If you’re often the person that becomes hangry when you’re heading out on vacation, we’ve got you covered. We’ve come up with a list of 20 of the best travel snacks to keep your stomach satisfied the next time you’re on the go.
Finding good, healthy travel snacks can often be challenging when you’re on the move especially if you have dietary restrictions, food allergies, or intolerances. Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or prefer savory snacks, we will share a couple of each in this article.
Personally, we have first-hand experience of what you might need. We always like bringing a few snacks for travel with us no matter where we go to make sure we stay satiated throughout the day.
If you’re traveling this year, whether for a quick hike or a long flight, these will be your new favorite healthy travel snacks.
High Protein & Protein Forward
If you tend to get hangry between stops, stocking up on protein-forward travel snacks is the move. Protein keeps you fuller for longer, which means fewer pit stops and more time enjoying the journey.
1. Chomps Meat Sticks
Finding snacks for travel without sugar is often a challenge, which is why we always come prepared with our Chomps Meat Sticks. Since they come in a variety of flavors and proteins from Original Beef to Original Turkey and Salt & Pepper Venison, there’s something for everyone.
Each stick has 10+ g of protein with no added preservatives or 0g sugar. This makes them (in our humble opinion) the best travel snacks to fill you up.
Chomps Original Beef
With 10g of protein and only 100 calories, our Original Beef flavor is great for those who like to keep their snacks for travel simple without a ton of spices or seasonings. This one goes great with apples, oranges, or if you are cooking on campgrounds and want to add more protein to your morning omelet.
Chomps Original Chicken
Our 100% antibiotic-free chicken sticks deliver 12g of protein per serving. They have a bold, savory flavor, which makes them perfect for pairing on a snack plate with fresh carrots, creamy hummus, and crunchy pita chips for a balanced and satisfying snack.
2. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are easy to prepare and rich in protein. This makes them one of the most ideal snacks for travel.
To prepare, simply boil eggs for 10 minutes, cool, and store in the fridge. For a meal on the go, keep them in an insulated container to maintain freshness. Hard-boiled eggs offer numerous nutritional benefits, including high protein and essential vitamins.
3. String Cheese
String cheese is a convenient and nutritious travel snack. It’s rich in calcium and easy to carry.
Pair it with nuts or fruit for balanced, healthy travel snacks. Individually wrapped string cheese stays fresh longer and is perfect for a quick bite to eat during your travels.
4. Tuna Packets
Pre-packaged tuna provides a quick and convenient protein fix. Pair tuna packets with whole grain crackers or fresh veggies for a complete snack.
Tuna is a nutritious choice among our list of the best travel snacks because it’s rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Starkist and Safe Catch offer travel-friendly packets to ensure you always have a healthy snack on hand.
5. Protein Bars
Protein bars are definitely one of the go-tos when it comes to the best travel snacks. We recommend that you opt for bars with natural ingredients and minimal sugar. Look for key ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
Brands such as RXBAR and KIND offer nutritious options with up to 12 grams of protein per bar. These bars work as convenient and healthy travel snacks to keep you energized.
6. Trail Mix
One of our favorite healthy travel snacks to bring along on a road trip is a homemade trail mix. If you make trail mix at home, you often skip the added sugar and canola oil that many store-bought, pre-packed trail mixes contain.
If you have a food allergy, check out our Nut-Free Trail Mix option to make in mason jars and throw in your bag on the go. When we’re feeling adventurous, we’ll add some chocolate chips into the mix!
Homemade Nuts and Chocolate Trail Mix Recipe
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2 tbsp cashews
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2 tbsp almonds
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¼ cup chocolate covered cashews
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1 tbsp hemp seeds
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2 tbsp pistachios
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2 tbsp dried cranberries
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3 tbsp mulberries
7. Nut Butter Packets
Single-serve nut butter packets are a perfect travel snack. They provide a quick protein boost and pair wonderfully with apple slices or celery sticks. Choose almond or peanut butter for delicious, healthy travel snacks.
Brands like Justin’s or RX Nut Butter offer convenient and tasty options. These packets are easy to pack which make them some of the best travel snacks for on-the-go nutrition.
Healthy Travel Snack Options
When you're mapping out travel snack ideas, it helps to have a go-to list of options that are as nutritious as they are delicious. These picks are light, satisfying, and easy to throw in a bag so you can feel good about what you're snacking on no matter where the road takes you.
8. Greek Yogurt
Next up on our list of the best travel snacks is greek yogurt. It’s a high-protein, low-fat option that’s great for the road.
