Healthy Hiking Meals: Fuel Your Adventure with Nutritious and Delicious Options

When hitting the trails, it’s essential to pack meals that are not only nutritious but also easy to carry and prepare. Healthy hiking meals can boost your energy levels, keep you satisfied, and ensure you enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Here are some fantastic options for healthy hiking meals that are easy to prepare and perfect for the trail.

1. Trail Mix and Nuts

Source credit: Maksim Shutov

Trail mix is a classic hiking snack for good reason. It’s lightweight, non-perishable, and packed with energy-dense ingredients. Make your own mix with a combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a small amount of dark chocolate or yogurt-covered raisins for a treat. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are rich in healthy fats and protein, which help sustain your energy levels. 

Here are some already-made trail mix bags if you don't want to make your own: 

• Southern Style Nuts Gourmet Hunter Mix 
• Kar’s Nuts Sweet ‘N Salty Deluxe Trail Mix 
• Nature's Eats Nuts for Energy Mega Trail Mix 
• Nature's Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Pack 

2. Energy Bars and Bites

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Homemade or store-bought energy bars and bites are convenient options for hiking. Look for bars with natural ingredients and minimal added sugars. You can also make your own by combining oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like dried fruits and seeds. These bars are great for a healthy hiking meal as they provide a quick energy boost and are easy to pack.

Here are a few great recipes for homemade energy bites: 

• No-Bake Energy Bites - Gimme Some Oven
• No-Bake Energy Bites - Allrecipes 
• Cookie Dough Energy Bites - Pinch of Yum  

And here are some store-bought options:

• Navitas Organics Superfood Power Snacks 
• The Gluten Free Brothers Gluten Free Protein Bites Variety Pack 
• Energy Bites Salted Caramel Chocolate Flavor 

3. Whole Grain Wraps and Sandwiches

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Wraps and sandwiches made with whole grain tortillas or bread are excellent for a more substantial, healthy hiking meal. Fill them with lean proteins like turkey or chicken, lots of veggies, and a spread like hummus or avocado for added flavor and nutrients. Whole grains offer sustained energy, while the protein and healthy fats help keep you full.

Here a few recipes you may enjoy as your health hiking meal:

• Easy Healthy Salad Sandwich 
• Cucumber Sandwich 
• Green Goddess Sandwich 

4. Dehydrated Meals

Dehydrated meals have come a long way and are now available in a variety of healthy options. These meals are lightweight and only require boiling water to rehydrate, making it a reliable choice as a healthy hiking meal. Look for options that are low in sodium and made with whole ingredients. Brands like Backpacker's Pantry and Good To-Go offer nutritious and tasty dehydrated meals that are perfect for hiking.

Here are some of the options both of those companies offer: 

• Backpacker's Pantry Pad Thai 
• Backpacker's Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese 
• Backpacker's Pantry Creme Brulee 

5. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

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While fresh fruits and vegetables might be heavier to carry, they’re incredibly refreshing and hydrating. Apples, oranges, carrots, and bell peppers are sturdy options that can withstand being in a backpack. They provide essential vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling your best on the trail. You can even pack travel size pouches of ranch dressing, hummus, chocolate and other dips you may enjoy while hiking! Be sure to buy a proper fresh fruit and vegetable container!

Here are a few: 

• Prepworks by Progressive Produce ProKeeper 
• Bentgo® Snack Cup 
• Divided Serving Tray with Handle 
• 5-Pack Fruit Storage Containers for Fridge with Removable Colanders 

6. Nut Butter Packs

Individual packs of nut butter are a convenient and protein-rich snack. Pair them with apple slices, cut celery, whole grain crackers, cinnamon raisin bread, or simply eat them straight from the pack. Nut butters like almond or peanut butter are excellent sources of healthy fats and can give you a quick energy boost.

Here are some nut butter options: 

• Jif Squeeze Creamy Peanut Butter 
• Barney Butter Almond Butter Snack Packs 
• Once Again Organic Creamy Peanut Butter 
• JUSTIN'S Classic Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Spread Squeeze Packs 

7. Instant Oatmeal

For a warm and filling breakfast, consider instant oatmeal packets. They’re easy to prepare with just hot water and can be customized with toppings like dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. Opt for varieties with no added sugars and whole grain oats for the best nutritional value.

Here are a couple no added sugar and low sugar options as a healthy hiking meal:

• Quaker Quick 1-Minute Oatmeal 
• Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Lower Sugar 

8. Jerky and Dried Meats

Jerky and dried meats are excellent sources of protein that are easy to pack and don’t require refrigeration. Choose options with minimal additives and preservatives. Beef, turkey, or salmon jerky can provide a savory break from sweet snacks and help maintain your energy levels.

Here are some excellent jerky options as a healthy hiking meal: 

• Jack Link's Beef Jerky Bold Variety Pack 
• Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Peppered 10-Ounce Pack 
• Tillamook Country Smoker Keto Friendly Zero Sugar Beef Jerky 
• Jack Link's Turkey Jerky 

Tips for Packing Healthy Hiking Meals

Source credit: Byward Outfitters

• Portion Control: Pack only what you need to avoid carrying extra weight.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water and consider bringing electrolyte tablets or powders.
• Balance Nutrients: Aim for a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
• Easy Access: Pack snacks in easily accessible pockets to grab without stopping.
• Minimize Waste: Use reusable containers and bags to reduce waste on the trail.

Conclusion

By carefully selecting and preparing your healthy hiking meals, you can ensure you stay energized and satisfied throughout your adventure. For more recipes when traveling, camping, or hiking, click here to read more. Enjoy the great outdoors and happy hiking!