A Selection Of Beef Jerky Brands
Road trips, hiking days, and snack cravings all have one trusty companion that never goes out of style: beef jerky.
With so many brands competing for attention, choosing the right bag can feel like hunting for treasure in the convenience-store aisle.
Plenty of styles exist, and the picks below show how wide the jerky aisle can get.
Note: Brand offerings, recipes, and availability can change by location and over time, so readers should confirm current selections and ingredient details directly with the retailer or brand, especially for allergens or dietary needs.
10. Jack Link’s
If you’ve ever grabbed a snack at a gas station, chances are you’ve seen that familiar yellow bag.
Jack Link’s has been a household name since 1986, with flavors ranging from original to teriyaki and peppered. The brand relies on quality beef and a consistent recipe, ensuring the same reliable taste in every bag.
Perfect for a long drive or a post-practice protein boost, this jerky fits easily into a backpack or glove compartment. It’s the dependable snack ready for whenever hunger strikes unexpectedly.
9. Buc-ee’s
Walk into any Buc-ee’s travel center and you’ll be greeted by walls lined with colorful jerky options that seem to stretch on forever. The brand has become legendary for its massive selection, featuring flavors like sweet and spicy, peppered, and even seasonal varieties.
Buc-ee’s is widely known for a large jerky counter, including fresh-cut options that are sliced and wrapped for customers.
Travelers often stock up before hitting the highway, turning a simple rest stop into a jerky treasure hunt. It’s the kind of place where you go in for gas and leave with three bags of different flavors.
8. Alien Fresh Jerky
Based in Baker, California, Alien Fresh Jerky doubles as a roadside attraction with a UFO-themed stop for travelers.
Alien Fresh Jerky sells alien-themed varieties with playful names, including items like Road Kill Original and Abducted Cow Pineapple Teriyaki. The storefront itself looks like something from a sci-fi movie, complete with UFO decorations and extraterrestrial mascots.
Tourists driving through the Mojave Desert often make this a must-stop destination for both the jerky and the photo ops. It’s proof that snacking can be an adventure all on its own.
7. E-T Fresh Jerky
Honestly, there’s something magical about finding a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere. E.T.
Fresh Jerky, located in Hiko, Nevada, is one of those roadside stops that surprises travelers with handcrafted jerky made from quality ingredients.
The small shop focuses on traditional recipes without all the fancy marketing or flashy packaging.
What you get instead is authentic flavor that tastes like it came straight from someone’s kitchen. Many road trippers swear by this spot, often planning their routes just to grab a bag or two.
6. Blue Ox Jerky
Picture a lumberjack taking a break from chopping wood, reaching into a bag for a hearty snack – that’s the vibe Blue Ox Jerky brings to the table.
Thick-cut pieces that deliver a satisfying chew and robust flavor are the brand’s point of pride. From original to teriyaki and peppered, the range offers something for everyone who appreciates a more substantial bite.
A strong, rugged ox symbolizes the toughness and quality packed into every piece. This jerky is perfect for anyone who wants their snack to feel as hearty as a full meal.
5. Daniel’s Really Good Fresh Jerky
In Quartzsite, Arizona, Daniel’s Really Good Fresh Jerky is a popular roadside stop known for a big selection and frequent samples.
The shop is designed to look like an old-time mine, complete with rustic decor and gold rush vibes that make shopping feel like an adventure. Daniel’s focuses on fresh, flavorful jerky made daily, ensuring every batch tastes as good as the last.
Travelers often stop by not just for the snacks but for the experience itself, snapping photos and chatting with the friendly staff. It’s the kind of place that turns a simple snack run into a memorable pit stop.
4. Werner Jerky Chew
Perhaps you want something different from the usual jerky experience – a softer, more convenient snack for life on the move.
Werner Jerky Chew meets that need with its unique, tender texture, which is far easier on the jaw than traditional jerky. It delivers bold, savory flavor along with all the expected protein, but without the characteristic tough and dry chew.
This gentle alternative is perfect for those with braces, sensitive teeth, or a simple preference for something less demanding. Its convenient packaging also makes it an easy addition to any lunchbox or gym bag, ready for a quick, satisfying snack whenever needed.
3. IMP Jerky
Soldiers and outdoor enthusiasts know the value of a reliable, shelf-stable protein source when you’re miles from the nearest kitchen.
IMP jerky, included in some Canadian Individual Meal Packs (IMPs), is designed to provide energy and nutrition in the toughest conditions. The beef jerky pack is simple, no-frills, and built to last, with a focus on function over fancy flavors.
While it may not win awards for gourmet taste, it gets the job done when you need fuel fast. It’s the kind of snack that’s been tested in real-world situations, from training exercises to remote camping trips.
2. Second To None Meats
Surprisingly, beef is not the only option for a delicious jerky. Those seeking a wild, rich alternative should explore the offerings from Second to None Meats.
This brand provides bison and elk jerky. The bison variety is leaner than beef with a slightly sweeter taste, while the elk delivers a robust, earthy flavor that is hard to forget.
Both options offer an alternative to standard beef jerky, with bison and elk varieties sold under the Second to None Meats name. Second to None Meats opens the door to a whole new jerky experience, perfect for anyone looking to try something adventurous and wholesome beyond the ordinary.
1. UFO Jerky stop (Crescent Junction Area)
Absolutely nothing says “fun road trip snack” quite like jerky with a side of extraterrestrial charm.
UFO Jerky stop (Crescent Junction area) offers a wild selection of flavors, from mild to mind-blowingly spicy, all wrapped in packaging that celebrates alien lore and desert mystery. The brand embraces the quirky, offbeat culture of UFO hotspots, making every bag feel like a conversation starter.
Whether you’re a believer in little green visitors or just love bold flavors, this jerky delivers both taste and entertainment. It’s the perfect snack for anyone who likes their food with a side of personality.
