Let’s face it, parenting is a juggle. Between school, activities, homework, and trying to get a moment to yourself, who has time to whip up gourmet snacks all day long? That’s where the magic of store-bought snacks comes in! But with aisles packed full of options, figuring out the best store bought snacks for kids can feel like a quest. You want something delicious, convenient, and ideally, something that offers a little more than just empty calories.
We’ve scoured the shelves to bring you a handpicked list of 7 fantastic, kid-approved snacks that’ll make your life easier and keep those little tummies happy. These are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school hunger pangs, or simply a quick treat on the go.
Our Top 7 Best Store Bought Snacks for Kids
Pringles Potato Crisps Chips, Snack Stacks Variety Pack
Who doesn’t love Pringles? These iconic potato crisps are a guaranteed hit with kids, and the Snack Stacks variety pack makes them incredibly convenient for busy parents. You get a fantastic mix of flavors like Original, Sour Cream and Onion, Cheddar Cheese, BBQ, Pizza, and Cheddar and Sour Cream, ensuring there’s something for every preference. The individual cups are perfectly portioned, making them super easy to toss into a lunchbox or backpack without worrying about crushed chips or oversized portions. It’s a classic, fun snack that delivers on taste and convenience.
- Key Features:
- Variety pack with 27 individual cups (6 Original, 6 Sour Cream & Onion, 6 Cheddar Cheese, 3 BBQ, 3 Cheddar & Sour Cream, 3 Pizza)
- Ready-to-go, stackable potato crisps
- Kosher options available (Original is Pareve; others are Dairy)
- Perfectly sized for lunch boxes, backpacks, or quick snacks
- Pros:
- Excellent flavor variety keeps things interesting
- Individual packaging ensures freshness and portion control
- Globally recognized and loved brand
- Great for on-the-go snacking
- Cons:
- Not the most nutritious option for daily consumption
- Can be high in sodium
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise the convenience and the joy their kids get from the different flavors. Kids love the “grown-up” feel of their own chip can, and the crunch is always a winner. It’s a treat that consistently brings smiles.
- See it on Amazon here
Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar and Cheddar Blast Cheese Puffs Variety Pack
If you’re looking for a cheesy snack that’s a little lighter and more allergy-friendly, Pirate’s Booty is your treasure! This variety pack offers both Aged White Cheddar and Cheddar Blast flavors in snack-sized bags. What really makes these stand out is that they’re baked, not fried, gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free, and contain no artificial colors. It’s a win-win: kids get a deliciously cheesy puff, and parents can feel good about a snack with fewer worries about common allergens and unhealthy preparation methods.
- Key Features:
- 18 snack-size bags in a variety pack (Aged White Cheddar and Cheddar Blast)
- Gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free
- No artificial colors
- Baked, not fried rice and corn puffs
- Made with real cheese
- Pros:
- Excellent option for kids with allergies
- Baked (not fried) makes it a lighter choice
- Made with real cheese for authentic flavor
- Kid-friendly and convenient individual portions
- Cons:
- Can be a bit pricier than conventional cheese puffs
- May not be as filling for older kids
- User Impressions: A huge hit with both kids and parents. Parents rave about the allergen-friendly aspects and the healthier baking process. Kids simply adore the cheesy, crunchy taste and often prefer it over other brands.
- See it on Amazon here
BARNUM’S Original Animal Crackers, Kids Snacks
A true classic that never goes out of style! BARNUM’S Original Animal Crackers bring a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of fun to snack time. These crunchy, slightly sweet crackers come in delightful animal shapes, sparking imagination while satisfying hunger. The 10 individual snack packs are perfectly portioned and maintain freshness, making them incredibly convenient for school lunches, road trips, or just a quick snack at home. Plus, they’re a good source of calcium, which is a nice bonus for growing kids!
- Key Features:
- Ten 1 oz individually sealed snack packs
- Classic sweet flavor and crunchy texture
- Fun circus-themed animal shapes
- Good source of calcium
- Individually sealed for freshness and convenience
- Pros:
- A beloved, timeless classic that kids adore
- Fun shapes encourage imaginative play
- Good source of calcium
- Excellent for portion control and on-the-go
- Cons:
- Can be high in sugar
- Not a high-fiber snack
- User Impressions: Many parents recall these from their own childhoods and love sharing them with their kids. They’re consistently praised for being a simple, satisfying snack that’s easy to pack and always a hit with the little ones, especially the fun animal shapes.
