How Do I Add Calories Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an amazing, adventurous way to experience nature. But it can be physically demanding.

As such, it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough calories while backpacking. Eating the right types and amounts of food can help ensure you have the energy you need to enjoy and complete your journey.

Calories are essential for providing the energy needed to hike and camp. When you don’t get enough, you’ll become tired more quickly and your performance will suffer.

To make sure you’re getting enough energy, calculate how many calories per day are recommended for your size and activity level. Generally, men should consume about 3,000 calories per day, while women should aim for 2,000 calories per day.

Once you have an idea of how many calories you should be eating each day, it is easy to add them while backpacking. Start by packing calorie-dense foods like nuts, seeds, granola bars, peanut butter sandwiches, oatmeal packets and other whole grains like quinoa or farro. All of these items are lightweight and full of nutrients that will help keep your energy levels up throughout the hike.

You can also include snacks that provide a quick boost of energy on the trail such as trail mix or dried fruit. If you want something a little more filling for lunch or dinner on the trail then look for meals that are high in protein and carbohydrates like freeze-dried chili or beef stew with whole grain crackers or bread. These types of meals are easy to prepare on the trail and will provide plenty of energy when combined with snacks throughout the day.

Finally, don’t forget about hydration when adding calories backpacking! Make sure to bring plenty of water or a sports drink like Gatorade that has electrolytes to help keep your body hydrated throughout your journey.

Conclusion: Adding calories while backpacking is essential for having the energy needed to complete your journey successfully and enjoyably! Make sure to pack calorie-dense foods like nuts and seeds as well as snacks such as trail mix or dried fruit for quick boosts of energy on the go. Additionally, don’t forget about hydration – make sure to bring plenty of water or a sports drink with electrolytes throughout your trip!