The Best Backpacking Meals for Your Next Adventure
As a backpacker, one of the most crucial aspects of any adventure is fueling your body with nutritious and portable food. Eating well while on the trails can make all the difference in your stamina, overall mood, and ability to take in the beauty around you. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie looking for meal inspirations, we’re here to help! Below we’ve curated a list of ten delicious and easy backpacking meals that cover all your dietary needs.
1. Oatmeal 2 Ways
Oatmeal is an excellent breakfast food that can be customized to your liking and easily transported in a Ziploc bag. There are two ways to make oatmeal while backpacking: instant oatmeal and overnight oats. To make instant oatmeal, boil water, pour it over your oats, and add your favorite toppings like fruits, honey, or nuts. For overnight oats, mix your oats, milk, and toppings in a jar the night before and refrigerate.
2. Trail Mixes Galore
Trail mixes are perfect for snacking on-the-go, and they can be just as filling as a meal. Mix nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and whole-grain cereals to create your own blend. You can customize your mix to your unique tastes and caloric needs. Ensure your recipes are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which will keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
3. Protein-Packed Quesadillas
Quesadillas are an excellent option for lunchtime. This meal requires minimal prep and can be cooked over a campfire or stove. All you need is a tortilla, cheese, and your favorite protein source. We recommend using canned refried beans or cooked chicken from the night before.
4. One-Pot Pasta
Who doesn’t love the comfort of a warm bowl of pasta, especially after a long day of hiking? One-pot pasta dishes are a simple and delicious option for dinner. All you need is pasta, veggies, and broth, and you’ve got yourself a filling meal. You can also add protein sources like sausage or chicken if you prefer.
5. Tuna and Crackers
If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or lunch option, tuna and crackers are a great choice. Pack a can of tuna, crackers, and a small packet of mayo or mustard. Mix the tuna with your choice of condiments and enjoy!
6. Deconstructed Sandwiches
Sandwiches are an easy and classic backpacking option, but they can get soggy and unappetizing. To avoid this issue, try deconstructing your sandwich ingredients. Pack tortillas, cheese, canned meats, hummus, and any veggies or toppings you like. You can customize each wrap easily and avoid soggy bread altogether.
7. Ramen Noodles
Ramen noodles are an inexpensive and classic backpacking meal. Add dried veggies or precooked proteins to enhance the flavor and nutrient content of your meal. You can cook them over a campfire or stove, and they require minimal dishwashing afterward.
8. DIY MREs
Meals Ready-to-Eat, or MREs, are typically used by the military but can be a convenient meal solution for backpackers. Instead of buying pre-made MREs, you can create your own by combining dehydrated or freeze-dried foods like instant mashed potatoes, rice, and beans. These foods have long shelf lives, and all you need to cook them is boiling water.
9. Ready-to-Eat Soups and Stews
Pre-packaged soups and stews that come in ready-to-eat pouches are an excellent option for a warm meal. Look for soups and stews that are high in protein and fiber and low in sodium. Most varieties require boiling water and may only need to sit for a few minutes before consuming.
10. Hot Cocoa with a Twist
After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm cup of cocoa. Upgrade your normal hot cocoa by spiking it with a shot of Baileys or Kahlua. You can also bring marshmallows or whipped cream to add a touch of sweetness to this warm drink. It’s the perfect way to end your night under the stars.
Conclusion
With the right preparation and some creativity, creating delicious backpacking meals is a breeze. Don’t compromise your nutrition or taste buds when exploring the great outdoors. With our list of ten tasty backpacking meals, fueling your body for your next adventure will be one less thing to worry about. Have fun and happy backpacking!
