car trip breakfast ideas

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Grab and Go Breakfast in the Car Ideas

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Easy recipes for breakfast in the car will help you grab and go that first meal of the day. Perfect for your next family road trip if you have an early start or even for using at home during your weekly work and school commute.

Every single morning, I drive my teenage daughter to school in the wee hours of the morning.

As most sleepy teens do, she loves to wake up just minutes before we have to run out the door.

Over the last couple of years, I’ve perfected our breakfast in the car routine with a list of easy to grab breakfasts that won’t slow us down as we head out the door.

If you’re planning a family vacation that requires an early start, you could package up several servings of these easy breakfasts.

And for those of you who have a daily morning commute like we do, they obviously work great for eating on the way to school or work!

Tips for Eating in the Car

• Choose One-Handed Foods: Everything on the list below could be eaten with one hand if you need to.
• Pre-Pack Your Food: You can pack your breakfast into individual bags or containers in one session over the weekend or before your trip. Then you can hand out a portion to everyone in the car even easier.
• Use a Paper or Melamine Plate: These picnic supplies are great for eating on the run.
• Don’t Forget Napkins: Before you get moving, be sure you have everything you need to eat your breakfast in place, including a napkin in case you have a spill.

14 Easy Ideas for Breakfast in the Car

Heading out early for a family road trip? Need some new ideas for eating breakfast in the car on the way to work? Either way, these delicious recipes are perfect for a quick grab and go as you run out the door to your next adventure.

Frozen Breakfast Burritos

The #1 most popular and delicious idea for breakfast in the car is this make-ahead breakfast burrito filled with sausage, eggs, and tater tots. Prep them in one big batch and freeze them individually. Pop one in the microwave just before you run out the door!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

My kids get super excited when these protein-heavy peanut butter granola bars appear on the breakfast menu. They are easy to make ahead and will last all week long in an airtight container. Slice them ahead of time so they are easy to grab and go.

Hardboiled Eggs

Make an easy batch of hardboiled eggs in your Instant Pot over the weekend and keep them in a basket in the fridge for the easiest on the go breakfast ever.

You could pair them with your favorite toast or a baggie of raw veggies. I especially love cherry tomatoes.

Granola Packets

Make homemade granola and then prep it in individual baggies for easy breakfast on the run. If you know you'll be eating it in the car, simply break the granola into nice large chunks so they are easy to eat while driving.

Grab a banana or a baggie of fresh strawberries or even a yogurt pouch for sipping along with your granola.

Banana Zucchini Bread

This hearty banana zucchini bread would be a delicious way to start your day. Cut a nice thick slice and eat it on a paper plate or carry it along in a baggie for the car.

To add a little protein, chopped walnuts or pecans in the mix would be especially tasty.

Homemade Trail Mix

Prep one of the three trial mix recipes from this article and keep them in individual baggies for easy grabbing.

I love the mix of dried fruits and cereals for custom trail mix blends each family member will love.

Easy Protein Smoothies

Regular smoothies are so delicious but these delicious protein smoothies will stick with you so much longer. There are 3 easy recipes to choose from, including one without bananas just in case.

Blueberry Scones

If you're more a coffee and pastry type person, these homemade blueberry scones are freezer-friendly and could be prepped ahead. Just thaw one in the fridge overnight. For the kids, just add a to-go milk!

Monte Cristo Pinwheels

You can bake a batch of these yummy monte cristo pinwheels in advance and keep them in a plastic baggie in the fridge for several days. Just heat up what you need for breakfast and take them to the car on a paper plate. The bite-sized pinwheels are perfect for eating in the car.

Pumpkin Pecan Waffles

These hearty pumpkin pecan waffles are thick and crispy and totally delicious even without syrup. We toast them in the toaster to get crispy edges and then just eat them as-is when we're in a rush to get to the car.

Load them with chopped pecans and butterscotch chips if you want something a little more sweet.

Deviled Egg Salad

Egg salad isn't just for lunch, it would actually make a perfect make-ahead breakfast sandwich. You could prep it on your favorite bread or tuck it inside a pita pocket, sliced croissant, or even a tortilla.

Apples & Peanut Butter Dip

Sometimes it is nice to have a breakfast in the car that you can nibble on for a longer drive. In those cases, pack fresh apple slices and a container of this creamy peanut butter dip. You could even add a baggie of salted pretzles.

Sausage Crescent Roll Swirls

If you're more a savory breakfast person, these spicy sausage pinwheels have a hint of mustard in the mix, too. Bake them up in one big batch and keep them in the fridge for the week. Just heat up what you need for breakfast on the run.

Apple Pie Chex Mix

This sweet Chex Mix recipe is loaded with dried apples and yogurt covered raisins. It's the perfect breakfast Chex Mix for easy snacking in the car. You could even add salted pecans or walnuts to the mix if you wanted a little more protein for your breakfast.

More Easy Travel Recipes

The best way to save money on a family trip is to be mindful of your food budget and pack a few things from home.

As much as we love to dine out for our trip, often breakfast, lunch, or snacks, is a place I’m willing to put in the work to bring something from home.

Here are a few of my favorite ideas:

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25 Easy Make-Ahead Road Trip Meal Ideas they’ll love!

Planning a road trip? Looking for easy, make-ahead meal ideas, whether for a weekend break or a longer trip? Or maybe you want some easy recipes for meals on the road? Here are 25 great ideas for you!

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Easy Make-Ahead Road Trip Meals

I’ll be honest- planning meals for a road trip is one of the things I dislike most.

Don’t get me wrong- I like cooking and I DEFINITELY like eating … but I am not good at creating a meal plan.

I also have a daughter who has gone from eating whatever we give her to being more and more particular about what she likes- and she’d rather not eat at all than eat something she doesn’t love. At home, it’s pretty easy to cook separate meals, but in the van, it becomes a whole different issue- and it makes the process of meal planning a lot harder.

Why plan meals on a road trip at all??

Oh, I hear you. In an ideal world, we’d just head off into the unknown and see what we find. One of the things we enjoy most about travelling is sampling local foods and dishes and enjoying discovering new things.

Both Mr WB and myself are fairly easy to please and can make do with all sorts, but anyone with kids knows that it’s just not that easy. I also don’t want to spend my time on the road worrying about whether she’ll eat anything- so it makes MY life easier if I plan it out a little in advance.

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Road Trip Meal Planning

So, where do you even start with planning meals for a road trip??

For me, I break it down into 2/3 day intervals. Generally, we like to pop into a shop and buy fresh bread, fruit and other bits every 2/3 days. We don’t do MASSIVE week long shops when we travel- our fridge is nowhere near big enough to deal with that and there’s the worry about what happens if you lose power or gas? All that food will go to waste.

Of course, if you’re only going to a weekend, you can easily make-ahead several dishes and just heat them up- much easier.

TOP TIP for picky eaters- Make them choose some meals

One way I tackle our favourite picky eater is to get her to pick 5-7 dinners she will eat. (Annoyingly, this seems to change every week or so!) I also make her come shopping with me- I find if she chooses it, there’s a higher chance she’ll eat it.

While we’re on the subject of kids, here are some posts you might find useful:

• 21 EPIC Children’s car games & road trip activities
• 14 quiet time activities for kids, tweens and teenagers

Our Normal Road Trip Food shopping method

On a ‘normal’ two-week road trip to mainland Europe, this is my tried and trusted routine:

• Buy stuff in UK which we struggle to get overseas (see below)
• Make-ahead meals for first night or two
• Buy things as you travel (at local markets, supermarkets or Lidl)
• Do this every couple of days so we can buy fresh bread, fruit and croissants! Yum!!
• Try to ignore jeans not doing up….!! 
• Remember that people eat EVERYWHERE and try not to overbuy before you leave the UK.

This system has worked fairly well for us. It’s allowed us to discover new things, let Jade choose what she fancies and my stress levels don’t get too high trying to plan out a whole weeks worth of meals.

What about perishable foods?

We have a fridge which works both whilst we’re driving (battery) and when we’re parked up (gas). So we bring a small amount of perishable food with us- milk, cheese, ham, meat, yogurt, fruit, bacon.

We don’t buy too much in case there is a problem and the fridge breaks- it’s always been a little tempermental and is the part of the motorhome I trust the least!!

Easy Road Trip Recipes

When I’m on a road trip, especially if it’s a holiday, I don’t want to spend hours of my time in the galley, prepping, washing, chopping, cooking and washing up!

Here are a few easy recipes we use and love. Most only use one pot and many can be made in advance if you prefer.

5 easy road trip Breakfast ideas

• Greek Yogurt and fresh fruit
• Muesli/ cereal
• Scrambled eggs in a wrap or on toast (toast is HARD to cook on a gas hob though!)
• Bacon/ sausage sandwich (bring your own bacon from the UK. Alternatively, look in European supermarkets- but it won’t look the same. It’s usually much thinner and cooks MUCH faster.)
• One Pan English Breakfast 

Note how those went from fairly healthy to full-on delicious! I’m making myself hungry!

10 easy Lunch ideas for a road trip

We tend to do lunch as we travel- or if we’re exploring we’ll treat ourselves to a cheeky lunch out. Just don’t do that at Neuschwanstein Castle ! ( Jeez- you thought Norway was expensive!!!! )

• Fresh crusty bread and… anything. Cheese, ham, tuna, butter, garlic cheese, crisps, chicken, leftover beef, fish fingers…
• Salad. We try and add some fruit or salad in where possible- we’ll pretend to be healthy every once in a while! If we’re parked up I love to fry up some chicken and pop it onto a quick salad with avocado, tomatoes and peppers. Or try these delicious healthy salad recipes . TOP TIP- WASH your salad. Even the ones in bags. They don’t always wash it in Europe. It also doesn’t seem to last as long (that might be the heat) so don’t over buy.
• Grilled Cheese (see below for recipe)
• Couscous (see below)

I have still not found a decent way to make toast in the van. It’s an ongoing process that I will continue to work at! Still, Grilled Cheese sandwiches are a perfect snack:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

• Sliced Bread
• Cheese (Cheddar and Mozzarella work well)

Butter bread thinly and put butter side down into hot frying pan (not too hot and use butter, not oil.) Add slices of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add other slice of bread on top, butter side up. After a couple of minutes (when bottom slice is brown but not burnt), flip sandwich over. Grill for a couple of minutes. For an extra touch, transfer sandwich to oven tray and bake in oven at 170’c for 5-7 minutes until cheese is totally melted.

Burritos are basically large wraps, with beans and/ or rice added into the wrap. One of the easiest ones is the bean and cheese burrito, but you can easily add in meat, sauces and any leftovers you might have.

Ingredients: 

• 1 whole-grain tortilla wrap
• 1 medium-sized can of black beans (cook in advance if needed)
• Cheese- sliced or grated

Simply spread ingredients over wrap, fold in all ends tightly and enjoy!

5 Easy Road Trip Sandwich ideas

Sometimes, simple is best. Here are some easy road trip sandwich ideas:

• Sausage or Bacon Sandwich – great for breakfast or lunch!
• Ham/Chicken/ Salami Sandwich – with or without cheese
• Jam or Peanut Butter Sandwich
• Egg Mayo Sandwich
• Tuna sandwich

Couscous is magical. Lighter than rice and so versatile. I make a big helping of this and it lasts for lunch and dinner quite happily.

The trick is to double the amount of liquid to cous cous. One cup couscous= 2 cups stock. I love to use chicken or vegetable stock. Nothing fancy; those little cubes in some boiling water are just fine. Stir until the cube disolves, then pour it over the couscous. Leave to stand for 10 minutes. The beauty of this is you can add whatever you like to it. We like lemon, mint, feta, avocado, red peppers, spring onions, celery… the list is endless. I generally make a bowl of plain couscous and we each add different fillings to it.

10 easy or make-ahead road trip meals for dinner

Ahhhh… now this is the fun part. Everyone’s been driving in the exact same motorhome for several hours… and as soon as you arrive somewhere and the van is parked up for the night, they all turn to you and ask ‘what’s for dinner?’…!

All of these recipes take no more than 30 minutes or you can make many of them ahead for the first few days of the trip.

TOP TIP- Be kind to yourself. Many people dislike ‘pre-made’ sauces, feeling that they’re ‘cheating’ if they don’t cook everything from scratch. But it’s your trip too, so don’t be judgemental about sauces from a jar. Yes, there might be a bit more sugar or salt- but it’s a heck of a lot better than a pizza or McDonalds. So be kind to yourself and make things easy.

Some easy or make-ahead meal ideas for dinners on the road:

• 3-way mince (Bolognaise, Chilli, Savoury)- can be made in the slow cooker

Spanish Omelette

• Easy make-ahead taco Bowl

Chicken Quinoa

• Pea/ Pesto Pasta

Cheats Pizza

3-way mince: bolognese, chilli or savoury.

Here’s the recipe for 3 way mince bulk cooking. You can get savoury mince, bolognese and chilli from 1 pack of mince. It’s the perfect ‘make-ahead’ recipe and is very easy to heat up on the road.

1 pack of 500g mince makes 5 meals: 2 x savoury mince 2 x chilli 1 x bolognese

Start with chopped onion, pepper, garlic and grated carrot all in one large pan with a little oil (or butter) until softened.

