or replace at rest stops. Reuse plastic grocery bags. 

Road Trip Coolers

A cooler is the essential item to add to your road trip packing list. It will provide you more flexibility with the types of snacks and food you can bring.

You may even want to cook up some make ahead vacation dinner recipes and keep them fresh too.

We’ve outlined some things to think about and a few great road trip cooler options available on Amazon, to help you out. 

Here are some things to consider before buying a cooler :

• How long is your trip?
• How much space do you have in your vehicle? Where do you want to put the cooler?
• How much food will you need? Can you stop at grocery stores along the way to replenish supplies quickly (ie. can you get away with just a day or two worth of food)

Best Overall Cooler ( Size and Holds the Cold) – Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

This Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler is narrow, so it easily fits behind the seat , is well insulated, which holds the cold, and is lighter than previous versions. It can also be transformed into a stool if you buy the cushion. Plus it comes in cool colours.

Best Family Cooler & Long Road Trips – ORCA ORCP026 Cooler 

This Orca Cooler is a top pick for size and flexibility . It can hold a lot of food and ice, which can be kept frozen for up to a week or more. Plus it has cool whale tail latches.

Best Soft Sided Cooler – TOURIT Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Cooler Backpack

This Tourit Leak-Proof soft-sided backpack is an excellent option for shorter road trips or if you are planning a picnic or day at the beach . This leak-proof high-density insulated backpack can keep food cold for up to 3 days. It also has side pockets for extra storage.

Tips to Prepare For Your Road Trip

Check your road trip food list to see if there is anything you can do ahead of time, to make food prep and snacking easier while on the road. We recommend doing the following ahead of time:

• Make a Road Packing List, and check it off as you pack
• Wash and cut veggies and fruit
• Prepare sandwiches, meat slices, cheese slices etc.
• Prepare snack bags or snack tote – for easy grabbing
• Prepare your Clean up kit
• Pack non-perishable foods
• Pack your perishable foods in the cooler, right before you leave.

PRO TIP : Pack your car the night before you leave, to make sure everything fits. Make sure your cooler and essential road trip snacks are easily accessible. 

What foods are easy to pack?

Foods that are easy to pack for road trips include single serving foods such as applesauce or fruit pouches, granola bars, trail mix, string cheese hummous and tuna. Other easy foods to bring require a bit of preparation like sandwiches, whole fruit (apples, oranges and grapes), or baby carrots.

What Snacks are good for a trip?

Snacks that are good for trips are high in protein and contain some good fats, as well as one’s that are full of nutrients like fruits and vegetables. Our top picks for travel snacks include grapes, homemade trail mix, bagels with creamcheese or peanut butter, popcorn, energy balls, beef jerky, and cheese and multugrain crackers.

What can I eat to keep me awake when driving?

If you are trying to stay awake while driving, focus on eating crunchy foods like apples, carrots, celery and grapes, combined with protein like nuts, deli meats, nut butters or beef jerky. Make sure you are well hydrated (carbonated water is fun), and avoid eating too many sweet snacks as dehydration & sugar swings can also cause tiredness.

Chocolate or a little bit of caffeinated coffee or tea can also help you stay awake.

Road Trip Food List: 75+ Easy Road Trip Snacks

With over 50 delicious road trip snack options, you will find something for everyone in your party. Plus some tips to make packing and travelling easier.

Now all you need is your next road trip destination. Here are some family favourites:

• Zion National Park in Utah .
• What not to miss at Bryce Canyon in a day
• Big Sur California Road Trip itinerary; Best places to visit, eat & stay
• Boston to Acadia National Park

What are your favourite road trip snacks and favourite hacks for keeping food and snacks organized? Let us know in the comments below, or connect with us on social media, we’d love to hear from you.

Related Family travel tips and resources :

• Camping gift ideas outdoorsy kids will love
• Road Trip Packing List, all the essentials you’ll actually need & use
• 150 Road Trip questions to entertain your travel companions
• Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags

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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Great tips! It gets better as the kids grow up and become less messy and fussy:)

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111+ Healthy Road Trip Food Ideas (Non Refrigerated Snacks)

Updated: Aug 16, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Bringing healthy foods that don't need refrigeration is a great option to save money and time while on the road. Since I travel most weeks for work, I've gotten to truly test out the best nonperishable foods to bring on a road trip for kids and adults.

All these healthy road trip foods don't need refrigeration for at least a day, and most of them will last indefinitely. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, any of these healthy non perishable snacks will keep you satisfied without having to constantly stop at restaurants or grocery stores.

This article covers well over a hundred road trip food ideas that don't need refrigeration, including pre-packaged nonperishable snacks, meals for each time of day, delicious chocolate snacks , and some recipes you can make ahead of time. Simply use the table of contents below to navigate to what type of road food you seek.

Healthy Non Perishable Snacks

Healthy road trip snacks for kids, fruits to bring on a road trip, gluten-free road trip snacks (non refrigerated), healthy road trip meals for breakfast, healthy road trip meals for lunch, healthy road trip meals for dinner, sweet but healthy road trip snacks (non refrigerated).

Healthy pre-made snacks are among the best foods to bring on a road trip, because not only do they save you time, but they're easy to find and can please kiddos as well as adults.

