Summer! Ah, just saying the word brings to mind sunshine, outdoor play, and endless adventures for our little ones. But all that fun means hungry tummies, and as parents, we’re always on the lookout for convenient, tasty, and sometimes even healthy options to keep them going. Finding the best summer snacks for kids can feel like a quest, balancing nutrition with taste and portability. You want something that’s easy to pack for the park, pool, or road trip, and that they’ll actually enjoy.
Whether you’re planning a busy day of activities or just need a quick bite between splash pad visits, having a go-to list of kid-friendly treats is a game-changer. We’ve rounded up 10 fantastic options that are perfect for those long summer days, making snack time simple and delicious. Let’s dive into some awesome choices that’ll keep your kids happy and energized all season long!
Our Top Picks for the Best Summer Snacks for Kids
1. Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar & Cheddar Blast Cheese Puffs
Ahoy, mateys! Pirate’s Booty offers a treasure chest of cheesy goodness that kids absolutely adore. What makes these stand out is their baked-not-fried approach, giving you a lighter, crunchier snack made with real cheese without the guilt. The variety pack ensures there’s a flavor for every mood, making it a perfect grab-and-go option for any summer escapade.
- Key Features:
- Variety pack with 18 snack-size bags
- Gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free
- No artificial colors
- Baked, not fried, rice and corn puffs
- Made with real cheese
- Pros:
- Allergy-friendly (gluten, peanut, tree nut free)
- Lighter option compared to fried chips
- Convenient individual portions
- Popular, kid-approved taste
- Cons:
- Still a processed snack, not a whole food
- Can be a bit messy with cheese dust
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise Pirate’s Booty for being an allergy-safe and satisfying snack that kids enthusiastically enjoy. The individual bags are a huge hit for lunchboxes and quick outings.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Earth’s Best Organic Garden Veggie Straws, Sesame Street Toddler Snacks
For parents seeking a more wholesome crunch, Earth’s Best Organic Garden Veggie Straws are a fantastic choice. Infused with real potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes, these playful Sesame Street-themed snacks make eating veggies a fun adventure. They’re organic and come in perfectly portioned bags, ideal for little hands and on-the-go munching.
- Key Features:
- Organic snacks for kids with Sesame Street characters
- Individual snack bags for easy packing
- Crafted with real potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes
- Part of Earth’s Best’s organic collection
- Twelve 0.5 oz snack packs
- Pros:
- Organic ingredients you can trust
- Contains real vegetables (though in straw form)
- Convenient and portable
- Engaging for toddlers with character shapes
- Cons:
- “Veggie” aspect might be overhyped for some
- Texture might not appeal to all kids
- User Impressions: Many parents appreciate the organic nature and the subtle way these introduce veggie flavors. Kids often love the crunchy texture and the fun shapes, making them a popular toddler snack.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Welch’s Fruit Snacks, Mixed Fruit & Summer Fruits Variety Pack
A true classic, Welch’s Fruit Snacks are a go-to for many families, and this variety pack offers both the beloved Mixed Fruit and seasonal Summer Fruits flavors. What stands out is that whole fruit is the main ingredient, plus they’re packed with essential vitamins C, A, and E. These individually wrapped pouches are perfect for any occasion, from school lunches to road trips.
- Key Features:
- Amazon Exclusive: 60 single-serving bags
- Includes Mixed Fruit & Summer Fruits flavors
- Made with whole fruit as the main ingredient
- Gluten-free, fat-free, and fortified with Vitamins C, A & E
- Convenient individually wrapped packs
- Pros:
- Made with real fruit
- Excellent source of vitamins
- Gluten-free and fat-free
- Super convenient for on-the-go
- Widely loved by kids and adults
- Cons:
- Can be high in sugar, so moderation is key
- Not a substitute for fresh fruit
- User Impressions: Consumers consistently praise Welch’s for its delicious taste and the added benefit of vitamins. The large quantity and individual packaging make it a household staple for easy snack ideas.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Flavored Snacks, Summer Strawberry
Annie’s hits it out of the park again with their Organic Bunny Fruit Flavored Snacks. These adorable strawberry-flavored gummies are made with organic pear juice concentrate and are free from artificial flavors, synthetic colors, and high fructose corn syrup. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin C, vegan, gelatin-free, and gluten-free, making them a fantastic choice for many dietary needs.
- Key Features:
- Bright strawberry taste made with organic pear juice concentrate
- No artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup
- USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO
- Excellent source of Vitamin C
- Vegan, gelatin-free, and gluten-free
- Value pack with 22 pouches
- Pros:
- Organic and natural ingredients
- Allergen-friendly (vegan, gluten-free)
- Good source of Vitamin C
- Cute bunny shapes appeal to kids
- Individually packed for convenience
- Cons:
- “Fruit flavored” rather than whole fruit
- Still a sweet treat, so portion control is helpful
- User Impressions: Parents rave about the clean ingredient list and the fact that these snacks cater to various dietary restrictions. Kids simply love the taste and the fun bunny shapes!
