Backpacking Food Ideas - Planning Your Backpacking Supplies

One of the biggest challenges when backpacking is actually trying to get everything you need packed into your backpack. It is so easy to over pack especially when it comes to your backpacking supplies. One way to avoid this is to have a few backpacking food ideas, just a simple plan of your expected food and supply needs for the length of your trip.

When planning your backpacking supplies there are three things to consider. First you will want to think about the weight of your food and the amount of room they will take up in your pack. Second you need to consider your energy requirements for each day of hiking. And third you need to know how many days you will be taking for your trip, and so how much food you will need overall.

In addition to these three main considerations there are a few other things to think of. For instance you will want to have at least one hot meal a day. The other meals will need to be easy to prepare and require little or no cooking. Foods that can be prepared in their own packaging are great for backpacking. They take up little room and as they are usually dehydrated, they tend to be light as well. And by buying single servings, you can eat only what you need.

While backpacking you are going to need to eat at least three meals per day, as well as snacks and trail food such as gorp ( good old raisins and peanuts). Staying well nourished is important as it keeps your energy levels up, allowing you to hike further and feel fitter in general. Taking vitamin supplements can also help as they are very light to carry and ensure that your body is getting everything that it needs. It is also important to eat at regular times, even if you do not feel that hungry.

Planning your backpacking supplies for any trip, no matter how long is very important, and having a few backpacking food ideas will start you on the right track. So always make sure that you have enough for your trip. Try experimenting with different types of food before you go, this way you will have a better idea of what to take. And don't forget to take things like high energy bars for those times during the day when you need that extra boost.