Better Options Than Fast Food for Truckers
Long hours on the road can make fast food very tempting—but there are better options for drivers on Highways 20 and 40 in Quebec. With a little planning, you can choose fresh, convenient meals that keep you energized, alert, and fit during your commute. Here’s your handy guide to eating well on the road.
Rest areas with better options
Not all rest areas are created equal. While burgers and fries are ubiquitous, several stops now offer healthier and fresher options :
Ultramar, Petro-Canada, Irving – Many have convenience stores offering fresh cut fruit, ready-to-eat vegetables, yogurt, nut mixes, or even rotisserie chicken and ready-to-go salads.
Canadian Tire Market Sections – Some locations offer sandwiches, wraps and hard-boiled eggs for a quick protein boost.
Fast but healthier restaurants
If you’re looking for a quick meal or takeaway, these options often offer lighter menus:
Subway, Freshii or Panera-style cafes – Salads, wraps and whole grain bowls.
Local cafes – Often offering options like oatmeal, eggs, smoothies, and fresh sandwiches.
Grocery stores / deli counters – Pre-packaged salads, quinoa bowls, fruit and yogurt easy to grab before hitting the road again.
Convenient takeaway meals in the truck
Preparing your own meals can save you money and help you eat healthily:
Overnight oats in a Mason jar – Mix oats, milk, fruit and chia seeds.
Vegetable wraps or sandwiches – Wholemeal bread with lean protein such as turkey, chicken or tuna.
Mixed nuts and dried fruit – Ideal for snacking, but be careful with portions.
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese – Add fruit for a satisfying snack.
Protein bars or shakes – Choose low-sugar options for long journeys.
Stay well hydrated on the road
Keep a reusable water bottle in your cabin.
Avoid too many sodas or energy drinks, which can cause sugar spikes and energy crashes.
Herbal teas or flavored waters are excellent alternatives.
Preparation tips for drivers
Small cooler – Keep fruit, salads, hard-boiled eggs and yogurt fresh.
Microwave or 12V slow cooker meals – Soup, chili and lean protein with vegetables, easy to prepare.
Snack boxes – Carrots, celery, nuts or rice cakes to keep you fed between stops.
Quick and healthy options on the 20 & 40
Quick Healthy Options on the 20 & 40
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Truck Stop Convenience | Fresh fruit cups, yogurt, boiled eggs, wraps |
| Fast Casual | Subway salads/wraps, Freshii bowls |
| Supermarkets / Groceries | Salads, grain bowls, hummus with veggies |
| On-the-Road Snacks | Nuts, protein bars, fruit, jerky (low sodium) |
Eating healthy on the road doesn’t have to be hard. With a little planning and awareness of your stops along the 20 and 40, you can skip the fast-food trap, save money, and keep your energy levels high for those long stretches behind the wheel.