Considerations
Not all foods are suitable and compatible with camping. It is important to bring foods that are relatively lightweight and easy to store in a backpack. Quality camping foods are items that can last long and endure a rugged journey. Take foods that are high in simple carbohydrates for energy. It is always important to bring foods with protein and high nutrition values. Stay away from overly salty foods to avoid dehydration.
Types
For a short camping trip, you can bring along perishable items such as fresh meat, fruit and vegetables stored on ice. Bring apples, oranges, carrots and celery sticks; they are nutritious and light. For longer trips, stick with more dried fruits and canned items. Nuts and graham crackers are great snacks, too. Peanuts are rich in protein and can provide a mental boost. Granola bars and trail mix are other classic camping snacks. Snickers candy bars are great for hiking, as they provide a boost of sugar from the chocolate and protein from the peanuts. Dinners are tricky; it is not a good idea to hike for hours with raw meat or eggs in a backpack. Try packing canned dishes, like soups, canned meats or sardines. To keep your backpack light, look for items packed in cardboard containers rather than actual cans. Peanut butter and bread are also good choices.
Size
Campers who hike on foot must carry all of their supplies, so every ounce of weight is important. It is always good to pack extra food in case of emergencies, but do not overload. Water is the most important item, as staying hydrated is the top priority when camping.
Benefits
Choosing the right types and amount of food will result in a more enjoyable camping experience. It allows you to relax and not have to worry about dwindling food supplies. Relying on catching food in the wild can be stressful and even dangerous, because if you are unsuccessful at first, you might start getting desperate and irrational.
Warning
Bringing the wrong types of foods can create unpleasant experiences. Perishable foods can easily spoil, while salty or spicy foods can cause illness and dehydration. If you aren't bringing your own water, at least pack water purifying tablets or a portable cooking stove to boil the water. While humans can survive a long while without food, going without water can be deadly in a matter of days.