Greek yogurt is great because it supports gut health with probiotics and keeps you full longer. It’s also easy to add variety to.
Sweeten it with a little honey or berries for extra flavor. Choose single-serve cups for easy packing. For nutritious and satisfying healthy travel snacks, you can’t go wrong with Greek yogurt.
9. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a great way to get in a crunch with your Chomps and also get in a bit more protein. One can of chickpeas (or garbanzo beans as they’re often called) offer more than 21g of protein.
Our favorite way to roast them is to rinse and drain, pat dry, peel off their outer layer and then toss with 2 tbsp of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. You can cook them in an oven at 400º for 30-45 minutes, let them cool, and then throw in a reusable bag as healthy travel snacks.
Gas stations and convenience stores often sell roasted chickpeas as well. One popular brand we love is Biena Snacks.
10. Edamame
Shelled edamame is a fantastic plant-based protein source that’s easy to pack and enjoy on the go. Rich in protein and fiber, edamame is both filling and nutritious.
Preparation is simple: steam or boil for a few minutes and season with sea salt or spices. These healthy travel snacks are perfect for those seeking something nutritious yet portable at the same time.
11. Dips and Sliced Veggies
Whenever we make a snack plate using Chomps, we often throw in veggies and a fun dip. This way we’re getting a few different textures and flavors.
Carrots and Single-Serve Hummus Packets
Grab a bag of carrots and a few single-serve hummus packets if you are headed somewhere with a cooler or mini fridge to keep them fresh. As some of the best travel snacks, hummus packets also make for a great dipping vehicle for Chomps sticks.
Bell Peppers and Guacamole
If you’re camping, one of our favorite snacks for travel is guacamole. Just bring along a few avocados, seasonings and limes- then voila! Pop it in your cooler to stay cool and bring along a few sliced bell peppers for a healthier option instead of chips.
12. Seaweed Snacks
Low-calorie and rich in vitamins, seaweed makes for unique and healthy travel snacks. Seaweed is a great source of iodine, calcium, and fiber.
Available in various flavors, these travel snacks are both tasty and nutritious. You’ll be able to find plenty of brands that offer convenient, pre-packaged options that are easy to pack and enjoy on the go.
13. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate offers numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and mood enhancement. Opt for high-cocoa content dark chocolate for a sweet and antioxidant-rich travel snack.
To avoid overindulging, practice portion control by enjoying small squares. Lindt and Green & Black’s provide high-quality options that are perfect as snacks for travel.
14. Olives
Packed with healthy fats, olives are one of the most savory and top healthy travel snacks. Choose from varieties like Kalamata, green, or black olives.
Olives offer numerous health benefits, including antioxidants and heart-healthy fats. For convenience, select pre-packaged portions that are easy to carry and enjoy one of the best travel snacks on the go.
15. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is a sweet and healthy snack for traveling. For example, mangoes, apricots, or apple slices are often with fiber and essential nutrients.
Opt for varieties with no added sugar for a healthier option. Dried fruit is lightweight and easy to carry, which makes it ideal for snacking while traveling.
Non-Perishable Travel Snacks
One of the biggest wins when it comes to packing non-perishable snacks for travel is not having to worry about keeping things cold or eating them before they go bad. These shelf-stable picks are just as satisfying as anything you'd grab from a cooler, and they'll hold up whether your trip is two hours or two weeks.
16. Popcorn
Packed with fiber, we love tossing one to two bags of keto-friendly popcorn in our car before a long road trip. We always make sure to look for popcorn that’s organic, uses coconut or olive oil and has no added sugar. Many times popcorn brands add sugar or flavorings so we try to keep it as simple as we can when on the road.
One brand we love for healthier popcorn and super fun flavors is Lesser Evil.
17. Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are light, crunchy, and versatile snacks for traveling. Top them with avocado, nut butter, or cheese for quick, healthy travel snacks.
Rice cakes are gluten-free and low in calories. This makes them perfect for maintaining a balanced diet on the road. Keep a pack in your bag for easy snacking.
18. Whole Grain Crackers
Whole grain crackers paired with cheese or hummus make a balanced and satisfying travel snack. They provide essential nutrients and fiber to support your digestive health.
Popular brands like Triscuit and Wasa offer wholesome options. Pair these crackers with your favorite toppings for a delightful and nutritious snack while traveling.
19. Granola
Choose low-sugar, nut-based granola for a crunchy and satisfying travel snack. Look for granola with whole grains, nuts, and seeds to maximize nutritional benefits.