- See it on Amazon here
5. SOUR PATCH KIDS and SWEDISH FISH Mini The Summer I Turned Pretty Candy Variety Pack
Sometimes, a summer day calls for a classic candy treat, and this variety pack delivers! Featuring 20 snack packs of both SOUR PATCH KIDS (sour then sweet) and SWEDISH FISH (sweet fruit flavor), this assortment is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a little reward. The mini sizes are great for portion control, and the “The Summer I Turned Pretty” theme adds a fun touch.
- Key Features:
- 20 snack packs (10 SOUR PATCH KIDS, 10 SWEDISH FISH)
- Playful kid shapes for SOUR PATCH KIDS
- Signature red gummy fish shape in mini size for SWEDISH FISH
- Ready-to-gift box, perfect for parties or watch parties
- Convenient on-the-go snacks
- Pros:
- Classic, universally loved candies
- Variety satisfies different cravings
- Mini sizes are good for portion control
- Great for special occasions or treats
- Easy to share and pack
- Cons:
- High in sugar, low in nutritional value
- Can be sticky and messy
- User Impressions: Kids are thrilled with these iconic candies, and parents find them perfect for party favors, movie nights, or as an occasional sweet treat. The individual packs are a huge plus for easy distribution.
- See it on Amazon here
6. BEAR Real Fruit Snack Minis, Raspberry/Blueberry
For a genuinely healthy summer snack, BEAR Real Fruit Snack Minis are tough to beat. These perfectly portioned mini rolls are made from 100% real fruit, with no added sugar, concentrates, or preservatives. They’re gently baked to preserve vitamins and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious option that’s also Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo.
- Key Features:
- Contains 18 packs of Raspberry/Blueberry fruit minis
- Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo
- Gently baked to retain vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Free from concentrates, added sugar, preservatives, stabilizers, and gumming agents
- Perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go
- Pros:
- Truly 100% fruit, no added junk
- Meets multiple dietary requirements
- High in fiber and vitamins
- Convenient and mess-free
- Great for a genuinely healthy quick snack
- Cons:
- Portion size might be small for older kids
- Can be a bit pricier than other fruit snacks
- User Impressions: Parents absolutely love that these are made with only real fruit and no added sugars, making them a guilt-free option. Kids enjoy the natural sweetness and chewy texture.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Annie’s Organic Sweet and Salty Snack Variety Pack
Can’t decide between sweet or savory? Annie’s Organic Sweet and Salty Snack Variety Pack offers the best of both worlds! This pack includes Cheddar Bunnies Baked Crackers, Bunny Berry Patch Fruit Flavored Snacks, and Bunny B-Day Cake Flavored Baked Graham Snacks. It’s an ideal solution for varied cravings and makes packing school lunches or picnic baskets a breeze, all with certified organic ingredients and no artificial nasties.
- Key Features:
- Three tasty options: Cheddar Bunnies, Bunny Berry Patch Fruit Snacks, Bunny B-Day Cake Grahams
- No artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup
- Certified USDA Organic
- Easy on-the-go pouches
- 12 pouches total (4 of each variety)
- Pros:
- Great variety to satisfy different tastes
- Organic and free from artificial ingredients
- Convenient individual packs for portability
- Suitable for various occasions like school or team snacks
- Cons:
- Some options (fruit snacks, graham) are still sweet treats
- May not be ideal for very strict healthy eating goals
- User Impressions: This variety pack is a hit with families for its convenience and ability to please diverse palates. Parents appreciate the organic certification and cleaner ingredients.
- See it on Amazon here
8. The Ultimate Kosher Summer Camp Snack Box (15 Count)
Sending a care package or just need a diverse array of snacks for home? The Ultimate Kosher Summer Camp Snack Box is a fantastic choice, especially if you need certified Kosher options. This thoughtful box is filled with 15 assorted snacks, from savory chips and instant noodles to sweet chocolate wafers and fruit taffies, ensuring there’s something for every kid and every craving. It’s a true taste of home for kids away at camp or a fun discovery box for summer at home.
- Key Features:
- 15 assorted snacks (including gum, ropes, taffies, fruit snacks, cereal bars, noodles, popcorn, chips, chocolate)
- All snacks and candies are certified Kosher
- Thoughtfully chosen to bring joy and comfort
- Variety of sweet and savory options
- Great for care packages, gifts, or home enjoyment
- Pros:
- Excellent, diverse variety of snacks
- All items are certified Kosher
- Perfect for care packages or gifting
- Caters to many different tastes and hunger levels
- Cons:
- Not all items are “healthy” or low-sugar
- More of a treat box than a daily nutritional snack
- User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of a pre-curated Kosher snack box and the wide assortment of treats. It’s particularly popular for sending to summer camps or as a thoughtful gift.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Rice Krispies Treats Crispy Marshmallow Squares, Original
A timeless classic that evokes childhood nostalgia, Rice Krispies Treats are always a welcome sight. These crispy marshmallow squares are perfectly sized, ready-to-enjoy treats, offering that satisfying crunch and gooey sweetness kids love. At only 90 calories per bar, they make for a delightful sweet treat that’s easy to pack for any summer activity or simply enjoy at home.
