best easy backpacking meal

The constant annoyance of searching for a meal that’s lightweight, quick to prepare, and actually tasty on the trail is finally addressed by the Peak Refuel Backcountry Bison Bowl Chad Mendes MRE. Having tested dozens of options, this meal impressed me with its real game meat, packed with 42g of protein per serving—perfect for keeping your energy up. It’s designed for fast prep, requiring less water, and is ready in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for wilderness adventures or quick short hikes.

Compared to the Mountain House Essential Meal Assortment Bucket, which offers variety but requires significantly more weight and prep time, or the other Peak Refuel meals with slightly lower protein counts, the Bison Bowl stands out for its high-quality ingredients and convenient single-pouch design. It’s American-made, offers balanced flavor, and truly keeps you fueled with minimal fuss. After extensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Peak Refuel Backcountry Bison Bowl Chad Mendes MRE as the best easy backpacking meal for its unmatched combination of quality, convenience, and flavor.

Top Recommendation: Peak Refuel Backcountry Bison Bowl Chad Mendes MRE

Why We Recommend It: This meal’s key advantages are its 100% real game meat, 42g of protein per pouch, and lightweight design requiring less water—great for quick hydration. Its flavor profile stands out compared to competitors, and the ease of preparation ensures minimal time on the trail. The meal’s high quality, USDA-inspected ingredients, and USA-made packaging give it an edge over the Mountain House assortment and other Peak meals, which often have lower protein or less convenient portion sizes.

Best easy backpacking meal: Our Top 5 Picks

• Peak Refuel Backcountry Bison Bowl Chad Mendes MRE – Best Backpacking Packaged Meal for Protein and Convenience
• Mountain House Essential Meal Assortment Bucket, 22 Servings – Best Easy Backpacking Meal Variety Pack
• Peak Refuel Peach Cobbler | Real Ingredients | Ready in – Best Tasting Backpacking Meal
• Peak Refuel Beef Pasta Marinara, 49g Protein, 2 Servings – Best High-Protein Backpacking Meal
• Peak Refuel Beef Stroganoff Freeze-Dried Backpacking Meal – Best for Classic Flavors and Ease

What Makes a Meal the Best Easy Backpacking Meal?

The best easy backpacking meal should prioritize nutrition, convenience, and minimal prep time while being lightweight and compact.

• Dehydrated Meals: These meals are lightweight and require only hot water to prepare, making them ideal for backpackers.
• Instant Oatmeal: A quick breakfast option that provides carbs and fiber, just needing hot water or milk to prepare.
• Nut Butter Packs: High in calories and healthy fats, these packs offer a great way to fuel energy needs without cooking.
• Trail Mix: A combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, trail mix is convenient for snacking and provides essential nutrients.
• Instant Rice or Quinoa: Pre-cooked and dehydrated, these grains are an excellent source of carbohydrates and protein and can be prepared quickly.
• Energy Bars: Compact and calorie-dense, energy bars are easy to pack and offer quick energy boosts on the trail.

Dehydrated Meals: These meals are typically packaged in lightweight pouches, designed for easy storage and transport. They usually come in a variety of flavors and can include pasta, rice dishes, or stews, requiring only the addition of hot water for preparation.

Instant Oatmeal: This meal option is perfect for breakfast, providing a quick and nutritious start to the day. Instant oatmeal is easy to prepare by adding hot water, and it can be customized with toppings like fruits or nuts for added flavor and nutrition.

Nut Butter Packs: These single-serving packs of nut butter are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them an excellent source of energy. They are versatile and can be eaten alone, spread on crackers, or mixed into oatmeal for extra flavor and sustenance.

Trail Mix: A classic backpacking snack, trail mix combines various ingredients like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or granola. This mix is not only energy-dense but also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for long treks.

Instant Rice or Quinoa: These grains are pre-cooked and dehydrated, allowing for quick preparation by simply adding boiling water. They serve as a great base for meals and can be paired with other ingredients like vegetables or proteins to create a balanced dish.

Energy Bars: These bars are designed specifically for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, providing concentrated energy in a convenient form. They often contain a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to sustain energy levels during strenuous activities and are easy to carry in any backpack.

Which Ingredients Are Essential for Easy Backpacking Meals?

When preparing for easy backpacking meals, certain ingredients are essential for convenience, nutrition, and taste.

