When preparing for a kayak trip, write out your whole menu for the weekend so you know exactly what you need to bring. In general, focus on bringing foods that are not perishable, are relatively light to carry and will provide your body with the nutrients needed to stay active for the whole weekend.
Breakfast
One of the easiest breakfasts to prepare is instant oatmeal, which only needs hot water and provides fiber and carbohydrates to help you start your morning strong. Bagels with peanut butter also make a hearty and protein-packed breakfast that keeps well and is not too heavy to carry. Also bring some fresh or dried fruit to eat with breakfast each day.
Lunch
Lunches on your weekend kayak trip should be simple and easy to prepare without the stove, so you can keep moving without setting up a camp. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are an obvious option, but you can also make tuna sandwiches or sandwiches with smoked meats and cheese that do not require refrigeration. For a lighter lunch, dip apple slices and carrots in peanut butter.
Dinner
You will need two to three dinners for a weekend trip. Spaghetti with a chunky sauce makes a hearty meal for your first day of kayaking. Bring about 1/4 pound of noodles and about 1 cup of sauce per person. Fresh vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli and red peppers keep well for a stir-fry dinner with rice or noodles on the second night. For later in the trip, consider vegetarian chili, which is easy and nonperishable. Combine cans of tomatoes, beans and corn in a pot, season with chili powder, and cook until it is heated through. Plan for about one can of ingredients per person, and serve over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Snacks
Bring high-protein snacks that are easy to eat on the go, so any member of your group can snack when he needs a little more energy. Trail mix with dried fruit, nuts and chocolate makes a satisfying snack. Energy bars are also easy to eat and packed with protein. Bring beef jerky for some meaty protein on the trip. Leftover breakfast and lunch foods also make a quick snack.
