Can You Bring Meat on a Backpacking Trip?

By Alice Nichols

When backpacking, it can be hard to decide what food to bring with you. You want something that will provide energy and nutrition, but also something that won’t take up too much space or weigh you down.

One option is to bring meat on your backpacking trip. Here are some things to consider when deciding if bringing meat is the best choice for you.

Pros

Meat is an excellent source of protein and can help provide energy for long days of hiking. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining your health while on the trail. Meat can also be a tasty way to break up the monotony of traditional trail foods like granola bars, nuts, and jerky.

Cons

The main downside to bringing meat on a backpacking trip is that it can be difficult to keep fresh. Depending on the length of your trip and how quickly you plan on eating it, you may need to pack a cooler with ice or freeze-dried ice packs. This adds weight and takes up valuable space in your pack.

Alternatives

If you don’t want the hassle of packing an ice chest, there are other options for getting protein on the trail. Nuts, seeds, dried fruits, jerky, and nut butter all provide protein without having to worry about spoilage. These lightweight foods are easy to pack and won’t take up too much space in your bag.

Conclusion
Whether or not you choose to bring meat on your backpacking trip depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have access to a cooler or freeze-dried ice packs then it might be worth considering; otherwise there are plenty of other lightweight options that will provide adequate nutrition without compromising space or adding extra weight.