Split the mix between 3 pans & add the mince. Cut it long ways in the packet before adding so it’s easier to break up in the pan.

You can add any vegetables at this point. Previously I’ve used courgette, mushrooms and aubergine, all finely chopped. You can get 6/7/8 kinds of vegetables in there!

Brown the mince on a low to medium heat so it doesn’t clump together, break it up with a spoon as it cooks.  Add the seasoning to the chilli pan (cumin, turmeric, chilli powder, garlic powder and paprika) and garlic powder to the savoury mince & bolognese pans. 

Once browned, strain peas & sweetcorn (one small can of corn & 1 small can of peas and add to savoury mince pan.

Add one can of chopped tomatoes to the chilli pan & 1 to the bolognese, stir through. Drain and rinse the kidney beans and add to the chilli. I used half a can of beans, I’ll save the rest for a salad.

Rinse the tomato cans out with a little water & add to the savoury mince pan. Stir in Bisto granules (or beef stock & maybe cornflour or thickener as needed). Add a little Worcestershire sauce & pepper to taste.

Taste & adjust seasonings if necessary.

Divide & eat, or store in the fridge until ready.

Many thanks to Phillippa from PhilyaBelly for the recipe – follow her on Instagram

Serve with:

• Spaghetti, rice or potatoes.
• Garlic or crusty bread
• Grated cheese
• Side salad if your family will eat it.

I LOVE this Spanish Omelette. It’s so easy to make and only uses one pan.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped

Heat the oil in large frying pan. Peel potatoes and slice thinly. Put the slices in the pan with the onion & garlic. Cover the pan and cook until the potatoes are tender, turning them occasionally. Beat the eggs.

When the potato and onion mixture is cooked, add it to the eggs and mix together. Heat another spoon of oil in the pan, and turn the heat down as low as it will go. Pour the egg, onion & potato mixture into the pan.

The essence of this dish is slow cooking and it should take about 20 minutes. When there is no liquid left turn omelette over for 2 minutes. It’s now ready to serve and eat! Delicious- perfect with salad or french loaf.

Lamb Kebabs

Take 500g (4 people) of lean lamb mince and add spices (salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika… whatever you like!) Mould into balls or around a skewer and cook on BBQ or in oven until browned.

If using BBQ and wooden skewers, soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes first.

Serve with Tzatziki- Greek yogurt, mint, lemon and cucumber

Easy make-ahead Taco bowl

• 1 can of beef
• ½ of a small jar of salsa
• Bag of tortilla chips
• 1 can of beans
• 1 avocado/ guacamole

Warm beef and cook beans as directed on label. Mix and add on top of chips (can be warmed in oven) Add Salsa, avocado/ guacamole, sour cream and grated cheese as desired (we pop the whole thing in the oven to melt the cheese.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 tsp. herb de Provence (or any herbs)
• 1 cup. quinoa
• 1/4 cup. white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup. olive oil
• 2 green onions
• 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 4 cup. rocket/ lettuce/ salad
• 2/3 cup. olives, quartered
• 12 oz. tomatoes, halved
• Season chicken breasts with herbs, salt and pepper. Grill 3 minutes per side on medium-high or until cooked through.
• Cook quinoa as label directs.
• Mix vinegar, olive oil, green onions, Dijon mustard and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss half of the vinaigrette with cooked quinoa, salad/ rocket, tomatoes and olives. Serve chicken over quinoa with remaining vinaigrette.

Pea / Pesto Pasta

• Pasta  
• fresh or frozen peas
• Chopped chives, for serving
• Cook pasta. Drain and return pasta to pot. 
• While pasta is cooking, roughly chop 1 cup peas. Add ricotta and lemon zest and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. 
• Add ricotta mixture, remaining 1/2 cup peas, and pasta water; toss to combine. Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired.

Alternatively, cook pasta, add several large spoons of pesto and some grated cheese and mix well.

Salmon with rice and vegetables

We eat salmon a lot- it’s very good for you.

Grill (or use a low-wattage air fryer ) and serve with rice, couscous (see above) and vegetables.

Sure, you can make your own dough and add toppings- and if that works for you, then go for it. However, we cheat.

• Grab 2 pitta breads per person and pop them under the grill
• You want them warm, but not ‘crispy’
• Turn over, and spread with pesto (green or red)
• Add mozzarella cheese, ham, salami, mushrooms… whatever you like!
• Grill until bubbling

If you’d like more inspiration, here are a couple of our favourite camping cookbooks:

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

We’ve done an entire post on 15 quick & healthy road trip snacks (many of them Keto friendly) but here are a couple more ideas for you:

• 1 large can of tuna
• ½ cup of cranberries
• A packet of whole-grain crackers

First, take the tuna out from the can and empty it into a bowl. Next, mash a whole avocado and add it with the cranberries into the tuna. Use whole-grain crackers to dip into your tuna.

Apple Cookies

• 2 green apples
• Peanut butter
• Dark chocolate chips
• Almond slices

Cut an apple into slices that resemble a cookie, then layer the rest of the ingredients in between two slices to make the snack look like an apple sandwich. The snack will stay fresh in an ice cooler for two days.

Barabrith – great snack for afternoon tea!

Other things:

Whilst we’re on the subject, don’t forget to bring:

• Washing up liquid
• Big scrubbing pad for BBQ if using
• cleaning supplies
• Kitchen roll
• Bottle/ can opener
• Mugs and glasses
• Tea/ coffee/ sugar

How else can I help you today??

• See the BEST Road Trip Journal to record your adventures!
• Show me essential Road Trip Accessories
• Get 100+ essential road trip songs (+ playlist)
• Help me plan my road trip
• See gift ideas for road trippers

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-08-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Hi Kat I’ve not tried these yet but they get a good review on Amazon. As I’ve bought the barbecue you recommended in your blogs I thought I would try to keep my new BBQ clean as I absolutely hate scrubbing it after use. Just bought a pack to try on our trip to France in September BBQ Grill Mat, Set of 5 Beeway® Non Stick Barbecue Baking Mats for Charcoal, Gas or Electric Grill – Heat Resistant, Reusable and Easy to Clean, FDA Aproved – Bonus 12″ Just thought you may also find these useful

They look amazing- let me know how you find them 🙂

The https://wandering-bird.com website is one of the best we have found, and the 15 Easy Road Trip Meal Ideas article is very well written and useful! Thanks and kisses! 🙂

I recommend a ridge monkey for camper van cooking. You can cook chicken breasts, steaks, poach eggs, bake a cake, make an omelette, and it also makes great toast!

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30 Breakfast on the Road Ideas to Fuel Your Adventures

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Rise and shine! Fuel your adventures with these breakfast on the road ideas. Start your day on a sweet note with pancake bites or fill it with savory goodness with wraps and sandwiches.

Ready to tackle your to-do list and hit the road? First, let’s talk about breakfast! These breakfast on the road ideas prove you can enjoy delicious eats without sitting comfortably at a dining table. No more skipping breakfast or relying on boring snacks.

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But I also know how hectic life can get, and finding time to cook a fancy breakfast can be tough.

Sandwiches have always been our go-to packed meals for family trips and long drives. With endless options and quick preparation, they’re a breeze to pack and devour on the go. Is it time for me to discover new portable morning meals?!

I just realized that muffins and homemade bread are popular choices for many. Let’s switch things up and explore new breakfast food! Sweet or savory, let’s prioritize protein-filled meals for lasting energy.

Traveling is exciting, but it can also be super stressful. If sandwiches and wraps aren’t an option, grab some store-bought energy bars to keep you fueled and focused on your journey.

Check out these amazing breakfast on the road ideas – they’re perfect for all of us who are constantly on the go, whether we’re hitting the road or racing through busy weekdays.

Puff Pastry Breakfast Pizza Recipe

Getting ready for a family trip? These breakfast on the road ideas are your best friends. For an exciting twist to your classic pizza favorite, try this puffy pastry breakfast pizza recipe with chicken, bacon , mozzarella cheese , and BBQ sauce. Pizza is one of the best portable meals you can ever have.

Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Breakfast Pizza Recipe

Easy Instant Pot Egg Bites Without Cottage Cheese

Skip the drive-thru! These breakfast on the road ideas are tastier and healthier. Got extra mozzarella cheese from your breakfast pizza? Make these Instant Pot egg bites – a great alternative to breakfast sandwiches and perfect as healthy snacks all day long.

Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Egg Bites Without Cottage Cheese

Perfect French Baguettes

It’s about time for you to have a new favorite bread for breakfast. These French baguettes take only around two hours to make. If you have extra time to prepare something special, go for this one. Bread is the ultimate road trip food – enjoy it on its own or with some fresh fruit.

Get the Recipe: Perfect French Baguettes

Protein Donut

Breakfast on the road ideas include sweet recipes that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. Swap the candy bars for this protein donut. This sweet treat only requires almond flour , cream cheese , Greek yogurt , and other basic ingredients.

Get the Recipe: Protein Donut

TikTok Parmesan Potatoes

Do you want to start your day with savory breakfast on the road ideas? These parmesan potatoes that recently went viral on TikTok are perfect for a family road trip. No need to buy chips at the gas station. Just let these potatoes cool before storing them in an airtight container.

Get the Recipe: TikTok Parmesan Potatoes

— — — My Top 5 Viral TikTok Recipes — Revealed ! WARNING : These tasty recipes will make your mouth water! Still want to know which recipes made the list? Click here to get ALL five recipes . — — —

Instant Pot Pancake Bites

Get your Instant Pot and turn these breakfast on the road ideas to life! It just makes everything easier, right? These breakfast pancake bites are a good option for road trips as they are small, easy to pack, and fun to eat. This must be part of every epic road trip!

Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pancake Bites

TikTok Baked Oats

These breakfast on the road ideas will help you stay healthier while on the move. Try this baked oatmeal recipe for a healthy breakfast.

It’s a portable road trip snack or breakfast that can be prepared in just 25 minutes. You can also transfer it in a mason jar and bring it in your daily morning commute.

Get the Recipe: TikTok Baked Oats

Banana Granola

These breakfast on the road ideas are a lifesaver for busy work mornings or road trips. Homemade granola is a favorite road trip breakfast for many travelers. Bake granola bars for a healthy breakfast filled with crunchy, fruity flavors.

Get the Recipe: Banana Granola

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Mcdonald’s Yogurt Parfait

We don’t really prepare parfait at home, so it’s been a while since I had one. And it was for dessert, not breakfast! I can’t wait to start my day with this soon. Thinking of other fruits to include aside from berries as early as now. Excited for a delicious and refreshing morning meal.

Get the Recipe: Mcdonald’s Yogurt Parfait

Egg, Spinach and Ham Breakfast Sandwiches

Healthy sandwiches are already a part of my morning routine. They are some of my favorite road trip snacks, too! This sandwich with eggs, spinach, ham, and cheddar cheese is a great option for your next trip. Keep them in a plastic container for mess-free travel.

Get the Recipe: Egg, Spinach and Ham Breakfast Sandwiches

Berry Protein Smoothie

Hectic mornings call for grab-and-go breakfast on the road ideas that are easy to prepare. I’m not a big fan of protein bars, but I love delicious protein smoothies! This one has berries, protein powder , hemp seeds, and vanilla extract . Prepare it, put it in your tumbler, and drive.

Get the Recipe: Berry Protein Smoothie

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Muffins

These breakfast on the road ideas prove you can eat healthily, even with a packed schedule. If you love egg muffins, I suggest trying their amazing sweet counterpart – chocolate chip muffins. This classic must be on every road trip meal plan. They’re also good snacks for kids.

Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Muffins

Wake up Wrap Recipe

Embrace the convenience of breakfast on the road ideas, and you’ll never skip your morning meal again. This wrap is one of the delicious recipes you can try on busy mornings. Morning meals don’t have to be bland – they can be in the form of tasty wraps filled with savory goodness.

Get the Recipe: Wake up Wrap Recipe

Easy No-Cook Vegan Egg Salad Sandwich

Breakfast recipes don’t have to be complex and time-consuming. This is one of the healthiest breakfast on the road ideas, offering a vegan and sandwich alternative to the classic egg salad. It can also serve as a road trip dinner, in case you get stuck in traffic on your way home.

Get the Recipe: Easy No-Cook Vegan Egg Salad Sandwich

Breakfast Quesadilla Recipe

Whether you’re commuting, hiking, or traveling, these road trip breakfast ideas will keep you nourished on the move. Instead of preparing your favorite breakfast burritos, try this breakfast quesadilla recipe.

It’s the perfect meal for road trips as it’s easy to hold in the car. It’s also a great dinner treat – I just add extra bacon or substitute it with chicken to make it more satisfying.

Get the Recipe: Breakfast Quesadilla Recipe

Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

These breakfast on the road ideas are perfect for your busy lifestyle. Eating a bowl of cereal in the car seems impossible, so let’s turn them into a portable road trip snack.

This no-bake, five-ingredient peanut butter bar recipe is a good option for road trips. It’s so delicious – you’ll want to eat it even at home.

Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cereal Bars

Easy Almond Croissants

With these healthy road trip foods, you can savor a homemade meal wherever your day takes you. These fancy-looking croissants actually just take 25 minutes to prepare.

