The Best Meals and Snacks for Backpacking

Choosing the right foods to take with you on a backpacking adventure will fuel you with energy. Whether you’re going for the day or four days, it’s important to know the best meals and snacks for backpacking.

Each of these meals and snacks offer portability, practicality, and easy preparation. Learn about the various protein-packed, energy-inducing, nutrient-dense foods you should pack to tackle challenging terrains and enjoy the great outdoors.

How To Choose the Right Foods

You can take lots of food with you on your outdoor adventure, but you should consider the weight of each item you carry. Not to mention, how many tools will you need to prepare the food? The more items you have, the heavier your backpack will become.

Select items that are lightweight, require a few tools to prepare, and store well in various temperatures. High-protein foods that are compact—such as protein bars, freeze-dried meals, and chicken, tuna, and salmon packets—are always great options.

Bring Compact Tools

For some meals, you may need a source to heat water and tools to prepare it. To boil water, bring a portable, lightweight stove like a canister stove. Pack collapsible pots or pans made specifically for backpacking. Even cooking utensils have compact options such as well-made sporks and multipurpose tools that combine a small knife, scissors, and can opener into one.

Backpackers on short hikes will pack light and carry a thermos that keeps water warm for several hours at a time. Another great way to make warm meals on your shorter hikes is by cooking full meals at home and using stackable, flat containers that hold food in place in the backpack. This will help you eat nutritious and delicious foods without pausing to cook.

Breakfast Options for Morning Energy

A hearty breakfast sets the tone for the day. It gives people energy that will last until lunchtime. Freeze-dried oatmeal topped with dried fruit or nuts is a staple choice among backpackers. The oats provide slow-burning carbohydrates, while the nuts and fruits add protein, fiber, and natural sweetness.

Perhaps oatmeal is too heavy on your stomach. If you prefer a light start, choose powdered smoothies that mix easily with cold water for an energy boost.

Another option is precooked quinoa served warm with a spoonful of almond butter. Quinoa is high in protein, making it a perfect plant-based option to sustain energy levels. While the quinoa is already cooked, this option does require boiling water. If you're taking a trip that’s several days, you can quickly make this delicious breakfast by heating up water on the canister stove.

Lunch Ideas for Midday Fuel

Midday meals should focus on convenience and nutrition to allow you to keep moving without needing a long break. Tortillas are a perfect option for backpacking since they are compact and have several options that cater to many diets. Pair them with packets of tuna or nut butter to make a simple, energy-rich lunch packed with protein and healthy fats. Tortillas or pita bread also complement hummus and pre-cut veggies for a fast wrap on the go.

For a lunchtime hike, use your thermos of hot water for a quick and nourishing freeze-dried soup. Soups are lightweight and deliver a comforting effect after hours of hiking.

Rice or lentil-based dehydrated meals are another excellent option. This is another option where many brands offer instant meal packs that cater to dietary restrictions, never leaving any adventurer behind.

Trail Snacks for Consistent Energy

Throughout your journey, you will burn a lot of energy. Snacks are essential for maintaining energy between meals. A backpacker's favorite snack is beef jerky! It doesn't require refrigeration, is compact, and is high in protein.

People with plant-based diets can pack dehydrated edamame or chickpeas for a similar effect. Energy bars, particularly those with minimal added sugar and high protein content, are also fantastic options.

Making your own trail mix allows you to customize it to your preferences. No matter what you choose, make sure to include nuts, dried fruit, and even dark chocolate for an indulgent energy boost. For those seeking more novelty, try wasabi peas or flavored roasted nuts.

Dinner To Help Your Body Recover

Dinner is the time to eat a substantial, satisfying meal that restores energy and aids muscle recovery after a long day on your feet. Pack meals like freeze-dried pasta and dehydrated risotto. These are excellent choices that are lightweight and versatile. You can easily customize the meal with vegetarian and meat options. Versions that include spices or herbs will create a more flavorful meal.

Precooked packets of rice, like wild rice blends, are also versatile and filling. Add some canned chicken or a pouch of beans to boost the protein content. The best foods for easy outdoor adventures often include these convenient and nutrient-rich dinner options to help support recovery while you rest by the campfire.

Easy-To-Carry Hydration Solutions

Bring a sturdy, insulated water bottle that can keep water cool in hot temperatures. For emergencies, pack water purification drops or tablets along with a filtered water bottle or water filter straw.

Staying hydrated is incredibly important as your body sweats during your travels. Bring powdered electrolyte mixes, instant coffee, tea, or broth powders that will provide extra energy and hydration.

Tips To Maximize Food Storage and Space in Your Backpack

Organization is crucial when preparing for a multi-day backpacking trip. Separate your food into daily portions and use waterproof zip bags to prevent spills. Lightweight containers or vacuum-sealed packs also maximize space. Bringing an insulated meal backpack ensures your food stays fresh and appetizing for as long as possible, enabling you to focus on your adventure without worrying about issues with keeping your food fresh.

The right backpack will save you from headaches. Look for an all-in-one design that can store everything from meals to additional compartments for your gear. This dynamic setup makes your travels both efficient and comfortable.

For that all-in-one solution, consider exploring a meal backpack from WOLFpak. These specially crafted bags feature compartments that store food and drinks while keeping your items organized as you tackle the trail.

Elevate Your Backpacking Experience

Your hiking performance and overall enjoyment of the trip begins with packing the essentials, including food. From lightweight breakfasts to mid-hike snacks and hearty dinners, the best meals and snacks for backpacking address your nutritional needs while being easy to transport.

But remember, to keep your food fresh and your pack organized, an insulated meal backpack is an essential accessory for any adventurer. If you’re ready to hit the trail with on-the-go meals, WOLFpak has a curated selection of backpacks that are functional and stylish. Improve your next expedition by checking out WOLFpak's premium options.