Backpacking offers a connection with nature infused with physical activity, making it appealing to many outdoor lovers. Because the activity takes place in remote locations, you need to consider the list of necessary supplies carefully. Food options are more limited on backpacking trips. You also have the risk of foodborne illness if your food isn't properly stored during your trip. A balance of food types that travel well provide the energy needed for hiking.
Meat
Fresh meat won't keep in a backpack, but you can bring it if you have a cooling option at a base camp. Dried meat, such as jerky, offers a compact source of protein for backpacking. Canned meats like tuna and chicken also provide a safe option when you cannot keep the meat cool, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The protein in meat provides a source of energy for your backpacking trip.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide a quick burst of energy for hiking. Get Outdoors recommends bagels or crackers for a pre-hike carbohydrate boost. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends dry pasta, which is easy to prepare over a fire or camp stove with a pot of boiling water.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables offer you vitamins and minerals on your backpacking trip. Fresh fruit and vegetables take up a lot of space and may get smashed, however. Get Outdoors suggests freeze-dried fruits or regular dried fruit as a compact option. Dehydrated and freeze-dried vegetables are also available for a more convenient backpacking option. Dried fruits and vegetables can be rehydrated with water and added to other meal components or eaten alone.
Snacks
Snacks provide additional bursts of energy as you backpack. Nuts and energy bars take up little space and provide nutritional value. A plastic jar of peanut butter also works well as a snack. The dried fruits you bring as a source of vitamins and minerals also work well for snack time. They are convenient to eat and provide nutrients.
Drinks
Plenty of clean water is essential while backpacking to avoid dehydration. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends bringing your own fresh water rather than relying on natural water sources, which may have contaminants. You may be able to replenish your supplies with water from a public system with safe drinking water, but you can also boil, filter or treat fresh water to make it safe to drink. Powdered milk and juice drinks offer some variety to your drink selection.
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