Simple foods for the backcountry

Backpacking is a great way to explore the great outdoors and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, planning the right meals for your trip can be a daunting task. In this series, we’ll share some of our favorite go to meals and snacks. Here are some of the best simple backpacking foods to help fuel your adventure:

Dehydrated meals: These are a great option for backpacking as they are lightweight and easy to prepare. Simply add water and they're ready to eat. Some popular brands include Mountain House and Backpacker's Pantry.

Camp foods should be simple, light, and delicious!

Jerky: High in protein and easy to pack, jerky is a great snack for the trail. Opt for beef or turkey jerky for a healthy, high-energy option. As vegetarians, we’re huge fans of Louisville Vegan Jerky.

Nuts and seeds: These are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They're also lightweight and easy to pack. Almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are all great options.

Energy bars: These are a great option for a quick energy boost on the trail. Look for bars that are high in protein and low in sugar. Clif Bars, Quest Bars, and Lara Bars are all popular options.

Instant oatmeal: An easy and nutritious breakfast option, instant oatmeal is lightweight and easy to prepare. Just add hot water and you're good to go.

Ramen noodles: Ramen noodles are a staple of backpacking food. They are lightweight, easy to prepare, and can be a tasty addition to your meals. A favorite meal of ours for an “alpine start,” is a mish- mash of dehydrated mashed potatoes, Ramen, and chunks of cheese. It’s dense, filling, and quick!

h/t Tim Watson

When planning your backpacking meals, it's important to consider the weight, ease of preparation, and nutritional value of each food. The above options are all great choices for the trail, and will help keep you fueled and energized on your adventure.