6 Best Snacks in Laos to Try on Your Laos Tour

Top 6 Traditional Laos Snacks Every Traveler Must Try

Kaipen – River Algae Crisps

Kaipen is not just a snack, it’s a bite of the Mekong River itself. Harvested from river algae during the hot season in Luang Prabang, these delicate sheets are sun-dried, topped with sesame seeds, tomato, and garlic, then flash-fried to perfection.

It’s crisp, aromatic, and deeply umami. Locals enjoy it with jeow bong, a spicy chili dip that enhances its earthy flavor. If you’re joining one of our Impress Travel Laos Tours, don’t miss tasting Kaipen fresh from the market stalls.

The best part? It’s packed in stand-up zipper pouches, making it perfect for treks and day trips. Plus, oxygen absorbers inside the packaging help it stay crunchy even after an international flight. With a 100-day shelf life and zero need for refrigeration, it’s a top pick among seasoned travelers.

Kaipen (Source: phakhaolao)

Sien Savanh – Lao Beef Jerky

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both flavorful and protein-packed, Sien Savanh is your go-to. This traditional Laos snack features thin strips of lean beef marinated in soy sauce, garlic, chili, and palm sugar, then sun-dried and sometimes lightly grilled.

Sien Savanh offers a satisfying chew with a burst of savory-spicy flavor—perfect to enjoy with a cold drink while taking in the sunset by the Mekong. It’s a local favorite, especially for picnics and road trips.

Sien Savanh (Source: saengskitchen)

Sai Oua – Herbal Sausage

Sai Oua is a herby, spicy pork sausage sizzling on street grills across Northern Laos. Made from minced pork mixed with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and fiery red chili, this sausage bursts with character.

Freshly grilled Sai Oua is a must-try on any Laos street food adventure, especially when wrapped in banana leaves and served with sticky rice. Luckily, you can also take it home—vacuum-sealed packs are now widely available in night markets and convenience stores. It’s juicy, aromatic, and unforgettable. This is more than a snack; it’s a culinary experience that defines the bold spirit of Laotian cuisine.

Sai Oua (Source: hotthaikitchen)

Jeow Bong – Chili Paste with Fermented Buffalo Skin

No list of traditional Laos snacks would be complete without Jeow Bong—the fiery, sticky chili paste that accompanies almost every meal in Laos. This paste blends roasted chilies, garlic, palm sugar, and fermented buffalo skin into a sweet-spicy flavor bomb.

Locals use it to dip everything from kaipen to sticky rice and grilled meats. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a cultural icon. What’s more, it now comes in sealed jars with no need for refrigeration on short trips, making it one of the easiest Lao snacks to bring home.

Jeow Bong (Source: hannaone)

Roasted Lao Peanuts – Chili Garlic Flavor

Looking for something crunchy, spicy, and addictive? Roasted Lao peanuts, coated in chili and garlic, are a street-side favorite. You’ll find them sold in small packs at local shops, perfect for munching on the go or pairing with your favorite drink.

These snacks are designed for the road—packaged in bite-sized discs, sealed for freshness, and accompanied by oxygen absorbers to preserve crunch during long journeys. No oils leak out, so they’re safe for carry-ons and trekking bags. 

Roasted Lao Peanuts (Source: Helen’sRecipes)

Chocolate Dream by Mikaël – Artisanal Lao Chocolate

Chocolate Dream by Mikaël is a small-batch, handcrafted chocolate using 100% organic Lao cacao beans.

From bold dark bars to sweet fruit-infused varieties, this treat is a rising star in Laotian food souvenirs. Beautifully wrapped and crafted with care, it’s perfect for gifting or indulging yourself. Even better, the packaging is designed to be TSA-friendly, making it a worry-free addition to your suitcase. You’ll find it in select shops and tourist-friendly markets

Chocolate Dream by Mikaël (Source: AChocolateDreamByMikaël)

Where to Buy Laos Snacks: Markets, Shops & Supermarkets

In Laos, tracking down snacks is more than shopping—it’s an experience. Whether you’re wandering through glowing night markets or grabbing a quick bite between destinations, there’s no shortage of places to find both classic and creative Lao treats.

