camping foods

Kyle Clark
12 min readOct 4, 2024
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Embark on a culinary adventure in the great outdoors with our roundup of the best camping food. From freeze-dried meals to delectable treats that make camping feel like home, we've got you covered with our curated selection of tasty options to fuel your next camping trip.

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Reviews

Ready Hour Trio: High-Quality Hiking Emergency Food Kit

Ready Hour Trio: High-Quality Hiking Emergency Food Kit | Image

The Ready Hour Beans Trio & Rice Emergency Food Kit is an excellent source of energy and protein designed for long-term storage. With resealable zipper-top pouches and oxygen absorbers inside, the beans and rice have a shelf life of up to 25 years. The water-resistant, heavy-duty buckets measure 13.5 inches by 9 inches by 8 inches and weigh 12.5 pounds, making them convenient for hiking and emergency situations. Made in the USA, this kit is a perfect addition to any survival food storage plan.

Freeze-Dried Rocky Mountain Scramble Camping Meal

Freeze-Dried Rocky Mountain Scramble Camping Meal | Image

Embark on your adventure with a Rocky Mountain Scramble that's perfect for those on-the-go mornings. This delectable freeze-dried camping meal features a sumptuous blend of scrambled eggs, potatoes, and cheddar cheese, all in a convenient 3.2 oz pouch. With no skillet required, simply add hot water for a quick and easy scramble that’s gluten-free and boasts a 3 year shelf life. Don't let your taste buds miss out on this satisfying start to your wilderness excursion – try Backpackers Pantry Rocky Mountain Scrambler today!

MRE Beef, Chicken & Pork Entrees Combo - 18 Pack for Camping

MRE Beef, Chicken & Pork Entrees Combo — 18 Pack for Camping | Image

Savor the rich flavors of beef, chicken, and pork with this 18 pack of MRE Entrees from Wornick Co. ! Each pouch offers an enticing variety of dishes, such as shredded beef, beef ravioli, chili w/beans, Mexican chicken stew, chicken chunks, Italian (pork) sausage in marinara sauce, and maple pork patties. Despite their different sizes (8 oz for most, 5.0 oz for Chicken Chunks, and 3.6 oz for Maple Pork Patty), you'll find essential ingredients and nutritional info included for each entry. Enjoy a hearty meal camping or on-the-go with this diverse and delicious combination!

Hiking Rangers Space Burger Meal Tube

Hiking Rangers Space Burger Meal Tube | Image

Indulge in the extraordinary flavor of a classic American cheeseburger, now crafted for adventurous tastes. This unique culinary experience was specially developed for astronauts, using 1978 technology, and now you can savor it too! Packed with premium beef, Cheddar cheese, and pickled cucumbers, this freeze-dried delicacy is perfect for hiking, camping, or any thrilling expedition. Enjoy it straight from the tube or add some heat for a mouthwatering burst of flavor. A dream come true for the little astronauts in your life, or an exhilarating gift for those who love the great outdoors.

Delicious Resupply Food Kit for Camping and Backpacking

Delicious Resupply Food Kit for Camping and Backpacking | Image

Enjoy a diverse range of dehydrated meals, perfect for any outdoor adventure. The Resupply Food Kit offers a dozen of their best camping dishes, all in double servings. Ideal for hikers, emergency preparedness, or family gatherings, these lightweight meals are gluten-free, pescatarian, and low in sodium. Made in the USA, each one is handmade, cooked, and dehydrated for a delicious taste on or off the trail.

Hearty New Zealand Beef Stew for Hiking and Camping

Hearty New Zealand Beef Stew for Hiking and Camping | Image

Embark on your next adventure with Moana's New Zealand Beef Stew Car Camping Food, a high-protein, gluten-free option perfect for peak performance. These hearty meals offer a savory taste with balanced nutrition and come in easy-to-carry pouches, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and outdoor survivalists. Made with authentic New Zealand ingredients and following strict food safety standards, this car camping food provides the much-needed boost for your energy during your expedition.

Hormel Gatherings Party Tray Supreme for Outdoor Gatherings

Hormel Gatherings Party Tray Supreme for Outdoor Gatherings | Image

Savor the flavors of a crowd-pleasing deli platter without the hassle of preparation with Hormel Gatherings Supreme Party Trays. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or outdoor events, this 40 oz Supreme Party Tray boasts a variety of premium meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers all ready to go. Conveniently packaged for freshness, Hormel Gatherings Supreme Party Trays make satisfying snacktime a breeze at any occasion.

