7 Grocery Essentials to Stock Up On for Special Out-of-Town Trips

There’s something especially memorable about celebrating a big occasion away from your usual haunts and regular routines. Think birthday bashes by the beach, low-key anniversary getaways in the mountains, or family reunions in a private villa you’ve rented out just for you and your loved ones. On an out-of-town trip, you’ll get the chance to slow down, bond, and create awesome shared experiences with your favorite people, free from distractions.

But these trips aren’t your typical weekend escapes. Such celebrations often come with more guests, more meals, and higher expectations. You’ll likely need more than the usual travel basics to make everything run smoothly, and that includes the food.

Stocking up on the right grocery items before you leave can help minimize stress and save you some money in the process. If you’re a regular at Landers Superstore, you should have no trouble finding everything you need in one place. Don’t forget to use your Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, a Landers cashback credit card powered by Maya, to make your prep process extra rewarding, as you can earn up to 5% cashback on everything you buy.

Here’s a practical list of grocery essentials to take with you on your next special trip out of town:

1) Drinking Water and Other Beverages

It’s easy to underestimate how much water you’ll need on a trip until you run out. Your destination might have limited access to clean drinking water, or maybe you’re planning a full day of activities under the sun. Either way, bringing your own supply ensures that no one’s left parched.

Beyond hydration, it’s also worth packing celebratory drinks such as sparkling juice, soda, or flavored teas to help set the tone for the occasion. Consider bringing a mix of large bottles and single-serve options, especially if your refrigeration options are limited. Having a variety of drinks on hand can make meals feel more festive and help guests stay comfortable throughout the trip.

2) Shelf-Stable Party Snacks

The best gatherings often revolve around good conversation and easy snacking. A stash of shelf-stable treats means guests always have something to nibble on, even outside mealtimes. You’ll have no problem tiding them over while you’re waiting for a grill to heat up or the rest of your group to arrive. Snacks like chips, cookies, crackers, and trail mix all travel well, require no refrigeration, and can be portioned out quickly.

3) Quick-Prep Meals or Grill-Friendly Food

When it’s time for something more substantial, you’ll want options that don’t require too much prep or stress. Pre-marinated meats, hotdogs, and pre-cut vegetables are great for grilling or pan-frying with minimal fuss. Canned or vacuum-sealed meals can also be lifesavers when you need something fast and filling. If your accommodation has a barbecue or simple kitchen setup, you and your loved ones might even try cooking together as a bonding activity.

4) Breakfast and Coffee Fixings

Early mornings hit differently when you’re away on a trip, especially after a night of celebration. Keep breakfast essentials like bread, peanut butter, instant coffee, powdered creamer, or cereal on hand. This makes it easy for guests to start their day without needing to leave the house or wait for a full meal.

Your mornings will be relaxed and flexible, and everyone will enjoy the luxury of waking up at their own pace. Easy breakfasts will also help stretch your food budget by cutting down on the number of times your party has to eat out.

5) Sweet Treats or a Cake Alternative

No celebration would feel complete without something sweet. If a full cake isn’t practical to pack or prepare, smaller dessert options are excellent stand-ins. No one’s going to say no to cupcakes, pastries, cookies, or brownies, so go ahead and choose your favorite. They’re easier to transport and require no setup, and your group can enjoy them whenever the mood strikes.

6) Disposable Tableware and Clean-Up Supplies

Celebrating is fun, but cleaning up afterward, not so much. Bring your own supply of disposable plates, cups, cutlery, and napkins to make both setup and cleanup significantly easier. You’ll want them especially when you’re hosting a larger group or eating outdoors.

Don’t forget the practical extras such as your trash bags, paper towels, and food containers for leftovers. These are the kinds of things you’re likely to forget until you need them, and having them ready makes everything feel more organized.

7) Handy Kitchen Tools

It’s surprising how often the little things go missing right when you need them the most. A decent knife, chopping board, bottle opener, or serving spoon can make food prep and mealtimes run more smoothly, especially if the kitchens at your accommodation aren’t fully stocked.

Pack a few multipurpose tools in advance so that you’re not scrambling to improvise with plastic utensils or asking around for a corkscrew. It’s a small effort that can make a big difference when you’re trying to focus on the celebration instead of the logistics.

Celebrations away from home should be as memorable as the moments they’re meant to honor. The last thing you want is to waste precious hours stressing out over what you’re all going to be eating. Plan ahead and pack smart. That way, you give yourself more time to enjoy good food and great company.