• Snacking Ramen
• Protein Bars
• Homemade Pop-Tarts
• Mini Muffins
• Seaweed Sheets
• Garlic Peas
• Tahini-Based Fruit Dip (for crackers, chips, or other fruits)
• Fresh Walnuts
• Thai Chili & Lime Cashews (from Trader Joe's)
• Shell-On Pistachios (Wonderful Pistachios are reliably delicious)
• Salted Sunflower Seeds
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
• Whole Peanuts
• Raw Macadamia Nuts
• Spiced Pecans (homemade are easy & less expensive!)
• Chocolate-Covered Almonds

• Animal Crackers
• Freeze-Dried Snap Peas (they'll be so obsessed with the crunch they won't even realize it's vegetables!)
• Pretzels (filled or plain; whichever your kiddos prefer)
• Cheese Sticks (mozzarella sticks are easiest to find)
• Freeze Dried Cheese Bites (like Moon Cheese)
• Apple Juice Packs
• Fruity Chia Squeeze Packs
• Healthy Fudge (Nut Butter or Seed Butter Base)
• Graham Crackers
• Annie's Fruit Snacks
• Single-Serve Dry Cereal
• Nut or Seed Milk (this shelf-stable option comes in single-serves, as well, and can make getting your kid to eat breakfast just as easy as at home, especially with the addition of the crunchy freeze-fried fruit!)
• Cherry Tomatoes

• Dried Fruit (i.e. mango, pineapple, apple, etc.)
• Freeze-Dried Fruits (for kiddos with missing teeth or anyone who doesn't like the tough texture of the dried versions; I recommend trying strawberries or mangoes)
• Applesauce Cups
• Mixed Fruit Cups
• Canned Fruit
• Fruit Leather
• Raisins or Dried Cranberries
• Toasted Coconut Chips
• Watermelon Squares
• Cherries on the Stem
• Apples or Apple Slices (great with peanut butter or tahini)
• Asian Pears
• Strawberries
• Dragon Fruit
• Blueberries
• Squeezable Fruit Pouches

Finding gluten-free snacks for road trips is easier than ever these days, and for my fellow grain-free friends, most of these options are also free from grains.

• Veggie Straws
• Flaxseed Pudding in Mason Jars
• Baby Carrots
• Celery Sticks With Dip
• Pre-Cut Bell Peppers
• Lentil Crackers (these can be homemade or sometimes found in stores)
• Tortilla Chips
• Cassava Chips (the Siete brand one comes in several shapes & sizes and we love it with hummus or salsa at my house)
• Potato Chips
• Plantain Chips
• Simple Mills Grain-Free Crackers
• Popped Sorghum
• Clusterbucks (Chocolate Buckwheat Treats)
• Roasted Chickpeas
• French Macarons (fillings vary)
• Coconut Cookies or Macaroons
• Halva (Sesame Seed-Based Sweet Treat)

• English Muffins
• Blueberry or Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Cereal Bars
• Granola (here's my favorite recipe )
• Waffles (making studier versions ahead of time makes them easy to be stored in bags & drizzled with jam, nut butter, or chocolate spread for a sweet breakfast treat)
• Banana Bread

• Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
• Pita Bread (with deli meats, nut butters, pomegranate seeds, a sprinkle of granola, or any combination of flavors you take along)
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Trail Mix (Homemade or Store-Bought)
• Crackers and Hard Cheeses (like parmesan or gouda)
• Chips and Salsa
• Packets of Nut Butter (Justin's brand is reliable)
• Pita Chips and Hummus
• Sweet Potato Chips

• Canned Chili (Annie's brand is great)
• Canned Soups
• Canned Beans
• Salmon Jerky
• Canned Tuna or Chicken
• Packet Rice or Quinoa
• Packets of Lentil Stew or Chickpea Stew
• Salami Sticks (can easily be sliced, or you can buy small ones for easy snacking)
• Premade Falafel Balls
• Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Peanut Butter Cookies
• Almond Flour Brownies
• Dark Chocolate Chips
• Homemade Chocolate Chip Rice Crispy Treats
• Rice Pudding Cups
• Nut Butter Cups
• Sugar-Free Candy Bars
• Chocolate Tahini Spread
• Candied Ginger Pieces
• Energy Bites
• Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans
• No-Bake Cookie Dough
• Pepero Sticks (or Pocky )
• Peanut Brittle
• Dark Chocolate Bars

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• Food & Drinks

12 Yummy Yet Healthy Indian Snacks To Pack For Your Trip

Packing snacks for a trip is a ritual followed by most travellers. Here are some healthy Indian snacks that can serve as a source of energy and nutrition.

Some travellers carry food for their trip or journey—either as a wholesome meal or snacks to munch on at intervals. While it isn’t advisable to carry multiple boxes of food for your journey, you can always carry snacks that are light on the luggage as well as your waistline. There is a large variety of snacks that you can carry—from chips and biscuits to homemade brownies or health bars. It’s usually always a better idea to go for the healthier option by making healthy snacks for kids and yourself. India is a diverse country when it comes to culture, traditions, and cuisine and there are a lot of healthy Indian snacks to choose from for your travels.

2 ‘Bimaro Wala Khana’, Khichdi

This is simply a one-pot rice and lentil dish and is made in a wide variety of ways in different parts of the country. An iconic Indian dish, it is known as huggi in Karnataka, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and khichdi in many parts of north India. Khichdi is one of the most ancient foods in India and once cooked, can be paired with anything from yogurt to spicy pickles. Khichdi is known as ‘ Bimaro Wala Khana ’ (food for the sick in Hindi) as it is easily digestible and nutrition-rich, making it one of the many healthy Indian snacks. It is the perfect balance of carbohydrates and protein. According to Ayurveda, Khichdi is used for detoxifying and cleansing the body. It is the perfect snack as it is easy to make, healthy, filling, easy to pack, and tasty either hot or cold. However, it is best consumed within at least 12 hours of preparation. Fun fact : 

Khichdi is one of the first solid foods that is fed to babies in many parts of India as it features in the list of healthy snacks for kids.

Mughal emperor Jehangir favoured lazizan , a very rich Gujarati khichdi in his days of abstinence, according to ‘A Historical Dictionary of Indian Foods’ written by historian KT Achaya.