• Dehydrated Meals: These lightweight meals are designed for quick preparation and require only hot water to rehydrate. They often come in various flavors and can provide a balanced mix of macronutrients, making them a popular choice for hikers who want to minimize cooking time and weight.
• Instant Oatmeal: This is a great breakfast option, as it is nutritious, filling, and can be prepared with just hot water. Instant oatmeal packets often come with added flavors and fruits, providing a quick and energy-boosting meal to start the day.
• Nut Butters: Nut butters such as peanut or almond butter are calorie-dense and packed with protein and healthy fats, making them ideal for sustained energy on the trail. They can be eaten on their own, spread on crackers, or mixed into oatmeal for added flavor and nutrition.
• Trail Mix: A blend of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or granola, trail mix is an excellent snack that provides quick energy and essential nutrients. It’s easy to pack and offers a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for munching on while hiking.
• Rice or Quinoa Packs: Pre-cooked rice or quinoa packs are convenient options that can be heated quickly and serve as a versatile base for meals. They can be combined with dehydrated vegetables or protein sources for a complete meal, providing carbohydrates and fiber.
• Jerky: High in protein and shelf-stable, jerky makes for an ideal snack or meal addition that requires no cooking. It provides a savory flavor and can be paired with other ingredients like rice or added to wraps for a heartier option.
• Energy Bars: These compact bars are designed to deliver a quick burst of energy and often contain a blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are easy to carry and can serve as a meal replacement or quick snack along the trail.

What Proteins Work Best for Easy Backpacking Meals?

For easy backpacking meals, certain proteins are particularly effective due to their lightweight, shelf-stable nature, and ease of preparation:

• Dehydrated Meat: Dehydrated or freeze-dried meats like chicken, beef, or turkey provide essential protein while being lightweight and compact. They can easily be rehydrated in hot water, making them an excellent addition to meals like soups, stews, or wraps.
• Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP): TVP is a versatile, plant-based protein that is lightweight and very easy to cook. It absorbs flavors well and can be used in a variety of dishes, from chili to pasta sauces, making it a great option for vegetarian backpackers.
• Canned Tuna or Salmon: Canned fish is a convenient protein source that requires no cooking and can be eaten straight from the can. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and pairs well with crackers, rice, or can be mixed into pasta for a quick meal.
• Protein Bars: Protein bars are an excellent grab-and-go option for backpackers, providing a quick energy boost with a good protein content. They are lightweight and require no preparation, making them ideal for snacking on the trail or as part of a meal.
• Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. They can be eaten alone or added to oatmeal, trail mix, or other dishes for extra protein and crunch.
• Egg Powders: Egg powders are a lightweight alternative to fresh eggs and can be reconstituted with water to create scrambled eggs or added to dishes for extra protein. They are a great option for breakfast or can be used in recipes like pancakes and omelets.

Which Carbohydrates Provide the Most Energy for Backpacking?

The best carbohydrates for providing energy during backpacking trips include the following options:

• Complex Carbohydrates: These include whole grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables.
• Simple Carbohydrates: Foods like fruits, honey, or sugar provide quick energy bursts.
• Dehydrated Meals: Many backpackers opt for freeze-dried or dehydrated meals, which often contain a balanced mix of carbohydrates.
• Energy Bars: These are compact sources of carbohydrates, often enriched with vitamins and minerals.

Complex Carbohydrates: These foods release energy slowly, providing sustained energy over time, which is crucial during long hikes. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats are excellent choices as they are rich in fiber and nutrients, helping to maintain energy levels and keep you full longer.

Simple Carbohydrates: They are easily digestible and provide quick energy, making them ideal for immediate fuel during strenuous activities. Options like bananas, dried fruits, and honey can be easily packed and consumed on-the-go, giving you the quick boost needed for challenging segments of your hike.

Dehydrated Meals: These meals are lightweight and convenient, making them a popular choice among backpackers. They typically contain a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, ensuring a balanced meal that can be rehydrated with hot water, offering a hearty and satisfying option at the end of a long day.

Energy Bars: Designed for outdoor activities, energy bars are compact and often formulated to provide a balanced source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are easy to carry and can be consumed quickly, making them an excellent option for energy on the trail without the need for preparation.

Are There Vegetables Suitable for Easy Packing?

There are several vegetables that are suitable for easy packing, particularly for backpacking meals.

