What Each Generation Grabs for a Road Trip Snack—From Boomers to Gen Z originally appeared on Parade.
Road trip season is officially here, and with it comes one of the most important travel decisions: what snacks to pack. A new national survey reveals that while snacks like Cheez-It and Pringles remain road trip staples, preferences vary widely depending on your generation (and your taste buds).
Gen Z snackers, known for their love of bold experiences, gravitate toward spicy and sour flavors. Whether it’s hot chips, sour candy, or spiced nuts, this group values novelty and intensity. They’re also more likely to travel with friends, making shareable, attention-grabbing snacks a must.
Millennials, many of whom are road-tripping with young kids, are driven by practicality with a twist of indulgence. They tend to favor snacks that strike a balance between tasty and family-friendly—think cheese crackers, fruit snacks, and chocolate-covered treats. Tangy flavors also resonate with this group, especially when it means keeping everyone in the backseat happy.
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Gen X brings a “something for everyone” mentality to their snack game. This group loves variety, often packing a mix of salty, sweet, and protein-based snacks like jerky or trail mix. They lean toward no-fuss, ready-to-eat items that can hold up over long distances and satisfy mid-drive cravings without having to constantly stop for more snacks along the way.
Related: Kelly Clarkson Admits to Surprising Road Trip Bathroom Behavior: ‘Just Me?’
Baby Boomers, meanwhile, prefer the classics. Chips, chocolate, and nuts top their lists—snacks that are familiar, comforting, and easy to grab at rest stops. Unlike younger generations, Boomers are less likely to prep snacks ahead of time, often opting to make spur-of-the-moment purchases during the drive.
The survey also uncovered some regional quirks. For instance, snackers in the Northeast are more likely to crave creamy flavors, while those in the South lean heavily into salty-sweet combos. On the West Coast, flexibility reigns—many just pick whatever looks good in the moment.
Across all age groups, one trend is clear: people don’t stop at just one snack. Most road trippers bring along or buy multiple treats to enjoy throughout their journey, emphasizing the importance of variety.
So whether you’re a spice-loving Gen Z-er or a chocolate-craving Boomer, one thing’s for sure—there’s a perfect road trip snacks out there for every generation. Just don’t forget the napkins.
Related: The Genius Recipe That’s My Go-To Road Trip Snack
What Each Generation Grabs for a Road Trip Snack—From Boomers to Gen Z first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
