Ultimate guide to road trip snack essentials

You’ve got your road trip route all planned out, temporary car insurance all sorted, your bags are packed, but let’s not forget the most important thing for road trips, snacks!

You’re bound to get a bit peckish on your long journey and there’s nothing that can ruin the mood more than being without any snacks. Here’s our ultimate guide on some road trip worthy snacks to keep you well fuelled on your journey.

Planning your road trip snacks

Planning your road trip snacks is key to keeping you and your family energised and content throughout your journey. Here are some handy tips to help you plan your road trip snacks like a pro:

1. Consider dietary needs: If you or a family member have specific dietary requirements or restrictions, make sure to plan your snacks accordingly. For instance, if you’re gluten-free, seek out gluten-free snack options. This ensures everyone can enjoy the trip without any dietary hiccups.

2. Think about trip length: For longer road trips, packing more snacks is a must to keep everyone satisfied. Include a mix of snacks, from healthy options like fresh fruit and nuts to indulgent treats like granola bars or trail mix. This way, you’ll have a snack for every craving.

3. Opt for easy-to-eat snacks: Road trip snacks should be fuss-free and easy to eat on the go. Consider options like dried fruit, energy bars, or jerky. These choices are not only convenient but also help minimize spills and crumbs in the car.

4. Pack a cooler: If you’re bringing along perishable snacks like yogurt or sandwiches, a cooler is essential to keep them fresh. Plus, it’s great for keeping drinks cold, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the trip.

5. Don’t forget the drinks: Alongside snacks, make sure to pack plenty of water or other hydrating beverages to keep everyone refreshed during the journey.

Healthy road trip snacks

Being on the road doesn’t have to mean that you need to compromise on a healthy diet. There are plenty of healthy road trip snacks that can keep you energised and satisfied.

Fresh fruit can be kept cool with ice packs and cool bags and when you run out, you can top up again with a trip to the shops along your road trip. There are also lots of other healthy snacks that can be kept at room, or in this case car temperature, including dried fruits, nuts, popcorn or dark chocolate.

Savoury snacks

Before you set off you might think that an abundance of sweet, sugary snacks are going to be the best thing about being on the road, but you’re bound to fancy something more filling at some point, so go prepared to avoid having to succumb to a basic petrol station sandwich!

Some ideas could include, breadsticks and dips, cheese and crackers, crisps, sausage rolls, a pasta salad or even different flavoured rice cakes. Hard boiled eggs are also a great option as they are easy to prepare, portable, and high in protein.

Sweet snacks

You’re hours into your road trip and have been good so far and eaten healthy snacks, so now is the time to break out the sweet treats! Chocolate and share bags of sweets are firm road trip favourites that can be shared out and enjoyed, and how about making some homemade traybakes or cookies before your trip?

Road trip snack tips and tricks

Here are some road trip snack tips and tricks to help you stay satisfied and energised on the go:

1. Pack a variety of snacks: A variety of snacks will keep everyone satisfied and prevent boredom. Consider packing a mix of sweet and salty snacks, as well as some healthy options. This way, you’ll have something for every taste and mood.

2. Use reusable containers: Instead of using disposable bags or containers, consider using reusable containers to pack your snacks. This will help reduce waste and save you money in the long run. Plus, reusable containers are often more durable and can keep your snacks fresher.

3. Choose snacks that are high in protein: Snacks that are high in protein, like nuts or jerky, will help keep you full and satisfied for longer. Protein-packed snacks are great for maintaining energy levels during long drives.

4. Avoid messy snacks: Snacks like potato chips or popcorn can be messy and difficult to eat on the go. Consider choosing snacks that are easy to eat and won’t make a mess, such as granola bars or dried fruit.

5. Take breaks: In addition to packing snacks, don’t forget to take breaks during your road trip to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Regular breaks can help prevent fatigue and make the journey more enjoyable.

Best road trip snacks for kids

Here are some of the best road trip snacks for kids:

1. Fresh fruit: Fresh fruit like apples, oranges, or grapes are a healthy and easy snack option for kids. They’re naturally sweet and packed with vitamins, making them a great choice for keeping kids happy and healthy on the road.

2. Granola bars: Granola bars are a convenient and easy snack option for kids. Look for bars that are low in added sugars and made with wholesome ingredients. They’re perfect for a quick energy boost.

3. Trail mix: Trail mix is a fun and easy snack option for kids. Consider making your own trail mix with a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. This way, you can customise it to your kids’ tastes and dietary needs.

4. Yoghurt: Yoghurt is a healthy and satisfying snack option for kids. Consider packing individual cups of yogurt or tubes of yoghurt for a convenient snack. They’re easy to eat and can be kept cool in a portable cooler.

5. String cheese: String cheese is a fun and easy snack option for kids. Look for low-fat or reduced-sodium options to make it a healthier choice. Kids love the playful aspect of peeling string cheese, making it a hit on any road trip.

Road trip snack essentials checklist

Here is a road trip snack essentials checklist to help you plan your snacks:

• Fresh fruit (e.g. apples, oranges, grapes)

• Granola bars

• Trail mix

• Yoghurt

• Cheese strings

• Nuts (e.g. almonds, cashews)

• Dried fruit (e.g. raisins, cranberries)

• Energy bars

• Jerky

• Sandwiches or wraps

• Crackers or pretzels

• Hummus or guacamole

• Cherry tomatoes or carrot sticks

• Good road trip snacks (e.g. chocolate chips, nut butter)

• Healthy fats (e.g. nuts, seeds)

• Road trip food (e.g. energy bars, trail mix)

• Yoghurt covered raisins

• String cheese

• Nut butter

With this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for any road trip, ensuring you have a variety of snacks to keep everyone happy and satisfied.

Where does Jaunt come in?

Fancy going on an epic road trip but don’t have a car? No problem, with Jaunt, you can borrow a friend or family member’s car for your next adventure. This way, you can explore to your hearts content without the hassle of public transport.

There are loads of great advantages to a Jaunt policy too. The cover is comprehensive and flexible and you can get insured for any time between one hour up to 28 days.