How Many Calories Per Day Do You Need for Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an incredibly rewarding and physically demanding activity, and it’s important to make sure your body has the fuel it needs to complete those long days in the backcountry. Knowing how many calories you need per day to keep your energy levels up can be a great help in planning out your meals.

Calorie needs while backpacking can vary greatly based on a few factors such as gender, body size, activity level, and age. Generally speaking, men need more calories than women due to their larger body size and higher metabolism. Activity level also plays a large role in determining daily calorie needs since more strenuous activities such as climbing or carrying heavier loads require more energy expenditure. It’s important to consider the type of activity you’ll be doing on any given day when calculating calorie needs.

On average, adults should plan for at least 2,000-2,500 calories per day while backpacking.

This number may be higher for those who are carrying heavier loads or engaged in more strenuous activities. It’s also important to note that calorie needs will vary depending on the situation; for instance, if you are spending several days camping in one spot with little physical activity you may need fewer calories than if you were hiking up steep trails with a full pack.

When backpacking it’s important to pay attention to your body’s fuel needs and plan accordingly. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean protein and complex carbohydrates will ensure that you have enough energy throughout the day. It’s also helpful to carry energy-dense snacks such as nuts or trail mix that can easily be eaten during breaks or while on the move.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, how many calories per day you need for backpacking depends largely on factors like gender, body size, activity level and age as well as the type of activities being done each day. On average adults should plan for at least 2,000-2,500 calories per day but this number may vary depending on the situation. Paying attention to your body’s fuel needs and eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean protein and complex carbohydrates will ensure that you have enough energy throughout the day.