Discover the Best Road Trip Snacks Before Your Next Journey

Last updated 2 weeks ago | Originally Published: October 21, 2024

Planning a road trip is exciting, but choosing the right snacks can make or break the journey. The best road trip snacks are easy to pack, satisfying, and bring joy to those long stretches of highway between you and your destination. With decades of experience in the snack and candy business and countless road-trippers visiting our store in Newport, KY, we know what people like, and we couldn’t agree with them more! From family-friendly favorites to shareable snacks and energizing options, our top recommendations will fuel your journey with the right balance of flavor, fun, and affordability! After all, the journey is just as important as the destination, and we’re here to ensure that finding the best road trip snacks is a highlight, not a headache! So, without further ado, let’s get ahead of the curve and start planning out this journey! 

Checklist of the Best Road Trip Snacks

Before hitting the road, having a mix of snacks you and everyone who’s rolling can enjoy is necessary. Indeed, having a versatile selection of snacks will make everyone happy and energized, avoiding hunger-fueled frustrations and unnecessary pit stops! In this guide, we’ll cover all the best road trip snacks across every essential category, including candy, chips, cookies, crackers, nuts, protein bars, and meat snacks. Let’s dive in.

1. Candy: Classic Road Trip Favorites

This category doesn’t apply to everyone, but for 85% of Americans, it does! As most will agree, no road trip is complete without candy! Guaranteed to set the tone and vibe, having a candy stash is a must-have before you start your drive! Here are some classic options and why they’re perfect for your journey:

• M&M’s: These chocolate bites are perfect for snacking on warm days because they don’t melt easily, except in your mouth! You know the saying! 
• Skittles and Starburst: Packed with fruity flavors, these candies are easy to share and can provide a burst of sweetness to energize everyone.
• Retro Favorites: Nostalgia makes everything better! Twizzlers, Now and Laters, and Pez dispensers are all-time road trip candy classics. Explore our list of 1980s candy or 1990s candy and find the perfect candy throwback for your next adventure!
• Gummy Bears and Fruit Slices: Gummy candies like Haribo gummy bears or Boston Fruit Slices are easy to eat and fun; everyone loves them!
• Sour Candies: Sour Patch Kids or Warheads offer a tangy twist that can keep your senses awake and add a fun element to your trip.
• Hard Candies: Jolly Ranchers and Lifesavers are long-lasting refreshments that won’t melt or make a mess, perfect for long trips and arriving with fresh breath! 
• Lollipops: Tootsie Pops or Dum Dums provide a sweet distraction during long stretches of driving. They’re individually wrapped, making them easy to share and keep.

As anyone could imagine, it would be impossible to list every candy brand available in the US, so if our recommendations do not inspire you, then check out our candy-by-brand category here at Candy Retailer. We carry over 150 candy brands, including all your favorites!  

2. Chips: America’s Favorite Road Trip Snacks

Potato chips are, without a doubt, one of America’s favorite snack items! They’re perfect with any sandwich, enjoyable straight out of the bag, and good until the last bite! In addition to that, they’re the ideal road companion, regardless of whether you’re rolling solo or riding out with your team! So, before you put everything in your rearview mirror, make sure you make a pit stop here at Candy Retailer and prepare for the best road trip ever! 

• Classic Potato Chips: Lay’s, Ruffles, or Grippo’s—these are perfect for that salty crunch and are loved by everyone.
• Flavored Tortilla Chips: Doritos and Tostitos are great for anyone who loves a bit of flavor or wants to dip them into some salsa or guacamole along the way.
• Kettle Chips: Kettle-cooked chips like Cape Cod or Kettle Brand are a fantastic choice for those who prefer a crunchier texture.
• Rap Snacks: These unique chips really set the tone. They’re an instant conversation starter, especially if you love Hip-Hop or wild flavors you’ve never thought of.
• Uncle Rays: Made in Detroit, these iconic chips go the distance and are available in every chip flavor you know and love, perhaps more.

Don’t forget to check out our list of best-selling chip brands for more inspiration, or skip the research and click the ‘Shop Here’ button below to view and purchase all our chip products here in our store! We’re not your average candy retailer, we go deep into all snack categories and carry products unavailable at your local gas station or supermarket. Check us out…

3. Cookies: Sweet Comfort on the Road

Cookies are another top-pick snack for road trips, providing a quick bite of sweetness everyone enjoys. Although not for everyone, for many, cookies offer a sweet pick-me-up, especially during long drives; plus, they’re sharable and fulfilling! 

• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Famous Amos or Chips Ahoy are perfect for satisfying a sweet craving. Learn more about the best chocolate chip cookie brands in America.
• Oreos: These iconic sandwich cookies are a go-to for road trips. Their sturdy packaging and easy-to-share design make them a favorite, plus the flavor combinations are endless!
• Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and rich, Walker’s Shortbread is a delicious option if you prefer something less sugary but still satisfying.
• Snack-Size Packs: Mini versions of your favorite cookies, like Mini Nilla Wafers or Mini Chips Ahoy, are perfect for a quick treat without overindulging.
• Gluten-Free and Specialty Cookies: If you or your passengers have dietary preferences, brands like Tate’s Bake Shop offer gluten-free options that don’t skimp on flavor.

All in all, cookies are perfect for munching on while driving, and they’re easy to store close by for quick access when the moment strikes! Click the following link to explore more cookie brands and varieties available here at Candy Retailer! 

4. Crackers: Savory and Filling

Crackers are a convenient, fulfilling snack item, making them an excellent choice for long-distance road trips. Plus, they’re easy to pack and eat while driving. Whether you prefer something buttery, cheesy, or even a bit nostalgic, there’s a cracker option for everyone on the road. Here are some of the top recommendations that will keep you satisfied during your trip:

• Ritz Crackers: Buttery and light, they are perfect for snacking or pairing with cheese.
• Cheez-Its: Perfect for those who crave a cheesy flavor on the road. Explore our new Cheez-It flavors.
• Keebler: Known for their buttery and flaky texture, these crackers are ideal for road trips, especially when purchased by the case here at Candy Retailer! 
• Lance: Available in a variety of cracker sandwiches, these are perfect for satisfying hunger on the go.
• Braum’s Animal Crackers: Fun, delicious, and nostalgic, these are perfect for road trips, especially with kids in tow.

Crackers are a reliable road trip snack option because they offer an outstanding balance of flavor and texture without being too messy. From buttery and cheesy to crunchy and sweet, they’re easy to eat, shareable, and pair well with other snacks like cheese, peanut butter, or dips. Be sure to grab some crackers here at Candy Retailer before you begin your next trip! 

5. Nuts: Healthy and Crunchy

Nuts are among the best road trip snacks for those seeking a healthy, energizing option. Packed with protein and healthy fats, nuts will keep you full and alert on long stretches of the road. They also come in many flavors and combinations to keep things interesting! Furthermore, nuts are an easy, non-perishable snack that doesn’t take up much space, making them a convenient addition to any road trip snack list. Here are some of the best nut options for the road:

• Mixed Nuts: A combination of almonds, cashews, walnuts, and peanuts provides a satisfying crunch.
• Almonds: Blue Diamond flavored almonds are a popular choice for flavor variety, including honey roasted or spicy.
• Cashews: Rich and buttery, cashews are easy to munch on and are loved by all ages. Learn more about cashew health benefits here.
• Peanuts: Affordable and packed with protein, peanuts are a classic road trip snack. They come in many flavors, including salt-free and roasted. 
• Sunflower Seeds: These can keep you occupied on long drives, especially if you’re snacking on them individually.
• Shell-less Pistachios: Convenient and nutritious, pistachios are full of flavor and easy to enjoy without the hassle of shells.

Nuts are a smart choice for road trips, offering a healthy, protein-packed snack that provides lasting energy. With many options like almonds, peanuts, and pistachios, you can easily cater to different tastes while keeping hunger at bay. Pack various nuts to fuel your trip and keep everyone satisfied, mile after mile.

6. Protein Bars: Sustained Energy

Long drives can be exhausting, and protein bars are an excellent solution for a sustained energy boost. They’re easy to pack and offer a great way to stay full and energized without stopping for a complete meal. Here are our top picks for keeping energy levels high:

• Fit Crunch: These delicious, protein-packed bars offer a satisfying crunch and come in flavors like peanut butter and cookies ‘n cream.
• MET-Rx: Known for their meal replacement bars, MET-Rx offers high-protein options for long trips when you need something filling.
• Special K Bars: Lighter but still packed with nutrition, Special K protein bars provide a balanced flavor and energy for the road.

Protein bars are a convenient way to stay fueled and focused during your drive. Pack a few different varieties to suit everyone’s taste and energy needs! Check out our recommendations on the best protein bar brands in the USA.

7. Meat Snacks: Savory Protein Hits

For a more savory protein boost, meat snacks are a great option to have on the road. They’re easy to carry, packed with flavor, and provide the protein you need to stay satisfied and energized between meals. Here are our top suggestions:

• Beef Jerky: Classic beef jerky is perfect for snacking, as it’s high in protein and easy to store. We carry all brands, so check us out before hitting the road.
• Meat Sticks: Whether it’s Slim Jims or Jack Link’s, meat sticks are a convenient, flavorful option for on-the-go protein.
• Sausage Snacks: Grab some Big John’s, Penrose Big Mama, Fire Cracker, or Tijuana Mama sausage snacks for a hearty, spicy bite that will keep you going.