- See it on Amazon here
Rice Krispies Treats Marshmallow Snack Bars (Original)
Sometimes, you just need a perfectly sweet, gooey, and crispy treat, and Rice Krispies Treats fit the bill perfectly. These classic marshmallow snack bars are a staple for a reason: they’re absolutely delicious and universally loved by kids. Each bar is perfectly sized, individually wrapped, and contains only 90 calories, making them a great option for a sweet craving without going overboard. Plus, they contain no high fructose corn syrup, which is a big win for many parents. Pop one in a lunchbox or grab one for an after-school pick-me-up!
- Key Features:
- 16 individually wrapped original marshmallow snack bars
- Puffed, oven-toasted rice cereal and soft marshmallow flavor
- Only 90 calories per bar
- No high fructose corn syrup
- Convenient for backpacks, lunchboxes, or road trips
- Pros:
- Classic, beloved taste that kids adore
- Individually wrapped for freshness and portion control
- No high fructose corn syrup
- Easy to pack and carry
- Cons:
- Can be quite sticky
- Still a sweet treat, not a primary source of nutrition
- User Impressions: These treats are a consistent five-star favorite. Parents love that they’re a quick, easy, and satisfying snack that kids will always eat, and they appreciate the lack of high fructose corn syrup. Kids just love the yummy, chewy goodness!
- See it on Amazon here
Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar Cheese Puffs
If your kiddo is a super fan of the Aged White Cheddar flavor from Pirate’s Booty, then this bulk pack is exactly what you need! Offering 24 snack-size bags of just that delicious, tangy flavor, it’s perfect for ensuring you always have a healthier, allergy-friendly snack on hand. Like its variety pack counterpart, these cheese puffs are baked, not fried, gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free, and contain no artificial colors. It’s a smart choice for parents who want a tasty, guilt-free snack that meets specific dietary needs, making it one of the best store bought snacks for kids with sensitivities.
- Key Features:
- 24 individual .5oz snack-size bags of Aged White Cheddar flavor
- Gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free
- No artificial colors
- Baked, not fried rice and corn puffs
- Made with real cheese
- Pros:
- Ideal for fans of the Aged White Cheddar flavor
- Allergen-friendly and baked (not fried)
- Made with real cheese
- Excellent for stocking up on a favorite snack
- Cons:
- Limited to one flavor
- Can be more expensive per serving than some alternatives
- User Impressions: Customers love the consistency and quality of this product. It’s especially popular among families managing food allergies, who appreciate having a safe and delicious snack option available in bulk. The taste is consistently praised as addictive!
- See it on Amazon here
Annie’s Sweet and Salty Snack Variety Pack
For parents who prioritize organic and natural ingredients, Annie’s Sweet and Salty Snack Variety Pack is a fantastic choice. This pack offers a delightful trio of kid-friendly favorites: Cheddar Bunnies Baked Crackers, Bunny Berry Patch Fruit Flavored Snacks, and Bunny B-Day Cake Flavored Baked Graham Snacks. Every snack is certified USDA Organic and made without artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup. It’s a convenient way to offer a range of wholesome, delicious options that you can feel good about, perfect for school lunches or any snack emergency.
- Key Features:
- Variety pack includes 4 pouches each of Cheddar Bunnies, Berry Patch Fruit Snacks, and B-Day Cake Grahams (12 pouches total)
- Certified USDA Organic
- No artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup
- On-the-go pouches for convenience
- Wholesome ingredients
- Pros:
- Organic ingredients provide peace of mind for health-conscious parents
- No artificial additives or HFCS
- Offers a good mix of sweet and savory options
- Convenient and perfectly portioned for kids
- Cons:
- Can be more expensive than conventional snack brands
- Portions might be small for older kids
- User Impressions: Parents consistently rave about Annie’s commitment to organic, clean ingredients. They appreciate the variety and the fact that their kids genuinely enjoy these snacks. It’s a go-to for those seeking healthier, yet still fun, options.