3 Cholesterol-Buster, Thepla

This is a Gujarati breakfast flatbread ( roti ) made primarily of methi (fenugreek), wheat flour, yoghurt, gram flour, ghee, and water. Theplas are made in a similar way chapatis are made, where the dough is rolled into a ball and then flattened into a circular shape and fried. Theplas are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and iron and are known for lowering cholesterol. According to NDTV Food, one of the University of Michigan Health System’s studies states that the steroidal saponins found in fenugreek seeds seem to slow the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. Theplas are also said to be able to control diabetes, lower blood sugar levels, and aid digestion. One of the many healthy Indian snacks around, theplas are travel-friendly as they are easy to carry and eat. They are also easy to make as all the ingredients are found in almost all households, but you will need to give yoghurt a miss if you’re making theplas for travel, as it reduces its ‘shelf-life’.

• The more oil you use while cooking the thepla , the longer its shelf life.

5 The Most Versatile Indian Snack, Khakhra

The khakhra is a circular crisp roti -like food item from Gujarat that is commonly eaten as a snack. The primary ingredient in these healthy Indian snacks is wheat flour. Others are gram flour, milk, and oil, but you can add various spices to customise it. Much like rotis , khakhras are roasted in a heated pan, although here, pressure is applied till they become crisp. Khakhras are considered to be healthy snacks in India as they are made of whole wheat. They are rich in carbohydrates and proteins and also contain dietary fibres which help with weight reduction, digestion, and maintaining blood sugar levels. Khakhras are not only easy to pack, but can also be eaten with anything from tea to jam, sabzi (cooked vegetable dish) or plain.

• Khakhras are said to have been invented by Jains many years ago. As they are not allowed to eat stale food, they started dry roasting leftover rotis to take out the remaining moisture so they don’t spoil and food is not wasted.

6 The Snack That Made Chitale Bandhu Famous, Bhakarwadi

A disk of dough stuffed with dried coconut, poppy, cumin, sesame seeds, dried mango, and chilli, bhakarwadis are a popular Indian snack that originated from Gujarat, although it is quite popular in Maharashtra too. These bite-sized mini rolls are a perfect mix of crunchy, sweet, and spicy, and are best enjoyed with a cup of tea.

The original version of bhakarwadis does not make it into the list of healthy Indian snacks, but there are variations that are low-fat and fibre-rich. Baked versions of these are stuffed with flax seeds, grains, pulses, soybeans, methi, or dry fruits. They are dry and therefore easy to pack and carry and are available at all farsan (a collective name for multiple varieties of Gujarati and Maharashtrian snacks) shops.

Fun facts : 

• It is believed that the grandfather of the current owner of Jagdish Farsan, a famous farsan store in Vadodara, invented the snack.
• It was introduced in Maharashtra in the 1970s.
• It made Chitale Bandhu, a shop in Pune, very famous for its wares.

7 South India’s Go-To Snack, Lemon Rice

A tangy yellow dish made from basmati rice mixed with other ingredients like peanuts, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and lemon juice— these are the ingredients in the healthy snacks recipe for lemon rice. It originated in south India, and can also be made with leftover rice, making it an easy and convenient breakfast or snack dish. It can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes to prepare, depending on whether you are using pre-cooked rice. The dish can also be made gluten-free by skipping the hing (asafoetida). Lemon rice is very nutritious as it contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, potassium, fibre, vitamins A, C, and E, calcium, iron, thiamin, niacin, phosphorus, and more. Lemon rice, also known as Chitranna in Kannada, can be eaten with yoghurt or spicy pickle, or plain. It also counts as a healthy snack for kids as it can be packed in a tiffin box easily. However, it needs to be consumed within a day of it being made.

• Its distinctive yellow colour comes from turmeric, also a strong anti-inflammatory.

8 A Health-Buff’s Best Friend, Dalia

Dalia is made of broken wheat, cooked in different ways, according to personal preferences. It is consumed mainly in the Indian sub-continent and features high as a favourite on the list of healthy Indian snacks. You can cook it with spices to make it savoury or sweet by adding coconut and jaggery. This dish is a super-food and a great source of protein, making it a big hit among fitness buffs. Dalia is rich in fibre, helpful for weight loss, a good source of minerals, helpful in suppressing hunger pangs, low in fat, and great for diabetics and children. While it makes for great healthy snacks for the evening or even for breakfast and dinner, dalia needs to be consumed within a day of it being made.

• It is healthier than wheat flour as it contains wheat husk too, which is rich in fibre.

10 The Indian Version Of Nougat, Chikki

Chikkis is a crunchy and sweet snack made of jaggery and a variety of different nuts and seeds, primarily roasted peanuts. These sweet treats are generally flat and readily available in most stores across India. It is said that chikkis were invented by a man named Maganlal, the country’s largest and oldest chikki maker. Chikkis are considered healthy Indian snacks as the main ingredient is jaggery, a solid or semi-solid natural sweetener, usually a concentrate of sugarcane juice. Jaggery contains protein, minerals, and vitamins and is also a great source of iron and copper. Chikkis makes for a great travel snack as they last long (days and even weeks) and are easy to pack and carry.

• Chikkis is considered the Indian (and vegan) version of nougat, a confection made of whipped egg whites, sugar, or honey with nuts and/or fruits. 

11 The Best Snack For Your Gut, Poha

Like most Indian foods, poha has many variants in different parts of the country and is a preferred breakfast item in many households. The dish has its origins in the Maharashtra-Gujarat-Madhya Pradesh region. Poha is made with cooked rice that is flattened and dried resembling flakes of varying thickness. You can make poha sweet or spicy (with peanuts, curry leaves, and onions), depending on your taste. As poha can be cooked with a variety of vegetables, it is considered healthy, nutritious, and filling. It is a great source of carbohydrates and iron, low in calories, and easily digestible. Poha , also known as beaten rice, is easy and quick to make and serves as a delicious healthy snack while travelling.

• Poha is a good probiotic as it undergoes fermentation during its preparation, retaining its microbial flora—great for gut health.

12 The Snack That Comes In Its Own Biodegradable Wrapper, Patholi

This is a snack made with a little extra effort. Patholi (which means steamed dumpling or pudding in Konkani), originates from the Konkan belt (parts of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka), and is made primarily of grated coconut and jaggery stuffed into rice dough and turmeric leaves. The ingredients are mixed and lightly fried till they turn golden brown. While this dish is primarily prepared during the Nagarapanchami/Nag Panchami festival and the monsoons, it is also prepared as a tasty snack for family gatherings and other special occasions.