Meat snacks are ideal for long trips when you need a satisfying, savory snack to power through. Stock up on these protein-packed snacks for a flavorful and filling addition to your road trip arsenal! For more inspiration, you can also check out our list of the best beef jerky brands here. 

Drinks and Hydration

While snacks are a must-have, staying hydrated is equally important on a road trip to maintain energy levels and focus! Proper hydration keeps you feeling alert and refreshed, especially on longer drives. Therefore, having several drink options on hand before you take off is a good idea. Here are some of the top choices that’ll keep you refreshed during your journey:

• Water: The most important drink for any road trip. Opt for reusable bottles to reduce plastic waste and refill them at rest stops. Consider bringing a cooler with ice packs to keep your water cold, especially for hot summer drives.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a flavorful twist, iced tea or lemonade can be a refreshing alternative to water, particularly on hot days. Choose low-sugar options or brew at home to control the sweetness and save money.
• Juice Boxes: Perfect for kids and adults alike, juice boxes are easy to pack and provide a quick burst of sweetness. They’re also mess-free, making them ideal for car rides. Look for 100% juice options to avoid added sugars.
• Sports Drinks: For longer drives or traveling in hot climates, consider sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade. They help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating and can keep you hydrated when water alone isn’t enough.
• Energy Drinks: For those long drives where staying awake is crucial, energy drinks or iced coffee can offer a quick caffeine boost. However, consume them in moderation to avoid jitters or energy crashes, and balance them with water to stay adequately hydrated.

Remember, hydration is key to staying focused and comfortable on the road. So, stock up on a mix of drinks, and keep a cooler handy to keep everything chilled. Unfortunately, we don’t drink here at Candy Retailer, but no road trip is complete without some drinks! 

Packing Tips and Road Trip Snack Checklist

Planning and organizing your road trip snacks can make all the difference between smooth sailing and a chaotic car. With a bit of foresight, you can ensure everyone can access their favorite snacks without cluttering the vehicle or making frequent pit stops. Here are some practical tips to help keep your snack situation in check and maximize convenience:

• Bring a Cooler: This is essential for keeping perishable items like sandwiches, cheese, and drinks cold. Reusable ice packs or frozen water bottles can double as ice and drinking water. Choose a cooler with an easy-access lid for quick snack grabs.
• Pre-portion Snacks: Divide snacks into smaller bags or containers before the trip to reduce mess and allow easy access—label bags for each passenger or part of the journey to stay organized.
• Choose Non-Perishable Snacks: Pack nuts, crackers, and dried fruit for extended trips or stretches without rest stops. These snacks are stored efficiently and won’t spoil without refrigeration.
• Bring a Variety of Textures and Flavors: Include a mix of salty, sweet, crunchy, and soft snacks to avoid snack fatigue and keep everyone satisfied.
• Pack Utensils and Napkins: For snacks requiring utensils, pack disposable options and extra napkins, paper towels, and wet wipes for easy clean-up, especially with kids.
• Keep Wipes and Trash Bags Handy: Wet wipes and small trash bags make cleaning up spills and snack messes easy. Collect garbage in bags for quick disposal at rest stops.
• Consider Space-Saving Containers: Collapsible containers or resealable bags are a great way to save space and keep snacks organized. Stackable or compartmentalized trays are also helpful.
• Snack Rotation Strategy: Plan a snack schedule for long trips to ration favorites and ensure they last the entire journey.

With these packing tips and your checklist in hand, you’re set for a smooth, well-prepared road trip. Enjoy the ride without worrying about snack shortages, spills, or unnecessary messes! If you have any recommendations, please share your thoughts in the comments below! 

About Candy Retailer

Candy Retailer is an American, family-owned business in the US dedicated to providing the best road trip snacks among 15,000+ other snack brands and products! Located only 3 miles from downtown Cincinnati, we operate from a state-of-the-art facility, ensuring that every snack we offer—from M&M’s and Lay’s to MET-Rx and Big John’s—is stored and shipped under ideal conditions for peak quality and freshness. Whether packing for a family road trip or a solo adventure, our mission is to bring you the top delicious and travel-friendly snacks. Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on our store’s latest stories, snack lists, deals, and exciting new product drops! And if you have your favorite road trip snack suggestion, don’t hesitate to sound off in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!