Nutrient Survival Southwestern Medley: High-Protein, Nutrient-Dense Survival Food

Nutrient Survival Southwestern Medley: High-Protein, Nutrient-Dense Survival Food | Image

Nutrient Survival's Southwestern Medley is a nutritious and delicious choice for survival food enthusiasts. Packed with 12g of protein, 14 essential vitamins, and 12 minerals, this meal offers a complete nutritional profile. With 346mg of Omega-3 and 789mg of Omega-6, it provides a healthy boost to your diet. This gluten-free, preservative-free meal is perfect for camping and adventure seekers, as it requires just ¾ cup of boiling water to prepare. The Southwestern Medley's mild heat from paprika and jalapeno creates a tasty kick, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a balanced flavor. Its long shelf life ensures that you'll always have a nutrient-dense meal on hand for any situation.

Good to Go Red Weekender - Delicious Weekend Meals for Camping

Good to Go Red Weekender — Delicious Weekend Meals for Camping | Image

Satisfy your cravings and fuel your adventures with Good to Go's delicious Weekender. Tucked inside its clever packaging, you'll find three scrumptious meals, each ready to be enjoyed in just 20 minutes. With a shelf life of up to 3 years, this breakfast, lunch, and dinner combo is a perfect companion for the great outdoors or an easy, gluten-free gift.

Good To-Go: Premium Dehydrated Camping Food Kit for Backpacking

Good To-Go: Premium Dehydrated Camping Food Kit for Backpacking | Image

Savor the taste of adventure with the Long Trail Food Kit from Good To-Go. Perfect for camping, hiking, and emergency situations, this dehydrated food assortment packs in energy and deliciousness. Enjoy a gluten-free, low-sodium meal made from real ingredients, effortlessly prepared by adding water. Made in the USA, this lightweight camping food set provides fuel for five thrilling days away from home.

Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice: Freeze-Dried Camping Meal for Survival & Adventures

Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice: Freeze-Dried Camping Meal for Survival & Adventures | Image

Indulge in a scrumptious and portable meal for your upcoming camping excursion with the Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice. This convenient six-pack of dehydrated delight provides a delightful combination of succulent chicken, delectable rice, plump mushrooms, crisp bamboo shoots, and an assortment of vegetables, all enveloped in an exquisite sweet and tangy oriental sauce.

The meal is meticulously certified gluten-free and crafted with the utmost care, ensuring there are no synthetic preservatives or artificial flavors to mar the taste. Be it a serious camper or an avid outdoors enthusiast, this meal serves as the epitome of wholesome nourishment. To prepare, immerse the pouch in hot water, provide a few stirs and, within a mere 10 minutes, you have a sumptuous meal at your fingertips, sans any clean-up or fussiness.

Award-Winning Backpacking Food Kit (Kosher) - 18 Pouches, 6 oz Each

Award-Winning Backpacking Food Kit (Kosher) — 18 Pouches, 6 oz Each | Image

Prepare for your next adventure with the Harmony House Backpacking Food Kit, a convenient and delicious solution for all your outdoor dining needs. Boasting a whopping 18 delicious pouches, each with 6 ounces of fresh ingredients, this kit is the ultimate way to elevate your camping meals. Perfect for backpacking trips, hiking excursions, or simply days spent exploring nature, this versatile kit allows you to mix and match ingredients to create a variety of mouth-watering dishes. From carrots and diced potatoes to green cabbage and mixed peppers, the Harmony House Backpacking Food Kit has everything you need to keep your taste buds satisfied on your journey. Simply zip open the pouch, pour the desired amount in your cooking pot, simmer, season, and enjoy! With a yield of 45+ cups when rehydrated, this kit is sure to provide enough sustenance for even the most demanding expeditions. Say goodbye to bland, pre-packaged meals and embrace the freshness and quality of the Harmony House Backpacking Food Kit. Bon appétit!

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer's guide for camping food! Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-time adventurer, our goal is to provide you with all the essential information you need to choose the right camping food for your next trip. From easy-to-prepare meals to lightweight options, we've covered all the bases. Let's get started!

Important Features

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When shopping for camping food, consider the following features to ensure you're making the best choice for your needs and preferences:

  1. Calorie content: For long hiking days or demanding hikes, you need more calories. Opt for higher-calorie items to keep you energized. 2. Shelf life: Proper storage of food is crucial to prevent spoilage. Some camping foods have a longer shelf life, reducing the risk of going hungry. 3. Weight: The lighter your food, the easier it is to carry, especially if you're backpacking. Look for dehydrated or freeze-dried options to save on weight.