They use simple pantry ingredients, including almond flour, vanilla extract, almond extract, and unsalted butter . This basic recipe can make four croissants, so there’s enough for everyone.

Get the Recipe: Easy Almond Croissants

No-Bake Energy Balls

Don’t settle for bland morning meals on your travels – these breakfast on the road ideas are full of flavor and satisfaction. Consider these energy balls for your next trip or as a part of your daily morning routine.

You can conveniently enjoy them while on the road alongside your favorite trail mix to fuel you up for an adventure.

Get the Recipe: No-Bake Energy Balls

Fluffy Vegan Zucchini Muffins

Long road trips call for convenient breakfast on the road ideas that even newbie cooks can easily prepare and pack. These zucchini muffins are your best options if you’re looking for healthy road trip snacks and morning meals.

It has egg (or flax egg), chocolate chips, and grated zucchini – a nutrition-packed meal that can sustain you on a busy day.

Get the Recipe: Fluffy Vegan Zucchini Muffins

Nectarine Bread

I love how these breakfast on the road ideas introduce us to new versions of our old favorites. Crisp breads are amazing, and this nectarine bread is just as fantastic.

You only need a few basic ingredients, such as baking powder, unsalted butter, nectarines, and blueberries. It’s a satisfying breakfast for road trips.

Get the Recipe: Nectarine Bread

Vanilla Overnight Oats

Enjoying a bowl of oatmeal on the road is obviously impossible, so why not try a more portable version? These overnight oats are one of the best road trip food ideas as they are easy to make and can be conveniently put in a mason jar.

I constantly switch things up depending on my mood. Sometimes, I add maple syrup and switch oat milk with almond milk.

Get the Recipe: Vanilla Overnight Oats

Egg and Cheese Burrito

These breakfast on the road ideas are perfect for fueling up before a long day of adventures. Craving cheese breakfast muffins? Try a heartier, quicker option with an egg and cheese burrito. When I’m super hungry, I’m sure I can eat an entire burrito and a few energy bites!

Get the Recipe: Egg and Cheese Burrito

Banana Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are common ingredients in many breakfast on the road ideas. Take advantage of these nutritional benefits by enjoying this banana chia pudding!

It only requires four ingredients, including almond milk and vanilla extract. Depending on my mood, I sometimes add chocolate chips to my pudding to transform it into a delicious chocolatey treat.

Get the Recipe: Banana Chia Pudding

Simple Oatmeal Protein Cookies

No need to rely on fast food during the road trip – these breakfast on the road ideas are healthier and more budget-friendly. In fact, many of them use the ever-nutritious and affordable oats!

After enjoying overnight oats, it’s time for oatmeal protein cookies. Road trip meal planning can be a hassle, but baking cookies can make it much easier.

Get the Recipe: Simple Oatmeal Protein Cookies

Simple Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

Keep everyone energized while traveling with these breakfast on the road ideas. This waffle sandwich is incredibly simple yet mouthwatering, with bacon pieces, waffles, and cheese.

You can even modify it to include delicious vegetables. Make it your own and add your favorites, from meats to veggies.

Get the Recipe: Simple Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

Spam Musubi with Egg

Breakfast on the road ideas are a game-changer for beginner cooks seeking to bring their homemade meals on their travels. This spam musubi with egg is a must-have on every road trip food list. Plan a trip, savor good flavors, and admire how Pinterest-worthy your meal is!

Get the Recipe: Spam Musubi with Egg

Lemon Strawberry Muffins

I just realized that muffins are a really popular breakfast for road trips. And there are so many variations that I can do even at home. Now, I’m excited to plan a trip! These strawberry lemon muffins are next on my to-bake list. So excited to try these and pack them for our next getaway.

Get the Recipe: Lemon Strawberry Muffins

Spinach and Feta Breakfast Wrap

Whatever I eat for breakfast, I can eat for dinner, too, like this spinach and feta wrap! Don’t you just love how versatile breakfast on the road ideas are? The Italian seasoning really brightens up this dish, alongside spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Get the Recipe: Spinach and Feta Breakfast Wrap

Mini Sausage Rolls Recipe

Cheese rolls and sausage rolls are top-tier breakfast on the road ideas! But I’ve never really tried preparing the latter because I haven’t found the best recipe… until now. Let’s enjoy these mini sausage rolls on the road or with afternoon tea at home.

Get the Recipe: Mini Sausage Rolls Recipe

Air Fryer Soft-Boiled Eggs

Soft-boiled eggs make the best road trip meals! Of course, you can still have your favorite egg recipes while on the road. Cook them in an air fryer, pack them in individual servings, and enjoy them alongside fresh veggies or bread buns. 

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Soft Boiled Eggs

FAQ About Breakfast on the Road Ideas

What is the easiest food to eat while driving.

The easiest foods to eat while driving are finger food items that can be held in one hand. But it’s crucial to prioritize safety on the road and avoid any activities that may cause distractions.

What is the best sandwich to travel with?

There are plenty of options, but one of the best worth trying is this breakfast sandwich featuring ham and spinach.

What foods to avoid while driving?

It’s best to avoid any foods that may be messy or require two hands to eat, such as soups and hot beverages.

What finger foods to eat in the car? 

The easiest finger foods to eat in the car are energy bars and chips .

How do you store sandwiches for a road trip?

Place the sandwiches in an.airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them from drying out.

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it’s true that many of us skip it due to our busy morning schedules. I’m lucky enough to work from home, yet sometimes, I still get so busy that I cannot prepare a good, satisfying breakfast.

These road trip food ideas are amazing options not only for families going on a road trip but also for professionals who are always on the go. Just be careful about eating while driving. Safety must always be a priority before addressing that hungry tummy.

25 Camping Breakfast Ideas You’ll Crave Even at Home

Ready to elevate your camping meals? These camping breakfast ideas are easy to make and incredibly delicious! They include sandwiches, burritos, and bite-sized treats.

Read it here: 25 Camping Breakfast Ideas You’ll Crave Even at Home

25 Breakfast Casserole Recipes to Jumpstart Your Morning

Enjoy hassle-free cooking with these breakfast casserole recipes. Each of these dishes features flavorful twists, from berries and bacon to various veggies.

Read it here: 25 Breakfast Casserole Recipes to Jumpstart Your Morning

26 Delicious Breakfast Ideas to Kickstart Your Mornings!

Breakfasts shouldn’t be boring! Here’s a list of breakfast ideas that are delicious and easy to brighten up your mornings.

Read it here: 26 Delicious Breakfast Ideas to Kickstart Your Mornings!

Tired of meal planning stress? Save time, savor variety, and explore culinary creativity with our top 3 meal kit picks! ?️ Why not try Hello Fresh for diverse, exciting recipes, Blue Apron for gourmet cooking made easy, or Green Chef for eco-conscious dining?

Even quick, simple meals can introduce us to new flavors and culinary techniques! Try these delectable dishes and enjoy them any time of the day, whether you’re at home, in the car, or at a scenic vacation spot.

• 25 Picnic Breakfast Ideas to Make You Jump Out of Bed
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• Custard Yogurt Toast (Viral Tiktok Recipe)
• Best Homemade Baked Donuts: Krispy Kreme Snickers Donuts

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20+ Healthy Road Trip Make Ahead Freezer Friendly Breakfasts

Breakfast is a very important meal of the day, especially when traveling. We’ve compiled a list of healthy road trip make ahead freezer friendly breakfasts .

When we travel, we like to prepare our own healthy road trip food . These breakfast ideas are easy to make ahead and freeze to pack for your road trip adventure!

Most of these recipes like pancakes, waffles, and muffins can be set out to thaw to eat for breakfast or snacks. The egg dishes are great to reheat in the hotel microwave or on a camp stove.

Here are 20+ delicious make ahead road trip breakfast ideas to start the day off right to keep you full while you’re on the go!

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How to store healthy road trip make ahead freezer breakfasts.

Freezer-safe reusable containers with tight-fitting lids. Use smaller ones for packing up individual servings. If you plan to reheat in the containers, be sure they are heatproof. 

Zip top freezer bags .  Since they lay flat, they’ll take up minimal space in your freezer.

Plastic wrap and heavy-duty aluminum foil .  Both are good for adding an extra layer of protection against air, which can help prevent freezer burn.

Freezer labels .  Labeling your food helps you identify it later. 

20+ Recipes for Healthy Road Trip Make Ahead Freezer Friendly Breakfasts

3-Ingredient Almond Milk Crepes (Easy + Dairy-free)

Quick and easy to make, these Almond Milk Crepes come together with just 3 ingredients! They're soft, buttery, naturally dairy-free, and can easily be made gluten-free! Make a batch or two, freeze, then pack for your next road trip for a healthy breakfast or snack!

Strawberries and Cream Baked Oatmeal {easy & freezer friendly}

There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of oatmeal on a cool morning. This strawberries and cream baked oatmeal is such a healthy and delicious breakfast. Freeze then warm in the microwave or over a camp stove for a yummy breakfast on the road!

4-Ingredient Banana Oat Pancakes (Gluten-free Option)

These 4-Ingredient Banana Oat Pancakes are quick and easy to make, and come together in just 25 minutes! They're cozy, fluffy, and packed with banana flavor! Gluten-free friendly! Perfect to freeze and pack for healthy road trip breakfasts or snacks!

Keto Blueberry Muffins

Skip the carbs and make a batch of these freezer friendly keto Blueberry Muffins! It's a yummy road trip make ahead breakfast!

Almond Milk Waffles

Beginner-friendly almond milk waffles perfect for freezing. Made using simple ingredients, undetectably vegan & so so filling! These waffles are the perfect portable meal or snack for road trips!

High Protein Breakfast Frittata

This High Protein Breakfast Frittata is filled with hearty protein and delicious vegetables for a well-rounded meal and freezer friendly! Bake, freeze, then reheat in your hotel or at your campsite for a breakfast that will fuel you for hours!

Keto Breakfast Pockets - Low Carb, Gluten-Free, THM S

Breakfast pockets are terrific portable meals for travel. This is an easy make-ahead recipe you can freeze then reheat for a yummy on the go meal!

Healthy Lemon Blueberry Muffins (with yogurt!)

Yogurt and honey make these healthier than traditional muffins. There are tips for how to keep ingredient costs down! Muffins are a great road trip food that's portable and easy to eat while traveling.

Sausage Muffins - Low Carb, Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, THM S

It's so easy to make a big batch of these filling sausage muffins to enjoy on your next road trip! This healthy make ahead recipe is also freezer friendly!

Cassava Flour Pancakes [Paleo & Gluten Free]

These cassava flour pancakes are simple,  fluffy, and delicious. They make a perfect no-fuss breakfast plus they're paleo and gluten free! Easy make ahead freezer breakfast for road trips!

Easy Vegan Quiche

The filling is packed with flavor from sautéed onions, garlic, and browned mushrooms. It calls for a pre-made pie crust to make it easier to make. Freeze then reheat in the hotel microwave or on the camp stove to enjoy a warm and healthy breakfast to start your day while traveling!

Healthy Banana Carrot Muffins

Soft, moist and fluffy whole wheat flour muffins made with mashed ripe bananas, shredded carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom! (gluten free option included). The perfect, easy make-ahead breakfast for road trips!

Banana pikelets

These healthy and fluffy banana pikelets are super easy to make with just four simple ingredients! They freeze well and make an excellent make ahead breakfast for your next road trip.

Mediterranean Breakfast Burritos (vegetarian)

These easy and healthy vegetarian breakfast burritos are full of protein with Mediterranean flavors. Yummy make ahead and freezable road trip meal! These burritos are a great portable breakfast idea for traveling!

Pear muffins

These pear muffins are light, moist and delicious. With wholemeal flour and not too much sugar they are a healthyish treat the whole family will love. Make ahead, freeze and eat for breakfast or snacks while traveling.

Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole (Gluten-Free)

This Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is an easy, gluten-free, make-ahead breakfast everyone will love! It's a good road trip meal to eat for dinner as well - simply reheat and eat!

Healthy Protein Chocolate Waffles (Whole Wheat)

These healthy vegan chocolate waffles are packed with plant-based protein and nutrients (with no protein powder!). They're also oil free, egg-free, and boosted with whole wheat flour and unrefined sugar. Make ahead and freeze for a healthy road trip breakfast or snack.

Delicious Oatmeal Scones

These amazingly tasty oatmeal scones are made with flour, oats, honey and butter. Enjoy this healthy road trip make ahead freezer meal for breakfast or snacking during the day.

Air Fryer Breakfast Frittata (GF, LC, K)

This Air Fryer Frittata is a quick, easy and protein-packed way to start your day! Make ahead and freeze then pack for your next road trip. Quickly heat the frittata in the hotel microwave or on the camp stove to enjoy a healthy breakfast!

Fluffiest Keto Blueberry Pancakes with Almond flour

Bursting with juicy blueberries, these low carb almond flour pancakes melt in your mouth and taste deliciously soaked in melty butter and sugar-free maple syrup. They also make a good portable snack to eat plain anytime while traveling.

Gluten-Free Zucchini Blueberry Muffins

Zucchini and blueberries are combined into tasty low-carb, gluten-free muffins! This make-ahead recipe is also freezer-friendly which is perfect for a road trip breakfast or snack!

