The foods that you take on your camping trip should be nourishing, satisfying and energizing. But they also need to be practical, simple to prepare and easy to pack. And that's exactly what you'll get from the foods detailed in this article. So, the next time you head out on a camping trip, pack the following six food essentials to make your camping vacation complete.
1.High Sugar Fruits
High sugar fruits will give you a boost of energy without the refined sugar, however, make sure you select the right types. Find fruits with the highest levels of fruit sugar or fructose, and that contain fiber to satisfy your appetite. Bananas are a favorite among campers and hikers, and they are an excellent source of potassium and magnesium, which are both good for preventing muscle cramps if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
Dried fruits are another great choice. Like bananas, dried fruits are high in natural sugars and they have high levels of fiber too. And depending on the type you select, you’ll get a good mix of potassium, calcium and magnesium.
2. Breads and wholegrains
As well as instant energy foods, you are going to need a good selection of whole grains to curb hunger pangs and make a fulfilling meal. When you’re camping always pack breads, wraps, rice and pasta as they make excellent staples to go with lunches and dinners. But if you like your carbs a little lighter, choose from quinoa, barley and lentils. Alternatively, buy some dehydrated meals that are rich in whole grains for an easy-to-pack warm meal.
3. Protein Rich Foods
Protein rich foods can be packed into a cool bag, but always follow the instructions for storing them properly and keep them at the right temperatures. Sliced meats, cubes of cheese, cottage cheese and jerky will all supply you with high levels of protein. In addition, pack plenty of snack foods like trail mix, pumpkin/sunflower seeds and mixed nuts for pocket snacks that are light to carry.
Don’t forget canned goods, either. Tuna, tinned meats, beans and pulses and canned corn all make good snacks for your camping trip. And as a bonus, they don’t need to be heated up, so if the fire fails to light, you can still enjoy a campside snack.
4. Cereals
Few things get the day started better than a good breakfast. However, as with your other meal choices, you should choose cereals that are practical, lightweight and that don’t take up too much space to pack. Individual sachets of oats make a good warming snack to start the day. And pots of oats are great for grab and go breakfast meals, but they can be eaten any time when you want food fast.
Small packets of individual cereals, will also help get your day started the right way. However, opt for cereals with healthy levels of sugar or go for museli. For cereals that you can carry in your pockets, breakfast bars or cereal bars are an excellent choice.
5. Sweets And Candy
Eating some candy in moderation will keep your energy levels ticking over in between meals. However, don’t overindulge or you’ll find your blood sugar plummeting, which can lead to headaches, fatigue and bad tempers. Not ideal for your camping trip! Snickers bars, Reese’s peanut butter cups, Kit Kat and Rolo’s will all satisfy a sweet tooth while giving you some extra energy.
As an alternative to satisfying your sweet tooth, you could try ready packaged desserts. If you shop around, you'll see there are several brands available such as Adventure Food and Wayfayrer. High protein cereal bars, with moderate amounts of sugar, can make a good after meal treat too.
6. Hot Drinks
Don’t leave hot drinks off the list! Ample hot drinks are just as essential to your camping diet - especially when the weather outside is colder or wetter than you’d like. Hot chocolate is a camp time favorite, but coffee, teas and anything that will warm you through when the weather is less than favorable can make a camping trip feel more like home. But don’t forget to take enough cold drinks as well, especially water.
Conclusion:
The food you take with you can really make a difference to your camping trip. And for many campers, meal times in the great outdoors are one of the most pleasurable and memorable parts of a camping holiday. A mix of proteins, high sugar fruit, complex carbs and the occasional sweet treat will give your body to fuel it needs to make the most of your time camping.
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