25 Best Foods to Pack for a Road Trip

Updated on August 1, 2018 by Food Network Canada Editors

When you're looking for a little fun and adventure, there's nothing quite like a road trip to get you out and about. But as fun as these trips can be, packing snacks that stand long drives can be tricky. Here are the tastiest recipes that prove it's the journey, not the destination, that really counts.

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Zucchini and Carrot Breakfast Muffins

Overflowing with heart-healthy ingredients like oats and flaxseeds, these superfood muffins also feature grated apples, carrots, zucchini, and pumpkin seeds, making them a filling and nutritious option for anyone on the go. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/zucchini-and-carrot-breakfast-muffins/17907/" target="_blank">Zucchini and Carrot Breakfast Muffins</a>
2 of 25

Crispy Spiced Chickpeas

Looking for a savoury snack that's not chips or popcorn? These crispy fried chickpeas seasoned with a spicy chili-lime salt will satisfy your craving. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crispy-spiced-chickpeas/21343/" target="_blank">Crispy Spiced Chickpeas</a>
3 of 25

Roasted Spiced Almonds

Toasting almonds intensifies their naturally nutty flavour and amplifies their crunch factor. These sugar-free toasted almonds feature olive oil and spicy cayenne pepper, making them the perfect, easy-to-reach snack to keep you energized and feeling alert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-spiced-almonds/14723/" target="_blank">Roasted Spiced Almonds</a>
4 of 25

Apple Pie Granola Bars

A little bit indulgent but still packed with fibre and protein for a better-for-you apple pie snack. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/blog/eat-pie-every-day-with-apple-pie-granola-bars/" target="_blank">Apple Pie Granola Bars</a>
5 of 25

Banana Bread Muffins

A more convenient way to enjoy banana bread on the go. Whip up a batch on the weekend for a take-along weekday breakfast you can enjoy at work or on the way. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/banana-bread-muffins/21206/" target="_blank">Banana Bread Muffins</a>
6 of 25

Jerk Plantain Chips

Sure, you can put out a bag of chips, or you can slice and bake a quick batch of plantain chips that are taken to the next level with a generous sprinkling of spicy jerk seasoning. Warn everyone that these chips are no joke, their spice is delicious, and addictive. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/ayeshas-home-kitchen/recipe/jerk-plantain-chips/20565/" target="_blank">Ayesha Curry’s Jerk Plantain Chips</a>
7 of 25

Fruit Rolls

If you're intimidated by the idea of making your own fruit rolls, don’t be. Giada’s simple and healthy recipe only requires three ingredients: fruit, agave and lemon juice, letting you take your favourite fruit with you on even the longest adventures. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fruit-rolls/16771/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Fruit Rolls</a>
8 of 25

Homemade Jerky

Making jerky at home is a fantastic way to pay homage to our Canadian heritage and get high-quality protein on the go, without any of the added preservatives found in many store-bought varieties. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/homemade-jerky/18048/" target="_blank">Homemade Jerky</a>
9 of 25

Bacon Jalapeno Popcorn

For something lighter, this fluffy popcorn brings a burst of colour in a giant bowl and is ready to serve in just 15 minutes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bacon-jalapeno-popcorn/21006/" target="_blank">Guy Fieri’s Bacon Jalapeno Popcorn</a> Kate Palbom is a food and travel writer constantly in search of her next meal. She is an avid cook and cocktail enthusiast who loves to share food experiences with others.
10 of 25

Bake Chips

 Slice your veggie of choice super thin and roast in the toaster oven with olive oil, rosemary and a touch of salt for a quick and satisfying snack. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-beet-chips/15813/" target="_blank">Baked Beet Chips</a>
11 of 25

Maple Pumpkin Seed Granola

Roasted pumpkin seeds are great for snacking, but one bite of this sweet and spicy granola and you’ll know it’s worth the extra steps. Eat by the handful or pair with yogurt for a perfectly seasonal parfait. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/blog/the-best-pumpkin-seed-granola-recipe-to-make-after-pumpkin-carving/" target="_blank">Maple Pumpkin Seed Granola</a>
12 of 25

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Pack this enticing fiery red hummus with pita chips and crisp veggies for a convenient and healthy snack the whole family will love. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/valeries-roasted-red-pepper-hummus/17318/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli's Roasted Red Pepper Hummus</a>
13 of 25