Pair it with yogurt or enjoy it on its own. Brands like Bear Naked and Purely Elizabeth offer healthy travel snacks that are perfect for maintaining energy levels throughout your journey.
20. Fruit and Nut Bars
Combine the sweetness of fruit with the crunch of nuts for a balanced and delicious travel snack. Fruit and nut bars provide essential nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats.
Look for bars with minimal added sugars and natural ingredients. Larabar and KIND offer excellent fruit and nut bars for those seeking healthy snacks for traveling.
Our Top 10 Picks of the Best Travel Snacks
With so many great options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Here's a quick rundown of our favorite best travel snacks to keep you fueled from departure to destination.
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Chomps Meat Sticks: A shelf-stable, grab-and-go snack with 10g of high-quality protein and 0g sugar. Available in a range of flavors, they're one of the most convenient travel snacks you can pack.
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Trail Mix: Customizable, filling, and easy to portion out into bags ahead of your trip.
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Hard-Boiled Eggs: A simple, protein-rich option that pairs well with just about anything.
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Greek Yogurt: A creamy, probiotic-rich pick that's great for longer trips with cooler access.
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Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy, satisfying, and easy to season however you like.
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Tuna Packets: Mess-free and loaded with protein and omega-3s.
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Nut Butter Packets: Pair with apple slices or rice cakes for a balanced, energizing snack.
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Seaweed Snacks: Light, low-calorie, and surprisingly filling for their size.
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Whole Grain Crackers: A versatile base that pairs well with cheese, hummus, or nut butter.
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Dark Chocolate: A little goes a long way when you need something sweet on the road.
No matter where you're headed, having a mix of these travel snacks on hand means you'll never be stuck settling for whatever's left at the airport newsstand.
Travel Snack Tips
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to packing smart. Keep these tips in mind before your next trip.
Check TSA Rules Before You Fly
Solid foods are generally allowed in carry-ons, but liquids and gels (like hummus or nut butter) must be 3.4 oz (100ml) or less. When in doubt, opt for single-serve packets.
Pack a Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated makes a big difference on long travel days, especially on flights where cabin air tends to be dry.
Stick to Non-Perishables When You Can
If you don't have cooler access, lean on shelf-stable picks like meat sticks, crackers, and dried fruit so nothing goes to waste.
Pre-Portion Your Snacks
Packing snacks into individual bags or containers before you leave makes it easier to grab what you need without overeating on the road.
Avoid Anything Too Pungent or Messy
Especially on planes, skip items that melt easily or have strong smells out of consideration for fellow passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best snack for traveling?
The best travel snacks are ones that are portable, satisfying, and don't require refrigeration. Chomps Meat Sticks check all three boxes. They're shelf-stable, packed with high-quality protein, and come in flavors the whole family will enjoy.
What are easy no mess plane snacks?
Great no-mess options include whole grain crackers, nut butter packets, dried fruit, seaweed snacks, and Chomps Meat Sticks. These are all easy to eat in a tight seat without making a scene in row 24.
What is the healthiest travel snack?
The best nourishing travel snacks combine protein, fiber, and real ingredients with minimal added sugar. Options like edamame, roasted chickpeas, Greek yogurt, and Chomps Meat Sticks are all solid choices that keep you energized without the crash.
Are there travel snacks for diabetics?
Yes, the key is choosing snacks that are low in added sugar and high in protein or fiber to help manage blood sugar levels. Good options include hard-boiled eggs, string cheese, nuts, and Chomps Meat Sticks, which contain 0g sugar and provide a nutritious source of protein.
What are the best protein snacks for travel?
Some of the best protein-forward travel snacks include Chomps Meat Sticks, tuna packets, hard-boiled eggs, protein bars, and nut butter packets. These options help keep hunger at bay between meals without needing a fork or a fridge.
Are Chomps meat sticks a convenient snack while traveling?
Absolutely. Chomps are one of the most travel-friendly snacks that exist. They’re individually wrapped, shelf-stable, and available in a variety of flavors. With 10g of high-quality protein and 0g sugar per stick, they're a nutritious and satisfying option whether you're on a plane, road trip, or hiking trail.
Healthy Travel Snacks That Keep You Energized and Satisfied
Now that you have 20 healthy travel snacks to add to your packing List, make sure you set aside time to prep. That means buying reusable bags, cutting up your veggies or tossing your trail mix into tupperware.
Putting aside the time to make sure you have snacks for travel with you is a great way to save money and feel your best while on the go.