- Key Features:
- Delicious puffed, oven-toasted rice cereal and soft marshmallow flavor
- 90 calories per bar
- Contains milk and soy ingredients
- Individually wrapped for freshness and convenience
- Large box containing 40 original marshmallow cereal bars
- Pros:
- Classic, universally loved taste
- Convenient individual packaging
- Low calorie for a sweet treat
- Great for school snacks, lunchboxes, or parties
- Satisfying crispy and chewy texture
- Cons:
- High in sugar, low in nutritional value
- Can be sticky in warm weather
- User Impressions: Parents and kids alike adore Rice Krispies Treats for their iconic taste and convenience. They’re often praised for being an easy, mess-free sweet snack option for any time.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Snack Mountain Snack Box, Variety Snack Care Package (25 Count)
If ultimate variety is what you’re after, the Snack Mountain Snack Box delivers a treasure trove of 25 assorted snacks. While not exclusively for kids, this care package offers a delightful mix that can satisfy anyone from teens to college students, and certainly active kids on their summer adventures. It’s a fantastic option for family road trips, sending to a friend, or just having a wide array of options readily available for different cravings.
- Key Features:
- 25 assorted snacks to satisfy any craving
- Perfect for college students, employee appreciation, or general gifting
- Versatile gift for all occasions (Valentine’s, Easter, Halloween, Christmas, etc.)
- Thoughtful and convenient collection
- Designed to cater to various tastes and preferences
- Pros:
- Massive variety ensures something for everyone
- Excellent for gifting and care packages
- Convenient for stocking up for diverse snack needs
- Saves time on individual shopping
- Cons:
- Not specifically curated for young children’s nutrition
- May include items less suitable for very young kids
- Contents vary, so specific favorites aren’t guaranteed
- User Impressions: Highly rated as a versatile and convenient gift, customers appreciate the extensive variety that caters to different preferences and occasions. It’s seen as a thoughtful way to show care or simply stock up on diverse snacks.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Summer Snacks for Kids Answered
Q1: What makes a snack good for summer activities?
A: The best summer snacks for kids are typically portable, don’t melt easily, are hydrating, and provide sustained energy. Think options that are individually wrapped, can withstand a bit of heat, and offer a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs to keep energy levels up during outdoor play.
Q2: Are fruit snacks truly healthy for kids?
A: It depends! While many fruit snacks are “made with real fruit” and fortified with vitamins (like the Welch’s and Annie’s options), they often contain a significant amount of added sugar. For true health benefits, fresh whole fruits are always best. However, as an occasional treat or for quick energy, they can be a convenient option, especially those with cleaner ingredients like Annie’s or BEAR Real Fruit Minis which have no added sugar.
Q3: How can I make snacks more nutritious for my kids during summer?
A: Focus on whole foods! Combine the convenient options above with fresh fruit (berries, melon, apple slices), veggies (cucumber sticks, bell pepper strips) with a dip, or protein sources like cheese sticks, hard-boiled eggs, or nuts (if no allergies). Hydration is also key, so water and unsweetened beverages are important alongside snacks.
Q4: What are some good snack options for kids with allergies?
A: Always check labels carefully! Many brands now cater to common allergens. For example, Pirate’s Booty is gluten-free, peanut & tree nut free, and Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks are vegan, gelatin-free, and gluten-free. BEAR Real Fruit Snack Minis are also a great choice, being Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo.
Q5: How do I keep snacks fresh and cool during outdoor activities?
A: A small insulated cooler bag with an ice pack is your best friend for summer outings! For items like fruit or cheese, this is essential. For shelf-stable items like crackers, fruit snacks, or puffed snacks, a simple airtight container or the original packaging is usually fine.
Q6: Can these snacks be used for school lunches too?
A: Absolutely! Many of these best summer snacks for kids are individually portioned and designed for convenience, making them perfect year-round for school lunchboxes. The variety packs, in particular, offer a great range to keep things interesting.
Q7: What are some budget-friendly summer snack ideas?
A: Buying in bulk, making your own snacks, and choosing fresh seasonal produce are great ways to save money. Large bags of pretzels or crackers can be portioned out. DIY options like homemade trail mix, popcorn, or fruit popsicles are often cheaper and healthier than pre-packaged alternatives.
Keep the Summer Fun Going!
Choosing the right snacks can make all the difference in keeping your kids energized and happy during their summer adventures. From crunchy puffs and fruit-filled delights to classic candy treats, there’s a wide world of options out there. We hope this list of the best summer snacks for kids helps you stock up on delicious and convenient choices, so you can focus less on snack prep and more on making unforgettable summer memories! Happy snacking!