Patholis are considered healthy Indian snacks because they are cooked in turmeric leaves which have a host of health benefits. Turmeric leaves are said to boost digestion and reduce gas and bloating. These also make for great travel snacks as they come in their own packaging (the turmeric leaves), are easy to pack, and can be eaten hot or cold. They can also be stored for a maximum of two to three days (preferably consumed within two days) in a cool environment.

• Patholi is made primarily during the rainy season because it’s when turmeric leaves are abundantly available.

13 The Ancient Medicinal Snack, Til Ke Laddus

Til (sesame) laddus are one of the simplest healthy Indian snacks and brimming with health benefits. Commonly known as Maharashtrian til che laddus (as they are originally traditional sweet from Maharashtra), they are round, sweet, bite-sized snacks made with sesame seeds ( til ), peanuts, ghee, cardamom ( elaichi ), and jaggery. It is believed that til ke laddus were used in the 4th century BCE by Susruta, the father of Indian surgery and medicine as an antiseptic for his patients. While these can be eaten at any time during the year, they are primarily consumed in winter to generate heat and energy in the body. Til ke laddus are also known for increasing hair growth, having anti-ageing properties, boosting the health of your skin and teeth, and aiding digestion. They are a great source of energy. Til ke laddus also serve as great travel snacks as they are easy to pack, readily available at most general stores, and can be stored for days.

Fun facts :

• You don’t need a lot of ghee to prepare these snacks as the crushed peanuts and jaggery provide enough stickiness.

14 South Kanara’s Low-Calorie Snack, Mutlim/Mutlin

This is another of the many healthy Indian snacks originating from the South Kanara (Dakshina Kannada) district of Karnataka. It’s a dimpled, circular, steamed snack made of a mixture of rice and grated coconut. Mutlims , also known as pundis , can also be made with rava or semolina. These are great breakfast dishes, as well as filling and healthy snacks in the evening. Mutlims can be accompanied by a spicy gravy, chutney, or just eaten on their own.

These also serve as healthy snacks for kids, and older generations, as they are easily digested and contain carbohydrates. They are also useful for those looking to maintain their weight, as it is pretty low on calories. Mutlims are also suitable as a travel snack as they can be eaten either hot or cold and can be easily packed. They can last for about a day or two when stored in airtight containers.

• You can stuff mutlims with a mixture of coconut and jaggery (a south Kanara variation) to make a sweeter variant of this snack known as god (sweet) mutlim .

15 The Savoury Cake, Dhokla

Originally from Gujarat, dhoklas are healthy Indian snacks that are most often consumed in the evening. These light and fluffy cube-shaped snacks are made from a fermented batter of gram flour ( besan ) and mild spices and can be had at any time during the day. Since dhoklas are steamed, it is preferred by those counting calories, and as it is fermented, it is easier to digest and improves gut health. This fluffy savoury cake is also packed with proteins. It has a low glycemic index which makes it good for diabetics. They are easy to pack and carry for travel.

• The snack is versatile, so instead of gram flour, you can also use rice flour, chana dal or semolina. The dhokla that is made with gram flour is known as khaman dhokla and the one made with rice flour is known as rice dhokla .

Snack Often But Not Too Often To Stay Healthy

Snacking is an important aspect of a daily diet, as it can boost your energy in the middle of the day or when you exercise. Healthy snacks between meals can help decrease hunger and prevent overeating during regular meals. Snacking is especially important during travel, as it will help you stay alert and energised. Going for something healthy that won’t spoil fast is a bonus as you do not want to risk your health mid-travel. And although snacking is inevitable, you must remember to keep the snacks healthy in order to stay fit.

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Lip-smacking Recipes

The days of being confused about what to cook every single day are gone! These easy recipes will have you cooking mouth-watering, lip-smacking food that you and your loved ones will not only enjoy and savor but will definitely want more of!

Explore MyRecipes

Profile menu, how to make 9 easy travel snacks.

It’s travel season, and the last thing you want to do is stop at a fast food joint every time hunger strikes during your drive. Save your money for fun activities and fancy feasts once you get to your destination, and pack these simple, road-ready snacks ahead of time. You can whip any of these up in just a few minutes, and these easy travel snacks are customizable to your fellow car-mates’ food preferences. Get packing, your trip awaits.

Combine your (i.e. your kids’) favorite nuts, seeds, and chopped dried fruit in a bowl, then spoon into zip-top bags. We’re big fans of the smoky flavors in the healthful fruit-and-nut mix , but you can toss in some M&Ms and goldfish for a more varied bite, like in this nuts and bolts trail mix .

Mini Sandwiches

Bringing actual veggies and dip can be a difficult (and potentially messy) car snack. Instead, slice mini pitas open and fill with your favorite dips/spreads and veggies for easy eating. This mini pita sammy combines hummus with ripe tomato slices and a touch of basil, for the perfect travel bite.

Sandwich Spirals

Combine peanut butter and yogurt as the base to these kid-sized peanut butter banana spirals . Then, spread onto tortillas, top with cinnamon-wheat germ, and slice like sushi for a morning car treat. If you’re looking for a savory swap, the turkey and swiss pinwheels make for a flavorful snack-time option.

Mini Frittatas

The egg-based muffins aren’t the first thing we think of when we are packing snacks—but maybe they should be. They’re super versatile, so add whatever veggies, cheese, herbs, or meat you have on hand. Dig into muffin-tin mini frittatas with ham and cheese for a lunch-worthy, protein packed dish to keep you full for the entire ride.

Keep your snack cravings in check with a bag of flavored popcorn. It takes just minutes to pop the kernels, then top with salt, pepper, and whatever spices you have on hand. We particularly love this rosemary popcorn .