Easy Crockpot Breakfast Casserole - Recipes From A Pantry

Enjoy a delicious healthy egg dish with this Crockpot Breakfast Casserole. It's a great recipe for a make ahead freezer meal for road trips!

The Best 100% Buckwheat Waffles

These Best Buckwheat Waffles are light, crispy and nutritious. They are naturally gluten-free and so easy to make! Make a double batch and freeze some for healthy breakfasts on-the-go.

Instant Pot Sous Vide Keto Egg Bites

Discover how easy it is to make your own keto egg bites right in your Instant Pot! They are just as delicious as the sous vide ones at Starbucks but don't have the high cost. This delicious finger food is perfect for a snack or breakfast on the go.

Banana Carrot Oatmeal Muffins

Banana Carrot Oatmeal Muffins are the perfect healthy breakfast or snack! Kids love them, and they are a great way to sneak in extra fruits and veggies! Plus they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free so they are an allergy friendly snack!

Mini Broccoli Cheese Crustless Quiches

This healthy egg bites recipe is perfect for a grab and go road trip breakfast! The recipe is customizable and freezer-friendly so you can make them ahead of time to pack for your next trip!

Make Your Own Healthy Snacks

• Healthy travel snack recipes
• Healthy road trip snacks for kids
• Healthy granola bar recipes
• Healthy protein snack recipes
• Gluten free snack recipes
• Vegan snack bar recipes

Find Healthy Snack Ideas

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My hubby and I just returned from a road trip and I wish I’d had these ideas before we left! Such yummy options! I’m pinning for future trips! Thank you!

What a fantastic idea! I really need to do this. Pinning! 🙂 Visiting from Happiness is Homemade. I’d love to have you share this post at my linkup as well: https://lifetalesbooks.blogspot.com/p/calling-fellow-bloggers.html

These recipes are getting me hungry for breakfast. I pinned a couple of them. Thanks for sharing!

These all look yummy…and so convenient. I’ll be trying many of them…

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111+ Healthy Road Trip Food Ideas (Non Refrigerated Snacks)

Updated: Aug 16, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Bringing healthy foods that don't need refrigeration is a great option to save money and time while on the road. Since I travel most weeks for work, I've gotten to truly test out the best nonperishable foods to bring on a road trip for kids and adults.

All these healthy road trip foods don't need refrigeration for at least a day, and most of them will last indefinitely. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, any of these healthy non perishable snacks will keep you satisfied without having to constantly stop at restaurants or grocery stores.

This article covers well over a hundred road trip food ideas that don't need refrigeration, including pre-packaged nonperishable snacks, meals for each time of day, delicious chocolate snacks , and some recipes you can make ahead of time. Simply use the table of contents below to navigate to what type of road food you seek.

Healthy Non Perishable Snacks

Healthy road trip snacks for kids, fruits to bring on a road trip, gluten-free road trip snacks (non refrigerated), healthy road trip meals for breakfast, healthy road trip meals for lunch, healthy road trip meals for dinner, sweet but healthy road trip snacks (non refrigerated).

Healthy pre-made snacks are among the best foods to bring on a road trip, because not only do they save you time, but they're easy to find and can please kiddos as well as adults.

• Snacking Ramen
• Protein Bars
• Homemade Pop-Tarts
• Mini Muffins
• Seaweed Sheets
• Garlic Peas
• Tahini-Based Fruit Dip (for crackers, chips, or other fruits)
• Fresh Walnuts
• Thai Chili & Lime Cashews (from Trader Joe's)
• Shell-On Pistachios (Wonderful Pistachios are reliably delicious)
• Salted Sunflower Seeds
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
• Whole Peanuts
• Raw Macadamia Nuts
• Spiced Pecans (homemade are easy & less expensive!)
• Chocolate-Covered Almonds

• Animal Crackers
• Freeze-Dried Snap Peas (they'll be so obsessed with the crunch they won't even realize it's vegetables!)
• Pretzels (filled or plain; whichever your kiddos prefer)
• Cheese Sticks (mozzarella sticks are easiest to find)
• Freeze Dried Cheese Bites (like Moon Cheese)
• Apple Juice Packs
• Fruity Chia Squeeze Packs
• Healthy Fudge (Nut Butter or Seed Butter Base)
• Graham Crackers
• Annie's Fruit Snacks
• Single-Serve Dry Cereal
• Nut or Seed Milk (this shelf-stable option comes in single-serves, as well, and can make getting your kid to eat breakfast just as easy as at home, especially with the addition of the crunchy freeze-fried fruit!)
• Cherry Tomatoes

• Dried Fruit (i.e. mango, pineapple, apple, etc.)
• Freeze-Dried Fruits (for kiddos with missing teeth or anyone who doesn't like the tough texture of the dried versions; I recommend trying strawberries or mangoes)
• Applesauce Cups
• Mixed Fruit Cups
• Canned Fruit
• Fruit Leather
• Raisins or Dried Cranberries
• Toasted Coconut Chips
• Watermelon Squares
• Cherries on the Stem
• Apples or Apple Slices (great with peanut butter or tahini)
• Asian Pears
• Strawberries
• Dragon Fruit
• Blueberries
• Squeezable Fruit Pouches

Finding gluten-free snacks for road trips is easier than ever these days, and for my fellow grain-free friends, most of these options are also free from grains.

• Veggie Straws
• Flaxseed Pudding in Mason Jars
• Baby Carrots
• Celery Sticks With Dip
• Pre-Cut Bell Peppers
• Lentil Crackers (these can be homemade or sometimes found in stores)
• Tortilla Chips
• Cassava Chips (the Siete brand one comes in several shapes & sizes and we love it with hummus or salsa at my house)
• Potato Chips
• Plantain Chips
• Simple Mills Grain-Free Crackers
• Popped Sorghum
• Clusterbucks (Chocolate Buckwheat Treats)
• Roasted Chickpeas
• French Macarons (fillings vary)
• Coconut Cookies or Macaroons
• Halva (Sesame Seed-Based Sweet Treat)

• English Muffins
• Blueberry or Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Cereal Bars
• Granola (here's my favorite recipe )
• Waffles (making studier versions ahead of time makes them easy to be stored in bags & drizzled with jam, nut butter, or chocolate spread for a sweet breakfast treat)
• Banana Bread

• Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
• Pita Bread (with deli meats, nut butters, pomegranate seeds, a sprinkle of granola, or any combination of flavors you take along)
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Trail Mix (Homemade or Store-Bought)
• Crackers and Hard Cheeses (like parmesan or gouda)
• Chips and Salsa
• Packets of Nut Butter (Justin's brand is reliable)
• Pita Chips and Hummus
• Sweet Potato Chips

• Canned Chili (Annie's brand is great)
• Canned Soups
• Canned Beans
• Salmon Jerky
• Canned Tuna or Chicken
• Packet Rice or Quinoa
• Packets of Lentil Stew or Chickpea Stew
• Salami Sticks (can easily be sliced, or you can buy small ones for easy snacking)
• Premade Falafel Balls
• Baked Sweet Potatoes

• Peanut Butter Cookies
• Almond Flour Brownies
• Dark Chocolate Chips
• Homemade Chocolate Chip Rice Crispy Treats
• Rice Pudding Cups
• Nut Butter Cups
• Sugar-Free Candy Bars
• Chocolate Tahini Spread
• Candied Ginger Pieces
• Energy Bites
• Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans
• No-Bake Cookie Dough
• Pepero Sticks (or Pocky )
• Peanut Brittle
• Dark Chocolate Bars

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Road Trip Breakfast Ideas and Snacks

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

From make-ahead recipes to grab-and-go snack bars, road trip breakfast ideas are essential to keeping everyone’s energy levels up and preventing the kids (and drivers) from getting fussy!

Our family loves to travel but we equally love to eat healthy and save money. It is so easy to stop for fast food and potato chips from the nearest gas station when you’ve been driving for hours, so I’m sharing an easy-to-read list of road trip food ideas that are convenient, delicious, and easy to pack! 

Meal Planning for a Road Trip

When deciding what you are going to be packing on your next road trip, be sure to consider the best way to pack it. It takes a little planning, but it will be worth it! 

Large Cooler – Large coolers take up a lot of real estate in the car, but they are essential to making sure none of your food goes to waste. If you are on a long road trip, you’ll also want to have a smaller cooler with ice packs upfront with you. That way you can easily grab fruits or drinks without having to pull over. 

Essentials: Here are a few other things you’ll want to pack to make breakfast even easier! 

• Paper Towels
• Plates and bowls
• Utensils – Forks, Spoons, Knives
• Water bottles 
• Cups or bowls to portion out snacks
• Dish soap and a dish sponge
• Small garbage bags – keep one in the car for the car ride and use the others in the hotel in case the trash can is too small. 
• Pre-moistened cleaning wipes – Kids spill, so be prepared!
• This back of the seat organizer isn’t required, but it is a lifesaver for us! Tuck water bottles and snacks into the different pockets. Then hang a plastic bag on it for the trash.

Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Here are my favorite make ahead breakfast ideas:

• Hard-boiled eggs – Eggs are a fast grab-and-go breakfast idea. They make the best snacks because they are filling and a great source of protein! Remember to pack salt, if you need it. 
• Breakfast burritos – When you are at home, scramble eggs with meat and vegetables of your choice. Let cool and then store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, wrap the eggs in tortillas and enjoy!
• Overnight Oats – This is one of the easiest make-ahead breakfasts that you can make. Add the oats, milk, maple syrup, and toppings to individual mason jars and pack them upright in your cooler. When you are ready to eat it, enjoy it cold! Overnight oats can also be made in the hotel room the night before. Bring a box of nut milk (non-refrigerated), and sandwich bags with oatmeal and dried fruit or seeds. 
• Oatmeal cups – Bake these the night before and bring them in a freezer bag. They do not need to be refrigerated, so they make a great option for any outdoor adventure. 
• Breakfast Cookies – These are called breakfast cookies but they’re a great option any time of day.

Breads and Muffins

• Banana Bread or Pumpkin Bread – Make two loaves and wrap each one in plastic wrap and foil, or place in an airtight container. If it’s summertime or it is going to be hot, store it in the cooler. Once at the hotel, it can stay on the counter. Choose a dense bread. Something like zucchini bread is too soft and would not hold up well on a trip.  

Fresh Fruit

• Berries, grapes, or melons – Wash and pre-cut the fruit to make it easier to eat while driving
• Clementines – These are cheap and they are easy to peel in the car
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Sub Sandwiches – If you use hoagies and make sub sandwiches with deli meats, they can be made ahead and they will hold up well, even with mayonnaise and mustard. 
• ​Water 
• Instant coffee or tea
• Hydration drinks

Best Road Trip Breakfast Ideas and Snacks that You Can Pick Up at the Grocery Store:

• Trail mix – Costco sells packets of trail mix with dried berries (these are the only ones my kids enjoy). These are great because they are preportioned and the healthy fats from the nuts will keep you satisfied. 
• Granola Bars or Protein Bars – These do not need to be refrigerated so they’re a great snack to have on hand for the whole family. 
• Beef Jerky and Meat Sticks – An excellent source of protein! 
• Sunflower seeds – Sometimes the kids are just bored and sunflower seeds keep them busy!
• Chips, Veggie Straws and Crackers 
• Sweets – Candy or fruit snacks. For some reason, sweets taste better on long drives! Just make sure you stop at the next rest stop so they can burn off the sugar!

Final Tips on Healthy Road Trip Breakfast Ideas:

• Let your kids pack a snack bag – Before you leave the house, give each kid a freezer bag and let them add any bagged snacks (you may need to put limits on what they can choose). They can keep the bag next to them on the trip and they will be able to grab snacks themselves on the long car ride. 
• Have protein options – If your kids are like mine, they’ll only want fruit snacks and carb snacks. That’s fine, but it won’t make them full and they’ll eat through the snacks in no time. Be sure to have protein options on hand to help fill them up and keep them satisfied on the long ride.
• Hot Breakfast – I choose not to bring hot breakfast options on the trip, just because it’s a pain to heat them up. To make up for this, I book hotels that offer free hot breakfast. Not only is it a free hot meal, but the hotels also tend to be more family-friendly with refrigerators in the room!

Let me know if I missed anything and I’ll incorporate it into the post for other readers! Happy road tripping!

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105+ Easy Road Trip Meals & Snacks: Best Road Trip Food

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

Road trips are exciting adventures to take with your friends, family or solo. However coming up with a list of the best road trip food & easy road trip meals and snacks can be hard.

Which is where our ultimate list of the best food for road trips comes in handy. To help you avoid hangry companions, outrageous food costs, and unhealthy gas station food stops.

We’ve taken our share of cross country & multi-day road trips over the years, both as adults, and with kids from months old to teenagers. So we know quite a few tricks when it comes to road trip meal planning.

Our list includes easy ideas for healthy snacks, breakfasts, lunches & dinners, for all ages we love. As well as gluten-free, and vegetarian options too.

Plus we provide essential packing tips and a list of non-food items to bring along, at the end of this post. Hop in the car, & let’s go!