Heavenly Hummus Wraps

These scrumptious vegetarian wraps are packed with protein and good-for-you fats in the form of hummus, tahini and olive oil. Add that to the salad greens, artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers loaded into every bite, and you have a road trip meal guaranteed to keep you feeling sharp and ready for adventure. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/heavenly-hummus-wrap-with-homemade-hummus/15634/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Heavenly Hummus Wraps</a>
14 of 25

Butter Chicken Hand Pies

Bring butter chicken out of the bowl, instead, encasing the perfectly spiced, decadent main course in flaky pastry. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/how-to-make-easy-butter-chicken-hand-pies/" target="_blank">Butter Chicken Hand Pies</a>
15 of 25

Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwiches

These easily transportable sandwiches are a one-stop shop when you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious meal: tender roast chicken, grapes, walnuts, apples and celery all wrapped up in hearty whole wheat bread. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/waldorf-chicken-salad-sandwiches/16933/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Waldorf Chicken Salad Sandwiches</a>
16 of 25

Muffin Tin Mini Quiches

Your muffin tin is a magic kitchen tool for meal prepping. Besides muffins, it can be used to bake up perfectly portioned crustless quiches, meatloaves and more. These muffin-sized cheesy quiches every bit as satisfying as a classic version can be made ahead of time. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/love-your-lunch/recipe/mini-broccoli-and-cheese-quiche/20624/" target="_blank">Mini Broccoli and Cheese Quiche</a>
17 of 25

Vegetable Samosas

Made with store-bought phyllo dough and a mountain of fresh veggies, these samosas are deceptively easy to make, giving you a delicious way to make sure everyone eats their veggies on the road. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ricardos-vegetable-samosas/10235/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Vegetable Samosas</a>
18 of 25

Pasta Salad with Lemon Pesto Dressing

This meat-free pasta salad is the perfect contender for long drives without lots of refrigeration. It’s livened up with pesto, fresh tomatoes, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-salad-with-lemon-pesto-dressing/16059/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Pasta Salad with Lemon Pesto Dressing</a>
19 of 25

Italian Lentil Salad

Nearly incapable of getting soggy or wilting like regular salad greens, this hearty green lentil salad features crisp bell peppers and refreshing cucumber with toasted hazelnuts for extra protein and crunch. It's the perfect meal when you’re on the road for long periods of time. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/italian-lentil-salad/16797/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Italian Lentil Salad</a>
20 of 25

Salad Rolls with Hot and Sour Dipping Sauce

These refreshing veggie-packed salad rolls keep well in an airtight container over long periods of time. Not only that, but keeping the cashew dipping sauce on the side ensures every bite is loaded with protein and flavour, without becoming soggy. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetable-salad-rolls/8955/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Salad Rolls with Hot and Sour Dipping Sauce</a>
21 of 25

Oatmeal Raisin Sandwich Cookies

A fun treat for when you need an energy boost, these oatmeal raisin sandwich cookies are stuffed with protein-packed peanut butter and fibre-filled oats. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/oatmeal-raisin-sandwich-cookies/12745/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Oatmeal Raisin Sandwich Cookies</a>
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Frosted Raspberry Hand Pies

Whoever said road trip food was boring must have never met these frosted raspberry hand pies, which are stuffed with fresh raspberries and apples. Their individually sized portions make them as easy to eat as they are delicious. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/frosted-raspberry-hand-pies/12731/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Frosted Raspberry Hand Pies</a>
23 of 25

Granola Hermit Cookies

Made with walnuts, cranberries and cinnamon, these granola hermit cookies are delicious straight out of the oven, but their flavour actually improves as they sit in an airtight container. After two days, they're even better than when they were first baked, making them the perfect snack to take on the go. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/granola-hermit-cookies/13656/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Granola Hermit Cookies</a>
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Coconut Macaroons

Crunchy on the outside and chewy in the middle, a well-made macaroon is absolutely irresistible. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-coconut-macaroons/16331/">Ina Garten's Coconut Macaroons</a>
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Canadian Pie in a Jar

Layering a flaky almond base, creamy maple vanilla custard and sweet pears in a single jar makes this portable pie the perfect Canadian road trip treat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/canadian-pie-in-a-jar/12110/" target="_blank">Canadian Pie in a Jar</a> Claudia McNeilly is a food writer living in Toronto.
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