How Do You Dehydrate Food Without a Backpacking Dehydrator?

By Michael Ferguson

Dehydrating food is an excellent way to preserve your favorite fruits and vegetables, as well as make delicious snacks that don’t require refrigeration. While backpacking dehydrators are a convenient way to dehydrate food, they’re not necessary if you’re looking for an inexpensive and eco-friendly alternative. There are a few different methods you can use to dehydrate food without a backpacking dehydrator.

Oven Dehydration

One of the most common ways to dehydrate food without a dehydrator is by using your oven. Set the temperature between 140°F and 150°F, depending on the type of food you’re drying.

You can use parchment paper or non-stick foil on the baking sheet to prevent sticking. Place your thinly sliced fruits or vegetables onto the baking sheet and bake for 2-4 hours, depending on the type of food being dried. Make sure to check every hour or two to prevent over-drying.

Sun Dehydration

If you live in an area with lots of sunshine, sun dehydration is another great option for drying fruits and vegetables without a dehydrator. Place your thinly sliced fruit or vegetable slices onto a mesh tray or window screen (or onto parchment paper if it’s too windy) in direct sunlight.

Turn them every few hours so that all sides are exposed to the sun evenly. Depending on how much sun your area gets, it could take anywhere from 1-3 days for your food items to become fully dried.

Air Drying

Air drying is another great option for those who want to dry their foods without using electricity or heat sources. This method works best with herbs, flowers, and other small items that don’t need to be sliced into thin pieces like other fruits and vegetables do when drying in ovens or dehydrators.

Simply tie a few stalks together at their stems with twine and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight. It could take several days for them to completely dry out.

Conclusion:

No matter which method you choose, there are plenty of ways you can successfully dehydrate food without having access to a backpacking dehydrator. Oven dehydration is one of the quickest options, while air drying and sun dehydration will take longer but won’t require any electricity or additional materials beyond the food itself.