18 Vending Machine Snacks That Cost Less Than a Dollar
Looking for tasty vending machine snacks that won’t break the bank? Here are 18 options you can snag for under a dollar.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read

Sometimes, you just need a quick snack without spending a lot. Vending machines may seem overpriced, but there are still plenty of affordable snacks available. Here’s a list of affordable options that keep your wallet happy.
1. Peanut Butter Crackers
Willis Lam on Flickr
A classic combo of creamy peanut butter sandwiched between crisp crackers. They’re filling, satisfying, and perfect for a quick energy boost.
2. Cheddar Cheese Crackers
Wikimedia Commons
Crunchy, bite-sized, and full of cheesy flavor. These little squares bring comfort food vibes in a small package. Perfect for when you crave something savory but affordable.
3. Trail Mix Packs
Famartin on Wikimedia Commons
A mix of peanuts, raisins, and a touch of chocolate makes this a smart snack choice. It balances sweet and salty flavors without being heavy.
4. Pretzel Sticks
Windell Oskay on Wikimedia Commons
Light, crunchy, and salty, pretzels are a vending machine staple. They’re a healthier pick compared to chips and still satisfy that salty craving.
5. Corn Chips
Bobby Mc Leod on Unsplash
Boldly seasoned and full of crunch, corn chips bring a punch of flavor. They pair perfectly with a soda when you need a quick snack.
6. Animal Crackers
Willis Lam on Flickr
Simple, sweet, and nostalgic, these little cookies make you feel like a kid again. They’re light enough for snacking without guilt.
7. Granola Bars
Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
Packed with oats and a hint of sweetness, granola bars are a vending machine win. They’re a quick bite that curbs hunger without feeling too heavy.
8. Fruit Snacks
sweetfixNYC on Wikimedia Commons
Chewy, fruity, and colorful, these little packs bring candy-like sweetness with a hint of nutrition. They’re fun, quick, and easy to eat on the go.
9. Popcorn Bags
Sebbers10 on Wikimedia Commons
Light, airy, and crunchy, popcorn offers a satisfying snack without too many calories. Slightly salted versions are usually under a dollar.
10. Mini Donuts
MissMessie on Wikimedia Commons
Soft, sweet, and dusted with powdered sugar, these tiny donuts are pure comfort. They’re small but packed with flavor.
11. Chocolate Chip Cookies
James Trenda on Unsplash
A timeless vending machine choice; soft or crunchy, they never disappoint. The sweet chocolate chips make every bite worthwhile.
12. Potato Chips (Small Bag)
Esperanza Doronila on Unsplash
Crispy, salty, and satisfying, potato chips are the go-to classic. Whether plain or flavored, they deliver instant crunch. Sometimes, simple is the best option.
13. Graham Crackers
PxHere
Slightly sweet and crunchy, these crackers hit the spot when you want something light. They pair well with coffee or milk if you have them handy.
14. Rice Krispies Treats
Like_the_Grand_Canyon on Flickr
Chewy marshmallow goodness wrapped around crispy rice cereal. These bars are sweet, sticky, and nostalgic. They’re always a fun snack for less than a dollar.
15. Cheese Puffs
annulla on Wikimedia Commons
Bright orange and dangerously addictive, cheese puffs are a playful snack. They’re airy but packed with flavor. Just be prepared for orange fingers afterward.
16. Oatmeal Cookies
Dex Ezekiel on Unsplash
Sweet but hearty, oatmeal cookies offer a nice balance of flavor. They feel a little more wholesome than chocolate chips but are just as tasty.
17. Candy Bars (Fun Size)
Denny Müller on Unsplash
Whether it’s Snickers, Milky Way, or KitKat, fun-size candy bars are vending machine gold. They deliver sweetness without going over budget.
18. Salted Peanuts
Slice of Chic on Flickr
Simple yet filling, peanuts bring protein and crunch to your snack time. They’re salty enough to satisfy cravings and keep hunger away.