Because the view shouldn't be the only thing you're excited about.

Let’s be real: after a long day of hiking, there’s nothing worse than peeling open a sad, flavorless meal pouch that tastes like warm cardboard. Good news — backpacking food doesn’t have to be boring or overly processed. In fact, with a little intention, your trail meals can be something you look forward to each day.

Here’s how to eat well in the backcountry — without adding extra weight or hassle.

🍲 1. Rethink the Standard Freeze-Dried Meal

There are some great pre-packaged options out there — and some terrible ones. If you’re going the freeze-dried route, look for meals that are:

High in calories per ounce (aim for ~120+ cal/oz)
Balanced with carbs, fats, and protein
Low in sodium overload (unless you’re sweating buckets daily)

Our Favorite Tasty Options:

Good To-Go: Their Thai Curry and Mexican Quiona Bowls are big wins on the flavor front.
Farm to Summit: Woman-owned, regional ingredients, and actually delicious.
Backpacker’s Pantry Pad Thai (yes, really so good! The spice packet inside adds some HEAT though, so use a little at a time)

Want to elevate it? Add a squeeze of olive oil, a handful of crushed nuts, or fresh herbs like cilantro on Night 1.

🥐 2. Make Your Own Meals (It’s Easier Than You Think)

DIY backpacking meals are lighter, often healthier, and customized to what you actually like. A few simple combos to try:

🧄 Couscous Magic

Couscous + sun-dried tomatoes + olive oil + parmesan + basil
Add: chickpeas or pre-cooked lentils (from a pouch)

🍠 Sweet Potato Mash Bowl

Instant mashed potatoes + powdered coconut milk + dried cranberries + toasted pecans
Add: cinnamon and a dash of maple syrup packet

🌯 Deconstructed Burrito Bowl

Minute rice + black beans (dehydrated or pouch) + taco seasoning + shelf-stable cheddar + crushed tortilla chips

Pack ingredients in Ziplocks with cooking instructions sharpied on the front. Just add boiling water!

☕️ 3. Don’t Skip the Little Joys

You’ll burn a ton of calories — but more importantly, you’ll crave comfort. A few small luxuries go a long way:

Hot drink ritual: coffee or tea
Trail dessert: instant chocolate mousse mix, dark chocolate squares, chocolate covered almonds, or gummies
Fresh on Day 1: a slice of pizza, avocado, or wrap with real veggies
Tapatío or Sriracha packets (because flavor matters!)

🛠 4. Tools Matter: What You’ll Need

You don’t need a full kitchen. Here’s what keeps it simple:

Small backpacking stove (Jetboil or PocketRocket style)
One pot with a lid (or integrated system)
Long-handled spoon or spork
Mug for hot drinks
Lightweight bowl (optional if eating from pot or pouch)

🍽 Rachel’s Pro Tips from the Trail

Pack out what you pack in: even food wrappers. Bring a gallon size Ziplock & label it “trash”.
Practice meals at home first: especially DIY ones.
Label everything: including “lunch” and “dinner” so you’re not guessing in the dark.
Hydrate meals longer than you think: cold temps = slower rehydration.
Use an insulated cozy (or wrap in a puffy) while meals steep — it keeps your dinner hot!

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to settle for bland meals when you’re out crushing miles. With a little planning, your backpacking menu can be something that adds joy, warmth, and nourishment to every day on trail.

And if you’re joining us at Sierra Soul Adventures, we’ll share our favorite backcountry recipes and maybe even surprise you with a trail treat or two!

Backpacking Meals that Actually Taste Good