What to Eat for Lunch When Camping
Camping can be a great way to spend time with family and friends, exploring nature, and getting some fresh air. Whether you’re camping for the weekend or going on a road trip, finding something to eat for lunch while on the road or in the wilderness can often be a challenge.
The good news is that there are plenty of delicious and nutritious options for what to eat for lunch when camping, from lightweight snack packs to easy-to-prepare meals that are perfect for family meals. In this post, we’ll look at the some of the best lunch options you can enjoy while camping. [recommendations keyword=’what-to-eat-for-lunch-when-camping’]
Being an experienced camper, one of my favorite lunch options when out in the wilderness is pre-made, lightweight snack packs. These snack packs are incredibly easy to prepare and usually consist of portable items like nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky, crackers, granola bars, and other options that are easy to carry in a backpack or other small container. This type of meal can be enjoyed anywhere from the trail to a campsite.
Another convenient lunch option while camping is making sandwiches at the campsite. Sandwiches are a classic lunchtime staple that can easily be taken on the go. For camping, opt for ingredients that can travel without getting too messy or heavy, such as nut and seed butters, pre-made deli meats, and cheese. If you’re going on a longer camping trip, a more elaborate sandwich could also be made with vegetables like cucumber and tomato slices, or olives and pickles.
Another great option for a camping lunch is a rice dish. Rice is incredibly lightweight, easy to cook, and can easily be stacked up on top of a camp stove to cook while out. Brown rice is highly recommended as its complex carbohydrates will provide energy and more lasting power throughout the day. It also goes great with nearly any type of protein and vegetables.
If you are looking for something hot and hearty, consider soup for your camping lunch. A large pot of soup can often be easily stored and reheated after a hike for a warm meal. Specific ingredients used can vary greatly, but try to plan out items that are easy to prepare ahead and that will travel well with your camping supplies.
Lastly, if you are looking for something filling that you can eat on-the-go, consider burritos or wraps. These can be made with wraps or tortillas filled with a range of ingredients such as beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and peppers. Wrap the mixture up and secure each end with a toothpick for an easy lunch option that will provide lasting energy while outdoors.
Whichever lunch option you opt to choose for your camping trip, it’s important to consider how the food will travel. That means lightweight and non-perishable items that won’t easily spoil. Generally, ingredients that are already pre-cooked or that require minimal heating are the best choices.
Be sure to also include plenty of snacks along the way, such as nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and jerky. Having these on hand can help provide an energy boost if you are feeling hungry. Also, remember to bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and healthy.
Making sure to have a nutritious and energizing lunch when camping can make your experience more enjoyable. Eating a meal out in the wilderness can be a great reward after a long hike or other outdoor activities, and it can help keep you at your peak performance. No matter what lunch options you choose, be sure to stay healthy and energized while camping – and enjoy the meal!