When planning a trip, one of the most important things to consider is what you will eat. You don’t want to be stuck without anything to eat when you're on the go! That's why it's important to pack some non-perishable foods. These foods are perfect for travel because they don't need refrigeration and they won't spoil.
In this article, we will discuss the best non-perishable foods for travel. We'll also provide some tips on how to pack them so that you can stay well-fed while on your trip!
1. Trail Mix
The go-to choice for any traveler is trail mix. It has a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. The best part? You can pick your ingredients to create the perfect blend. No matter your preferences, there’s a trail mix for you.
Most healthy brands pack anywhere from two to three servings per container. This will give you enough energy to survive the day without feeling weighed down. Just be sure to compare nutritional labels so you can pick out one of the best options available!
Shop: Nature's Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack $19.70
2. Nut Butter
Tired of eating dry foods? Try packing some nut butter. Nut butters are healthy and pack a ton of flavor, so you won't even miss other snacks. Be sure to choose an unsalted variety like almond or cashew butter.
These spreads are very high in calories, so you'll benefit from a few servings throughout the day.
Shop: Almond Butter Squeeze Packs - $35.70
3. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein, which is especially important for active people. One ounce of pumpkin seeds contains 6 grams of protein. They also contain magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin B1 (Thiamin), and dietary fiber.
Shop: Now Foods Pumpkin Seeds - $7.09
4. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are an excellent choice for people who like hummus. They are high in fiber and full of protein. Not to mention, they support healthy blood sugar levels and digestion.
Shop: Organic Chickpeas - 4.95
5. Veggie Chips
When you’re on the go and need some quick and healthy snacks, veggie chips are your best bet. They can be found in most stores these days, and they come in various flavors. As you travel, you can take them with you and feel good knowing you are snacking on something healthy.
They’re also gluten-free, non-GMO certified, soy-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Shop: Forager Project Organic Vegetable Chips - $9.73
6. Fruit Leather
Another popular choice among travelers is fruit leather. Made with clean ingredients, the natural sweeteners and texture make this an addictive healthy snack when on the go.
Shop: Chewy Fruit Leather, Orchard Blend - $3.74
7. Granola Bars
Granola bars are a popular choice for non-perishable foods because they’re often high in protein. And, they can pack a lot of energy in each bar. Look for granola bars with less than 230 calories per bar and at least 6 grams of protein.
Granola bars typically contain healthy ingredients like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and whole grains.
Shop: Chewy Granola Bars, Chocolate Chip - $5.79
8. Baked-Ins
Want a healthy alternative to a snack cake, then you have to give Baked-Ins a try! With their brownie-like texture, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Shop: Nature’s Bakery Chocolate Oat Baked-Ins - $6.00
9. Tuna or Salmon Snack Packs
As an easy protein snack to pack as you travel, we suggest grabbing the variety pack of Starkist Tuna and Salmon Creations. They are so easy to take with you and come in a variety of flavors.
The best part about these tuna and salmon packs is that you don’t have to worry about refrigeration.
Shop: Starkist Tuna and Salmon Creations Variety Pack - $31.90
10. Whole Grain Pretzels
Pretzels are a whole-grain, versatile snack that is perfect for on-the-go eating. They're high in fiber and pack a lot of energy. Plus, you can use them as a utensil when eating the tuna and salmon snack packs we just mentioned.
Shop: Sea Salt Pretzels Multi Pack - $8.99
11. Nuts
Nuts are an excellent non-perishable food option because they provide protein and healthy fats without the high-calorie count. They’re also easy to store and don’t require refrigeration, so they’re perfect for traveling.
Opt for nuts that are low sodium so you won’t feel as dehydrated when you travel.
Shop: Planters Nut-Rition Heart Healthy Mixed Nuts - $5.79
12. Whole Grain Crackers
Crackers are an excellent on-the-go option because they can be combined with other non-perishable foods.
The best part about whole-grain crackers is that they’re high in fiber and protein. They come pre-packaged, which makes them easy to pack in a travel bag or suitcase when you’re on the go.
Shop: Crunchmaster 5 Seed Multigrain Cracker - $12.50
13. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is another great option for when you need a protein fix while on the go. High in protein with a long shelf life, beef jerky is the ultimate non-perishable food for travel.
And if you can’t decide which flavor to pack, get one of each.
Shop: People's Choice One of Everything Jerky Box - $72
14. Organic Rice Snacks
As a healthy alternative to cookies, Friendly Grains Crunchy Rollers Organic Rice Snacks are a slightly sweet yet crunchy snack that will for sure take the edge off when feeling hungry. Pair with your favorite nut butter or eat them just as they are.
Shop: Crunchy Rollers Organic Rice Snacks - $14.25
Ready, Set, Pack!
If you're not sure how long these healthy food options will last during a road trip, here's a quick tip - anything with high moisture or liquid content is considered perishable and cannot be stored for longer than 24 hours. The general rule of thumb is that it's probably OK to bring along and eat while driving if it doesn't need refrigeration.
So there you have it! These are some great non-perishable food items you can bring on your next road trip. Just make sure to pack them in an airtight container or baggie so they will not spoil. And enjoy your trip!
For more great travel tips check out: 25+ Best Road Trip Snacks You'll Actually Want to Eat.