ULTIMATE HEALTHY ROAD TRIP MEALS LIST

If you plan ahead and pre-make some yummy snacks and meals, your family will be well fed on the road. Whether you are heading on a Southwest USA road trip or a coastal road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park or elsewhere.

Healthy road trip food & easy meals the whole family will love.

Why Bring Make Ahead Meals For Road Trips?

Before I get into our epic food list, I’ll quickly go over a few reasons why we bring our own make-ahead road trip meals and snacks. And why you should too:

• Road trip meal planning is a great way to reduce fast food temptation, junk food and save money for your family road trip .
• Bringing good food for road trips frees up some of your hard earned cash to splurge on meals you will actually look forward to . 
• We find our own make-ahead meals & road trip food tends to be healthier.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, creating a road trip meal plan will allow you to have safe meal options on the road.
• Have fun picnics at rest stops, parks, or in your hotel room along your long drive.
• Avoid hungry kidlets with healthy road trip snacks , so they can focus on road trip activities , not driving you crazy with whining. I know you feel me on this one!

Bringing your own food is well worth the time and money you can save on your adventure. Use our road trip planner to help organize your trip.

I love how make ahead easy travel meals are great for cutting down on the mess, stress and time it takes to prepare and clean up on the road. Because as a parent anything I can do to make my life easier is golden.

Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

We’ve found it’s easy to take these road trip breakfast ideas to go, or quickly eat hot in the morning.

As long as we’ve made them ahead of time, and brought them in our cooler. Or if we have access to hot water or basic kitchen facilities or a microwave.

Grab tasty breakfast recipes .

Cold, Non-Perishable Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

• Granola 
• Cereal Bars & Granola Bars
• Breakfast Bars
• Fruit & Veggie Pouches 

⭐️ PRO TIP : Bring a reusable coffee mug and water bottles for each family member. They’re a great option for filling up with hot water, tea, coffee and water on the go. We’ve found they’re less likely to spill in the car if you use a spill-proof refillable cup and snack cup for the littles.

Cold Breakfast Ideas for Road Trips

• Yogurt – Tubes, Drinks
• Fresh Fruit
• Rye Crisp Breads & Goat Cheese
• Chia Pudding – Make the night before
• Granola & Overnight Oats – Make the night before
• Muffins & Peanut Butter (or other nut or seed butters)
• Egg Muffins or Mini Quiches (To heat or not to heat. That is the question)
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Breakfast Cookies 
• Vegan Blueberry Muffins
• Bagels and Cream Cheese
• Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap
• No Bake Oat Bites 
• Apple Pie Oat Bliss Balls
• Croissant, ham, cheese
• Croissant, jam & cream cheese
• Pancake Sandwiches – nut butter / jam between two mini pancakes (make ahead)

Hot & Quick Breakfast Ideas

• Instant Oatmeal 
• Cup of Soup or canned soup
• Pre-made Mini Quiche (just heat up)
• Egg, Cheese, & avocado tortilla wrap
• Haloumi Cheese and Bacon Breakfast Sandwich
• One Pan Chickpea Hash (fried chickpeas, veggies, herbs) & Fried eggs

More kid friendly breakfast ideas here .

Road Trip Lunch Ideas

Road trip lunch ideas are probably the easiest for most people to come up with, when it comes to thinking of meal planning for road trips . We like to think of them as picnic lunches.

What is the first thing that comes to mind, but sandwiches. Sandwiches are such a staple we’ve given them their own section below. 

To be honest, I often just prepare and pack foods I would usually take for lunch at work, for the first day or two.

Then I add easy road trip lunches to grab and prep along the way, like sandwich fixings. Or cheese, meat  and cracker plates for a longer trip.

Easy Non-Refrigerated Road Trip Lunch Ideas

• Canned Tuna & crackers – The mini pull tab tins come in many flavours
• Protein Bars , Energy Bars
• Sardines or Mackerel canned with avocado, crackers or bread
• Snacks for lunch: Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, Smoothie Pouches, Nut Butter Pouches
• Peanut Butter (or other nut & seed butter) & Jam Wraps
• Canned grape leaf rolls

Cold Road Trip Lunches

• Sushi / nori rolls – sweet potato, cucumber and avocado,  smoked salmon, cucumber and avocado, smoked salmon & cream cheese
• Sandwiches (see Road Trip Sandwiches below for ideas) 
• Tortilla Pinwheels
• Meat Kabobs
• Pasta Salad
• Corn & Zucchini Fritters
• Fruit (apple slices, cantaloupe, grapes), cheese and bread or crackers
• Charcuterie plate – cheese, deli meats, olives, dried fruit
• Chickpea or Bean Salads
• Quinoa Salad
• Mason Jar Salad – keep the dressing separate
• Pre-made Quesadillas – Refried beans and cheese. Keep salsa & sour cream separate in small leak-proof containers

Sides to Add to Lunch Ideas

• Cut up veggie sticks and hummus
• Fruit – apple, berries, melon, grapes
• Homemade cookies or energy balls
• Cucumber, cherry tomatos & peppers salad

Road Trip Sandwiches

What’s a road trip, without a sandwich or two. In fact sandwiches are so iconic, portable, easy to make and ideal for lunch and family vacation dinners they deserve a section, all on its own.

For easy,  awesome sandwiches we’ve found you will only need a few things to mix and match:

• Bread: First you’ll need some kind of hearty bread (kaiser bun, wraps, pita, baguette, ciabatta)
• Protein: Pair with protein such as deli meat, sliced chicken or beef, bacon, eggs, tofu, nut butters
• Extras: Add on the extras such as cheese, lettuce, pickles, fruit 
• Condiments: mayo, mustard, olive tapenade, other sauces

Tasty Sandwich Ideas for Traveling:

• Cheddar and Jam
• Egg Salad 
• Cream cheese and cucumber
• Spicy Tuna and Cucumber – leave out the spice if it’s not your thing
• Pesto Egg Salad Baguette
• Ham & Cheese Baguette or Wrap
• Turkey and Cheese Baguette or Wrap
• Turkey Club Sandwich
• Turkey, Pear, Feta Wrap
• Apple, Cheddar and Mustard Sandwich
• Roasted Red Pepper & Hummus Sandwich
• Curry Chicken or Curried Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Tips for Packing Sandwiches on Road Trips

• Start with heartier bread or toast it first . Put a layer of mayo, or mustard on each side. It actually helps prevent soggy sandwiches.
• I often toast the bread, and then wait until it’s completely cooled before making and storing the sandwiches.
• Keep wet sandwich ingredients separate like tomatoes. We add them right before eating.
• Pack each ingredient separately . Then everyone can assemble their sandwich how they like, on-the-go. We’ve found this helpful with our pickiest eater.
• Pack sandwiches in a hard sided container . Either use reusable individual sandwich containers or larger leak-proof containers for multiple sandwiches. We also love silicone sandwich bags to cut down on plastic.
• Keep the sandwiches on top of the cooler for easy to grab meals on the road.

You may also like 50+ Easy to make, healthy road trip snack recipes

Easy Road Trip Meals Dinner Ideas

Dinner is the one meal we often splurge on, and choose to eat out at a local restaurant, instead of on the road when possible. 

I like to do a bit of research and see what the area is known for, or if there are special meals we can’t get at home. Also after a few days of packed road trip meals, it’s nice to sit down at a restaurant and have someone else clean up and organize.

However, there are times I find when you need a few dinner in the car ideas on hand. You can always re-use the lunch or even the travel breakfast ideas , because they are all tasty anytime of day. 

Check out our favourite easy vacation dinner recipes .

Cold Road Trip Dinner Ideas

• Pasta Salad & Greek Salad
• Cobb Salad 
• Other Cold salads – Potato, bean, egg, chickpea, salmon, tofu, quinoa, rice and bean
• Sandwiches – check out ideas in sandwich section
• Chicken salad / caesar wrap
• Falafel Wrap
• Rice Paper Rolls & Peanut Sauce
• Chicken wings & pre roasted veggies
• Grilled or roast chicken, rice and veggies
• Tortilla Chips, Bean Dip and Salsa
• Egg roll pinwheels with spinach, and cheese 
• Mason Jar grain + protein + roast veggies (pre-made)

Salad Tips – Keep the ingredients & dressing separate. That way each person can assemble to their liking, and the lettuce doesn’t get soggy from swimming in the dressing all day.  

KOA has 10 fun on-the go recipes to try.

Mason Jar Meal tips

Mason Jars are a fun and easy way to store pre-made meals.

They are fairly sturdy (I’ve dropped them many times without breaking them) and come in different sizes. The 500ml and 250 ml are perfect for individual meals.

Choose a grain + a protein + roasted, steamed or stir fried veggies and you have a delicious meal to go.

• Pre-cook a grain: brown rice, basmati rice, white rice, quinoa,
• Choose a protein : roast chicken or beef, curried chickpeas, tofu
• Cooked veggies: stir fries, steamed broccoli, curries, stew,

Hot Road Trip Dinner Ideas

One pan or pot dinner ideas are perfect for travel, camping and road trips. Especially if you ‘ve been entertaining the kids with road trip conversations all day.

As long as you remember the hot plate, or cook stove. I’ve been there, done that, forgetting the stove. Another option is to choose motels, or places to stay that have basic kitchen facilities. 

I’ve also gone the route of meal prepping ahead of time and putting individual meals in separate containers that are easy to reheat and clean up. 

If you are a camping family, what you plan for pre-made camping meals is similar.

Think easy camping type meals:

• Baked Beans
• Cup of Soup or Canned Soup
• Frozen Homemade Soup (use the first day or two after it defrosts. Bonus it helps keep the cooler cold)
• Bacon or Sausages and Eggs
• Quesadillas
• Rice and beans or ground beef for tacos or wraps
• Chickpea Curry and Rice (pre-make and heat up)
• Spaghetti 

ROAD TRIP SNACK & DRINKS LIST

We have a full article on our favorite road trip snacks to bring that both adults and kids will love. Good food for long journeys.

Here are a few snack ideas to get you started:

• Energy Balls
• Baby Carrots, Cherry Tomatoes, Snap Peas, Celery Sticks & Dip 
• Cheese and Crackers
• Apple Pear Muffins
• Jerky, Beef Sticks
• Potato Chips
• Plantain Chips
• Moon Cheese
• Cheese Crisps
• Seaweed Snacks
• String cheese
• Sunflower seeds
• Gluten-Free Bars –  We like these mini Gluten-Free Bars  

Who doesn’t drink too much on the road because they are avoiding using restrooms at pull-outs or gas stations?  

I’m guilty of this too, but this often leads me to crankiness and wicked headaches, sooo…… Do as I say, not as I do (said Parents everywhere).

Staying hydrated is super important. While water should be the number one choice, sometimes you need a little something different like:

• Coconut water
• Water with crushed berries, or cucumber slices, or lemon
• No sugar added fruit juices 
• Flavoured Sparkling water 
• Almond / Oat / Soy Milk

🚙 More road trip ideas 7 day Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon itinerary

Road Trip Food & Meal Planning Tips

Meal Planning Tips

When meal planning healthy road trip foods, I think it’s important to consider a few key important things:

• What road trip meals you want to bring, and which one’s you’d like to buy.
• If travelling with kids, which foods do they already like. They aren’t going to magically start liking raw broccoli and raisins on your long trip. Adapt your food for road trips with kids.
• Road trip meal ideas – Make a list of food ideas for breakfast , lunch, dinner, snacks and drinks. Make sure they’re easy food to travel with.
• Creating a road trip grocery list is a good idea, so important items don’t get forgotten. But don’t stress, as usually you’ll be able to pick up ingredients along the way if needed.
• How to pack food for your road trip, so it doesn’t get squished, and stays cool longer.

With so much to do when planning a road trip, it’s sometimes hard to be prepared when it comes to traveling food.

Road Trip Food Tips

Beyond throwing a bunch of items into the cooler and food bag and hoping for the best. Let’s give you a few of my top tips to make packing a bit easier:

• Bread: Bring wraps, pitas and flatbreads – we find they take up less room, and won’t get squished like bread loaves
• Perishables: Eat your perishables and more fragile fruits first (bananas, raspberries, pre-cut fruit like melons, pineapple, mango etc.)
• Freeze Water bottles: When hot out, freeze a couple of the water bottles the night before. They’ll keep your cooler cold, and we love that they give us cold water to drink as they melt.
• Pre-Make Meals & Portion Out: Pre-make meals, and portion them out in mason jars or reusable plastic or glass containers.
• Place your cooler somewhere cool the night before, or pre-chill the cooler for up to 12 hours with ice / ice packs you won’t be using on your trip. 
• Lay solid blocks of ice or reusable ice packs on the bottom, plus put a layer of ice on the top
• Pack the cooler full – too much space helps the inside heat up faster
• Freeze food you won’t need for a couple of days, and use frozen water bottles to help keep the inside colder, longer
• Try to limit the number of times you open the cooler in the day.
• Pack your food in order of when you want to eat it, leaving the next day or two’s meals on top. 
• Garbage Bag for the car: We always have a designated garbage bag for the car. It helps to keep the garbage contained, and the car organized.
• Clean-Up Kit :  Bring a clean up kit. Kids, adults, toddlers all on occasion make messes. Having a clean-up kit handy just in case is good practice. Include wipes, paper towel, extra water, and an easily accessible change of clothes.
• Storage: To keep things organized, we usually use small stackable Rubbermaid containers to pack our non-perishables.

