Backpacking is an exciting outdoor adventure. Backpacking could mean trekking for a couple of hours or it could be an excursion that lasts several days. Deciding what kind of food to bring along is one of the most important decisions you can make when planning the trip. The backpacker can't worry about keeping foods hot or cold during the hike. Finding foods that meet the needs of the backpacker is essential in a successful trip.
Dehydrated Foods
Dehydrated foods will allow for a nutritious meal once the backpacker has set up camp. Dehydrated foods are foods that have had the moisture removed from them but nutrients and taste remain intact (more or less). They are sealed to provide freshness and long-lasting shelf life. Dehydrated foods can be rejuvenated almost back to their original state by adding water and then reheating with a portable backpacking stove or over hot coals. Some examples of dehydrated foods and meals include turkey, beef, soups, pastas, potatoes and powdered milk.
Canned Foods
Canned foods are popular backpacking foods because they provide an instant meal---even if there is no heat source. Canned foods such as stew, tuna fish, soups, tomato-flavored pasta, fruit cocktail and vegetables are popular with backpackers. The only drawback is most foods taste better if they are heated. Another concern is weight---many canned foods can get heavy---a definite drawback for the backpacker on long expeditions.
Nonperishable Foods
Nonperishable foods are a given on any backpacking trip or adventure. They are simple to grab and eat on the go. There are many options: granola bars, trail mix, nuts, chips, beef jerky, crackers and packaged cheese are all items resistant to most temperature changes. They can provide instant nutrition while traveling.
Freeze-Dried Foods
Freeze-dried foods are another option for backpacking. These types of foods withstand changing temperatures and are easy and lightweight to carry. The freeze-drying process is done by flash freezing food, so taste, nutrients and freshness remain intact. Most cans have a shelf life of approximately 25 years and the pouches around 7 years. The process allows the backpacker to carry a lot of food at less weight. For example, one can of beef stroganoff will produce 10, 1 cup servings but weigh in at 2.2 lbs. A 16 oz. pouch of spaghetti weighs 0.44 lbs.
Most freeze-dried foods require the addition of hot or boiling water to make the food edible. Popular foods are vegetables, soups, pastas, meats and even freeze-dried ice cream.
There are a few differences between freeze-dried and dehydrated foods. According to survivalacres.com, the shelf life between the two is relatively the same. Taste wise, dehydrated food tends to have less seasoning than freeze dried, therefore requiring additional seasoning when preparing. The biggest difference is that with most dehydrated food such as pastas or vegetables, the food needs to be cooked rather than just heated through to be edible. Freeze-dried foods are often complete meals where dehydrated foods may only be single ingredients. These factors should be taken into consideration when making the proper food choices for a backpacking excursion.
Fresh Vegetables
For shorter trips in average temperatures, another food option is fresh vegetables. They can be sliced or cut up for easy snacking and eating. Popular vegetable options may include green peppers, cut cauliflower, broccoli, green onion, cucumbers and baby carrots. Vegetables can be eaten by themselves as a source of nutrients and dietary fiber or they can be cooked on a propane stove and boiled or grilled.
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