How Much Protein Do I Need Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

When it comes to backpacking, the total weight of what you carry on your back makes all the difference. This is especially true when it comes to food and nutrition. Carrying enough protein on your backpacking trip is essential for maintaining energy levels and keeping your body in good working order.

Protein is an important macronutrient that helps build and repair tissues, muscles, skin and bones. It also helps with the production of enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals, as well as helping to keep your immune system strong so that you can stay healthy while out in the wilderness. Protein also helps with weight loss by making you feel full longer so that you don’t snack in between meals.

When backpacking, it’s important to consider how much protein you need based on your activity level. For example, if you’re a serious hiker covering long distances each day, then you should aim for somewhere between 1-1.5 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight each day. If you’re a more casual hiker using shorter distances each day, then 0.8 grams per pound of bodyweight should be enough.

The type of protein consumed is also important when backpacking. Animal proteins such as meat, fish and poultry are better sources than plant proteins such as nuts, beans and legumes due to their higher bioavailability and complete amino acid profiles. For vegetarians or vegans who want to get more protein while backpacking, adding supplements like hemp or pea protein powder can help boost their daily intake.

Conclusion:

How much protein you need when backpacking depends on your activity level and whether or not you are a vegetarian or vegan. For serious hikers covering long distances each day, aim for 1-1.5 grams of animal protein per pound of bodyweight each day; for casual hikers using shorter distances each day, 0.8 grams per pound should suffice; and for vegetarians or vegans looking for more protein while out there in the wilds, supplementing with hemp or pea protein powder can help boost their daily intake.