🚙 More Road Trip Ideas: 4 Day family friendly itinerary in Acadia National Park

Road Trip Essentials

Now that we’ve got the meals all planned out, and the best road trip SNACKS organized  let’s move on to the non-food items you’ll need to add to your road trip packing list. 

Reusable Items

Our goal is to reduce our impact on the earth whatever mode of travel. Bringing reusable items on our trips to cut down on waste is one simple way to do this. If you make it part of your routine, you will be pleasantly surprised how easy it becomes.

Here are some other reusable items to pack for your road trip:

• Plastic, glass or stainless steel containers – Can be used for leftovers, as dishes, hold snack packs, or even small toys, art supplies
• Cutlery – knives, forks, spoons, 
• Dishes – Cups, plates, bowls
• Coffee Mugs – Our favs are Yeti Mugs or the Klean Kanteen  
• Reusable Straws
• Water bottles for the kids
• Water bottles for the adults
• Cloth fruit bags 
• Bento Boxes
• Garbage bags – reuse grocery bags

Storage & Cleaning Supplies

• Reusable Ice Packs 
• Hand sanitizer
• Paper Towels & Wet Wipes 
• Biodegradable Soap

Travel Backpacks

You will definitely want to make sure you and your kids have their own travel backpack for the trip.

A good travel backpack can be multipurpose, for hiking, storing road trip activities and entertainment, plus give easy access to a couple of snacks, and a handy change of clothes.

There’s been numerous times my “safety first” approach & extra clothes has saved us on long trips. From puking children, to epic diaper blow outs, and unexpected spills, with kids it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Best Road Trip Coolers

Coolers provide more flexibility with the types of meals and snacks  you can bring on your trips. We think they are a road trip essential, without a doubt. Before choosing one, there are a few things to consider:

• How long is your trip?
• Which meals will you be packing from home?
• How often will you have access to a grocery store?
• How much space do you have in your vehicle? Where do you want to put the cooler?

Answers to these questions will give you an idea of the size and cooling ability needed from your cooler. We’ve put together a list of the best coolers to try, that are easily available on Amazon.

Best Overall Cooler – Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

The Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler is narrow, so it easily fits behind the seat, is well insulated, which holds the cold, and is lighter than previous versions.

It can also be transformed into a stool if you buy the cushion. It’s a bit of an invesment, so a good buy if you are planning on using it a lot.

Best Afforable Family Cooler – Coleman 316

The Coleman 316 Cooler is a top pick for size, flexibility and price. It can hold a lot of food and ice, which can be kept cool at higher temps for 2-3 days.

Perfect for shorter trips, or if you plan on replenishing your food / ice every few days.

Best Soft Sided Cooler – TOURIT Leak-Proof Backpack

The Tourit Leak Proof soft-sided backpack is an excellent option for shorter road trips or if you are planning a picnic or day at the beach. This leak-proof high-density insulated backpack can keep food cold for up to 3 days. It also has side pockets for extra storage.

Tips to Prepare For Your Next Road Trip

Anything you can do the day or two beforehand to prep your food, and pack your non-perishables, do it. This will save rushing around at the last minute, and forgetting important things like your water bottles.

We recommend doing the following ahead of time:

• Make a Shopping list and meal plan.
• Check off the items as you pack them. 
• Wash and cut veggies and fruit
• Prepare sandwiches, meat slices, cheese slices
• Freeze meals and water bottles the night or two before
• Prepare the snack bags or snack tote 
• Prepare your Clean up kit
• Pack non-perishable foods in small totes or bags
• Pack your perishable foods in the cooler, & an airtight container, right before you leave.

PRO TIP: Pack your car the night before you leave, to make sure everything fits. Make sure your cooler and essential road trip snacks are easily accessible. 

Conclusion: Ultimate Easy Road Trip Meals & Snacks List

With over 100 delicious and easy road trip meal ideas, you will find a party in your cooler for all taste buds or your next long journey.

 Plus don’t forget that a little pre-trip planning can go a long way towards a stress free vacation.

Grab a great road trip snack or two and head on out on the open road. I hope this helps you have an epic road trip.

Related travel tips and destination articles:

• Easy ways to take a frugal road trip
• Epic RV Gift Ideas: Gifts RV Owners will love and use
• Epic Gifts for Beach Lovers – prep for your beach vacation
• Best Walkie Talkies For Road Trips
• Complete Road Trip Packing List For Families

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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Home » Roadside Attractions Blog » Road Trip Food » Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

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They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that is especially true on road trips. A good breakfast will give you the fuel you need to get the day going and keep you satisfied as you trek on. So what are some good road trip breakfast ideas?

A good road trip breakfast is hearty enough to keep you full until lunch (and, we all know that sometimes on the road that lunch often comes later than we expect), but light enough to not make you regret what you ate an hour later. Try to choose something light and protein rich, like a veggie omelet or fruit and yogurt parfait, over a big stack of Belgian waffles. But, since you’re traveling, we’ll forgive you if you just can’t pass up those once-in-a-lifetime cinnamon roll pancakes.

At the end of the day (or, I suppose, the beginning), there is no wrong option for what to eat for a road trip breakfast. Whether you’re a grab and go girl like me who usually takes her breakfast in liquid form, someone who seeks out the best local diner in every state, or someone who prefers to save money and time by packing make ahead breakfasts in the cooler, the best road trip breakfast is the one you’re eating today.

So what are your options? Read on for some of our favorite road trip breakfast ideas.

Local Diner Breakfast

Drive through breakfast, hotel breakfast, coffee shop breakfast, gas station breakfast, our favorite road trip breakfast recipes, more road trip breakfast ideas, road trip granola recipe, pin these road trip breakfast ideas to save for later.

There’s no better stop for a road trip breakfast than the all-American diner. Stacks of fluffy buttermilk pancakes loaded with maple syrup and butter. Crunchy waffles with soft centers. Omelettes stuffed full of vegetables and cheese. A heaping side of crispy bacon. And the all-important coffee with unlimited refills. With filling meals and a local ambiance, diner make the perfect place to stop for breakfast on the road. Try to opt for protein friendly meals that will keep you going through the days. And as tasty as those stacks of pancakes, waffles, and French toast look, go easy on the heavy carbs that will weigh you down in the car. But, who are we kidding, go ahead and order those chocolate chip pancakes topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream. You’re on vacation.

The most convenient meals to have on a road trip are those you can eat without ever leaving your car. That’s why drive-throughs are a popular choice when choosing a road trip breakfast. Get a buttery biscuit sandwich with sausage and egg, bacon stuffed between two halves of a croissant, a loaded breakfast burrito, or bite-sized hash browns. Drive through breakfasts from a fast food restaurant are convenient, cheap, and delicious. Just be sure to grab some extra napkins to keep your steering wheel bacon grease free.

A free hotel breakfast means money saved for activities (or gas) later in the day. Many chain hotels offer up a free breakfast buffet in the morning. Quality and selection vary, but you can often find prepackaged pastries, bagels, yogurts, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, and, often, a waffle maker. If you’re staying at a hotel that offers free breakfast, be sure to fill up before checking out. And maybe even grab an apple for the road.

If you’re like me, your morning breakfast probably looks more like an iced latte than bacon and eggs. Luckily, many coffee shops nowadays offer both. Swing by your favorite coffee shop chain or try a new local place for a grande dose of caffeine and, if it’s your thing, a breakfast sandwich, doughnut, or croissant.

Fuel your car, and yourself, for the day to come. Multitask by filling up your car with gas and grabbing breakfast at a gas station. Many gas stations have multiple options for coffee, hot or cold, in sizes from small to jumbo. They also might serve a specialty like breakfast tacos, breakfast burritos, or breakfast pizza. If you like a sweet breakfast, you can also surely find some donuts.

Road Trip Breakfast Recipes

If you’re trying to save money or time on the road, packing your own road trip breakfast is a must. You can pack travel-friendly breakfast items like cereals and granola, cook make-ahead options like protein-packed muffins, or travel friendly freezer meals that can easily be stored in a cooler and heated up in your hotel room’s microwave.

• Freezer Breakfast Burritos
• Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Granola Bars
• Overnight Oats
• Egg Muffins
• Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies
• Grab and Go Breakfast Wraps
• Egg Wraps with Ham and Greens
• Peanut Butter, Banana, and Granola Wrap
• Bagels and Cream Cheese
• Banana Bread
• Instant Oatmeal
• Hard Boiled Eggs

Here’s one of my favorite quick and easy recipes for a road trip breakfast: road trip granola. This basic recipe is a great starting point to add different flavors. I used blueberries, inspired by a road trip to Maine, but you can use other fruits and nuts to match your tastes or destination. Driving through Minnesota? Try dried apples. Driving through California? Sub in all four of their state nuts: almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and pecans. A homemade granola keeps well in an airtight container and can provide breakfast in the car for the entire length of your trip.

• Author: Val
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1 x

Description

This road trip granola recipe is a great morning treat for breakfast on the go. It’s a nice base to experiment with flavors. Feel free to substitute the pecans for different nuts and the dried blueberries for other dried fruits. 

Ingredients

• 3   cup rolled oats
• ½    cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
• ½ cup   chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1   tsp   cinnamon
• ¼ tsp   nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup canola oil
• ⅓ cup   maple syrup
• ⅛ cup   apple juice
• 1 tsp   vanilla
• 1 ½ cups   dried blueberries

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with a neutral cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, mix together the oats, coconut, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the oil, maple syrup, apple juice, and vanilla.
• Pour the syrup mixture over the oat mixture and stir until evenly coated.
• Spread the oat mixture onto the prepared baking tray. Place in preheated oven.
• Bake for around 30 minutes, until granola is toasted, stirring every five minutes.
• When the granola is toasted to your liking, remove from oven and let it cool, stirring occasionally.
• Once cool, stir in the dried blueberries. Store in an airtight container.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

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Travel breakfast ideas for the road

March 13, 2023 by Tara Buss Leave a Comment

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Travel breakfast ideas that will help you save money and eat well on your next road trip. Included are no cook breakfasts as well as make ahead breakfasts for a hotel room or even on the road. These ideas could even be used to have on hand for busy mornings when you need a grab and go breakfast.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Saving money on food when traveling

Two ways that we try to save money on road trips is by looking for accommodations that offer free breakfast and also packing our own breakfast, lunch, and snacks to eat on the road instead of stopping for fast food. Not only does eating our own food cost less, it is also more nutritious than fast food.

Read more: Save money on food when traveling

Travel breakfasts can be a little tricky, but it is totally doable to still eat a good breakfast on the road if you have portable easy recipes as well as a way to pack and re-heat if necessary.

Packing and re-heating breakfast foods

I like to pack a variety of make ahead options, no cook breakfasts, fresh food, and food that requires refrigeration.

When re-heating one of the make-ahead foods, I have had a lot of luck with the Hot Logic Portable Oven .

When we went to Florida last year, I made egg casserole the night before, cut it into squares, and packed it in a container in our cooler. We hit the road at 4am when we weren't ready to eat. Then about an hour before we were ready for breakfast, I put it in the hot logic and an hour later we had a hot breakfast. It worked great!

Don't skip the most important meal of the day even on the road! Here are my favorite road trip breakfast ideas to spark some creativity for your next travel adventure.

Make-ahead options

Oatmeal muffins

Muffins are a great option for the road because they require no refrigeration or heating. They are an excellent portable food and one that I make every single vacation.

This granola is a favorite at my house. Kids love to snack on it on its own but it is also excellent on top of yogurt or even in milk. The best part is that it can be kept at room temperature.

Hard-boiled eggs

Make a big batch of hard boiled eggs the day before leaving. Then you have portable protein at your fingertips, no re-heating required.

3-ingredient peanut butter oatmeal balls

These are easy to make and don't require refrigeration. They are also a kid favorite and contain a mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fat.

Stuffed biscuit muffins

If you like a savory hearty breakfast but prefer a portable form, try these stuffed biscuit muffins. Biscuits are rolled out, stuffed with scrambled eggs, bacon and cheese, and then folded up and baked in a muffin tin. So delicious!

Make-ahead breakfast sandwiches via Tastes Better from Scratch

You can customize these in so many different ways. Add vegetables, change the meat, use mini bagels, switch the cheese, and more. It's the perfect portable breakfast.

Egg casserole

This egg casserole is my go-to breakfast for any occasion. After baking, cut into squares for individual portions. Can be eaten hot or cold. I prefer reheated.

Baked oatmeal

Baked oatmeal is great for the road. Cut into squares for individual servings after baking and reheat or eat cold. I prefer reheating.

Sausage balls

Another great portable protein, these sausage balls without Bisquick are delicious and fun to eat!

Breakfast burritos

Scramble eggs and fill a tortilla with any toppings of your choice. Cheese, sausage or bacon, peppers, onions, salsa, hot sauce, etc. Roll your burritos and wrap them in parchment paper and then foil. If reheating in the microwave, first remove the foil.

Overnight oats via Feel Good Foodie

The night before, everyone can customize their own overnight oats, refrigerate, and then enjoy them the next morning on the road for breakfast. Try one of these fun varieties.

