Snack Attack: Top 7 Road Trip Munchies

Road trip snacks are a must-have for any long drive. Think trail mix, jerky, granola bars, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, popcorn, veggie sticks with hummus, energy bars, pretzels, and mini sandwiches. Of course, you can’t forget about the beverages like water, juice, or soda.

According to a recent survey of 2,005 adults, the key elements that make a road trip enjoyable are the snacks (38%), the company (34%), and the stops along the way (30%). Interestingly, when given the option, the majority (38%) prefer traveling by car over a plane (35%) or a train (18%). The survey, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of HI-CHEW, also revealed that 71% of respondents feel that road trips give them the freedom to indulge in as many snacks as they desire.

No surprises here, the top choices for road trip snacks are mostly junk food, but a few healthier options made the cut. The winners include chips, chocolate, cookies, nuts or seeds, candy, fruit, and granola bars.

Snacking on the move is such a big deal that 44% of people think it's downright wrong to forbid eating in the car during a road trip. In fact, a whopping 61% of respondents confessed they wouldn't even consider going on a road trip with someone who doesn't allow snacking.

While the majority (52%) believe everyone should bring their own snacks and be open to sharing, a surprising 65% admitted that there are certain treats they would never, ever share with the rest of the car.

The snacks that people are keeping for themselves are all about chocolatey goodness (49%), fruity flavors (46%), and chewy yumminess (42%).

Here are some popular road trip rules according to the study: deodorant is a must (no overpowering scents though), the shotgun rider is in charge of navigation, and the driver gets to control the radio.

Take a look at the full study here.