What Are the Best Backpacking Meals?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking is an increasingly popular activity, and it’s no surprise that many people want to know what the best backpacking meals are. The key to a successful backcountry trip is having enough energy, and the right food can make all the difference.

When it comes to backpacking meals, it’s important to choose ones that are lightweight and easy to prepare. Additionally, you want to make sure you have plenty of calories, protein, and carbohydrates in order to sustain yourself during your trip.

One of the most popular types of backpacking meals are freeze-dried meals. These come in a variety of flavors and styles, from vegetarian lasagna to beef stroganoff.

They are lightweight and easy to prepare — just add boiling or near-boiling water! While they may not be as tasty as a home-cooked meal, they provide an adequate amount of calories and nutrients for a long day on the trail.

If you’re looking for something slightly more gourmet, there are also dehydrated meal kits available at most outdoor stores. These kits contain everything you need for a full meal — including spices!

— so all you have to do is boil some water and let the food rehydrate. Dehydrated meals tend to taste better than freeze-dried ones, but they are usually heavier and take up more space in your pack.

Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous (or just really want something familiar), you can always cook your own meals while on the trail! All you need is some dried ingredients such as rice or beans as well as a few vegetables like onions or peppers if desired.

You can also add spices for flavor or even pre-cooked meats if you want something heartier. This type of meal does require more time and effort on your part; however, it will likely be much tastier than freeze-dried or dehydrated options!

Conclusion:

The best backpacking meals will depend on your individual needs and preferences; however, freeze-dried meals are lightweight and easy to prepare while dehydrated meal kits provide better taste but require more space in your pack weight-wise. If time allows for it, cooking your own meals from scratch can provide even more delicious options but requires more effort on your part. All three options should provide enough calories and nutrients necessary for an enjoyable backcountry trip!