Chocolate chia pudding via Minimalist Baker

These little puddings made from chia seeds are so easy to whip up the night before to grab and go for the road the next day. Plus they are a chocolatey treat! Win!

No cooking required

If you are in a hurry and don't want to cook at all, stop by the grocery store and pick up some easy breakfast ideas that don't require any cooking at all.

• English muffins with peanut butter
• English muffins with avocado
• bagels topped with cream cheese, ham, or smoked salmon
• store-bought hard boiled eggs
• peanut butter or almond butter and apples or rice cakes
• yogurt with fruit and store bought granola: I find pre-portioning at home in small plastic containers or small mason jars is easier than doing this on the road. Another alternative is store-bought individual yogurt cups and adding fruit on top.
• fresh fruit: Fresh berries, bananas, apples, oranges, and grapes all make great travel food.
• applesauce cups or pouches
• beef sticks
• string cheese
• nuts and seeds/trail mix: almonds, cashews, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chocolate chips, coconut chips, raisins, etc.
• dried fruit
• cereal with thermos of milk: Fill thermos halfway with milk or plant based milk. Add dry cereal to thermos when ready to eat.
• cottage cheese with fruit: Pre-portion ahead of time in individual containers.
• store bought breakfast bars
• store bought granola bars or protein bars

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Breakfast On The Road {Road Trip Cooking!}

by Sharon Rowley 4 Comments

Eating a healthy breakfast in the car from items that you've brought from home or purchased on the road is a less expensive and certainly a better-for-your-body alternative to the fast food drive-thru! So here's what I like to pull together and put in the car on our family road trips so that we can eat breakfast on the road !

Basic Family Favorites

I like to pack a couple of choices of healthy breakfast cereals along with a quart of skim milk, paper bowls, plastic spoons, and napkins, to pass out to the kids to eat when we are at a rest stop, or refueling the car.

To go along with their cereal they can each choose a piece of fresh fruit or a small container of yogurt, and I like to buy bagels and little triangles of cream cheese so that they can have a little bagel and cream cheese to go along with their cereal.

I also buy small single-serving-sized containers of orange juice that come with a straw just like a juice box, so the kids can enjoy fresh orange juice in the morning too.

Fresh Fruit Smoothies

Another terrific healthy option for kids that perhaps don't like breakfast cereal (as well as for the driver who can't be managing a spoon and bowl while driving the car) are fruit smoothies.

I like to make fresh fruit smoothies in our hotel or condo before we check out, and pack them up in a reusable plastic container that we can sip from along the way.

Preparing fruit smoothies is awesome because you can use leftover fruit that you have from yesterday- like strawberries, bananas, or even apples, and oranges. You can also use frozen fruit that you purchase at the grocery store (if you are staying somewhere with access to a freezer).

Mix in one of those little containers of yogurt, some orange juice or even skim milk or apple juice, and you can create a great breakfast.

You can even pack along some ground flaxseed or protein powder in Ziploc bags and add some to your smoothies for some extra punch!

I pack along an immersion blender This is an affiliate link: MomOf6 earns a commission if you purchase, at no additional cost to you. and it is perfect for road trips!

It is lightweight, it packs into a very small space, and it's super easy to plug in and blend a smoothie in a hotel room or condo before we leave in the morning. Simply rinse off the blender piece, and repack it as you head out the door!

Do you have any other breakfast on the road ideas to share? If so please leave a comment below!

For more easy meal ideas for cooking while on a road trip- check out these posts:

• Easy Pasta Night !
• Easy Taco Bar !
• Easy BBQ Chicken Sandwiches !
• Breakfast on the Road
• Lunch on the Road

June 24, 2014 at 8:43 am

Great ideas! We’re leaviung on an epic road trip from Ohio to Oklahoma in two weeks!

Katie @ MyDailyCrumbs says

May 18, 2014 at 10:06 am

Love this! I just got home from a roadtrip to Disneyland and we’re heading out on a 16 hour sojourn in August. I love road tripping with my kids! I’ll totally make them smoothies next time. They’ll love it!

Thanks for the great idea! (And thanks, Twitter, for suggesting Momof6 to me!)

Katie (@mydailycrumbs)

Annette says

July 10, 2013 at 11:24 pm

I make smoothies at home often, but never thought of using my hand blender…what a great idea! Homemade granola bars, which include lots of protein and little sugar, are a great breakfast or snack food. Homemade muffins-banana with a pb shmear, blueberry, or whatever your family likes, along with some added protein-milk, yogurt-and your day is off to a good start.

Sharon says

July 12, 2013 at 5:43 am

I love the idea of homemade granola bars and muffins too- a great way to start a road trip, and then you can purchase some at local grocery stores or bakeries along the way too- once you can’t bake anymore!

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It’s best to keep your families stomachs as happy as possible when you travel over summer. Try these road trip breakfast ideas and you should be good to go!

Heading on a road trip soon? Most people are in the car and headed to their destinations early in the morning. Here are some road trip breakfast ideas .

You’ll want to keep your family’s stomachs as happy as possible while traveling.

Homemade Muffins

Muffins are the perfect meal you can take almost anywhere with you. Make these muffins the day before you leave and put them in little baggies. This will help you contain the mess of bringing them in an open container.

Make a variety of muffins, so your crew can pick what they want.

Breakfast Burritos

Yum! These are an all-time favorite of my family. You can make burritos ahead of time and freeze them. Heat them up before you are about to leave and enjoy while on the go.

You can easily hold the burritos, so there’s really not a huge mess to worry about.

Frozen Yogurt

You can freeze yogurt and bring is with you in a cooler. When someone is ready to eat breakfast, pull out the frozen yogurt. You can bring a spoon, just in case.

This makes for a yummy and healthy alternative for a road trip breakfast.

Breakfast Bars

Breakfast bars are some of my favorite foods to eat any time of the day, but they make the perfect road trip breakfast. They are easy to travel with and not too messy, so even kids will love them.

Fruit “To Go”

Although fruit isn’t everyone’s go-to breakfast on the road, it’s convenient, cheap, and easy to pack. You can even make pre-packaged fruit cups out of the fruit that you buy.

Don’t forget to pack a disposable fork or spoon to help make this an even easier to go meal.

Packing the right breakfast food for your road trip is important. Use these ideas to pack the perfect foods for your family.

More Road Trip Meal Ideas

Road Trip Meal Ideas for Kids

Road Trip Lunch Ideas

Road Trip Snack Ideas

Road Trip Dinner Ideas

Hey y'all! I'm Kristi, a go-with-the-flow mom of 2 adult sons that's a little creative, organized enough, and gets dinner on the table in a hurry.

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Car Breakfasting: A New Olympic Sport

July 26, 2012   22 comments.

Wow! That guy is driving, eating, and talking on the phone. How does he do it?

He’s probably had lots of practice with a trainer in an Olympic driving simulator.

For my children’s sake, I wish he would just drive, eat, and hang up! Hopefully, he is stuck in traffic.

Caroline, who would never talk on the phone, eat and drive, asked me this question:

I work all over and regularly have an hour plus commute, as I'm sure others do. In a bid to cut my time, and because I am really not a morning person, I have taken to having breakfast in the car.

At the moment I have a smoothie, banana and frozen waffley thing with lots of whole grain. It would be great if you had some other suggestions on 'car breakfasting'....?!

It stinks doesn’t it? Somehow, we get stuck driving a long way to get to work. A few years ago, I got laid off from a job that was a 20 minute bike ride. The next job was an hour and 20 minute in the car commute. Argh!

My first piece of advice is to let go of the idea that breakfast has to be cereal, eggs, toast, etc. For example, you could make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on whole grain bread, or eat a burrito with rice, beans, and fresh salsa. Do not get stuck in the “breakfast rut”.

Another idea is to grab a bag of nuts, an apple, some carrot sticks, and a hard boiled egg or whole grain crackers, cheese sticks, and a piece of fruit. These aren’t the most thrilling ideas, but you want to try to get a lot of nutrition in your meal.

Here are some make ahead “car breakfasting” ideas:

Do you car breakfast? What do you take on the road? Please share.

Other posts you might like:

The Healthiest and Easiest Breakfast (Bye-Bye Breakfast Cereal)

Cereal is the most amazingly simple breakfast to serve. All you do is pour from a box....

Try This Breakfast Solution: Faster and Healthier Than Cereal

Are you running out of time every morning and grabbing a cereal bar? Try this instead....

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I can't drive and eat, I'm to messy! I can take the simplest non-messy thing and make it a mess!! I cheat, I make breakfast at work! :)

Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Peppers

I've definitely never mastered the eat and drive technique. Nice post

Stephanie G

Sorry, but eating, phoning, or anything else should not be done while driving. Get up earlier or eat at work. It's everyone else's life you are putting in jeopardy just because you get get organized. Sorry for the E.blast but I have seen too many tragedies because of this behavior. Fran S.

Fran Steidel

Completely agree that driving and eating is a bad idea! When I'm in need of breakfast on the go I always choose a fruit smoothie, adding a big scoop of plain Greek yogurt for protein and flax and oats for extra fiber and staying power.

Yes, please don't eat while driving! It's as much a distraction as texting or talking on the phone. Bring something with you and eat it when you get to work.

Cristina @ An Organic Wife

I prefer to take my sweet, sweet time over breakfast - it's my favourite meal. But sometimes you just can't. Love your tips. I'm a sandwich girl - I love my favourite bread (it HAS to be good bread) as a peanut butter sandwich, plus a piece of easy to eat fruit banana or apple).

I've been waking up a whole five minutes earlier and fixing a quick scrambled egg and cheese sandwich. Its pretty tasty and 22 g of protein. Really helps me stay full throughout the day! Yes, I eat it in the car, but usually my husband drives. :) Today I was out of eggs, so it was Nutrigrain waffles, an apple, and a handful of almonds. only 7 g of protein. Not looking forward to that 11 am hunger.

He's also driving while trying NOT to look through his reading glasses (note that he is looking over the top)-- as a person who looks about his age, I can sympathize that he's not yet ready to commit to bi-focals! (He needs the reading glasses for phone use.)

I whole-heartedly agree. This form of multi-tasking is so irresponsible. No food/call is more important than safe, undistracted, alert driving in today's climate of dodging other drivers who are eating, chatting, and driving with an elbow, knee, or pinkie!

What about a smoothie? You're not chewing or balancing your food. You can put the ingredients in the blender the night before and have it ready to blend.

This has nothing do with breakfast, but your post just gave me an idea... I've got a 5 minute commute from my house, but have to run errands for work once per day. That is why I drive rather than walk to work. But what if I biked? I'm not sure it would work with some traffic, but I can certainly give it a test run some weekend! Thanks!

Carrie @ Season It Already!

I make my breakast at night and then microwave/eat it in the morning while I am getting ready for work. I sautee some spinach, then add one egg and a little bit of egg substitute to bulk it up, add some Frank's hot sauce and chia/ground flax. Mix it all up in the pan and form a "mcmuffin" type of shape to fit on my Arnold's flat bread that I toast in the morning. I also have one Morninstar Farms sausage link to go along with it. A really simple breakfast to make at night and warm up inthe morning.

I make these ahead of time and keeep in the fridge: Low carb/high fiber wrap lean deli ham low fat cheese a slice or two of pickled jalapeno peppers I wrap them like a burrito in a paper towel and plastic wrap and throw one in the microwave for a minute before I leave in the morning.

While I don't recommend eating while driving, I don't see the harm in eating while IDLING - at a light, in stop and go traffic, etc. I pack things in my lunchbox that are either bite-sized so I can pop them in my mouth one by one, or easy to hold in one hand (without falling apart or needing to be dipped) that don't leave goo on my hands (in case I need to grab the wheel or stick shift in between bites.) I cut my sandwiches into quarters, so they are smaller to hold, and therefore less likely for stuff to fall out. Plus I can be done with a segment by the time the cars in front of me start moving again. Pinwheels (tortilla roll-up sandwiches cut into 1" thick "coins") are another good bite-sized food. And mini pita pockets cut into halves or quarters help hold the fillings in, since they're sealed at the bottom. I do Ants on a Log, but make two together, filling-sides-in, so there's no mess. For fruit, I cut them up and use long food picks to skewer them, so I don't get juice on my hands. And I often pack carrots, since I like them just fine without any dip. I'll pre-stack crackers with meat and cheese, for a DIY Lunchable, and since they've been stacked, I don't have to focus on grabbing a slice of each item first. I just grab a cracker and use a finger to hold the meat and cheese on (I stack the cheese on top since it isn't as moist as the meats,) and pop the whole thing in my mouth.

Ludicrous Mama

I know some people have long commutes - both of my parents do - but I have to say, eating while driving is just dangerous. I got my license two years ago, and we spent a whole class hour at driving school talking about why things like eating, texting, talking on the phone, putting on makeup, or doing anything besides driving while driving is really unsafe (actually, where I live, driving while on the phone is illegal). You might be a good driver, but not everyone else is, and the split second you look down to grab your sandwich might be the second you could've gotten out of the way of someone else's crazy driving. Not to mention, food-wise, it could have a negative effect on your diet - when you eat while distracted, like when you watch TV, your brain has trouble forming a "food memory" of the meal, and it causes you to think you should eat more later. ( http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/8514093/Eat… )

I totally agree with all the distractions while driving, putting on make up even reading a book, I bring something to drink and instead of a coffee sipper cup I use a straw and I can keep both eyes on the road, especially in rush hour things happen quickly.