Crunchy Chickpeas

Chickpeas are finger-licking good when cooked down on the stovetop or oven-roasted until crunchy. Please your cheese needs with these crispy parmesan chickpeas or hit those warm spice cravings with these spicy crunchy chickpeas . Feel free to mix up the flavoring for a perfect, snackable protein.

Sure, you can buy a package of granola bars from the grocery store or gas station—but these are too good to pass up. Swap in your favorite dried fruit, cereal, and nut butter to customize no-bake chewy granola bars , and get ready for a delicious oat experience.

Energy Balls

As long as you allow some time for these to chill, tahini oat energy balls and apple-oat energy balls require just minutes to toss together. Feel free to swap around the nuts, nut butter, and fruit in these for a snack that will become a custom family favorite.

Easy Upgrades

Sometimes just adding a few ingredients to your store-bought, go-to road trip bites can make a world of difference. Add a packet of ranch dressing with dried spices to cheddar cheese crackers to make crack crackers or upgraded Ritz crackers for a new take on the classic snack.

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Long-Lasting Food To Carry While Travelling In India

Getting proper food is one of the biggest concerns during long journeys in India , especially if you’re travelling by train. Unlike road travel, you can’t stop at dhabas and restaurants for your meals. In case you are travelling on a flight , you have plenty of options at the airport.

During train travel, IRCTC provides food and catering for certain travel classes, but everyone is not a fan of railway food. I myself prefer to carry homemade food while travelling or buy food before boarding the train.

Fresh food cooked in the pantry cars is available only to first-class travellers, while passengers in 2A and 3A coaches receive food loaded from kitchen setups at different stations.

Being an avid traveller myself, I’ve learned the pain of not getting proper food during train travels . While I’m not very picky about food, there are obvious health concerns to worry about. With that said, the purpose of this article is to guide you on different ideas for Indian food to carry while travelling . I’ve tried to be as inclusive as possible to accommodate different food preferences.

Breakfast Ideas During Travel

Let’s start with breakfast since nobody loves to start the day in a ruined mood. You may either buy your breakfast from vendors or at stations or carry homemade breakfast items. Here are the best breakfast ideas, some of which I personally carry during my train travels.

1. Sandwiches – The Best Option

When it comes to readymade food for travel , sandwiches are one of your easiest options. Not only are they mess-free, but there are plenty of sandwich ingredients that won’t go bad quickly.

Besides, one can make sandwiches with anything from fresh vegetables and dairy products to cooked fillings . This makes it a suitable breakfast item for travellers with dietary or religious restrictions.

The only issue with carrying sandwiches for long periods is that the bread can turn soggy. You may have to carry the bread and the other ingredients in separate containers to prevent this. Sandwiches made with some ingredients like cheese, jam, or cream can stay for a few more hours without getting soggy. You can check and prepare various Indian sandwich recipes for your next trip.

2. Fruits – Essentials To Stay Healthy

Fruits are always a good choice if you’re trying to stay on a healthy diet . You may either carry them from home or buy them from vendors during your travels. Apart from the fruit sellers at almost every major railway station, vendors boarding the trains sell bananas, apples, oranges, and other fruits too. Just grab a good mix of different fruits and start your day with a healthy breakfast.

3. Egg or Butter Toast – Your Personal Choice

These are one of the most common items available on Indian trains during breakfast hours. A hot and fresh egg toast or simply bread toast with an omelette can make a delicious breakfast too. In case you’re a vegetarian and don’t eat eggs, you can always go for butter toast instead. Besides being simple and healthy, this is very affordable food for train journeys.

4. Idli And Vada – The Long Laster

If you’re fond of South Indian food, idli and vada are among the best long-lasting Indian food for travel on trains. Neither of the two would get spoiled any time soon as long as you pack them properly in foils and airtight containers. Carrying the sambar might be a problem, but focan simply eat them with chutneys instead.

5. Kachori – Most Popular Indian Travel Food

It is a popular food that most of us love, and commonly available on trains. Kachori vendors board trains at various times of the day, especially in the morning. Unless you’re on a diet or don’t want to eat any sort of unhealthy food from vendors, you might want to go for it.

Dry kachoris (khasta kachoris) are also a good choice if you need food to carry while travelling in India. Firstly, you can carry them for long periods without worrying about them going bad. Secondly, they’re dry items and don’t cause a mess. You may either make them at home or buy them before boarding the train.

6. Upma – Minimal Yet Nutritious

For travellers who love North Indian food, Upma is always a great choice. The dry texture of this dish makes it mess-free, and you can carry it for long periods without any problem. The light texture of upma makes it a perfect breakfast item during travel , while the ingredients make it healthy and nutritious. It’s easy to see why I listed upma among the best food for the train journey.

Lunch And Dinner Ideas For Indian Travel

Now that we have covered the breakfast items, let’s find out what you can have for lunch or dinner when travelling by train. This is often a problem as most of the common Indian meals involve gravy or curry-based foods, which might create a mess. Thankfully, there are a few relatively dry and non-messy options too.

1. Paratha And Puri – Delicious Travel Food

Parathas and puris are one of the most common tiffin choices in India. However, they’re also one of the best travel food recipes for lunch and dinner as they’re easy to make, can be stored for a long time, and are quite satisfactory for the stomach.

If you’re setting out in the morning and have some time, you can make parathas or puris and pack them for lunch. However, make sure the food accompanying the parathas is something dry and won’t go bad if you leave it packed for a long time.

Alternatively, you can just go for parathas made with the fillings already inside them, such as aloo paratha or onion paratha . In this case, all you’ll need is some pickle.

2. Thepla – Best Alternative to Paratha

Similar to rotis and parathas to come extent, theplas are a great option for long train journeys too. For train travel, it’s better to go for different thepla variants like methi thepla , doodhi thepla , zucchini thepla etc., rather than regular theplas.

The added flavour will make up for the lack of a good side dish. In this regard, remember not to use curd when making the theplas. Curd lowers a thepla’s shelf-life , which is the exact opposite of what you need.