Night Markets

• Luang Prabang Night Market – A sensory explosion, filled with sizzling grills and handmade snack packs.
• Vientiane Riverside Night Market – Perfect for evening strolls and impulse buys.
• Lisa Regale Market – A great stop for snack lovers and textile fans alike.

Luang Prabang Night Market (Source: laoslife)

Supermarkets & Convenience Stores

• Mini Big C – Your go-to for variety; from sesame cakes to dried fruit chips.
• Simeuang Mini-Mart and Bakery – Local charm with a modern twist; find unique Lao treats alongside imported goods.
• Kokkok Mega Mart – Spacious, well-stocked, and ideal if you’re buying in bulk or shopping for a group.
  

Travel Tip: Always buy from busy vendors or fixed-location stores. High turnover usually means fresher snacks and better food safety. And if you’re a fan of authentic, bold flavors, don’t miss out on our Laos street food for a full tasting adventure!

Mini Big C (Source: AlotMarketAEC. )

Pro Tips for Choosing Laos Snacks

Before you start stuffing your suitcase with sweet and savory delights from Laos, there are a few smart tips every traveler should keep in mind to make the most of your snack haul.

First, always read the label carefully. Checking the expiration date is essential, especially if you’re traveling for several weeks or storing snacks for later use. Take a moment to review the ingredient list too—this can help you avoid allergens or unfamiliar flavors you might not enjoy.

Next, don’t be shy—ask the vendor. Lao snack sellers are often proud of their products and happy to share details about how their treats are made, what ingredients are used, and the best ways to store them. This simple conversation can add depth to your travel experience and give you confidence in your purchase.

And finally, taste before you buy in bulk. Many shops and market stalls offer small trial packs or even samples. Trying before committing is the best way to ensure you’re bringing home snacks you’ll truly love—while avoiding waste and disappointment.

How to Store Laos Snacks the Right Way

Keeping your laos snacks fresh and delicious after your trip doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tried-and-true methods to preserve flavor, crunch, and safety—no matter how far your journey takes you.

• Use air-tight or vacuum packaging
  Pack your snacks in Mylar bags, sealed jars, or vacuum-sealed pouches with oxygen absorbers. This can extend shelf life up to one or even two years, especially for dried or roasted products.
• Divide into single-serve portions
  Once opened, it’s best to separate snacks into smaller bags or containers. This reduces exposure to air and moisture every time you snack.
• Store in a cool, dry, and dark place
  Keep your snacks away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and humidity. A temperature below 25°C is ideal to maintain both flavor and texture.
• Use refrigeration for nut-based snacks
  If your treats include peanuts, sesame seeds, or other oil-rich ingredients, storing them in the fridge or freezer can help prevent spoilage and keep them tasting fresh.
  
• Inspect regularly
  Especially for longer-term storage, take time every week or two to check for moisture buildup or any off odors. If something smells strange or looks damp, it’s best to discard it.
• Tailor your storage by snack type

• For peanuts and sesame cakes, cool and dry conditions (or the fridge) work best.
• For banana chips or fried rice balls, storing at room temperature in a tightly sealed bag is usually enough to keep them crispy.

Conclusion

From riverside markets to boutique snack shops, laos snacks are more than food—they’re edible memories. With convenient packaging, long-lasting freshness, and local character in every bite, they’re the ultimate travel-friendly treat. Ready to taste your way through Laos? Let Impress Travel guide you to the most flavorful experiences, from Laos food and drink to curated snack tastings and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most popular food in Laos?

Sticky rice, sai oua (herbal sausage), and jeow bong (chili paste) make up the holy trinity of everyday Lao meals.

What products is Laos famous for?

Laos is known for lao snacks, Bolaven Plateau coffee, Laodi rum, handwoven silk, and herbal remedies.

What are the don’ts in Laos?

Avoid touching someone’s head (especially monks), don’t point feet at sacred objects, and always ask before photographing street food or local people.

What is the name of the sandwich in Laos?

It’s called Khao Jee Pâté, a delicious Lao baguette filled with pork, herbs, and pâté—a local take on the French banh mi.