loading

15 On the Go Snacks for Busy Families

Share this article:

facebook email
article image article image article image

Family enjoying on the go snacks

Family schedules can be a lot to juggle. Whether you’re rushing off to soccer practice, planning a road trip, or heading out for a day of errands, it always helps to have portable snacks on hand to keep moods bright and tide everyone over between meals. So, what are some good on the go foods to have ready for hectic days? Let’s take a look at some of our favorite on the go snack ideas!

1. Applesauce Pouches

Applesauce pouches are easy to toss into a bag and offer a quick pick-me-up when you need quick snack ideas as you’re running out the door. They can be served refrigerated or at room temperature and often come in different flavors like cinnamon or berry.

2. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are great grab and go snacks for adults and kids alike. They’re non-perishable, packed with protein, and full of healthy fats. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are all great options.

3. Fresh Fruit

Fruit is always one of the best on the go snacks because it’s refreshing, hydrating, and nutritious. Apples, bananas, and oranges are all portable and require no refrigeration. If you’re looking for packable snacks for kids’ lunchboxes that offer an element of fun, make fruit kebabs by threading chunks of fresh fruit on a wooden skewer.

4. Protein Bars

Protein bars are the ultimate road trip snacks because they’re shelf-stable, individually packaged, and filling enough to stave off hunger in between meals and pit stops. Look for bars with natural ingredients, minimal added sugars, and a good balance of protein and fiber. We love that these snacks for busy families come in endless flavors like chocolate, peanut butter, and more so that everyone can find their favorite.

5. Veggie Chips or Straws

If you’re craving on the go snacks that are a better-for-you alternative to traditional potato chips, try veggie chips or veggie straws. These portable snacks offer a touch of saltiness and a satisfying crunch without all the grease. Plus, they’re easy to find in individual baggies for convenience.

6. Yogurt Pouches

Yogurt pouches aren’t just for kids—they’re great grab and go snacks for adults as well. Look for high-protein options like Greek yogurt and choose flavors without added sugars when possible. These pouches are portable and mess-free, making them ideal travel snacks.

7. Welch’s® Absolute Fruitfuls™ Fruit Strips

Introducing Welch’s® Absolute Fruitfuls™ Fruit Strips—the new premium fruit strip made with whole fruit as the main ingredient. Delivering luscious fruit flavor, these mess free snacks are non-sticky, with a soft and delicious mouthfeel that gets better with every bite. Individually packaged and perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle, they are packed with whole fruit, are gluten free, vegan, non-GMO, and contain only natural flavors and colors from natural sources.

8. Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is one of our favorite on the go snack ideas because it’s light, crunchy, and easy to pack for travel. You can make your own at home and season it with your favorite spices or buy pre-packaged options when you need packable snacks for kids in a jiffy. Look for options that are low in salt and free from artificial ingredients when possible.

9. Baby Carrot Packs

Baby carrots are nutritious go-to snacks that contain vitamin A, vitamin K, and fiber. They often come pre-portioned in individual pouches, or you can simply portion them out yourself in zip-top snack baggies.

10. Jerky

If you’re wondering what food snacks to bring on a trip that are perfectly portable, jerky is the answer. Whether you choose beef jerky, turkey jerky, or even plant-based jerky, you’ll have a great high-protein snack that doesn’t need refrigeration. Try to find brands that use minimal ingredients and avoid those with added sugars or preservatives. These snacks for busy families are easy to pack and will keep you satisfied during long stretches without a meal.

11. Energy Balls

What are grab-and-go foods that both kids and parents will like? Try these energy balls! These bite-sized on the go snacks can be made from ingredients like oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit. They’re easy to make at home and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Pack a few in a small container for a quick and energizing snack.

12. Mini Muffins

Homemade mini muffins are the perfect on the go snacks for busy days. You can make a batch over the weekend and freeze them, pulling out a few whenever you need them. Or look for store bought versions that are made with whole grains, fruits, and minimal sugar. Blueberry, banana, and carrot muffins are all great kid-friendly choices.

13. Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are great quick snack ideas because they’re light, crunchy, and satisfying—which means they won’t weigh you down. Available in both full size and mini varieties, these portable snacks often come in both sweet and savory flavors, like apple cinnamon, cheddar, or caramel.

14. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs make for great go-to snacks for work or school because they’re protein-packed and filling. Peel them ahead of time and store them in a container for easy access during your travels. Pair with a sprinkle of salt and pepper or some hot sauce for added flavor.

15. Granola

Granola is a versatile travel snack that can be eaten on its own or mixed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to make a trail mix. If you’re in the mood for travel snacks that are more indulgent, add ingredients like chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or chocolate-covered raisins. Pre-portion it into small bags or containers for on-the-go convenience.

Tips for Packing On the Go Snacks

  • Invest in Good Containers: Leak-proof, easy-to-open containers or reusable snack bags are must have items for busy parents. Bento boxes are also great because they keep snacks separate and organized.
  • Keep Things Cool: Choose non-perishable snacks that can withstand a few hours (or more) without refrigeration, especially for long trips. For snacks that need to stay cold and fresh, use insulated lunch bags or add ice packs.
  • Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget to pack a water bottle! Staying hydrated is just as important as having healthy snacks, and having your own bottle will save you from buying expensive drinks on the go.

That wraps up our list of on the go snacks for busy families. Remember: Keep your family energized and satisfied with the delicious and convenient Welch’s® Absolute Fruitfuls™ Fruit Strips—perfect for your busy lifestyle!

fruits snacks one
raspberry
blckberry
fruits snacks two
fruits snacks three