Hitting the trails or camping in the outdoors is an exhilarating way to connect with nature. But what about food? While you might crave a campfire feast after a long hike, the right provisions are key to a successful (and delicious) outdoor adventure. Here's our guide to the best foods to bring when hiking and camping.
Lighten Up: Pack for Performance
For day hikes, prioritize lightweight, easily digestible snacks that provide sustained energy. Consider these popular options.
Trail Mix: A classic for good reason! This customizable blend of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and granola offers a delightful mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Energy Bars: Look for bars packed with protein, fiber, and complex carbs. Avoid bars loaded with sugar, which can cause a crash later in the day.
Fresh Fruits: Nature's candy! Apples, bananas, and oranges are easy to transport and provide a refreshing dose of vitamins and natural sugars.
Jerky: A protein powerhouse, jerky is lightweight and doesn't require refrigeration. Choose varieties made from lean meats like turkey or bison.
Camp Kitchen Essentials: Backcountry Feasts
For multi-day adventures, you'll need to pack full meals as well as snacks. Here are some camping staples that are easy to pack while offering variety on taste and nutrition.
Dried or Freeze-Dried Meals: Lightweight and convenient, these meals rehydrate with hot water and offer a variety of options, from savory pasta dishes to hearty stews.
Pasta or Rice: These versatile staples can be transformed into countless meals with the addition of your favorite sauces, canned vegetables, or freeze-dried meats.
Canned Goods: Choose BPA-free canned fish, beans, or vegetables for a protein and nutrient boost.
Nut Butters: Packed with protein and healthy fats, nut butters are perfect for spreading on tortillas, bagels, or crackers.
Pancakes or Oatmeal: These breakfast options are lightweight, filling, and provide sustained energy for a long day on the trail.
Key Considerations
Portion Sizes: Pack enough food to fuel your activity level, but don't overpack and be stuck with unneeded weight.
Keep It Fresh: Pack a cooler with an ice pack for the first day or two of your trip to keep perishable items fresh.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash, including food scraps.
With a little planning, you can enjoy tasty and nutritious meals that will keep you energized throughout your next hiking or camping trip.
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