PepsiCo summer essentials: 5 ways to hydrate, snack, and enjoy

Summer has a way of reshaping routines — more time outside, more time together, and more attention to how we eat, drink, and stay energized in the heat. From hydration to great-tasting cola and on-the-go snacks, here’s a look at how PepsiCo is a part of the season — and how our brands show up across moments that define summer.

What PepsiCo drinks are new on shelves this summer?

PepsiCo’s beverage portfolio continues to evolve alongside changing consumer preferences — with an emphasis on choice, functional ingredients, and flavor.

That includes options like Pepsi Prebiotic Cola. Coming in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla, Pepsi Prebiotic Cola delivers the iconic Pepsi taste you know and love — now with no artificial sweeteners, just 30 calories, only 5 grams of sugar, and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber.

Brands like Mountain Dew, poppi, and bubly complement high-energy moments and provide everyday refreshment, while Gatorade and Propel offer science-backed hydration solutions for people with active lifestyles.

Across PepsiCo’s portfolio, the through line is flexibility: from the next evolution of traditional cola and zero-sugar options, sparkling waters, and beverages designed to support hydration throughout the day.

What snacks should I pack for summer road trips and outdoor adventures?

Summer snacking tends to be more spontaneous — shaped by travel, gatherings, and time outdoors. PepsiCo’s approach reflects that, with a mix of familiar favorites and a growing range of options. Our focus is on versatility — food and drinks that can move easily between occasions, whether it’s a picnic, a beach day, or a quick stop between activities.

Summer adventures call for portable, delicious snacks that travel well and are a great option for lunch.

And PepsiCo's portfolio has you covered:

Salty and savory: Lay's potato chips, Doritos® flavored tortilla chips, and Cheetos^® cheese flavored snacks are road trip classics. Tostitos® paired with salsa or queso makes for a perfect picnic fare. SunChips® offers 100% whole-grain options with a satisfying crunch.

Crunch and pop options:  Smartfood offers seriously delicious ready-to-eat popcorn options, while Quaker^® Protein Granola Bars and Oatmeal Squares offer nutritious, on-the-go options for hiking and other outdoor activities. Try the newest flavor launching this summer: Quaker Protein Granola Bar Chocolate Pretzel flavor for a classic sweet and salty combo.

Protein power:  Good Warrior^® is a convenient, great-tasting high-protein snack for on-the-go moments — an easy, satisfying option for active summer days. Or try new PopCorners® Protein, which has the airy, yet crunchy texture fans love but with 9 grams of protein per serving, and it comes in three delicious flavors.

Fiber:  PepsiCo recently launched two new snacks in the U.S.: Smartfood® FiberPop™ and SunChips^® Fiber — designed to deliver easy, flavorful choices incorporating fiber.

Smart packing tips:  Mix salty and sweet options to satisfy different snack preferences. Pack snacks in coolers for beach days to maintain quality and taste.

“At PepsiCo, we’re evolving our portfolio to meet shifting consumer preferences toward foods with functional ingredients,” said Tina Mahal, senior vice president of marketing, PepsiCo Foods.

What's the best ways to stay hydrated during hot summer days?

Hydration becomes more important — and sometimes more challenging — in warmer weather, particularly during outdoor activity. While 95% of Americans know that staying hydrated is important, more than 150 million people still report feeling the effects of dehydration¹ every single week.

A few things to know:

• Dehydration isn’t just about losing water — it’s also about losing important electrolytes, like sodium and potassium, that help your body absorb and retain fluids
• For active consumers, beverages and powders with electrolytes — from Gatorade and Propel — offer science-backed hydration to help fuel their day
• Drinking consistently throughout the day is often more effective than waiting until you feel thirsty
• Variety, including drinks and powders from Gatorade or Propel, or sparkling options such as bubly, can make it easier to stay hydrated

Common signs like fatigue, or dizziness can indicate dehydration — particularly in high heat — making awareness just as important as intake.

“Hydration supports how the body functions — from temperature regulation to cognitive focus,” said Lindsay Baker of the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. “That’s why staying hydrated matters not just during exercise, but throughout everyday life.”

How is PepsiCo showing up in summer moments and events?

Summer is anchored in shared experiences — from major sporting events like Formula 1, UEFA Champions League Finals, and concerts to local gatherings and everyday occasions.

PepsiCo brands are often part of those environments through partnerships, fan experiences, and retail moments — whether that’s a cold beverage at a stadium, snacks at a backyard gathering, immersive events for consumers or products stocked for travel.

How does PepsiCo think about choices and balance in the summer?

With routines shifting, summer often brings a more flexible approach to eating and drinking.

PepsiCo’s portfolio reflects that range — from traditional favorites, to everyday snacks to options made with functional ingredients or a variety of portion sizes. The goal is to give people the ability to choose what fits the moment, whether that’s convenience, enjoyment, or a specific need like hydration – without ever sacrificing flavor.

PepsiCo’s role is a simple one: to offer a range of options that fit naturally into those routines, wherever and however they unfold, while bringing smiles to every summer day.

¹Mild to moderate dehydration. TRUE Global Intelligence surveyed a demographically representative sample of U.S. adults in January 2026.