Meal Ideas While Backpacking

Backpacking trips are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and explore the great outdoors. However, when it comes to food, backpackers need to consider several factors such as weight, packability, and ease of preparation.

1. Instant Oatmeal
   Oatmeal is a great option for breakfast as it provides energy for the day ahead. Instant oatmeal packets are lightweight, easy to pack, and can be cooked quickly. Just add boiling water, and you're good to go. You can add in some dried fruit, nuts, or honey to make it more flavorful.

2. Trail Mix
   Trail mix is a classic snack for hikers and backpackers. It's a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. You can make your own trail mix by mixing nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips or buy pre-packaged trail mix from the store.

   

3. Peanut Butter

   and Jelly Sandwiches
   Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a classic lunch option for backpackers. They're easy to make, pack, and provide the necessary energy for hiking. Use whole-grain bread, and you can add in some sliced bananas or apples for some extra nutrients. For extra weight savings, you can even pack dehydrated peanut butter, although this tends to be lighter on the fats.

4. Dehydrated Meals
   Dehydrated meals are a popular choice for backpackers as they're lightweight, easy to prepare, and have a long shelf life. There are a variety of dehydrated meal options available in stores and online, ranging from pasta dishes to soups and stews. Although convenient, I find them to be a little on the pricier end if you buy the full meal kits.

5. Tuna Packets
   Tuna packets are another great protein source for backpackers. They're easy to pack, lightweight, and can be eaten straight out of the packet or mixed with crackers or pasta. You can add some mayo or mustard for extra flavor.

6. Instant Rice and Beans
   Instant rice and beans are a great dinner option for backpackers. They're easy to prepare, and the rice provides carbohydrates, while the beans provide protein. You can add in some spices, dried vegetables, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

7. Energy Bars
   Energy bars are a convenient snack option for backpackers. They're lightweight, easy to pack, and provide a quick burst of energy. Look for bars that are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

   

8. Canned Foods

   Canned foods are a natural option for traveling without refrigeration and they are often easy to access on a budget! The biggest downside here is the weight and bulk. For short trips with a few dinners, this may not be a huge deal. But you may find it difficult to carry enough on extended trips. One of my favorite budget friendly and easy backpacking meals is actually chili mac.

These meal ideas are just a few of the many options available for backpackers. The key is to find meals that are lightweight, easy to pack, and provide the necessary energy for hiking. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have delicious and nutritious meals on your next backpacking trip, even without an ice chest!