• Carrots: Carrots are hardy and can withstand rough handling without bruising. They can be eaten raw as a crunchy snack or added to meals for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Bell Peppers: Bell peppers are lightweight and can be easily sliced for use in various dishes. They are high in vitamins and can add a refreshing crunch to any meal.
• Snap Peas: Snap peas are compact and can be eaten raw or cooked, making them versatile for backpacking. Their sweet flavor and crisp texture make them a tasty addition to salads or stir-fries.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are small and can be packed without the need for special containers. They provide a burst of flavor and are a great source of hydration due to their high water content.
• Radishes: Radishes are resilient and can last for a while without refrigeration. They add a peppery flavor to meals and can be eaten raw or pickled for added taste.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are dense and filling, making them an excellent choice for a hearty meal. They can be cooked beforehand and packed, providing a nutritious option that’s easy to prepare on the trail.

What Cooking Methods Should You Use for Easy Backpacking Meals?

The best cooking methods for easy backpacking meals include:

• Boiling: This method is straightforward and requires only water and a heat source. You can use it to prepare instant noodles, dehydrated meals, or to rehydrate fruits and vegetables, making it one of the quickest options for a hot meal on the trail.
• One-Pot Cooking: Utilizing a single pot for all ingredients simplifies cleanup and reduces the amount of gear needed. You can combine grains, proteins, and vegetables, allowing flavors to meld together while minimizing the overall cooking time and complexity.
• Cold Soaking: This method involves soaking dehydrated meals in water without cooking, making it perfect for ultra-light backpackers. It’s an energy-efficient way to prepare meals, especially when you want to save fuel or if you’re in a location where a heat source isn’t feasible.
• Grilling: If you have a portable grill or a grill pan, this method allows you to cook meats and vegetables over an open flame, enhancing flavor through direct heat. Grilling can also create a variety of textures and tastes that make meals more enjoyable while camping.
• Foil Pack Cooking: Wrapping ingredients in aluminum foil and cooking them over a fire or on a grill is an easy and mess-free method. This approach allows for individual portions and can be customized with different seasonings and ingredients for a tailored meal experience.

What Are Some Quick and Easy Backpacking Meal Recipes?

The best easy backpacking meals are typically lightweight, nutritious, and require minimal preparation.

• Instant Oatmeal: A quick breakfast option that only requires hot water, instant oatmeal is a nutritious choice that can be easily customized with nuts, dried fruit, or honey for added flavor and energy.
• Dehydrated Pasta Meals: These meals are pre-cooked and dehydrated, allowing backpackers to simply add hot water and let them rehydrate. They come in a variety of flavors and provide a filling, hearty meal after a long day of hiking.
• Trail Mix: A combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate, trail mix is an energy-dense snack that requires no preparation. It’s perfect for quick boosts of energy during the day on the trail.
• Rice and Beans: A classic combination, pre-cooked rice and canned beans can be combined for a protein-rich meal. Just heat them together on a portable stove to create a filling dish that’s easy to pack.
• Wraps: Tortillas can be filled with nut butter, cheese, or cured meats to create a portable meal that’s easy to eat on the go. They are flexible and can accommodate various fillings to suit different tastes.
• Soup Cups: Instant soup cups or packets are lightweight and simply require hot water to prepare. They offer warmth and hydration, making them ideal for chilly evenings on the trail.
• Energy Bars: While not a complete meal, energy bars are convenient and packed with nutrients for quick energy. They are perfect for snacks between meals or as a quick breakfast on the go.

Which No-Cook Recipes Are Ideal for Backpackers?

The best easy backpacking meals are lightweight, require no cooking, and provide necessary nutrients.

• Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap: A simple and nutritious option, this wrap combines whole wheat tortillas with peanut butter and banana slices.
• Trail Mix: A classic backpacking snack, trail mix can be customized with nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and even chocolate for a quick energy boost.
• Instant Oatmeal Packets: An easy breakfast solution, these packets only require hot water and come in various flavors to suit different tastes.
• Jerky and Cheese: Combining protein-rich jerky with shelf-stable cheese provides a savory option that is both filling and satisfying.
• Cold Quinoa Salad: Pre-cooked quinoa mixed with canned beans, diced vegetables, and a light dressing makes for a hearty and nutritious meal.
• Hummus and Veggies: Pack shelf-stable hummus cups with an assortment of fresh or dehydrated vegetables for a healthy snack or light meal.
• Rice Cakes with Nut Butter: These lightweight snacks can be topped with nut butter and sliced fruits for a satisfying, no-cook option.

The Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap is not only easy to assemble but also provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it ideal for energy replenishment on the trail.

Trail Mix is versatile; you can adjust the ingredients based on personal preferences and dietary needs, ensuring you have a delicious source of calories packed with healthy fats and sugars.

Instant Oatmeal Packets require minimal preparation, and simply adding hot water makes them a warm and comforting breakfast, while their fiber content helps keep you full longer.

