
As a former traveling volleyball player, I often get asked what the best volleyball snacks are for long days full of volleyball. I had very devoted parents who would pack full bags and coolers full of snacks for out of town tournaments, so I have obtained a thorough understanding of which snacks are the best, and which snacks are the worst.
As a volleyball player, it is also very exhausting playing days full of volleyball while having no snacks to eat, and the food that is offered at these events is definitely not worth the hefty price. In this comprehensive guide, I will be discussing the top 5 best volleyball snacks to bring to those long club and school volleyball tournaments so that you can stay energized all day without the hassle and the expense.
Best Volleyball Snacks
1. Prepackaged Volleyball Snacks

When I was still playing volleyball, prepackaged snack bags were a life saver. There are many things that are great about these fun sized packages, but the main reason that they are so great for long tournaments is that they are easy to grab-and-go when you are in a rush. Rather than having to portion and bag up snacks, brands such as Cheese-itz and Lays have made large boxes full of prepackaged portions to easy store in your snack bag. Not only are they simple, they are also very cheap for a large quantity of food. If you are looking to save some money while maintaining simplicity, these prepackaged bags are perfect.
Finally, I have found that these bags are also the perfect amount for a volleyball player to snack on between games. I am generally a binge eater, so if my portions were not limited during my break, I would end up eating too much and regret it later when I was lethargic for my next game. These small bags of snacks are the perfect amount for a volleyball player to feel satisfied while also not being so full that are slowed down in the next games. There are truly no disadvantages to these prepackaged volleyball snacks, and they come in all kinds of varieties and brands.
2. Sandwiches

Although sandwiches are more of a small meal than they are a snack, they were always my favorite thing to eat in between games. Sandwiches are very cheap as the ingredients required oftentimes come in large enough packages that you will have enough sandwiches to last an entire weekend. Although they do require a little bit of assembly, they are a great option for a volleyball player in between games because they often provide a bit of protein that they cannot find in other volleyball snacks. If there is one person that will love your premade sandwiches, it is your coach.
Coaches are always looking for their players to consume food that will contribute to their performance, and sandwiches are a great option. Depending on which sandwich you prefer, you may need to bring a cooler or pack it in a small lunch bag with an ice pack, but I would recommend bringing a cooler anyway to store some other great snacks in addition to the protein that is often part of a sandwich. As long as they are made with love, they will surely add a spark to your game and give you the boost that you need to finish out your long tournament.
3. Trail Mix

Trail mix is a versatile and energy-packed snack that combines a variety of ingredients, making it a go-to choice for athletes during long volleyball tournaments. It typically consists of a delightful mix of nuts like almonds and cashews, seeds, dried fruits such as raisins and apricots, and sometimes a touch of sweetness with chocolate or yogurt-covered treats. What makes trail mix a top choice is its ability to deliver a balanced combination of nutrients. The nuts offer a dose of protein and healthy fats that provide sustained energy throughout the game.
Meanwhile, the dried fruits provide quick carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores, keeping you energized. The addition of chocolate or sweet components adds a touch of indulgence to keep your spirits high during breaks. Furthermore, its compact and easy-to-carry nature makes trail mix a convenient and satisfying snack for volleyball players, ensuring they stay fueled and focused on the game.
4. Greek Yogurt with Berries and Honey

Greek yogurt with berries and honey is a delightful and nutrient-rich snack that offers both refreshment and sustenance during long volleyball tournaments. Greek yogurt, known for its creamy texture and higher protein content compared to regular yogurt, serves as the foundation of this snack. It provides athletes with a significant dose of protein, which plays a crucial role in muscle recovery and repair. Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and well-being.
They also provide hydration due to their high water content, which can be essential during physically demanding games. The addition of honey provides a natural energy boost, enhancing the overall flavor of the snack. Greek yogurt with berries and honey is a go-to choice for players looking to refuel their bodies with a well-balanced blend of macronutrients and essential nutrients.
5. Hummus and Veggie Sticks

Hummus paired with colorful veggie sticks is a smart and satisfying snack option for volleyball players engaged in long tournaments. Hummus, a flavorful and creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, provides a fantastic source of plant-based protein and healthy fats. It’s not only delicious but also supports muscle recovery and sustained energy levels. The veggie sticks, including carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, offer a spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and hydration that are crucial for maintaining performance and stamina.
The combination of hummus and veggie sticks delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavors that keeps players energized while also satisfying their taste buds. This volleyball snack is a great way to incorporate both protein and essential nutrients into your diet, making it a fantastic choice for players looking to stay at their best during a volleyball tournament.
Final Thoughts
I understand that it is sometimes difficult to know what to pack when heading to long days of volleyball tournaments, especially if they are out of town. The main focus is to consider both health and simplicity so that you can continue performing at your highest level while also keep things as easy as possible. While it made be a bit harder to haul around, if you are playing for a volleyball team that is planning on traveling often, I would recommend investing in a good cooler so that you can prepare healthier volleyball snacks for your tournaments.
These foods include sandwiches, salads, fruits, cheeses, and so much more. While it is important to keep the healthiness of your snacks in mind, sometimes small and easy snacks may be much easier for the go, which is why some prepackaged volleyball snacks may be a much better option. In the end, it is truly a decision to be made entirely by you and what your body need to stay fueled for long days full of hard work. As long as your are keeping your health and longevity in mind, there is no such thing as a bad option.
Check out some other tips for volleyball parents!
Photo credits from Flickr: traffic sounds, Micah Sittig, ehpien