10 kid snacks that cost less than $2 each

Feeding kids doesn’t have to wreck your grocery budget. If you’re strategic, you can stock up on snacks that are cheap, quick, and filling—without relying on junk. Some of these are pre-packaged, some are things you can portion out yourself, and most will hold up well in a backpack or lunchbox.

The key is to keep it under $2 per serving while still offering something they’ll actually eat. These snack options are budget-friendly, easy to prep, and kid-approved.

Banana and a Tablespoon of Peanut Butter

You can grab a banana for around $0.25–$0.35 each, and a tablespoon of peanut butter adds protein and staying power. It’s sweet, filling, and easy to eat on the go.

If you want to make it more fun, slice the banana and let them dip. For school snacks, you can pre-pack peanut butter in a small container. It’s a solid choice that hits all the marks: healthy, cheap, and fast.

Yogurt Tubes or Cups

A box of six yogurt tubes usually runs around $2.50–$3, which breaks down to about $0.50 per tube. Even individual cups of store-brand yogurt often stay under $0.75 each.

They’re a great source of calcium and protein, and most kids see them as a treat. Look for low-sugar options or freeze the tubes for a cold snack that holds up better in a lunchbox.

Hard-Boiled Egg and Crackers

Boil a few eggs at the beginning of the week and you’ve got a protein-packed snack for less than $0.40 each. Pair that with five or six store-brand crackers and you’ve got a little DIY lunchable for under $1.

It’s great for toddlers and older kids alike, especially if they don’t like sweet snacks all the time. Eggs store well in the fridge and don’t take much prep after they’re cooked.

Apple Slices and Cheese Stick

Apples can be sliced ahead of time and tossed with lemon juice to prevent browning. You can get a whole apple for under $1 and a cheese stick for around $0.35–$0.50 when bought in bulk.

This one’s easy to throw in a lunchbox or hand them after school. The combo of crunch, sweet, and salty makes it feel like more than a snack—and it actually holds them over.

Oatmeal Packets

You can grab store-brand oatmeal packets for as low as $0.25 each. All you need is hot water, and it’s surprisingly filling for such a cheap option.

Great for cold mornings, quick snacks, or even an after-nap filler. If your kids like flavor, you can add a few raisins or a dash of cinnamon without raising the price much at all.

Homemade Trail Mix

Buy ingredients like raisins, pretzels, dry cereal, and a handful of chocolate chips in bulk and mix your own. Even with a small serving size, each portion comes out under $0.75.

Kids love picking through the mix, and you control the sugar and sodium. Toss it in a snack-size bag and it holds up for days. Perfect for road trips, park days, or quiet time snacks.

Mini PB&J Sandwich

Use one slice of bread, cut it in half, and layer on peanut butter and jelly. One sandwich this size usually costs under $0.60 depending on the brands you use.

It feels like a full snack but doesn’t weigh them down like a full sandwich might. Cut it into little squares or use a cookie cutter if you want to make it more fun without spending more.

Store-Brand Applesauce Cups

You can usually find unsweetened applesauce cups for $0.50 or less. Some even come in pouches for around $0.75, which are great for on-the-go or less mess.

It’s fruit, it’s easy, and it doesn’t require refrigeration until opened. Keep a few in the pantry for when you need something quick and shelf-stable that won’t get rejected.

Rice Cakes With Peanut Butter

Plain rice cakes are about $0.20 each, and a thin layer of peanut butter adds flavor and protein. One rice cake with peanut butter usually runs about $0.45–$0.60 total.

They’re crunchy, satisfying, and can be eaten slowly. Some kids even like them with banana slices or raisins on top. It’s a low-mess option for older kids that still checks the “filling” box.

Hummus With Carrots or Crackers

You can get a small tub of hummus for around $2–$3 and get multiple servings from it. Add a few baby carrots or crackers and each snack stays well under $2.

It’s a great protein-packed option for kids who don’t want something sweet. If your kid is new to hummus, try a garlic or ranch-flavored one that’s more familiar to their taste.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.