Jerky and Cheese offer a protein-rich option without the need for refrigeration, making them perfect for long hikes where weight and space are considerations.

Cold Quinoa Salad takes advantage of pre-cooked quinoa and canned beans, providing a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare ahead of time and delicious cold.

Hummus and Veggies provide a refreshing and nutritious snack, with hummus offering healthy fats and protein, while the veggies provide hydration and fiber.

Rice Cakes with Nut Butter are not only lightweight but also allow for creativity in toppings, making them a fun way to refuel while on the go.

How Can You Prepare Meals in Advance for Your Backpacking Trip?

Preparing meals in advance for your backpacking trip can greatly enhance your experience on the trail by ensuring you have nutritious and convenient options. The best easy backpacking meals typically include the following:

• Freeze-Dried Meals: These meals are lightweight and require only hot water to prepare, making them ideal for backpacking.
• Homemade Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and chocolate provides a high-energy snack that is easy to pack.
• Instant Oatmeal Packets: These are quick to prepare and can be customized with various toppings for a nutritious breakfast on the go.
• Dehydrated Soups and Stews: Easy to prepare with hot water, these meals offer warmth and comfort after a long day of hiking.
• Pasta and Sauce Kits: Pre-cooked noodles with dehydrated sauce packets make for a filling and easy-to-cook dinner option.
• Energy Bars: These are convenient for quick energy boosts and can be stored easily in your backpack.

Freeze-Dried Meals: These meals are prepared by removing moisture from cooked food, preserving it for long-term storage. They are incredibly lightweight and compact, allowing you to pack more without adding significant weight to your gear. Simply add boiling water and let it rehydrate for a few minutes to enjoy a hearty meal.

Homemade Trail Mix: Creating your own trail mix allows you to customize your nutrient intake based on personal preferences and dietary needs. Combine ingredients like almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate chips for a deliciously satisfying snack that provides a great balance of fats, protein, and carbohydrates.

Instant Oatmeal Packets: These packets are a quick and easy breakfast option that can be prepared with just hot water. They are versatile and can be enhanced with ingredients like powdered peanut butter, honey, or fresh fruit for added flavor and nutrition, making them a great start to your day on the trail.

Dehydrated Soups and Stews: Dehydrated meals are designed for easy preparation and are perfect for colder nights. By adding hot water, these meals can quickly become a warm, filling option that helps to replenish your energy after a day of hiking.

Pasta and Sauce Kits: Pre-cooked pasta paired with a dehydrated sauce mix is an easy solution for dinner. Just boil water, add the pasta, and rehydrate the sauce for a comforting, satisfying meal that can be ready in minutes.

Energy Bars: These bars are perfect for on-the-go nourishment, providing concentrated energy in a small package. They come in a variety of flavors and formulations, making them a versatile choice for any backpacking trip, whether you’re looking for protein-rich or carb-focused options.

What Tips Can Make Your Easy Backpacking Meal Delicious and Nutritious?

To create delicious and nutritious easy backpacking meals, consider the following tips:

• Incorporate Whole Grains: Using whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or oats not only adds texture but also provides essential nutrients and fiber. These grains are energy-dense and help keep you full during long hikes, making them a staple in backpacking meals.
• Include Protein Sources: Adding protein sources such as lentils, chickpeas, or dehydrated meat can enhance the meal’s nutritional value. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and energy, especially when engaging in strenuous activities like backpacking.
• Utilize Dried Fruits and Nuts: Dried fruits and nuts are excellent for adding flavor, healthy fats, and natural sugars to your meals. They can serve as snacks or be mixed into meals to provide extra calories and a satisfying crunch.
• Opt for Flavorful Seasonings: Bring along spices and herbs to elevate the taste of your meals without adding extra weight. Seasonings like garlic powder, chili flakes, or dried basil can transform basic ingredients into delicious dishes that are enjoyable after a long day outdoors.
• Plan for Hydration: Incorporating dehydrated vegetables or powdered soups can boost hydration and nutrient intake. These options are lightweight and can be easily rehydrated, ensuring you stay hydrated while enjoying a warm and comforting meal.
• Pre-Preparation at Home: Preparing some ingredients at home, such as pre-cooking and dehydrating meals, can save time and effort on the trail. This method allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring that your meals are both nutritious and tailored to your taste.
• Choose Lightweight Packaging: Using resealable bags or lightweight containers can help manage space and weight in your backpack. This approach not only keeps your meals organized but also ensures that you have easy access to your food while on the go.

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