9 Healthy Snacks at the Gas Station

A long drive can get you hungry, no doubt. Of course, we all know that gas stations are filled with slushies, chips and hot dogs. But, you can actually find several healthy snacks at the gas station, too.

A number of registered dietitians, who spend time on the road for work, have come up with a list of pit stop snacks that are not just filling but nutritious, too.

So, here are the nine best snack options from a gas station, according to R.D.s.

1. Protein bars

According to Lindsey Pine, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D, C.L.T, owner of Tasty Balance Nutrition, the best protein bar you can find at any gas station is the RX Bars. You can choose from several delicious flavors, including chocolate sea salt and peanut butter. They’re packed with protein, plant-based fats, and fiber that will keep you full longer.

2. Air-popped popcorn

Edwina Clark, M.S., R.D., recommends BoomChickaPop because they have less sodium but as satisfying as your favorite salty movie popcorn. For a 3 cup serving, you’ll get 3 grams of fiber.

3. Dry-roasted nuts

According to Clark, “Packed with healthy fats and protein, raw or dry-roasted nuts make a great, long-lasting snack when you’re on the road.”

Amy Gorin, M.S., R.D.N., owner of Amy Gorin Nutrition in the New York City-area, told SELF that her favorite nuts are Wonderful Pistachios.

Pistachios offer a trio of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, Gorin said.

4. String cheese

Pine says: “Not only is string cheese fun to eat, but it also contains calcium, protein, and is pre-portioned for you.”

She recommends, Organic Valley Mozzarella Stringles—one of the winners of this year’s SELF Healthy Food Awards.

5. Hard-boiled eggs

According to Pine, hard-boiled eggs can make you feel satisfied longer because each egg has about 7 grams of protein.

6. Sunflower seeds

If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower seeds make a great substitute. They’re always available at any gas station.

“Not only are they filling from the fiber, protein, and healthy fats,” she explains, “but the seeds are also rich in vitamin E.”

7. Bean chips

They have more protein and fiber than your fatty potato chips, but they’re just as tasty.

“If you love crunchy, salty snacks, you’ll adore chips made from beans,” Pine said.

She added that Beanfields is her favorite brand.

8. Bananas

“Bananas are a quick, nutritious, and affordable source of energy,” Clark says

A medium-sized banana has 3 grams of fiber and 422 mg of potassium.  Aside from helping to offset the effects of sodium, bananas also promote better gut health. Pairing one with peanut butter could be even more satisfying.

9. Hummus and pita chips

Gorin said she loves Sabra’s Hummus snack packs because a pack contains hummus and chickpeas goodness.

“You get 11 grams of protein from this snack, which helps to keep you satiated,” she says.