Best Snacks to take to Disney World (& Universal)

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When our family goes to Disney World (or Universal Orlando), we like to pack our own snacks and easy meals. Not only does it save a lot of money versus buying all our food at the park or resort, but I also include healthy snacks, so our kids aren’t only eating popcorn and treats all day. 🙂

Between the early mornings, long park days, and late nights, having quick, hotel-friendly food on hand keeps everyone in my group happy (and prevents any hangry meltdowns). By bringing the right mix of non-perishable, suitcase-friendly items, I know I’ll have breakfast, snacks, and even simple lunches ready without relying on pricey park food or last-minute grocery runs.

Whether I’m in the mood for something high-protein, a kid-friendly treat, or a quick bite before hitting the rides, this list has me covered.

Here’s a comprehensive, suitcase-friendly list of snacks and simple no-cook foods that work well in a hotel room. They’re shelf-stable (or fine for a day in a mini-fridge), easy to portion, and low-mess.

Breakfast-y things

  • Instant oatmeal packets (use hot water from lobby or cafeteria, designed for making tea)
  • Granola, muesli, or cereal cups
  • Breakfast bars (chewy, high-fiber, or protein)
  • Pop-Tarts or toaster pastries
  • Mini muffins or breakfast cookies

High-protein grab-and-go

  • Jerky
  • Meat/cheese cracker snack packs (shelf-stable types)
  • Tuna or salmon pouches (tear, mix, and eat)
  • Chicken salad pouches or kits
  • Single-serve nut butter packets (almond, peanut, hazelnut)
  • Protein bars and cookies
  • Roasted chickpeas or edamame
  • Shelf-stable hummus cups
  • Trail mix with nuts and seeds

Crackers, breads

  • Crackers or pita chips
  • Rice cakes
  • Bagels or English muffins (no toaster needed if topped)
  • Tortillas or wraps (great with tuna/peanut butter/banana)
  • Animal crackers or graham crackers
  • Peanut butter or cheese sandwich crackers

Fruit and veggie options

  • Dried fruit (mango, apricots, raisins, cherries)
  • Fruit leather or fruit strips
  • Applesauce pouches or cups
  • Shelf-stable fruit cups (in juice, not syrup)
  • Fruit that travels well, such as apples and oranges
  • Pickle snack packs or olive cups
  • Canned fruit

Sweet snacks and treats

  • Dark chocolate squares
  • Yogurt-covered pretzels or raisins
  • Biscotti or shortbread
  • Marshmallow rice treats
  • Cookies
  • Fruit snacks

Savory and salty

  • Pretzels or pretzel thins
  • Pita chips or bagel chips
  • Microwave popcorn – one of our go-to snacks!
We love bringing bags of microwave popcorn to theme parks!
  • Potato or veggie chips (mini bags)
  • Cheese crisps or protein crisps
  • Seaweed snacks

No-cook mini-meals

  • Tuna/salmon + crackers kits
  • Instant couscous cups (add hot water)
  • Ramen cups
  • Ready rice pouches
  • Shelf-stable soup cups (add hot water)
  • Mediterranean snack box: pita chips + hummus + olives + roasted peppers
  • Hummus cups
  • Peanut butter and jelly (or Uncrustables)

Hydration and drink mixes

  • Electrolyte packets
  • Instant coffee
  • Tea bags
  • Hot cocoa packets
  • Flavor drops/powder for water bottles

Condiments and seasoners (travel packets)

  • Salt, pepper, everything bagel seasoning
  • Hot sauce, sriracha
  • Ketchup, mustard, mayo packs

If you have a mini-fridge

  • String cheese or Babybel
  • Greek yogurt cups
  • Fresh fruit (berries, cut melon in sealed containers)
  • Pre-cut veggies with dip
  • Hard-boiled eggs (store promptly)
  • Refrigerated overnight oats or chia pudding
  • Baby carrots or carrot sticks, sugar snap peas, or mini cucumbers
I cut up carrots before our trip, and keep them in the hotel fridge. They make tasty, healthy snacks while at the theme parks.

Lightweight utensils and supplies

  • Ziploc bags (snack and quart sizes)
  • A collapsible bowl and a spork
  • Paper plates/bowls and napkins
  • Wet wipes and a small dish sponge
  • Small cutting board and knife
  • Can opener (if bringing cans)
  • Reusable water bottle and insulated mug

Packing tips

  • Use hard-sided containers to prevent crushing; nest small items inside bowls.
  • Favor single-serve packs for park days; refill from larger bags kept in the room.
  • Choose items that don’t melt easily and won’t crumble in transit.
  • If flying, keep liquid/gel items (like guac or hummus) in checked bags or respect carry-on liquid rules.

Packing a variety of easy, portable snacks ensures you’re always ready for whatever your trip to Disney throws your way.

With the right mix of shelf-stable favorites and a few fresh items, you can save money, avoid long food lines, and keep your energy up for the rides, shows, and magical moments that make the trip unforgettable. A little snack planning now means a lot more fun later.

If you have any suggestions, please leave a comment below. Thanks!

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