3. Roti – Most Preferred Dinner Choice

Rotis are another good type of homemade food for travelling. Parathas are delicious, but rotis are admittedly healthier as they don’t contain oil . Being a common staple, rotis are widely available, and you can easily buy some before you board the train.

The same advice I mentioned for parathas goes for rotis too – eat the rotis with dry side dishes to avoid creating a mess . If you decide to eat the food provided by IRCTC, you may have rotis among your options there too.

4. Rice With Side Dishes – Best Alternative To Roti

I mention rice only because it’s a staple food in India and one of the most popular meals. However, this isn’t a viable option unless you’re travelling in a train class with IRCTC catering or you are on a road trip .

A variety of thalis, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, are available on Indian trains. Even if the official catering service isn’t available to you, getting good food during train journeys won’t be a problem. Speaking of IRCTC , did you know that online catering services with price list are also available on trains?

IRCTC has launched an e-catering service that delivers restaurant foods to railway passengers . If you’re picky about your meals or would just like something special for a change, this is the perfect solution.

On the other hand, carrying rice and its side dishes during long journeys is not only inconvenient but there’s a high chance of the food going bad.

5. Pasta – My Favourite

If you’re more in the mood for some spicy homemade food for travelling other than Indian cuisines, you may carry pasta for your train journey. Seasoned with vegetables and sauces , pasta is one of the most popular Italian dishes.

It’s particularly preferred by Indian mothers to cook tiffin for their kids as it doesn’t take much time to make. The same reason also makes it a great choice when you have a train to catch.

Being a fried or boiled dish, pasta can last a long time in an enclosed container . Apart from homemade pasta, you may also buy pasta at various fast-food corners.

Snacks To Carry While Travelling

When it comes to snacks for travelling in India, there’s no dearth of options. In fact, the diverse range of snacks available during road, flight and train travels greatly adds to the experience. I don’t think I have ever had a train journey in which I didn’t buy snacks along the way. Here are some of the best and most popular snack options for you:

There’s no way one can talk about Indian snacks without mentioning samosas. Affordable and delicious, they have always remained one of the top choices for Indian travellers. You can easily buy them from vendors boarding the trains or the small snack shops on railway platforms . Even IRCTC sometimes provides samosas among the food they offer through their catering service.

It is not only available for train travel, but also at airports and roadside shops. Especially if you get some tea or coffee, there’s no better way to enjoy it than having it with a couple of samosas.

Like samosas, pakoras are another great choice for snacking. If you travel in sleeper class, it’s quite common to find vendors selling various types of pakoras . However, if you’re strictly sticking to homemade food for travelling, you may even make the pakoras at home and carry on your trip.

For any dietary restrictions due to religious factors or health issues, you’re free to pick what to fill the pakoras with. Besides, deep-fried items like pakoras last very long. If you seek long-lasting Indian food for travel, it’s easy to see that pakoras are among your top options.

3. Dry Fruits

Can’t have samosas or pakoras because you’re on a diet? Don’t worry, here’s an option for travellers who need healthy snacks for the train journey.

Dry fruits like raisins, cashews, and nuts are not only good for your health but also have a very long shelf-life. You may even carry a container full of dry fruits for a train journey that’s going to last a few days. The next time you visit Kashmir or any other place well-known for dry fruits, feel free to buy some for your return journey.

While dry fruits are tasty and healthy, they’re rather small and light. Dhoklas make good snacks for the train journey if you’re looking for a healthy item with low oil content . You may either make them at home or buy them from a snack shop on your way. With their beautiful blend of sweet and sour taste, dhoklas are a good solution if you’re travelling with children and it’s hard to make them stick to healthy foods.

Moving away from the healthy stuff again, chips are one of the most popular packed food items for travel in India among snacks . Ranging from simple salted potato chips to flavoured chips from well-known brands, there’s a diverse range of options to pick from.

Besides, chips are pretty much ubiquitous in India – available almost everywhere. In case you’d love to enjoy this crunchy snack during your journey, but are worried about the ingredients, homemade chips are the way to go. There are various homemade chips recipes like potato chips, sabudana chips, banana chips , etc.

6. Cookies And Cakes

Maybe you’d like to carry some packed food items for travel in India but would prefer something healthier than chips? Well, you can always go for some cakes and cookies. They’re available almost everywhere – even at the small tea stalls along the roads or airport. Besides, baked food have a very long shelf-life, making them a suitable option for longer journeys .

In Conclusion

As for carrying homemade food on train and road journeys, just remember to pick items that won’t go bad by the time you plan to consume them . I personally go for potato-based preparations for my rotis and parathas since they’re dry and less likely to cause a mess.

Apart from the above food ideas, you can also carry chocolates, biscuits, cold drinks, fruit juice, puffed rice, namkeens, and sweets like laddu and rasgulla on your next trip.

In case you plan to travel by plane during your journey, keep in mind that food for air travel deserves special consideration due to various restrictions . Check with your airline to know what kind of food you’re allowed to carry on the flight. Hopefully, you found this guide helpful and can now enjoy your travel on train, air, or road as much as I do.

We hope that you have enjoyed this article. Let us know your experience! If you like us to write on any specific topic, send your request to [email protected] . Your feedback is highly appreciated. We will love to hear from you!

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Indian Snacks to Carry While Travelling Abroad

We present you popular Indian snacks to carry while travelling. Almost everybody likes to take along some food when they travel . For some, it is a necessity – they might not eat outside due to religious reasons, or their health might not permit it. When you are on a long train journey, or you are travelling in remote areas, you might not be able to find food properly at meal-times, so you surely need to carry along some snacks as a stop-gap. For others, food is fun! They cannot think of spending a few days or hours without crunchy snacks .

