Travelling is one of life's greatest joys - new places, new faces and, of course, new experiences. And, there is one thing every seasoned traveller will always tell you: good travel snacks are a must.
Kadalai Mittai (peanut chikki) is an excellent choice as it is compact, energy-packed and does not spoil easily. Tapioca Chips offer a unique, savoury crunch, while Murukku holds up well during trips.
So, join us in this journey to take a closer look at which Indian snacks make every mile a lot tastier.
Travel Essentials: Snacks You Should Pack
● Ribbon Pakoda
If you have ever bitten into a freshly made Ribbon Pakoda, you will know exactly why it tops this list. These crunchy, ribbon-shaped snacks are an absolute favourite for travellers.
They are made with rice flour and chickpea flour, seasoned with just the right hint of spices to tingle your taste buds. Ribbon Pakoda holds its crispness for days if stored properly, making it the perfect companion for long travels.
Maybe you are stuck in traffic or cruising on a scenic highway, grabbing a handful of Ribbon Pakoda. And, it feels like bringing a piece of home with you. And, the best part? It is not overly greasy, so you would not have to worry about messy fingers while on the go.
● Kadalai Mittai
Sometimes as you are travelling, your energy dips faster than you expect. That is when a piece of Kadalai Mittai (peanut brittle) feels like a sweet fuel in edible form.
Made from roasted peanuts bound together with jaggery, this traditional sweet is not just delicious - it is packed with protein and natural sugars to give you a quick energy boost.
It is the perfect ‘pocket snack’ - small, sturdy and capable of surviving even the roughest road trips without crumbling into a million pieces.
Also, there is a heartwarming simplicity to Kadalai Mittai. It reminds you of childhood train rides when your parents would pull out a newspaper-wrapped bundle of it to share with everyone.
● Murukku
Murukku and travel go together like tea and biscuits. Crunchy, savoury and beautifully spiced, Murukku is one of those snacks you can never have ‘just one’ of.
It is prepared using rice flour, urad dal flour, cumin, sesame seeds and a touch of butter for that crunchy, satisfying texture. You could toss a pack into the bottom of your bag and it would still emerge unscathed - and delicious.
Murukku does not just travel well; it travels with a blissful feeling, bringing a hearty crunch to every bite and a nostalgic warmth that only a traditional snack can offer.
● Thattai
Another gem from the southern regions of India, Thattai is a thin, crispy snack made from rice flour, lentils and a blend of spices.
It is similar to the concept of chips but with a bit more depth, due to the addition of ingredients like black sesame seeds, cumin and turmeric.
Thattai is not a snack you just nibble on absentmindedly because it demands your attention with its bold, spicy kick.
It is fantastic for road trips where you want something that feels substantial but is not heavy on your stomach. Pair it with a cup of chai during a pit stop and you will have a moment worth remembering.
● Sweet Banana Chips
Sweet Banana Chips are what you take when you want to feel like you are vacationing even before you reach your destination. It has flavours of Kerala infused.
These chips are made from ripe bananas, thinly sliced and fried to golden perfection. Thanks to their natural sugar content and minimal ingredients, they feel lighter and guilt-free compared to processed sweets.
They are a joy to munch on during slow stretches of a drive or lazy afternoons by the beach. No matter whether you are travelling by car, train or plane, you can trust that they will stay fresh in your bag.
● Mixture
Every handful of Mixture is a surprise - crispy sev, peanuts, fried curry leaves, tiny bits of boondi and a note of spices that dance on your tongue.
You get the satisfaction of sweet, salty and spicy all in one munch. This wonderful mix of textures and flavours is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Mixture is the travel equivalent of having a mini feast on the go. It is fun, it is flavourful and it is almost impossible to stop once you start. Plus, its variety ensures you will not get bored quickly.
● Tapioca Chips
If you are looking for something with a bit more complexity than regular potato chips, Tapioca Chips are the answer.
Created from sliced tapioca root, these chips have a wonderfully earthy taste that is heightened with a little salt and pepper. These chips are especially great for people who love a mild, subtle taste with the correct amount of spice.
It is easy to carry around, does not crumble easily and is ideal for longer trips. The simplicity of Tapioca Chips with their tantalising flavour, is what makes them a delectable option.
● Seedai
Small but mighty - that is the best way to describe Seedai. It is one of those snacks that embodies the spirit of traditional Indian munching. These marble-sized fried rice balls are lightly spiced and extremely addictive.
Seedai is amazing for those times during a journey when you just want a little something to nibble without committing to a full snack. With a soft yet crispy bite, they are a treat that keeps you coming back for more.
Because they are so compact and non-greasy, Seedai travels exceptionally well. Pop a few into a ziplock and you are sorted for those random snack attacks on the road.
● Masala Peanuts
Every traveller needs a fiery snack up their sleeve - and Masala Peanuts fit the bill perfectly. Roasted or deep-fried peanuts coated in a spicy, tangy masala mix are instant mood-lifters.
The crunchiness of the peanuts and the bold spices make for a snack that is enticing and exciting. Try it once and you will understand why.
Masala Peanuts are protein-rich, making them not just tasty but energising as well. Have a mouthful of these peanuts and you will be wide-eyed and ready for the next leg of your journey.
● Kara Boondi
Kara Boondi might look small, but do not let their size fool you. These crunchy, tiny balls made from chickpea flour are packed with flavour.
Lightly spiced and beautifully crisp, Kara Boondi makes for an effortless snack while travelling. If you love a snack with a bit of zing, Kara boondi is a delicious way to spice things up. It promises a lot of punch for such tiny little balls.
● Achappam
Saving one of the most beautiful snacks for the end: Achappam. Also known as Rose Cookies, these intricately designed, mildly sweet snacks are a traditional treat from Kerala.
It is prepared using rice flour, coconut milk and sugar. Fried in a unique flower-shaped mould, these treats are delicately crispy, light and satisfyingly sweet.
Achappam truly is an experience in itself. The sweet, subtle flavour, paired with the crunchiness is everything you might want in a snack.
Their lovely shape also adds a fun element to your snacking indulgence. A few of these treats are enough to transport you to a happy place, even in the middle of your ride.
And, if you are looking to stock up on delicious Indian snacks for your next adventure, KR Bakes is the place to go.
We have been a local favourite for years, serving up flavourful snacks. We ensure the treats are prepared with the finest ingredients, so you can trust they will stay fresh throughout your journey.
So, swing by your nearest KR Bakes or order online now!