Considerations

Before selecting camping food, consider these factors:

  1. Dietary requirements: Ensure the food you choose caters to any dietary restrictions or preferences you have. 2. Cooking method: Some meals require a hot meal-preparation system, while others can be eaten cold. Consider your cooking equipment and capabilities, especially if you're primitive camping or in an area where campfires are not permitted. 3. Taste and variety: While you might be in the wilderness, you'll still want to enjoy your food! Aim for meals that have a good flavor profile and variety to keep things interesting. If possible, choose from a range of menus and types, including meat, vegetarian, and vegan options.
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General Advice

Lastly, here are some general tips for selecting and preparing camping food:

  1. Plan ahead: Make a list of meals you want to pack before heading out, and take into account the number of people in your group and any dietary restrictions. 2. Test meals before departure: Try out some of the meals you plan to take with you before heading out to camp. This will help you ensure they taste good, have a balanced texture, and cook properly. 3. Bring snacks: Don't forget to pack some extra snacks for those snack attacks, and to have a backup if something goes wrong with your meal preparation. 4. Store food properly: Proper storage is crucial for keeping your food fresh and safe to eat. Depending on the type of food you're taking, there are specific storage methods needed, such as airtight containers or hanging food in bear-resistant bags. Use the packaging provided by the food manufacturer and consult with park rangers for further advice.

By understanding the key features, considerations, and general advice for camping food, you're well on your way to making informed decisions that will keep you satisfied at the campsite. Happy camping! 🙂 😊 🏕️ ⛺️ 🥩 🥪 🍫 🍞 🥘 🥙 🍽️ 🥗 🥔 🍶 🍷 🥧 🍙 🍰 🥕 🥒🥓

FAQ

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What makes camping food suitable for outdoor activities?

Camping food is specially designed to be lightweight, portable, and versatile for use in outdoor activities. They are designed to withstand varying environmental conditions, including temperature changes, humidity, and potential exposure to dust and other particles. These features make camping food ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who desire convenient and flavorful meal options while enjoying nature.

Additionally, many camping food options have extended shelf life, eliminating the need for refrigeration in most cases. This adds to the convenience and practicality of these products for campers, backpackers, and other outdoor adventurers. Some brands even offer freeze-dried or high-energy meals to help ensure proper nourishment during extended outdoor excursions.

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How should I store camping food to maintain its freshness and quality?

When storing camping food, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines to preserve its flavor and ensure freshness. Generally, you should store camping food in a dry, cool, and dark location, away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain the freshness of ingredients and minimizes the risk of contamination from surrounding particles and bacteria.

For freeze-dried meals, make sure to store them in their original vacuum-sealed packaging that is specifically designed to maintain optimal flavor and texture. Air-tight containers or vacuum-sealed bags should also be used for other camping food products to protect them from exposure to moisture and environmental factors. It's crucial to inspect these storage solutions regularly and replace damaged packaging or containers to maintain the highest quality and freshness of your camping food.

Are there any specific cooking requirements or equipment needed for preparing camping food?

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While there might be some variation in cooking techniques and equipment requirements depending on the type of camping food, many products are designed for easy preparation using common camping equipment. Some examples of typical cooking requirements for camping food include the ability to boil water and heat-resistant packaging materials.

When it comes to equipment, a portable camping stove or a Trangia multi-fuel burner, along with a pot or pan designated for food preparation, is generally enough to cook most camping food. Additionally, some brands offer products specifically designed for cooking over an open flame or directly on a griddle or frying pan. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for cooking their particular camping food products.

What is the shelf life of camping food? How long can I expect them to last?

The shelf life of camping food varies depending on its type and packaging. Many pre-packaged camping food options, such as freeze-dried meals and energy bars, have extended shelf lives that can range from 5 to 20 years or more when stored correctly. This makes them ideal for long-term storage and use in emergencies or extended outdoor trips.

Conversely, canned goods like tuna or Spam might have a shorter shelf life compared to other camping food options. On average, canned goods can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years, although this shelf life can be extended further if the cans are stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Always refer to the manufacturer's label or packaging instructions for accurate information regarding the shelf life of the specific camping food item you're interested in purchasing or using.

What are some environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional camping food?

Environmental concerns are a growing priority for many consumers, including those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping. There are several environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional camping food that can help reduce waste and promote sustainability in the outdoors. These include reusable water bottles, eco-friendly dishware and utensils, and energy-efficient cooking equipment such as insulated containers.

Some camping food brands are also committed to sustainability and reduced environmental impact by using locally sourced, organic, or even vegetarian ingredients in their products. Be sure to research and choose products from environmentally-friendly companies that share your commitment to protecting the environment while enjoying the great outdoors.

What are some tips for creating a diverse and balanced camping food menu?

Creating a well-rounded and diverse camping food menu is essential for maintaining proper nutrition and energy levels while engaging in outdoor activities. A balanced and healthy camping meal should ideally include carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle recovery and repair, and healthy fats for insulation and satiety. Some examples of nutritious camping food options include instant oatmeal, tuna or salmon, and energy bars or trail mix.

It's also important to consider factors such as flavor preferences, dietary restrictions, and the overall mood and atmosphere of your camping trip when designing your food menu. Incorporating various cuisine styles and flavors can make mealtime more enjoyable and exciting, while staying informed about food safety guidelines and proper cooking techniques will ensure a positive and memorable camping experience for all involved.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I may earn from qualified purchases!

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