I have a long commute, and also like to be safe while driving. A breakfast shake or smoothie is the perfect answer! throw in fresh or frozen fruit, spinach, flax seed,make it with milk or green drink - anything you've got on hand. Drink it with a straw and you'll arrive full and safe

I know....eating while driving is not a good thing....but I do it anyway - every morning. My go-to breakfasts? Oatmeal in a coffee mug or a chopped up apple & fruit (right now I'm in love with blueberries!) a good scoop of yogurt & granola over the top. Yum.....

A smoothie is the perfect breakfast for the car. 1 hand & staw. Just put the phone down!

I want to try these... http://www.theyummylife.com/Oatmeal_Smoothies

Kelly Nolan

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31 Filling Road Trip Snacks That Are Perfect For Vacation

From healthy, high-protein snacks to guilty pleasure sweets.

Delish editors handpick every product we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Whether you're visiting far-away friends and family or treating yourself to a well-deserved vacay , people everywhere are hopping in their cars for road trips. While there's so many reasons to love driving—like sightseeing and avoiding the dreaded airport security line—the food options aren't one of them.

Let's be honest: highway rest stops aren't known for being prime culinary destinations. Most travelers are limited to gas station snacks and a few fast food options in between long stretches of the open road. But what happens if you're hungry while driving through the middle of nowhere? Or if you want something more health-conscious than a bag of Hot Cheetos ?

That's why the most essential component of a perfect road trip—or off-roading adventure—is a cooler full of snacks to keep you full while on the go. From crispy and salty to sweet and refreshing, there's a single-serving snack to satisfy whatever you're craving—and the ones below will taste much better than soggy gas station French fries , trust us.

So load up with some caffeine in your cup holder. Turn up that curated Spotify playlist on your speakers. Make sure your partners in crime are in the passenger seat—and buckle up, for heaven's sake! With this lineup of sweet and savory snacks in the car, you're guaranteed to have the best road trip ever.

BjornQorn Popcorn

When it comes to pre-popped popcorn, no brand comes close to BjornQorn. Each and every kernel is dusted in a savory nutritional yeast-based seasoning blend. It's like a vegan, nutrient-dense version of Pirate's Booty.

Crystal Light Crystal Light Sugar-Free Grape Energy Drink Mix with Caffeine

Pack these flavor packets in your car whenever you need to switch up your plain water. Reviewers say grape is the best flavor, followed by lemonade, but for those who can't decide, grab the variety pack.

Nora Seaweed Tempura

This snack is a favorite for our editorial director Jo Saltz. Think of these savory seaweed snacks as a crunchy roll at your favorite sushi spot, minus the rice and fish. They're light, crispy and perfectly salty—A.K.A the ideal road trip snack.

SmartSweets SmartSweets Sour Blast Buddies

Instead of plowing through that whole bag of Sour Patch Kids, try this brand as a super easy swap. They still give you that pucker feeling without all of the sugar.

SKINNYDIPPED SkinnyDipped Snack Attack Minis Almond Variety Pack

Packed with protein; these have just the right amount of sweet coating to keep your sweet tooth at bay. Beware: If you're traveling in the heat, these may melt—so eat quickly 😈.

YERBAÉ Yerbae Naturally Caffeinated Sparkling Energy Water

Long trips = Tired eyes. When you need that last hour boost, these energy waters are where it's at. Each can is the equivalent of one cup of coffee but tastes far better. One reviewer says, "It is like LaCroix with caffeine".

OMG! Pretzels Garlic Gourmet Seasoned Sourdough Pretzel Nuggets

When we say these are the best pretzels we've ever eaten, we're not exaggerating. Each crispy sourdough pretzel nugget is coated in a cheesy, herby, garlic seasoning that makes it nearly impossible to stop at just a handful.

Afraid of subjecting your fellow passengers to your garlic breath? OMG! Pretzels also carries other filling flavors like Cheddar Jalapeño, Chesapeake Spice, and even Salty Butterscotch.

Blue Diamond Almonds Oven Roasted Dark Chocolate Almonds

If you happen to be a fan of chocolate-covered almonds, you'll want to stock up on this on-the-go pack for the car ride gang.

Wonderful halos Mandarins

You may not have thought to bring mandarins along for the ride before, but now that it's in your mind, how could you resist?

Nutella Chocolate Hazelnut Spread with Breadsticks

Not only will the kids love this on-the-go snack, but you will too! Just make sure you bring enough for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Legally Addictive Snack - The O.G.

Do you like to make toffee and chocolate-coated crackers for Christmas or Passover ? Now you can enjoy the salty sweet treat from behind the wheel any time of year. Legally Addictive's cracker-slash-cookie is truly the best of both worlds.

Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Pack

Need a snack that can hold you over until your next pit stop for a meal? You can't go wrong with beef jerky.

That's it. Fruit Bars Variety Pack

This variety pack of two-ingredient fruit bars will be the better-for-you snack that everyone can't get enough of.

Snyder's of Hanover Pretzel Sandwiches

It's no secret that pretzels and cheese can make a big mess on a road trip (especially if you have kids), so these single-pack cheddar and cheese pretzel sandwiches will make the ideal substitute.

Brewer's Food Sea Salt Baked Pita Chips

Whether you're pairing them with hummus or enjoying them by themselves, these sea salt baked pita chips will be the most shared snack in the car.

Vintage Italia Marinara Penne Straws

Love pasta, but don't want to bring a big plate of it on the drive (LOL)? This traditional Italian pasta-inspired snack will be a great fill in. These vegan and gluten free penne straws are so good, a six-pack won't be enough.

bakerly Chocolate Hazelnut Filled Crêpes

This 9-pack of delicious crêpes will be the ideal ready-to-eat snack, breakfast, or brunch item for travelers of all ages. And, each of the crêpes are individually wrapped making it easy for everyone to have their own without making a chocolatey mess.

Brothers-ALL-Natural Fruit Crisps

Perfect for kids and adults alike, this variety pack of fruit crisps gives the whole car options on options on options.

Hippeas Nacho Vibes Organic Chickpea Puffs

With 3 grams of fiber and 4 grams of plant protein, these crunchy chickpea puffs will satisfy your chip craving—without the trans fat potato chips tend to pack.

Annie's Homegrown Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks

Hey, there's no age limit on fruit snacks. These gummies are parceled out by serving, so you can easily avoid mindless eating while driving.

Meals & Cooking

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Bars

Butternut Squash Noodles

Philly Cheesesteak Nachos

Brat Summer Pasta

Succotash-Inspired Gnocchi

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Oreo Rice Krispies Treats

Oreo Cheesecake Bars

Cheesy Cauliflower Bread

Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta

Mini Apple Pies

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Clean Eating Recipes and Healthy Living Tips for Families with Kids

20 Clean Eating On The Go Breakfasts For Kids

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Need on the go breakfasts for kids? School Mornings a little bit too rushed? Kids skipping breakfast to catch the bus? Take the stress away with these healthy breakfasts the kids will love.

Breakfast In The Car

I’ve got the best intentions when it comes to getting organised on school days. I try, really, really, really do. And I get up early ( most days . Well, fairly often).

I clean my kitchen the night before. Prepare lunch boxes the night before. I even fill the kettle for that coffee I never get to have. Seriously, aside from starting the next day the day before or getting up before that bloody Rooster (he’s hitting 3am like clockwork) , I feel as if I am doing enough to get a grip on that weekday morning. And yet.

My kids catch the bus at 7.55am Monday to Friday. Like Clockwork. 5 days a week.  Monday to Friday . Bob the bus driver is never late.

But somehow it’s a massive surprise to the family every Monday and all the way through to Friday that the bus is on its way.

Breakfast On The Go For Kids

The last five minutes before leaving the door is a flurry of mirror hogging, brush losing, lunchbox packing, homework doing frenzy. Oh to be a fly on the wall in my house at 7.48am.

I think I could accept this pre coffee crazy except for the fact that to get to the bus on time something has got to give. And it’s usually breakfast.

It’s one of my Guilty Mommy moments (these pop up every now and again) watching my kids leave the house without eating anything for breakfast.

Huh! [ Mom’s exasperated sigh ]. My brain is getting bored and tired just thinking about all that parenting.

Sometimes everything falls into place, the sun shines, my husband starts work late, angels sing and the stars align … and we get to sit down and eat breakfast together (those are the pictures you may see on my instagram).

Healthy Breakfasts On The Go

Um. So that happened maybe for a week. And it was hard work. And in truth it wasn’t actually worth it. No it wasn’t.

I was a beast. I missed my sleep. The kids were stressed out. I was angry and shouting. Even the dog stayed in bed. And what for?Y es, I ticked everything off my list, but so what?

There had to be a better way of dealing with the school morning rush without causing total distress in the home. And then I figured it out.

I decided to accept that School mornings at our place are a glorious mess of busy-ness and if it wasn’t for this little secret I’m about to share with you – school mornings would also have meant regular episodes of skipping breakfast all in favor of getting to that bus on time.

But not anymore.

Now I’ve got an official strategy that works really well for our family. It involves an “On the Go” Breakfast Plan that I’m actually pretty proud of. It’s simple but effective and takes away a lot of school morning stress.

On any given week, we will opt for the On the Go option at least twice, maybe three times. The other couple of mornings we manage to get our act together and eat a quick breakfast at home

So, now that I’ve made this an official thing in our home I thought I should jazz the strategy up a bit. So I’ve broken it down into two very specific steps.

On The Go Breakfasts {How To Make It Work}

Ready for it? Drum Roll please …

On the weekend I make up two sets of School Run breakfasts that get stored in the fridge or frozen (if I make a double batch).  

If you are going to implement the ‘On the Go” Breakfast strategy every morning then Two breakfast options are the absolute minimum.  When I trialed this at home, the kids did not like eating the same thing every morning.

I found the uneaten breakfast in lunchboxes after school. A little variety is a necessity if you want this to actually work.

The kids grab one of the above mentioned (I knew I would get to use that word one day) breakfasts before leaving for school.

And that’s it.

It’s not pretty but it does mean the kids and my husband get to eat a good, real food breakfast. And our home is a happy (yes, it’s still busy) hive of activity every morning.

There is a strict checklist that the “On the Go” Breakfast choices need to pass to be included on my list of options. They need to be:

• Able to Freeze or Refrigerate well.
• Easy to make in bulk (8 or more serves).
• Actually eaten by everyone in the family.

With a little trial and error, I’ve come up with a short list of Breakfast Recipes that tick all these boxes. My advice would be don’t try them all at once.

Pick two this week and make up a batch on the weekend. Give it a go. You will thank me for this.

The Best On The Go Breakfast Ideas For Kids

These are the five types of recipes that work well as a fast breakfast option. If you keep reading, I have added a link to our family’s favorite recipes in each category (the ones I make the most).

• Granola Bars

Breakfast Muffins

• Bliss Balls
• Savoury Slices
• Yogurt & Chai Seed Pots

These are by far my 1st choice when it comes to on the go breakfasts. They are perfectly packed in portion sizes, freeze perfectly every time and my family feels like they are eating a treat.

Sweet or Savoury, they work both ways and there are tons of recipes to try so you will never get bored. Here are a few of our personal family favorites.

• Mini Cheese Quiche Muffins
• Healthy Zucchini Carrot Muffins
• Wholewheat Blueberry Muffins
• Spinach and Cheese Muffins 

Breakfast Bliss Balls

The best thing about these little beauties is that they don’t need any cooking. From pantry to little fingers takes all of 5 minutes.

• Cinnamon Vanilla Protein Bites
• Chewy Granola Bites 
• Nutty Oat Bites 

Granola Bars / Breakfast Cookies

Granola Bars are a pantry staple. They are easy to make and full of the good stuff.

• 5 Ingredient No Baking Needed Granola Bars
• Make Ahead Breakfast Cookies
• Honey banana bars
• Brilliant blueberry bars
• Cranberry, Coconut and Oat Breakfast Cookie

Mini Pots of Yumminess

I keep a dozen or so of these little yogurt pots which I spoon in yogurt, chia seed and fruit. They close really well and don’t leak during the day AND they can go through the dishwasher.

• Fruit and Yogurt Pots
• Peanut Butter and Chia Seed Smoothie Pot
• Chia breakfast pots
• Overnight breakfast oats for kids

Breakfast Slices & Casseroles

Finally … there is always the family sized breakfast casserole or slice.

Bake it once and cut it into portion sizes. I don’t like to freeze anything with egg. It’s just a personal preference, so I make slices and pop in the fridge to eat within 2 – 3 days.

• Spinach, bacon and hashbrown casserole
• Breakfast sausage slice
• Zucchini Slice
• Cheese & broccoli slice

Hope this helps with the school morning rush. I know it has made a huge difference at our place.

For More Clean Eating Breakfast ideas, visit my Pinterest Board —> Clean Eating Breakfasts and Brunches or sign up to my Newsletter to get two new Clean Eating Recipes sent to you each week.

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