Best Road Trip Food in Australia – Ranked

It’s the heated debate that divides Australians each summer. What are the top road trip snacks?

Partners to exes, friends to enemies, happy families to estranged loved ones: nothing divides Australians like what food to stop for on a long summer road trip.

But it’s time for this terrible split in our society to end! As my Silly Season gift to you, here is my ranking of the top road trip food in Australia (don’t come for me or my family, please).

15. Red Bull

Honestly, you probably shouldn’t be driving if you are reaching for a can of the red stuff.

a hand grabbing a can of Red Bull — Grab a can of Red Bull before heading out on a road trip. (Image: Wells Chan)

14. Chiko Roll

If you’re into heavily processed foods that don’t taste good and are usually dry, please go ahead. Plus, its inclusion of beef tallow means it’s not even vegetarian (which I thought it was for an embarrassingly long time).

13. Vanilla slice

Honestly, this flaky pastry with custard turns me into a hot mess express. I know a lot of people love the vanilla slice, and how it very much fits into the iconic Aussie road trip snack category, but I can’t see the appeal. I usually just end up getting crumbs and vanilla custard all down my front and feeling quite car-sick. Not a good look with limited clothes packed.

flaky vanilla pastries on a plate — Get a hold of these flaky vanilla pastries.

12. Maccas

I’ll admit I am a bit of a McDonald’s snob. But when my partner suggests it (pretty much every time we drive down from Sydney to Wollongong to see family), I find myself channelling my politician alter ego. I neither confirm nor deny my desire for the strawberry thick shake and hash brown, as my partner knowingly orders it for me.

Minus points for my almost inevitable stomach-ache, and the fact it’s not exactly a one-of-a-kind stop.

Mcdonalds branch in Australia — Don’t forget to do a Maccas run. (Image: Thabang)

11. Jelly Snakes, Haribo Tangfastics, Allen’s Jellies – any jellied lollies will do

Love the taste and the feeling like you are an eight-year-old again (and one who can drive, at that). A relatively kid-friendly road trip snack until the sugar rush kicks in. Points are knocked off for the queasiness and uncontrollable thirst once you have eaten them. No one needs more bathroom breaks on a ten-hour drive, do they?

Allen's Jellies in different colours — Munch on Allen’s Jellies if you ever need the sugar rush.

10. Sausage roll

The Australian sausage roll is a classic for a reason. While there are some rather fancy options available at select bakeries these days, like pork and apple, or lamb and harissa, part of my pleasure is with the ambiguity of the ‘meat’ in the sausage roll. Gorgeous and greasy in a way that makes the paper bag it comes in go see-through, and cheap to boot.

a close-up shot of sausage rolls — Drool over greasy sausage rolls.

9. Icy pole

Draw straws for which one of you has to leave the air-conditioned safety of the car to bring back cool relief from the servo freezer. Magnums are also a firm crowd favourite. But on a day that is a true scorcher, it doesn’t get much better than a refreshing lemonade icy pole.

a hand holding an icy pole — Beat the heat with an icy pole. (Image: Chris Reyem)

8. Dare Iced Coffee/chocolate milk

Not my personal favourite because I like my caffeine hot and bitter – as I aspire to be so in life. But in honour of all those people who have driven me up and down the roads of Australia, with a carton of cold, sweet, milky produce loyally at their side, it gets a higher ranking.

cartons of chocolate oat milk on white background — Not a coffee lover? Drink chocolate oat milk instead. (Image: Madalyn Cox)

7. Servo coffee

Australia hands-down has some of the world’s best coffees. Everywhere you go, gourmet cafes have lab-like conditions for making your brew just the way you like it. And a servo coffee just ain’t it. However, there’s nothing like splashing $2 for that comforting warmth (black and bitter, please) and a little pep in your step as you blearily set off at 5am.

a person holding two cups of Servo Coffee — Sip a warm cup of Servo Coffee before you hit the road.

6. Scallop pie

My first entry in what I call ‘The Boujee Category’. This rare species of Aussie road snack is commonly found in the state of Tasmania. We’re talking curried scallops and veggies in a puff pastry. Originally from Hobart, scallop pie is now served at coastal bakeries around the island. Best eaten in scallop season, from April to the end of July.

Scallop pie truck in Hobart Tasmania — This rare species of Aussie road snack is commonly found in the state of Tasmania.

5. Farm fruit

When I see a farm fruit stand, my city woman persona immediately morphs into a simple country girl. Olives that are farmed just up the road? Strawberries nurtured to life by an elderly farmer? Mangoes where I can literally see where they are picked if I squint really hard? I don’t care if any of it’s true: take my money.

a fruit stall in Australia — Stock up on fresh fruits.

4. Hot chippies with chicken salt

Because you’ll need to cleanse your palette after all that healthy fruit. And with chicken salt, because ordering chips without it is an Australian crime.

a close-up shot of chicken salt chips — Snack on chicken salt chips during long road trips.

3. Oysters

Second entry for Boujee. With plenty of road trips at this time of the year concentrating on the busy coastal roads, it’s a real treat to stop for some oysters, which are far cheaper and fresher than you’ll get in the cities.

All up the NSW coast (particularly on the South Coast), Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Coffin Bay in South Australia, and Freycinet in Tasmania you will find some of the best places for them at oyster farms and seafood eateries. (I’ll admit that for some people, oysters just aren’t their thing. But it’s my list.)

a close-up shot of oysters — Slurp on freshly caught oysters. (Image: Edoardo Cuoghi)

2. Meat pie

This used to be lower on my list, but in recent years has skyrocketed to second place. Last year, on a road trip back from Woodford Folk Festival on the Sunshine Coast, I was ravenous with hanger. And that thick gravy goodness with meat chunks inside a mashed potato-topped meat pie? It literally brought me back to life.

meat pies on the table — Savour indulgent meat pies.

1. Spinach and ricotta roll

She’s the inclusive vegetarian queen of bakery options. And for that, I thank her for her many years of service. Greasy pastry? Check. That little bit of vegetables so you don’t feel guilty? Check. Cheese? Check, check, check.

spinach ricotta rolls on a plate — Sink your teeth into these buttery spinach and ricotta flaky puff pastries.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Best road trip food in Australia – ranked