When you're planning a tent camping or backpacking trip, begin your food planning by outlining the number of meals your group will prepare at the campsite. Keep in mind some campers may prefer to eat a hot breakfast and dinner, and snack on high-energy foods throughout the day. Finally, consider the amount of weight each group member can carry. Remember to include portable cookware and serving ware in your weight estimate.
Freeze-Dried Foods
If you're looking for portability and variety, it might be time to investigate freeze-dried foods. Cooked or fresh foods are placed into a vacuum chamber, where 98 percent of the food's moisture is eliminated. The food is sealed inside oxygen- and moisture-proof packaging. When the food is opened and prepared with boiling water, the food retains its taste and nutritional content. Freeze-dried entrees, breakfasts, desserts and vegetarian meals are commonly available.
Vacuum-Packed Entrees
If you'd like a meal that takes up less space in your backpack, try a vacuum-packed entrée in a pouch. The vacuum packing process greatly reduces the pouch's volume, and the entrée can be heated up in a small pot of boiling water. You can also buy nonvacuum packed entrees, sealed in foil for easy transport, at grocery stores and discount retailers.
One-Dish Meals
If your sense of adventure extends to meal planning, create one-dish meals with mix-and-match ingredients. Scan an ingredient list that includes a protein, a starch, a sauce and a vegetable. Select one item from each list, add a seasoning and topping, and decide how much of each item you'll need. Ask all campers to carry an equal weight in ingredients. When you arrive at your campsite, heat your one-dish meal and enjoy.
Pre-Frozen Meals
If you're only camping for one night, and are traveling in cool weather, you might consider a pre-cooked entrée that you've frozen into a solid block. Pack the block into a sealed plastic bag along with a frozen chemical ice pack. When you arrive at your campsite, your entrée may be slightly thawed and ready to heat. Enjoy the entrée at your first campsite meal, and don't save any leftovers.
Snacks
Snacks and energy boosters are a welcome part of camping trips. Pack your favorite protein bars and visit specialty grocery stores for dried fruit snacks. The fruit won't spoil or flatten, and you may find some without sugar or additives. You can create your own version of GORP. Choose your favorite nuts or crunchies, and tailor the mix to your tastes. Prepare enough for several days.
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