The Best Snacks to Bring on a Cicero Charter Bus Ride

Snacks are an absolute must-have for any Cicero charter bus trip! When you’re traveling from Cicero to Chicago, exploring Berwyn or Oak Park, or taking your group all the way down I-55 for a day at Lincoln Park Zoo or a night out in Wrigleyville, being prepared with the right food and drinks can make your ride more enjoyable. While you can always build pit stops into your itinerary to grab a bite to eat, roadside restaurants sometimes don’t offer the selection you need—especially if you’re traveling with folks who have dietary restrictions, get carsick easily, or are on a budget. You may also be wondering what foods and drinks are allowed on your Cicero charter bus rental. Here is a quick guide to our favorite snacks to take on a bus trip, so you can board with all the supplies you need to make your bus rental experience as positive as possible! If you have specific questions about whether a certain item is permitted on your bus, just call 708-943-1560.

What makes for a good bus trip snack?

We understand that everyone has different tastes and preferences when it comes to on-the-road foods. That being said, in our experience, we think the best snacks for a bus trip are:

Easily portable

This may seem like a no-brainer for a group on the move. But by “portable,” we mean foods that are self-contained/can easily be stored away and can be consumed without utensils are ideal snacks for a charter bus trip. Consider packing your favorite single-serving and handheld snacks like granola bars and small fruits. Avoid having to deal with storing any leftover food once you’ve had your fill by grabbing snacks that can be stashed away in your carry-on bag or the overhead parcel rack without the risk of spilling everywhere.

Light on the stomach

Studies show that a little over half of modern travelers report having felt carsick at some point in their lives. And even if you don’t consider yourself prone to feeling queasy in a moving vehicle, it never hurts to opt for foods that can help prevent motion sickness while on a bus.

Avoid foods that are greasy or acidic, as they take longer to digest. When in doubt, opt for a variation of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) with simple ingredients and not too much flavor. The goal is to eat something light and easy to digest, so as to not upset your stomach while you’re on the road.

Proteins over carbs

Sure, carb-based snacks like potato chips are tasty, can fill you up quickly, and can even give you a short burst of energy—but those calories are empty, and they’ll leave your stomach feeling empty after an hour or so. Instead, protein-based foods like nuts, jerky, and trail mix are good snacks for bus trips because they are filling and will give you the energy you need to take on the events or occasions that await you at your destination.

Great Snacks for Bus Trip with Kids

If you’re traveling with younger passengers—say, for a field trip or a little league sporting event—you’ll want to ensure they stay comfortable and preoccupied between stops. So let them pop a DVD into the onboard entertainment system, recline in a comfy plush seat, and enjoy these kid-favorite snacks for a bus trip:

Dried fruits

Kids love sugar, and fruit can be a healthy way to curb those cravings! Fresh fruit can easily make for sticky hands and a messy seat, so opt for dried fruit to minimize the need for wet wipes or trips to the onboard restroom’s sink to wash up.

Squeeze-pouch foods

There are plenty of portable kid snacks on the market that come in squeeze pouches with a nozzle—from applesauce to yogurt to pudding. Not only are these foods easy to store in a backpack or carry-on bag, but they also offer relatively mess-free ways for kids of all ages to enjoy their favorite snacks.

Juice box

Especially if you have a long day of walking through museums of physical activity on the itinerary, your little passengers will need to stay hydrated. Juice boxes are easy to store and offer a tastier alternative to water when it comes to quenching their thirst.

Best Snacks for Bus Travel with Adults

Whether you’re on a long-haul bus ride for a corporate conference or a bachelorette party bar hop, adults need snacks too! Some of the best snacks for adults to bring on a bus trip include:

Cheese sticks

When it comes to cheese, string cheese reigns supreme for bus travel. It’s usually individually wrapped, doesn’t require utensils to eat, and isn’t likely to go bad if left unrefrigerated for a few hours.

Granola bars or protein bars

Individually packaged, easy to store, filling, and available in a variety of flavors, granola and protein bars are the perfect snack for adults to bring on a bus trip. They’re non-perishable, so you can keep a few in your tote bag or briefcase for whenever hunger strikes during your travels.

Hummus and pita chips

For a healthier option, pack a sealable container of hummus and a bag of pita chips for dipping. Hummus is packed with protein and will keep you full until your next meal, while pita chips are sturdy enough to scoop up the dip without making a mess.

