Preparing food after a long day of hiking or playing in the woods never sounds like fun. Having some ready-to-eat foods on hand can help you out, providing a convenient way to ingest those necessary calories without a huge effort or time investment. Of course, you'll likely want to follow these quick eats with a complete meal at some point, but in the meantime, they can help restore your energy level.
Bars
Prepackaged energy bars are a convenient way to consume about 200 to 300 calories, including a significant source of carbohydrates and protein. If you require additional protein, consider a protein bar that can supply more than 20 grams of protein per serving. Granola bars come in a variety of flavors and can supply carbohydrates for energy. Pack candy bars if you need to satisfy your sweet tooth on the camping trip. Bars provide versatility as they can easily be placed in a backpack for a day hike.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit supplies a significant number of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals and can be eaten easily while camping. Store the dried fruit anywhere while camping, and it doesn't require preparation to eat. Dry your own fruit in a dehydrator and package it in vacuum bags, or purchase commercial brands. Common dried fruits eaten while camping include raisins, pineapple, bananas, blueberries, apples and cherries. Fruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium for maintaining muscle contractions.
GORP
GORP has been used by campers for decades and stands for "Good Old Raisins and Peanuts" or "Granola, Oats, Raisins and Peanuts." GORP offers a delicious ready-to-eat food while camping and provides a significant number of calories based on its weight. Recipes can be customized to fit your taste preferences and can include additional ingredients such as chocolate, cashews, almonds, dry cereal or pretzels. Regardless of the ingredients, GORP provides vitamins and minerals necessary for producing energy while camping.
Jerky
Jerky provides an excellent ready-to-eat protein source. Made from beef, ham or turkey, jerky is lightweight and can be carried easily in backpacks while completing a day hike. Most one-ounce servings of jerky supply about 10 grams of protein and 116 calories, which provide fuel and energy during the camping trip. Combine jerky with other foods for lunch. or eat it by itself for an afternoon snack.
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