- See it on Amazon here
Rice Krispies Treats Crispy Marshmallow Squares (Variety Pack)
Why settle for one flavor when you can have three? The Rice Krispies Treats Crispy Marshmallow Squares Variety Pack takes the classic treat up a notch by including Original, Rainbow, and Chocolate flavors. This means even more fun for kids and less snack fatigue! Just like the original, these bars are individually wrapped, making them ideal for quick grab-and-go moments. They’re a surefire hit for classroom parties, lunchboxes, or simply as a comforting, sweet indulgence after a long day of play.
- Key Features:
- Variety pack with 16 crispy marshmallow squares (Original, Rainbow, and Chocolate flavors)
- Puffed, oven-toasted rice cereal and soft marshmallow flavor
- Up to 90 calories per bar
- Contains milk and soy ingredients
- Great for parties, school snacks, or everyday treats
- Pros:
- Offers flavor variety to please all palates
- Individually wrapped for convenience and portion control
- A beloved and nostalgic treat
- Easy to pack and share
- Cons:
- Still a sweet treat, not a primary source of nutrition
- Can be sticky, especially the Rainbow variety
- User Impressions: This variety pack is a huge hit, with kids loving the choice of flavors, especially the colorful Rainbow option. Parents appreciate the convenience of individual packaging and the guaranteed popularity of the snack among children of all ages.
- See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Best Store Bought Snacks for Your Kids
Finding the ideal snacks for your little ones doesn’t have to be a headache. These best store bought snacks for kids offer a fantastic blend of taste, convenience, and often, some impressive nutritional benefits. Whether you’re dealing with picky eaters, food allergies, or just need something quick and easy for a busy day, there’s an option here that’ll fit the bill. Happy snacking!
FAQ Section
Q1: What makes a snack “good” for kids?
A: A “good” snack for kids is typically one that provides some nutritional value (like protein, fiber, or vitamins) to keep them energized and full between meals. It should also be appealing to them in taste and texture, easy to eat, and ideally, free from excessive artificial colors, flavors, and high fructose corn syrup. Portion control is also key!
Q2: Are store-bought snacks really healthy for my children?
A: It really depends on the snack! While some store-bought snacks can be high in sugar, sodium, or unhealthy fats, many brands now offer much healthier options. Look for snacks that are organic, have no artificial ingredients, are baked instead of fried, and offer whole grains or real fruit/vegetable content. Reading nutrition labels is always a smart move.
Q3: How can I choose allergen-friendly snacks for my child?
A: Always check the ingredient list and allergen warnings carefully. Many brands, like Pirate’s Booty or Annie’s, specifically label their products as gluten-free, peanut-free, or tree nut-free. Look for certifications (like “Certified Gluten-Free”) and be aware of “may contain” warnings if your child has severe allergies.
Q4: What’s the best way to store these individually wrapped snacks to maintain freshness?
A: Most individually wrapped snacks are designed to stay fresh in their original packaging until opened. For optimal freshness, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you buy a large box, you can keep the unused packs in an airtight container for extra protection, though it’s usually not necessary.
Q5: Can these snacks be used for school lunches?
A: Absolutely! All the snacks reviewed above are excellent choices for school lunches due to their individual packaging, making them easy to pack and eat. Just be mindful of any school policies regarding allergens, especially nuts, and ensure the snacks meet those requirements.
Q6: How do I handle a picky eater with new store-bought snacks?
A: Introduce new snacks gradually and without pressure. Offer a small portion alongside a familiar favorite. You can also involve your child in the selection process at the store, letting them pick a new option from a few pre-approved healthy choices. Don’t force them to eat it, but encourage them to just try a bite.
Q7: What are some tips for portion control when using store-bought snacks?
A: The great thing about many of these options is that they come in pre-portioned individual bags or containers, which is ideal for portion control. If a snack comes in a larger bag, simply divide it into smaller containers or baggies yourself when you first open it. This helps avoid overeating and ensures each child gets an appropriate serving size.