Healthy Road Trip Snack Ideas

Trying to eat healthy while on the road? Here are some great options for snacks to bring on a bus trip that won’t derail your diet:

Fresh vegetables

Pre-cut and washed veggies like baby carrots, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips are a crisp, refreshing snack. Store them in a sealable plastic container or baggie to keep them fresh during your trip.

Hard-boiled eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can keep you satisfied for hours. Hard-boil a few before your trip, peel them, and store them in a small container in your cooler or insulated lunch bag.

Popcorn

Skip the butter and salt-heavy movie theater popcorn and opt for air-popped popcorn instead. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and easy to portion out into individual bags for snacking on the bus.

High-Protein Snacks for Long Bus Rides

Long bus rides often mean fewer opportunities to stop for meals, so it’s important to have snacks that will keep you full and energized. High-protein snacks are a great option for sustaining your energy levels during a lengthy bus trip:

Jerky

Beef, turkey, or plant-based jerky is a convenient, protein-packed snack that doesn’t require refrigeration. Just be sure to choose options that aren’t too high in sodium or artificial additives.

Mixed nuts

Nuts like almonds, cashews, and peanuts are rich in protein and healthy fats, making them a satisfying snack for long rides. Portion them into small containers or bags to avoid overeating.

Greek yogurt

If your bus has a cooler or mini fridge, Greek yogurt cups are an excellent high-protein snack. Choose plain or lightly sweetened varieties, and add your own toppings like granola or fresh fruit.

Easy-to-Pack Snacks for Group Travel

When traveling with a large group, it’s important to choose snacks that are easy to pack, transport, and share. Here are some of the best snacks to bring on a bus trip with a big group:

Sandwiches or wraps

Make a batch of sandwiches or wraps before your trip, cut them in half, and wrap them individually in foil or parchment paper. Choose fillings that won’t get soggy, like deli meats, cheese, and lettuce.

Fruit cups or applesauce pouches

Single-serve fruit cups and applesauce pouches are mess-free, portable, and don’t require refrigeration. They’re also a great way to get a serving of fruit without worrying about spoilage.

Crackers and cheese

Pack a box of whole-grain crackers and a resealable bag of pre-sliced cheese for an easy, shareable snack. Add some sliced salami or pepperoni for extra protein.

Road Trip Drinks for Your Charter Bus Ride

Staying hydrated is key during any bus trip, especially if you’re traveling during the hot summer months or have a packed itinerary. Here are some of the best drinks to bring on a bus trip:

Water bottles

Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at rest stops or hotels along the way. If you prefer flavored water, add a slice of lemon or a packet of drink mix.

Iced tea or cold brew coffee

Brew a batch of iced tea or cold brew coffee at home and pour it into a thermos or insulated bottle. This will save you money compared to buying drinks at gas stations or cafes.

Sports drinks

If you’re participating in a sports tournament or outdoor activity during your trip, bring a few bottles of sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.

Alcohol on Buses: What to Know

If you’re planning a bachelor/ette party, wedding, or other celebration on your bus, you may be wondering if alcohol is allowed. Many companies do permit alcoholic beverages on board, but you’ll need to notify your reservation specialist ahead of time. There may be additional fees or requirements, such as a refundable cleaning deposit or proof that all passengers are over 21. Always double-check with your provider before bringing alcohol on your bus.

If alcohol is permitted, stick to cans or plastic bottles rather than glass, which can break and create a safety hazard. Designate someone to collect and dispose of empties, and avoid excessive drinking to ensure everyone stays safe and respectful during the ride.

How to Pack Food and Drinks for a Bus Trip

Proper packing is essential to keep your snacks fresh, organized, and spill-proof during your journey. Here are some tips for packing food and drinks for a bus trip:

Use a cooler or insulated bag

For perishable items like yogurt, cheese, or hard-boiled eggs, pack them in a small cooler or insulated lunch bag with ice packs. This will keep them chilled for several hours.

Choose leak-proof containers

Store dips, spreads, or cut fruit in containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent leaks. Zip-top bags are great for dry snacks like popcorn, nuts, or granola bars.

Bring napkins and wipes

Accidents happen, so pack a stack of napkins or paper towels, as well as a pack of disinfectant wipes for cleaning up spills or sticky fingers.

Plan Your Cicero Bus Trip with Us!

No matter what kind of snacks you decide to bring on your Cicero bus trip, we’ll make sure you have everything else you need to enjoy the ride. Our team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about your rental—from bus models to amenities to payment plans. Give us a call today at 708-943-1560 and we’ll provide an instant quote for your next group trip in Cicero, Cook County, and beyond!