How to Eat Healthy While Backpacking

If you’re traveling as a backpacker, then you know how difficult it can be to stay healthy while you’re staying in hostels and eating on the go.

With so much temptation to choose unhealthy convenience foods, it can be tough to make sure that you’re eating well and getting the nutrition you need.

But with a bit of planning and preparation, it is possible to eat healthy while you’re traveling around.

Read on for our top tips for eating healthy while backpacking.

How to Eat Healthy While Backpacking

Pre-Plan Your Meals

The key to eating healthy while backpacking is to plan your meals before you go. Take some time to think about what you’ll be eating and how you’ll be preparing it. Planning your meals ahead of time allows you to make sure that you’re getting the right balance of nutrients.

You can also take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences that you or any of your fellow backpackers may have.

Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods

When it comes to backpacking, it’s important to choose foods that are nutrient-dense. These are foods that provide lots of nutrition in a small package. Examples include nuts, seeds, dried fruits, whole grains, and canned fish.

These foods are easy to pack, store, and prepare, so you can enjoy healthy meals even when you’re far from home.

Opt for Fresh Foods When Possible

Fresh fruits and vegetables can be hard to come by when you’re out on the trail, but if you’re able to find them, they can be a great way to get the nutrients you need. Look for local farmers markets or roadside stands to stock up on fresh produce. If you’re camping near a lake or river, you may be able to find fresh fish, as well.

Pack Healthy Snacks

Snacking is a great way to keep your energy levels up while you’re out on the trail. But it’s important to choose snacks that are nutrient-dense and won’t spoil quickly. Nuts, dried fruits, and granola bars are all good options. You can also make your own trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

Choose Healthy Cooking Methods

When it comes to cooking while backpacking, it’s important to choose methods that are healthy and won’t take up too much of your time or energy. Boiling and steaming are both healthy ways to cook. You can also use a camp stove to grill or bake your food.

Just make sure you’re using a safe cooking method and that you’re following all safety guidelines.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for staying healthy while backpacking. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You can also bring along electrolyte drinks or herbal teas to help keep your energy levels up.

Stay on Track

It can be easy to slip into bad eating habits while you’re backpacking, so it’s important to stay on track and make sure you’re getting the nutrition you need. Keep a journal of what you’re eating and how you’re feeling. This can help you stay accountable and make sure you’re getting the right balance of nutrients.

7 Healthy Backpacking Snack Ideas

Trail mix

Combine nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips to make a healthy trail mix that is high in energy and satisfying.

Dark chocolate

Enjoy a dark chocolate bar as a healthy snack if you are looking for a sweet treat that will also keep you energized.

Roasted nuts

Roasted nuts are a great option if you are looking for something healthy and crunchy to snack on.

Hummus and whole grain pita

Spread a tablespoon of hummus on a whole grain pita and top with roasted vegetables or a piece of fruit.

Energy bars

Choose an energy bar that is high in protein and fiber to refuel after a hike.

Trail mix bars

Store-bought trail mix bars are a great option if you are short on time. Simply cut them into small pieces and pack them away in your backpack.

Soft pretzels

Pretzels are a classic backpacking snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Enjoy them as is, or top them with cheese, peanut butter, and jelly.

So How Can You Eat Healthy While Backpacking?

Eating healthy while backpacking isn’t always easy, but with a bit of planning and preparation, it is possible.

Choose nutrient-dense foods, opt for fresh foods when possible, pack healthy snacks, choose healthy cooking methods, stay hydrated, and stay on track.

With these tips, you can make sure that you’re getting the nutrition you need, even when you’re out on the trail.

READ MORE: Why Eat Healthy When You Travel?