When planning a backpacking trip, you will want to pack food items that are easy to fix and nonperishable. Packing a variety of meals is essential to prevent monotony at mealtime. If you're planning a long trip, you may want to include a lightweight backpacking stove that will allow you to heat water and other liquids. Having a checklist will ensure that you pack everything you need for your trip.
Snacks
Snacks will help you keep your energy up, especially if you are planning on backpacking and hiking for several miles throughout the day. You may not always have time to stop and prepare a meal, so a snack will give you the extra calories you need to keep moving. Adventure Alan shares ideas for some backpacking snacks that are also healthy for you. Chocolate-covered peanut candies are a good choice if the outdoor temperature is cool. These snacks are high in calories and also give you a small amount of protein and sugar to keep you going. Trail mixes with a good selection of all-natural nuts, dried fruits and seeds will also keep energy levels up. Beef jerky is a good choice for fat and protein that can provide a tasty substitute for meat. A meatless soy jerky is an alternative for vegetarians. Energy bars and granola bars provide an instant, high-calorie snack that can hold you over until mealtime.
Prepackaged Meals
Having prepackaged meals with you allows you to plan your meals and calories for each day. Prepackaged meals should be as lightweight as possible. Avoid fresh foods, such as meat and vegetables, as well as canned foods---these foods can be cumbersome in your backpack and add unwanted weight. Tuna in packets rather than cans gives you a lightweight option that is full of protein. Freeze-dried food is also an option---all you need is water to rehydrate it and bring back its original texture and taste according to Mountain House foods. You can choose from a variety of foods including vegetables, meats, desserts and snacks. You can add freeze-dried breakfast skillets, eggs, chicken and beef to your favorite whole wheat tortilla. You can also bring along crackers, instant mashed potatoes, couscous, pepperoni and packaged cheese slices.
Soups and Drinks
Make sure you have enough fluids to keep you hydrated for your trip. You will need to bring along a container of water to assist with preparing foods such as soups and freeze-dried meals. Instant meals that come in packets, such as soups and noodles, make great meals for backpackers. Choose vegetable varieties or those with a higher fat content to give you energy throughout your trip. Instant stuffing or ramen noodles are also lightweight options for backpackers. You can quickly heat drink mixes such as powdered sports drink, lemonade, teas, apple cider and hot cocoa using a backpacking stove or serve them at ambient temperature.
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