Before going on a road trip adventure, it's vital to prepare with the ultimate road trip food list so your only option isn't to be left with fast food meals. Simply put, it's all about the food prep so head to the grocery store with your grocery list. These snack foods are able to be made ahead and range in variety of different cuisines and also healthy options.
Pro tip*: Most of the these snack food ideas can also be made into healthier versions that suit many dietary restrictions.
Are you looking for car snacks or snack bags? What about easy meals on your next road trip? Regardless of the destination, we've put together an epic road trip food list packed full of the best tips and food ideas the whole family will love.
Breakfast Snack Food Ideas
Breakfast on road trips can be super convenient, considering the vast variety of pre-made pastry and cereal items. Below is a list that includes primarily items that won't need to be refrigerated (can last the entire trip) or can sit at room temp for a few hours–just to hold you over until lunch!
1. Dry cereal
2. Granola bars
3. Muffins (Blueberry muffins are a crowd pleaser!)
4. Fresh fruit
5. Overnight oats
6. Bagel with cream cheese
7. Premade breakfast sandwich
8. Apple Slices
9. Nut butter
Lunch/Dinner Snack Food Ideas
Lunch and dinner will be the most challenging menu's in terms of packing if you don't have a cooler. If you're on a long road trip and are looking to make the most of your time, grab a cheap cooler in advance. They last forever and do an excellent job for what you'll need.
Pack these easy 'make-ahead' meals into smaller containers and throw them into the cooler to preserve them for longer. This will keep perishable foods from spoiling. Single servings are optimal here so each person can have their own.
*Pro tip: You can purchase a disposable cooler that'll last you the long trip. Once you're done, just throw it out! Plus, most of these easy meals can be prepped beforehand.
10. Pasta salad
11. Premade salads
12. Tuna Salad
13. Potato salad
14. Pita bread
15. Chicken wings
16. Deli sandwiches
17. Peanut butter & jelly sandwich
18. Tomato basil turkey sandwich
19. Basil turkey cheese sandwich
20. Peanut butter sandwiches
21. Mozzarella tomato basil sandwich
22. Cold pizza
23. Lunchables
24. Sliced cucumbers
Note: Nobody likes soggy sandwiches. If you decide to make sandwiches for the long journey ahead, prep the sandwiches but hold off on the condiments. This won't make your bread soggy! Just add it later on when you're ready to eat it.
Road Trip Snack Food Ideas
The success of a road trip can easily be measured by these three things: sights, snacks, and laughs. Being a fourth-generation family-run business, we're pretty sure we've got you covered in the snack section! Head over to our shop to order some of the best road trip snacks–dried and true.
25. Beef Jerky
26. Homemade (or store bought) Trail Mix
27. Energy bars
28. Peanut butter filled pretzels
29. Veggies (carrots, bell peppers, celery, snap peas) and hummus
30. Sliced cheese
31. Apples and almond butter
32. Banana chips
33. Celery Sticks
34. Applesauce Cups (or Squeezable applesauce for easy reach)
35. Veggie straws
36. Fresh vegetables
37. Pumpkin seeds
38. Cheese sticks
39. Cherry tomatoes
40. Pork rinds
41. Animal crackers
42. Graham crackers
43. Sausage rolls
44. Sunflower seeds
45. Whole wheat crackers
46. Cheese crackers
47. Protein bars
48. String cheese
49. Veggie Chips
50. Hardboiled eggs
51. Chips
52. Popcorn
53. Sweet Treats
54. Carrot sticks with ranch dressing
Sweet Snack Food Ideas
Sweets are easily some of the best snacks while on a road trip. But, it's wise to pack the junk food lightly, especially if you have a sweet tooth! Try to bring along snacks with healthy fats and low amounts of added sugar on your next adventure instead.
55. Dark chocolate
56. Candy
57. Candy bars
58. Banana bread
59. Cookies
60. Brownies
61. Donuts
62. Fruit
63. Sweets from a Bakery
Road Trip Beverage Ideas
Hydration is key to feeling well and alert on a road trip, so be sure to pack more than enough water–especially if you're snacking on salty snacks like potato chips.
64. Water bottles
65. Coconut water
66. Sparkling water
67. Electrolyte drinks
68. Energy drinks
69. Juice boxes
70. Iced tea
71. Soda
72. Coffee
Non-food Road Trip Items to Pack
The below essentials are easy to pack and extremely useful in keeping your car clean and organized. The last thing you want to do is arrive at your destination to have to clean your interior. Plan now, rest later!
- Paper towels
- Napkins
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Garbage bag
- Coffee travel mug
- Water flask
- Sharp knife
- Plastic or paper plates
- Ice–if bringing a cooler
Conclusion
The above lists includes the best food ideas for starters to help get your wheels moving and ensure you have a hangry-free road trip! Head over to our shop and order some of the best road trip snacks, and be sure to tag us (@pcbeefjerky) in your road trip photos!
