15 Cheap Snacks That Were a Lunchbox Staple
Here's a nostalgic list of 15 budget-friendly snacks that once ruled the lunchroom and filled lunchboxes with joy.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
Cheap doesn’t mean forgettable, and these 15 snacks prove it. From cheesy crackers to wobbly desserts and iconic sweets, each one was an affordable way to add excitement to a child’s school day. Whether homemade or store-bought, these snacks defined the lunchbox era for millions of kids.
1. Handi-Snacks
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A plastic tray with crackers and a red stick to spread processed cheese made lunchtime fun. These weren’t gourmet by any means, but kids loved the interactive aspect of spreading the cheese themselves. It felt like a mini meal and gave a sense of independence at the table.
2. Dunkaroos
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A sweet treat where cookies were dipped into a small tub of frosting, Dunkaroos were part dessert, part activity. While they were considered a splurge by some parents, they were still cheap compared to most snacks today. They came in various flavors, with rainbow sprinkle frosting being a fan favorite.
3. Fruit by the Foot
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This rolled-up strip of chewy, colorful fruit snack could stretch over three feet. Kids loved unrolling it slowly or seeing who could eat it the fastest. Despite the bright colors and sugary taste, it was marketed as a “fruit” option.
4. Cheese Balls (Planters)
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Bright orange and impossibly airy, cheese balls came in giant tubs or snack-sized bags. They were known for their messiness, leaving fingers coated in neon powder. Their salty crunch made them an instant hit at lunch tables.
5. Little Debbie Swiss Rolls
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Two chocolate cake rolls filled with cream and covered in a chocolate coating were a sugary delight. They were individually wrapped, affordable, and easy to pack. Kids who got these in their lunchboxes were often the envy of the table.
6. Ritz Bits Sandwiches (Cheese or Peanut Butter)
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Mini Ritz crackers sandwiching a creamy filling made these bite-sized snacks addictive. They were easy to share or eat by the handful. Their combination of salty and savory made them a solid lunchbox staple.
7. Gushers
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Fruit snacks that burst with liquid in the center, Gushers were a playground sensation. Their unique texture and bold flavors made them a must-have treat. They came in bright packaging that added to their appeal.
8. Saltine Crackers
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Plain, square, and pantry basics, saltines were a simple snack that worked with spreads or soups. Many families packed them with a bit of peanut butter or jelly on the side. Their blandness was actually a strength, offering a break from overly sweet or salty items.
9. Animal Crackers
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These mildly sweet, circus-shaped cookies were both fun to eat and incredibly cheap. Often sold in a little red box with a handle, they were designed with kids in mind. They provided just enough crunch and sweetness without being overwhelming.
10. Vienna Sausages
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Though not for everyone, Vienna sausages in pop-top cans were a protein-packed lunch option. Eaten straight or with rice or bread, they were a savory, affordable staple. Many kids remember the oily juice and distinctive flavor fondly.
11. Jell-O Cups
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These wobbly, colorful gelatin desserts were always a hit. They didn’t need refrigeration for short periods and were easy to pack with a spoon. Cheap and available in multiple flavors, they added a pop of color and fun to any lunchbox.
12. Tostillas with Cheese or Butter
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Home-packed tortillas with a dab of margarine or cheese folded in were a staple in many households. They were quick to make, inexpensive, and filled tummies just enough. Wrapped in foil, they stayed soft and warm till lunch.
13. Choco Mallows (Regent)
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These Filipino snacks featured a soft marshmallow and biscuit center covered in chocolate. Individually wrapped and super affordable, they were a sweet treat that didn’t need refrigeration. The texture combo made them especially memorable.
14. Popcorn (Homemade or Bagged)
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Whether air-popped at home or packed in generic plastic bags, popcorn was a lightweight and budget-friendly snack. Parents would season it with salt or cheese powder for extra flavor. It was great for nibbling and filled a lunchbox nicely.
15. Flat Tops Chocolate
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These small, foil-wrapped chocolates from Ricoa were a classic Filipino lunch treat. They were inexpensive and sold in bulk, making them a go-to sweet addition to any lunch. Their simple, milky taste was beloved by generations.