What Are Good Backpacking Meals?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking meals are an important aspect of planning for any outdoor adventure. Having the right food can make a big difference in how enjoyable and successful your journey is. Whether you’re looking for easy-to-pack snacks or full-on meals, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

For snacks, lightweight options such as trail mix, jerky, granola bars, and dried fruit are great choices. Nuts and seeds provide a good source of protein and can be combined with other foods to provide a more complete meal. For those looking for something heartier, instant oatmeal is an excellent option that only requires hot water to prepare.

Freeze-Dried Meals

Freeze-dried meals offer a convenient way to have a complete meal on the trail. Many brands now offer a variety of flavors and dishes that require minimal preparation.

All you need to do is add hot water, stir, and let sit for about 10 minutes before eating. Freeze-dried meals also tend to store well in warm climates, making them an ideal choice for those going on longer trips or in hotter weather.

Dehydrated Meals

Dehydrated meals offer another great option for backpacking meals. Just like freeze-dried meals, they require minimal preparation but typically take longer to rehydrate than their freeze-dried counterparts. Dehydrated foods tend to be more flavorful and filling than freeze-dried options due to their higher moisture content.

Homemade Meals

Creating your own backpacking meals can be rewarding and cost effective as well. There are many recipes available online that allow you to make healthy, delicious dishes with minimal effort. Some popular options include couscous salads, burrito bowls, and even lasagna! The possibilities are endless when it comes to homemade backpacking meals.

No matter what type of backpacking meal you choose, it’s important to ensure that you get the right balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and vitamins in order to keep your energy levels up during your journey. With so many delicious options available today you’ll be sure find something that will keep you full without weighing down your pack!