Lightweight Hiking Food

Hiking is a healthy activity that burns calories as you experience nature. Many hiking trails go through uneven and sometimes hilly terrain. The food you pack for the trail can provide needed energy for an activity that burns more than 1,000 calories during a four-hour hike, according to the Health Status website. Consider taking lightweight but nutritious foods on your next hike.

Significance

How much food and what types of food you pack can impact your hiking experience. Food is necessary for energy and possibly your survival. Food breaks and meal stops on your hike will be more enjoyable if you take lightweight foods you like and are easy to carry.

Benefits

According to Yale University, a full backpack for a weekend hike can weigh 40 lbs. Less weight in your pack means you can hike longer before feeling fatigued. Lightweight food takes up less space in your pack. Two whole apples take up more space than the same volume of dried apples.

Lightweight Foods

Light dehydrated and freeze-dried foods are ideal for hiking and camping. Dehydrated foods are less expensive than freeze-dried foods. Prepare fruits, meats and vegetables at home, if you have a dehydrator. Pack grains such as rice, oatmeal and polenta for energy. Powdered coffee and hot chocolate also are light and easy to pack. Avoid dense heavy breads. Instead, pack lightweight tortillas that do not break apart.

Strategy

Plan on 1 1/2 lbs. of food per day on your hike--at a minimum, recommends the National Outdoor Leadership School. For breakfast, pack lightweight sturdy oatmeal, pancake mix or freeze-dried eggs. For lunch, wrap tuna from lightweight foil packets in a tortilla and serve with cooked dried vegetables and a chocolate bar for dessert. Pack noodles, whole-grain rice, dried potatoes, couscous and instant puddings for dinner. Take along some spices and seasonings.

Considerations

Consider the nutritional and energy value of each food you pack. Save dehydrated or freeze-dried foods for later in your hike; pack crackers and bread for the early part of the trip. Pack fresh fruit to eat on the first or second day. Pack some snack mix that includes nuts, dried fruits, sunflower seeds and bits of chocolate.