Backpacking is a great way get out of the city, explore nature and get some exercise. If you are on the Paleo diet a day backpacking can mean eating different foods for a few days. In this article we will show you the 10 best Paleo backpacking foods so you have a tasty and healthy hike!
Choosing Paleo Backpacking Meals
Before you make your menu it is important to think about how long the trip is. If the hike is a day trip or over the weekend you will have different meal options than if you are going on a week-long backpacking trip through the Appalachian Trail.
We recommend choosing snacks and meals that are:
- Fast and easy to prepare – No one wants to spend a lot of time cooking when they could be enjoying nature. Plus you won’t have many normal kitchen tools or utensils to cook or clean with so it is a good idea to keep it simple.
- Leave no trace – Foods with lots of plastic wrap or packaging are not a good idea for backpacking trips. Most hikers compress all their ingredients into as small a package as possible which leaves little room for packaging. Plus, every wrapper you carry in needs to be carried back out so it is a good idea to pack light.
- Lightweight – Weight is everything on backpacking trips. Heavy foods mean a heavier pack so every ounce counts on longer treks.
- Length of trip – If your backpacking trip is only for the weekend you may be able to pack some cold food in a cooler, allowing you to bring more fresh foods. This is not possible on longer trips since the ice will melt
Beef Jerky
Beef Jerky is an all time classic hiking food – and its safe for Paleo dieters. This dried meat is easy to pack and carry, leaves little mess or trash and is the perfect snack when you need some protein don’t want to stop for a full meal.
It might not be a good idea to pack Beef Jerky as your only protein on a weekend trip but a bag of jerky makes a good afternoon snack with friends.
Eggs
Many people might be surprised to see Eggs on our list. A hard-boiled egg will last for a few hours on its own or a few days in an ice pack. If your backpacking trip is going to last more than a few days packing a few fresh Eggs with your icebox is a good idea for some extra protein and fat.
Just make sure they have some padding so the shells do not crack. Once you stop for the day and start a fire Eggs can be cooked in a variety of ways for dinner or breakfast.
Dehydrated Fruits and Vegetables
Dehydrated fruits and vegetables are easy to bag and carry on long and short hikes. Some of our favorites are dried pineapple, Bananas or Raisins. Like some of the other choices on this list dehydrated foods are a good choice for group outings because everyone can pick their favorite and easily share while on the go.
Granola
Not every Granola blend is safe for Paleo but if you do some searching at the grocery store or make your own you can find a Granola that is safe for the trail. The main problem with traditional Granola on the Paleo diet is the Oats, so make sure to find a replacement. Our favorite thing about Granola is that you can craft your own blend with your favorite ingredients.
Nuts
Nuts like Peanuts, Almonds and Cashews are all Paleo-friendly choices that are good for eating on short hikes or long backpacking trips. They are lightweight, leave no trace, and are densely packed with important protein and calories to help you replenish and recharge. Plus they require little effort to eat and your group and share a bag on the go!
Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits like Apples, Bananas and Oranges are a trail favorite. They stay fresh without refrigeration, come in their own biodegradable container, can be eaten on the go without much hassle and are super heathy.
The only problem you might run into with Fruit on the trail is if your hike is going to last more than a week! If this sounds like you and you pick up more food half way through the backpacking trip its a good idea to resupply with fresh fruits.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a good choice because it combines of many of the other most popular Paleo backpacking foods into one easy to carry bag. You find premade Paleo friendly trail mixes or make your own blend at home with your favorite ingredients.
We recommend including a mix of dried fruits, nuts and seeds for a healthy handful in each bite.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower Seeds are not just for the ballpark they are also a good choice for backpackers in need of a quick snack. A normal size bag from the grocery store will last a small group on a week-long backpacking trip with a little leftover. They are small, fun to eat, and provide some important nutrients (plus Salt your body needs after sweating) while you walk.
Estelle Russo
Paleo Lover
Hi there! My name is Estelle and I am a Paleo Lover! I like helping other people learn about the health benefits of the paleo diet.