Whole Wheat Methi Khakhra

Dry snacks to carry while travelling abroad

You can prepare a batch of this thin  Poha Chivda  and store it in an airtight container for a 10 to 15 days to relish it as and when you wish to. Looking for  Indian travel food dry snacks , then this Maharashtrian poha chivda is a perfect choice. 

Maharashtrians like to carry along some of this Puffed Rice Chivda when they travel. It is also nice to keep a batch of this at home, handy to munch on when you are hungry. 

Bhadang Murmura, Maharashtrian Puffed Rice Chivda Recipe

Made of spiced rice flour bound by curds and butter to make a soft dough,   Chakli  are super-crisp deep-fried savouries, which can be easily preserved for around two weeks provided you keep them in a dry and airtight container.

 Chakli, Instant Chakli

Masala Puris, which are usually fried, have been modified into this low-cal version by baking.  A serving of 5 puris at teatime makes a satiating dry snack of 100 calories. These  baked masala puris  will last for 15 days and perfect to carry while travelling.

Indian theplas to travel with 

For those who travel abroad frequently , recipes like the Multigrain Methi Thepla   are a boon as they can stock them up in the fridge and they will stay for 15 days as they are made without curds.  So take a stack of theplas with you.  We normally travel with Theplas packed in lots of 10 in silver foil to prevent them from drying out. 

We have given you a selection of recipes in this article, but you can find many more choices on our website too. Keep in mind that the dry snacks will stay fresh for longer than a week , but the theplas will last only for two days at room temperature. You must also add lots of oil while cooking to avoid the theplas from becoming dry and spoiling sooner.

If done the right way, recipes like the Multigrain Methi Theplas will stay fresh in the fridge for almost 15 days. Take some of these foods along when you travel. They will not only keep you hunger-free but also fill your heart with love from home!

indian snacks to carry while travelling abroad

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• Quick & Easy Snacks

18 Simple 3-Ingredient Snacks to Make Forever

Photographer: Grant Webster, Food Stylist: Holly Dreesman, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek

Need a quick snack to help keep hunger at bay before your next meal? Try one of these easy recipes that take only three ingredients to make! These snacks are highly rated, with 4- and 5-star reviews from EatingWell readers. You’ll love simple and tasty options like our Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters and Raspberry-Jam Bites to enjoy in-between meals.

Dark Chocolate Almond Clusters

These bite-size dark chocolate almond clusters blend dark chocolate with nutty almonds for an easy snack or dessert. Stick to the three ingredients we list here, or add your own twist by including dried cherries or toasted coconut for a little variety.

Raspberry-Jam Bites

It doesn't get easier, or more delicious, than this simple, three-ingredient snack. Chia seeds and raspberries add fiber to these healthy frozen bites. Chocolate provides a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the berries.

Cottage Cheese Snack Jar with Fruit

Photographer: Rachel Marek, Food stylist: Sue Mitchell, Prop stylist: Skylar Myers,

Create a creamy and on-the-go snack by combining protein-packed cottage cheese with sweet chopped peaches. Elevate the flavor profile by adding a hint of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the cottage cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup is the perfect finishing touch.

Cucumber Salmon Bites

Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Lauren McAnelly, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco

Look no further for your impromptu snack—these 3-ingredient cucumber salmon bites are a surefire hit. Beyond being an ideal choice for midday, this quick and easy recipe doubles as a satisfying appetizer. If you have a bit more time and a few extra ingredients at your disposal, try enhancing the cream cheese with chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives.

Sweet Potato Chips

Make perfectly crunchy veggie chips at home with this healthy recipe. Use a mandoline to slice the sweet potatoes extra-thin for the optimum crunch!

Dark Chocolate Cashew Clusters

These 3-ingredient sweet treats are a breeze to make and, because dark chocolate clusters take just 15 minutes to prepare, they can be made on short notice to feed a crowd. While cashews contribute a sweet and mild flavor, don’t hesitate to swap them out for an alternative like almonds or peanuts, or try adding dried cranberries or cherries for a delightfully tangy twist.

Christine Ma

Not a fan of kale? These crispy baked kale chips will convert you! For the best result, don't overcrowd the baking pans.

Roasted Butternut Squash Seeds

Don't throw away your butternut squash seeds; roast them instead! Roasted butternut squash seeds make a great snack or salad topper. Enjoy them plain or jazzed up with one of the variations below.

Everything-Seasoned Almonds

Grinding up the everything bagel seasoning in a spice grinder will help it adhere to the almonds.

Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas

Try this satisfying snack instead of nuts. The tasty legumes are lower in calories and packed with fiber.

3-Ingredient Crispy Potato Peel Chips

These 3-ingredient potato peel chips are a cross between a french fry and a potato chip, and they’re the perfect snack to make when you have potatoes to peel! These chips can be enjoyed as-is or dressed up with seasoning.

Pretzels with Dark Chocolate & Peanut Butter

Get the salty-sweet chocolate satisfaction of a candy bar with this better-for-you chocolate-peanut butter gluten-free snack or dessert recipe. Pair it with a glass of milk, hot or cold, for a boost of calcium and protein.

Cottage Cheese Snack Jar

Photographer: Rachel Marek, Food Stylist: Holly Dreesman, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco

This creamy, crunchy snack packs 20 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber in one small mason jar. Adding the chickpeas right before serving will keep them crunchy. If you want to store everything in one jar, opt for 1/4 cup rinsed canned chickpeas instead.

Make perfectly crunchy veggie chips at home with this healthy recipe. Use a mandoline to slice the beets extra-thin for the optimum crunch!

Yogurt with Blueberries & Honey

A simple combination of Greek-style yogurt and blueberries gets an extra touch of sweetness from golden honey. It's the perfect balance of protein and fiber to keep you energized.

Hard-Boiled Egg with Hot Sauce

Add a little spice to your day by topping a protein-rich egg with hot sauce. It's a simple snack to help power you through your day.

Fire Ants on a Log

Update classic ants on a log, a favorite childhood snack, when you swap dried cherries for raisins.

Grapes & Cheese

Sweet and savory is the definition of this satisfying snack.

