Camping is a great way to enjoy nature and spend time with friends and family. However, in the wilderness, having the right snacks can significantly impact the success of your trip. Good camping snacks should be easy to pack, nutritious, and tasty.
They should give you energy for hiking and other activities. This article will look at the 20 best camping snacks to bring on your next outdoor adventure.
1. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a classic camping snack for good reason. It’s easy to make and customize. You can mix nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate for a tasty and energy-packed snack. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup cashews
- 1 cup dried strawberries
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Store in airtight containers or resealable bags.
2. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a great source of protein. It’s lightweight and doesn’t need refrigeration. This makes it perfect for camping trips. You can buy beef jerky at most grocery stores. Or you can make your own at home before your trip.
3. Fresh Fruit
Apples, oranges, and bananas are easy to pack. They provide natural sugars and important vitamins. Choose fruits that don’t bruise easily. Eat these early in your trip as they won’t last long without refrigeration.
4. Granola Bars
Granola bars are compact and filling. They come in many flavors. Look for bars with whole grains and nuts for more nutrition. Avoid bars with too much added sugar.
5. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is lightweight and doesn’t spoil quickly. It’s a good source of natural sugars and fiber. Try dried apricots, mangoes, or apple chips. Be careful not to eat too much, as dried fruit is high in calories.
6. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats and protein. They give you long-lasting energy. Good options include:
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
You can eat them plain or add them to other snacks. Just be careful with portion sizes, as they are high in calories.
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is rich in protein and healthy fats. It’s adaptable and doesn’t require refrigeration. Bring it in a plastic jar to avoid breakage. You can spread it on crackers or fruit. Or eat it straight from the jar for a quick energy boost.
8. Energy Bars
Outdoor activities are the target audience for energy bars. They are compact and full of nutrients. Look for bars with natural ingredients and low sugar content. Some popular brands are:
- Clif Bars
- RXBAR
- KIND Bars
These bars can replace a meal if needed. But they shouldn’t be your only food source.
9. Cheese
Hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda can last several days without refrigeration. They are a good source of protein and calcium. Pair them with crackers or dried fruit for a satisfying snack. Bring wax-wrapped cheeses for easy packing.
10. Vegetables
Some vegetables travel well and add nutrition to your camping diet. Good choices include:
- Baby carrots
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sugar snap peas
- Bell pepper slices
These veggies are crunchy and refreshing. They provide vitamins and fiber. Eat them early in your trip as they won’t stay fresh for long.
11. Popcorn
Popcorn is a light, fun snack for camping. You can pop it at home and bring it in bags. Or bring kernels and pop them over the campfire. Plain popcorn is low in calories and high in fiber. Add a little salt or herbs for flavor.
12. Tuna or Chicken Pouches
Tuna or chicken in foil pouches is a great protein source. They don’t need refrigeration until opened. You can eat them straight from the pouch or add them to crackers. Look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
13. Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are light and easy to pack. They come in various flavors. Plain ones are good with peanut butter or cheese. Flavored ones like caramel or apple cinnamon make a nice sweet treat. Rice cakes are low in calories but not very filling, so pair them with protein.
14. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, protein-rich snack. You can buy them or make them at home before your trip. Here’s a simple recipe:
- Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Toss with olive oil and your favorite spices (like salt, garlic powder, or cumin).
- Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Let them cool completely before packing. They’ll stay crunchy for several days in an airtight container.
15. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a treat that holds up well in a backpack. It’s rich in antioxidants and can boost your mood. Choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the most health benefits. Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate. It also melts less easily in warm weather.
16. Dried Meat Sticks
Dried meat sticks, like beef or turkey sticks, are good protein sources. They last long without refrigeration. Look for brands with natural ingredients and low sodium. These are easy to eat on the go during hikes.
17. Seaweed Snacks
Seaweed snacks are light and nutritious. They’re rich in minerals like iodine. These crispy snacks come in small packages. They’re low in calories but big on flavor. Try different flavors, like wasabi or teriyaki.
18. Nut Butter Packets
Single-serve nut butter packets are convenient for camping. They’re less messy than jars. You can find peanut, almond, or cashew butter packets. Squeeze them onto fruits or crackers. Or eat them straight from the packet for quick energy.
19. Freeze-Dried Fruits
Freeze-dried fruits are very light and keep well. They have a crispy texture. Most of their nutrients stay intact. Popular options include:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Apples
These fruits make a good topping for oatmeal or yogurt. You can also eat them as a sweet snack on their own.
20. Homemade Energy Balls
Energy balls are easy to make and pack. They’re full of nutrients and taste great. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Roll into small balls. Chill in the fridge before packing. These will last several days in a cool place.
Conclusion
Packing the right snacks can make your camping trip more enjoyable. The 20 snacks we’ve listed offer a mix of nutrition, convenience, and taste. Remember to pack a variety of options. This will give you different nutrients and flavors throughout your trip. Always pack your food in airtight containers or resealable bags. This keeps them fresh and protects them from insects and animals.
