Fancy going on a trip for the weekend? Camping can be tedious and challenging, but this will definitely be an extraordinarily refreshing experience with adequate preparation.
Some of the key considerations you should know before campings are the length of the trip and the number of people you are going with. This will help you assess how many meals you need to prepare and the adequate food-related tools you need to carry for the whole trip. Bring ingredients that can be used for multiple meals you have planned.
If you have a passion for traveling and exploring the wild, here are some suggestions on what food to pack.
Trail mix, nuts, and bars
This is an excellent all-day snack option that will keep your body energized throughout a tough day of hiking without weighing you down. They are lightweight and easy to prepare, too.
Frozen fruit
Fruits are healthy snacks and are packed with nutrients and vitamins our body needs. Precut and put them in the freezer at least a day before your trip. Pack them in a cooler with ice on your journey.
Overnight oats
You can bring a large batch and just scoop out a portion every morning and top it with frozen fruit. This is affordable and makes a lot of servings. You can also premix oats, chia seeds, and cinnamon which you can just add hot water to for breakfast.
Bread
Bread is a staple food. They are a good source of carbohydrates which will give you energy for long hikes. It can be used for any mealtime. You can toast it for breakfast or make a sandwich for lunch. This should be on your camping food list.
Salt, pepper, and spices
If you don’t want bland meals, you might want to add them to your list. They don’t weigh a lot, but they add so much flavor to what you are preparing. Look for travel-size condiments and packets for a lighter load. Spice things up with a bit of hot sauce.
Hotdogs and sausages
Making hotdogs over a campfire has been a camping tradition for ages. Just skewer your hotdog or sausage on a sturdy stick and roast it over the fire. Grills can be used to cook hotdogs and sausages, too.
Eggs
You can come up with numerous meal ideas, whether scrambled, poached, boiled or fried. Eggs are very nutritious, easy to prepare, and an essential source of energy.
You might consider bringing a cooler with you to store cold food and beverages you will need for the trip. Do some research and find out what cooler type or size suits your needs best.
Pack your cooler in layers according to the order of use. This might not be a space saver tip but will definitely reduce the amount of time your cooler stays open to get what you need. Place the food you will use first at the top and what you will use last at the bottom.
It is crucial to know whether you have access to clean drinking water during your hike to assess the amount of water you will bring for your consumption and cooking needs. Keep your cooking equipment simple and avoid carrying too much.
Wash, chop, and marinate ahead of time. Having your meals prepared and ready to cook in reusable packages or zip lock bags will save you space, time, and waste on-site.
Food planning depends on your camping activities, too. Remember to be conscious of the weight of the food and the calorie count that is needed for the energy while out on the trail.
Hiking from dawn to dusk can really drain your energy, and you might also be tired to cook your food. In this case, you can opt for ready-to-eat food that needs no cooking, like instant noodles, cereal, or canned goods.
How to pack eggs for a camping trip?
Eggs can be a great addition to your camping diet to supply your body with adequate energy for the trip. They are inexpensive and versatile as they can beef up the main meal or provide a satisfying snack.
One egg contains 75 calories, 7 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and some vitamins, minerals, and iron. It is a protein and nutrient powerhouse.
If you plan to go on a trip with some people, you should know how to pack eggs for group camping.
Crack the eggs and store them in a single resealable container if you plan to cook omelets or scrambled eggs. This will take up less space and be a bit easier to travel with.
You can also bring them in their shells. Use egg cases to prevent breakages as they are susceptible to cracking and might be damaged during transport.
How long do eggs last unrefrigerated?
This depends on the type of egg, whether they are store-bought refrigerated eggs or freshly laid eggs.
Eggs bought in the local grocery stores have been washed, which removes the natural protective layer found on freshly laid eggs. The natural layer protects the eggs from bacteria.
Refrigeration slows down bacteria growth once the natural layer is removed. Store brought eggs can last up to 2 hours under room temperature.
How long do fresh eggs last unrefrigerated?
A freshly laid egg can last up to a month before they need refrigeration. You can get them from a local farmer. Finding newly laid eggs can also take a bit more effort, but it’s worth the search.
It is an excellent fuel for an outdoor trip but makes sure to give them a good wash and cook them thoroughly before eating.
How to pack hard-boiled eggs for camping?
Hard boiling eggs are simple. Put the eggs in a saucepan with water so that they are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat and cover the pan for 10 to 12 minutes.
Packing hard-boiled eggs are easier than packing raw eggs, but surprisingly, they have shorter shelf life than fresh eggs. It is recommended that you peel hard-boiled eggs until you’re ready to eat them or use them in a recipe.
If the eggs are peeled, keep them in an air-tight container along with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Peeled eggs should be refrigerated as soon as possible and not be left at room temperature. This will keep your hard-boiled eggs safe and fresh.
Hard-boiled eggs that are properly stored can last up to one week.
Although eggshells are biodegradable, the smell of eggshells is not pleasant and might attract bugs if you keep them lying around. Make sure to clean the area and pack all your trash before you leave. Observe the “leave no trace rule.”
Food is an essential part of camping. Whether you cook meals while camping or have ready-to-cook food, it is best to plan. Nobody wants to get stuck in the wild without the right amount of food supplies.
The fresh air, stars, and peace of mind in the wilderness are ready for you.Now, go and enjoy your trip!
