Survey Finds Cheez-It and Pringles Top Summer Road Trip Snacks Across Generations

As summer road trips beckon, Americans are stocking up on their favorite crunchy companions, and a new survey reveals that Cheez-It and Pringles reign supreme. From Gen Z’s love of bold, spicy bites to Boomers’ preference for classic salty-sweet mixes, snack choices vary widely by age—and even by region—shaping how families and friends fuel their journeys.

Gen Z travelers, who tend to hit the road with groups of friends, crave adventurous flavors that pack a punch—think sour, savory and spicy snacks designed to be shared and spark conversation at every rest stop. For these digital natives, snack time is part of the social experience, with brightly flavored chips and crackers topping their must-have lists.

Millennials, many of whom are road-tripping with children in tow, lean toward tangy and cheesy treats that please both parents and picky eaters alike. Nearly four in ten millennial road-trippers say their kids are snacking “every mile,” so they prioritize a mix of salty, sweet and cheesy goodies that keep the whole family happy between playground breaks and scenic overlooks.

Gen X and Boomers take a more streamlined approach—favoring salty-sweet and chocolatey flavors along with nuts, seeds and protein bars. Whether traveling solo or with a partner, these generations often pick up snacks along the way, preferring to mix convenience store finds with a few pre-packed staples for a no-fuss road trip pantry.

Regional tastes add another layer of variety: Southerners stock up on salty, sweet and chocolatey snacks before hitting the highway, while Northeasterners are twice as likely as Midwesterners to reach for creamy flavors—though one in three Midwest drivers still counts cheesy snacks among their top three picks. Out West, from the Mountain states to the Pacific Coast, travelers remain flexible, happy to grab whatever’s on hand, even as they savor their favorite salty-sweet combos.

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a family convoy, this summer’s survey offers a tasty roadmap for your travels. Pack a variety of flavors to satisfy every passenger, scout local retailers for regional specialties, and turn your snack breaks into memorable pit-stop parties. After all, the best road trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the shared moments and flavor discoveries along the way.

Article by multiple contributors based upon a press release by Kellanova

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