Nothing quite beats the feeling of packing up your gear and heading out on a weekend camping or hiking trip. Whether you’re exploring a new backcountry trail, pitching your tent lakeside, or soaking in some sun at the beach, there’s something special about being surrounded by Mother Nature. Don’t forget one essential element of any outdoor excursion – food! With an extra dose of planning (and creativity), meals can become an exciting part of the adventure rather than just another daily task. In this blog post, we’ll provide tips for making easy yet delicious meals that’ll nourish your body and tantalize your taste buds during all sorts of outdoor activities!
Planning:
One of the best ways to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients and energy your body needs during physical activity is to plan meals. This way, you know exactly what ingredients you’ll need, which helps save time, money, and energy when shopping or packing for your trip. When deciding on a menu, remember to include a wide variety of foods that are high in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats – this will provide maximum fuel for your outdoor activities! Aim to include some fresh produce as well; fruits and vegetables will add essential vitamins and minerals without adding too much bulk or weight.
Packaged convenience:
Convenience foods such as pre-made lunches (like pita sandwiches, wraps or a fresh salad) are a great way to quickly fuel up during your trip. If you’re looking for an even more convenient option, ready-to-eat meals like freeze-dried camping food have come a long way in terms of taste and nutrition. While not as nutritionally dense as homemade creations, these packaged options will still provide the energy and nutrients needed for outdoor activities!
Quick cooking:
For those who want to make their meals but don’t have much time, one-pot dishes such as soups and stews can be prepared with minimal effort. These hearty meals are great because they only require one pot (which means less cleanup!), are easy to reheat if they get cold, and can be made with whatever ingredients you have on hand. You can also use this method to create amazing stir-fries or tacos by prepping a variety of proteins, veggies, and grains beforehand and then just cooking them up quickly at the campfire!
Cooking over the fire:
An iconic part of camping is cooking over an open flame. Whether you’re grilling steaks, roasting potatoes, or making s’mores, there’s something special about the smoky flavor that comes from a campfire meal. To make the most of your trip, consider planning out meals that require minimal ingredients and effort while still providing plenty of tasty options. Kebabs are great for this – just marinate cubes of vegetables and/or protein in advance then skewer them onto metal sticks when it’s time to eat!
Pre-made snacks:
Snacks are essential for any outdoor adventure! When packing for your trip be sure to include some pre-made snacks that are easy to eat while on-the-go. Granola bars, trail mixes, and energy bites all make excellent choices as they’re filled with carbohydrates and healthy fats to provide some extra fuel for whatever activity you’re doing. If you have time before the trip, consider making your homemade snacks – this way you can control the ingredients and customize them to your tastes!
Snacks ideas:
Long hikes and strenuous activities require constant energy, which is why trail snacks are so important. Nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars are great options for grabbing a quick bite on the go – they’re lightweight and easy to carry! You can also pack homemade granola or protein balls made with oats, almonds, dates, etc. Another favorite? Baked sweet potatoes – just wrap them in foil and throw them directly into the fire to cook!
Meal ideas:
Finally, here’s a list of delicious meals that are perfect for outdoor adventures: oatmeal with fresh fruit; quinoa salad with grilled vegetables; homemade whole wheat wraps filled with roasted veggies and hummus; chili bowl topped with shredded cheese and avocado slices; falafel pita sandwich loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and tzatziki sauce; mushroom risotto served over polenta (or rice); lentil dahl; and veggie stir fry cooked in a wok.
No matter what type of outdoor adventure you’re embarking on, having the right food can make all the difference. With these tips and meal ideas, you’ll be sure to have an amazing time while still maintaining a healthy diet! Bon voyage!
Happy camping and hiking everyone! 🙂