Related Articles

The super spice you need for the ultimate grilled pork ribs

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Mary Sue Milliken’s grilled pork ribs are bold, spicy, herbaceous, slightly sticky and sweet-sour, lightly cured with a homemade seasoning — the recipe for it has evolved over several years — and glazed with balsamic vinegar and drippings.

“They are pretty much all-in addictive,” says Milliken. “You make these at home, and I promise you are going to have a lot of fans.”

The legendary Southern California chef , TV show host, cookbook author and activist has fast hands. She quickly strips the leaves from sprigs of rosemary, sage and thyme; peels and grates garlic; and grinds fennel seeds using a mortar and pestle. Mixing spices, chiles and aromatics with olive oil, she stirs nonchalantly with her fingers and moves so deftly … who needs a spoon?

Grabbing a nearly three-pound rack of pork ribs, she says: “After all these years of being a chef I’ve learned a lot. I don’t eat a lot of meat, but when I do eat meat, I love a really good quality and I love to treat it with so much respect.”

She sprinkles salt and pepper carefully all over the ribs — into “every little nook and cranny,” including the ends of the bones — and slathers them with her rub of spices and herbs, then lets them sit overnight uncovered in the refrigerator so that they dry a little and all of the flavors concentrate into the meat.

Inspired by a recipe from meat expert Bruce Aidells’ “Complete Book of Pork,” Milliken has added her own twists and has upped the herbs and spices by three or four times, she says. Adaptability is built into the recipe, allowing for cooks to follow their palates.

The thing that really makes the spice rub sing? “In my opinion it’s the fennel,” Milliken says. “And it’s a lot.”

With a mortar and pestle (at home it’s a green marble one she bought at a local Thai market 40 years ago for $15), she crushes the seeds, releasing their herbaceous, anise-y scent and flavor.

She says it reminds her of the rigatoni once served at City Cafe — the first restaurant she opened with longtime friend and business partner Susan Feniger (they have since opened many more, including Socalo in Santa Monica, Border Grill in Las Vegas and Alice B. in Palm Springs ) — stuffed with chicken and fennel mousse.

“I think one thing people don’t actually realize, though, is they’re a little bit afraid sometimes of spices, and they don’t realize that we chefs use a lot of spices and a lot of garlic and a lot of chile and a lot of herbs,” she says. “And when people come and eat the food, they love it. So don’t be afraid ... of really pushing the boundaries.”

Find the full recipe for Milliken’s ribs, along with more grilling favorites, below.

You can watch Milliken make the ribs in the latest installment of L.A. Times Food’s “Chef That!” video series.

Check out Socalo at L.A. Times Food Bowl on Sunday, Sept. 22, noon to 3 p.m. at the Paramount Pictures Studios backlot.

Eating out this week? Sign up for Tasting Notes to get our restaurant experts’ insights and off-the-cuff takes on where they’re dining right now.

Mary Sue Milliken’s Fennel And Herb Grilled Ribs

Mary Sue Milliken ups the spices and herbs for maximum-flavor ribs. Cure them overnight. Then take the time to roast the ribs on the barbecue with indirect heat, glazing them with an aged balsamic vinegar. Milliken was inspired by a recipe from meat expert Bruce Aidells but upped the seasoning, and the result is supercharged flavor. Get the recipe. Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes plus overnight curing time. Makes 1 rack of ribs.

Greek-ish Grilled Half Chickens

This half-chicken is marinated in a creamy dressing of oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic and lemon zest. The egg helps the marinade cling to the chicken while grilling so its flavorings penetrate the chicken. Get the recipe. Cook time: 2 1/2 hours, mostly unattended. Serves 4 to 8.

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Poc Chuc (Orange-And-Lime-Marinated Grilled Pork)

Cookbook author Rick Martinez says, “The first thing that drew me to this dish is how beautiful it is — charred onion, fresh radish and avocado give a pop of color to the citrusy, charred pork steaks. The flavor of the meat is so bright and immediately takes me back to Valladolid, a beautiful town about an hour and a half inland from Tulum. It was there that I first tried poc chuc.” It’s a signature dish of the Yucatán with Mayan origins. Martinez slices the pork very thinly so that it absorbs the fresh orange and lime marinade quickly and thoroughly. It also means a quick cook time on a hot grill. Ask your butcher to thinly slice your pork shoulder. Get the recipe. Cook time: 45 minutes, plus 2 hours 30 minutes resting. Serves 6 to 8.

Grilled L.A. Kalbi

Kalbi marinade is sweetened with a blend of pear and maple syrup so that it caramelizes onto the meat. Serve the short ribs over steamed rice and with shiso leaves for wrapping and chiles and scallions for topping. Potato salad is also great on the side, says former L.A. Times cooking editor Genevieve Ko. Get the recipe. Cook time: 30 minutes. Serves 6 to 8.

Grilled Rib-Eye Steak With Pistachio Gremolata And Charred Balsamic Broccolini

Chef Vartan Abgaryan’s steak is served with a floral herb and citrus gremolata, teeming with sweet poached garlic cloves and a side of grilled broccolini dressed in a tart balsamic vinaigrette. Ask your butcher for a 3-inch-thick bone-in rib-eye steak, cut from the chuck end. Because these steaks are so large, it is important to remove them from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you plan to cook them, so that they cook evenly. Get the recipe. Cook time: 50 minutes. Serves 4 to 6.

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Betty Hallock is deputy Food editor at the Los Angeles Times. She has co-written four cookbooks, including “Bäco: Vivid Recipes from the Heart of Los Angeles,” “Amá: A Modern Tex-Mex Kitchen” and “Baking at République.” She started her journalism career at the Wall Street Journal and Scientific American in New York, worked on the L.A. Times’ Business desk, and was interim food editor at Los Angeles Magazine. Hallock also helped launch a food and nutrition vertical for wellness app RoundGlass. She’s a graduate of UCLA and New York University.

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