What Should I Pack for Lunch When Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking is an exciting way to explore the outdoors and discover new places. However, it can be a challenge to stay nourished while on the move. It’s important to pack the right kind of food for lunch when backpacking so that you can stay energized and have enough food to last you through the day.

When packing lunch for backpacking, it’s important to consider a few factors such as the type of activity you’ll be doing, how much time you’ll have for lunch, and how much weight you want to carry. It’s also important to think about your dietary preferences and any allergies or sensitivities that you may have.

Foods to Pack: When packing food for lunch on a backpacking trip, it’s best to opt for foods that are high in calories and nutrients, yet lightweight and easy to transport. Some good options include energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, jerky, peanut butter sandwiches, wraps with hummus or other spreads, tuna or salmon pouches, hard-boiled eggs, granola bars or other breakfast bars.

Drinks: It’s also important to bring along some drinks on your backpacking trip. You can opt for water bottles if you have access to a reliable water source during your trip. If not, then bringing along sports drinks or electrolyte powders will help keep your body hydrated and energized throughout the day.

Snacks: Snacks are essential when backpacking as they provide an extra boost of energy when needed throughout the day. Good snack options include energy gels and chews as well as protein bars or nut butters.

Meals: If you plan on having meals during your backpacking trip then it is best to opt for lightweight foods such as freeze-dried meals or pre-packaged dehydrated meals that can easily be cooked over a campfire or with a small stove. Some good meal options include oatmeal packets with dried fruits and nuts added in; tacos; burritos; instant rice dishes; soups; ramen noodles; macaroni and cheese; couscous dishes; chili; stews; and stir fry dishes with vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms added in.

By planning ahead of time and packing the right kind of food for lunch when backpacking you can ensure that you stay nourished throughout the day without adding too much weight in your backpack.

Conclusion: When packing lunch for a backpacking trip it is essential to choose foods that are high in calories and nutrients yet lightweight enough so that they won’t add too much weight in your backpack. Choose snacks such as energy gels and chews as well as protein bars or nut butters that will provide an extra boost of energy when needed throughout the day. You should also bring along some drinks such as water bottles or sports drinks/electrolyte powders so that your body stays hydrated during long days of hiking