30 After-School Snacks to Eat By the Handful
Our favorite grab-and-go nibbles
ByKatie Macdonald
Published On
Photo by Bobbi Lin
New teachers, new subjects, new backpacks, and new classmates. The beginning of the school year is filled with chaos and emotional rollercoasters. Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or a victory lap of college, juggling new routines and challenges can be a handful. Sometimes it barely feels like there’s time to eat, which is why snacks—ones that you can make in big batches, pre-pack in baggies, and throw in the car/backpack/cupboard—are almost as important as meals.
Think easy DIY cereal blends, our best homemade Chex Mix, wasabi-dusted popcorn, and sweet-and-salty trail mixes. Let the kids help toss everything together for a fun back-to-school moment, then stash a few in their bag (and yours) for a snack that’ll keep everyone fueled through assignments, practice, and everything in between.
Mix and Match
the crunchy types
Poppin' Bites
Chip Away at hunger
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This story was updated in August 2025 with even more crispy, crunchy snack ideas because once again it's back-to-school season!