Things to Eat When You Go Camping

Updated - 01/20/12

On the trails, I tend to look for foods that taste good, are easy to prepare, and vegetarian (although I've included some non-vegetarian foods that my buddies will eat and seem to enjoy).  I've been using a system of a foods that take no preparation for breakfast and lunch, and then eat a hot meal for dinner (that only requires hot water and waiting).  At least that's what I do when we hike all day long.  

I will note that I recently purchased Freezer Bag Cooking: Trail Food Made Simple so I'll be working that into my routine.  Until then, this is my list:

Breakfast - I try to start the day off with a tasty breakfast with about 500 calories. 

  • Mountain House Granola with Freeze Dried Blueberries & Milk
  • Gronla bar
  • Dried fruit

Energy for the trail - Either shortly before we start hiking or shortly after, I try to get something that gives me some energy and a little substance..

  • Clif Bar

Morning Snack - After a couple hours of hiking, I'll eat something to hold me over until lunch.

  • Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews (strawberry flavor rocks)
  • Clif Shot Bloks Fastpak

Lunch - I'll usually try to consume 600 to 700 calories with any variety of foods.

  • Cheese (which should be consumed the first day)
  • Peanut butter (portable packets)
  • Crackers (ritz are good)
  • GORP (any of your favorite trail mixes)
  • Planters Pistachio Lovers Mix (mmm)
  • Turtle Island Tofurky Jurky (I like soy jerky, but some people hate it)
  • Tasty Eats Soy Jerky (I think they stopped making my favorite flavors -- hot n spicy, teriyaki, peppered) 
  • Almonds (smoked are good)
  • An orange (probably should be eaten the first day since they're semi heavy)
  • Gum (fresh breath!)
  • (Packets of Tuna)
  • (Beef Jerky)

Afternoon Pick Me Up - After the lunch food settles, I'm usually looking for some more energy.

  • Clif Bar
  • Gu Sports Gel
  • Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews

Dinner - After a long day hiking, a warm meal tastes pretty damn good.

  • Soon to be freezer bag meals
  • Mountain House Potatoes and Cheddar with Broccoli For Two (a favorite)
  • Mountain House Wild Rice and Mushroom Pilaf For Two
  • Mountain House Pasta Primavera For Two
  • Mountain House Macaroni and Cheese For Two
  • Seasoning/Salt/Pepper
  • (Mountain House Chicken and Rice)

Desert - And a meal can never be complete without some sweets.

  • Peanut M&Ms
  • Cookies
  • Oreos