When you’re heading into the backcountry, food is fuel. A well-thought-out meal plan can make or break your trip, ensuring you stay energized, satisfied, and ready to tackle the next portage.
But planning meals for a multi-day canoe trip or backcountry adventure can feel overwhelming—what do you bring? How do you keep food fresh? What’s the best way to pack it? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of meals you can bring, provide essential tips for packing, and provide a sample three-day meal plan to help you hit the water with confidence (and a full stomach!).
Types of Meals to Bring
Backcountry meals don’t have to be boring! With a little planning, you can enjoy fresh, delicious food while keeping your pack weight down. Planning your backcountry meals is more than just tossing a few granola bars in your pack and hoping for the best.
A well-thought-out meal plan can make all the difference in keeping your energy levels high, your spirits up, and your taste buds happy. Whether you're heading out for a weekend adventure or a multi-day trip deep into the wilderness, here’s how to plan meals that are practical, delicious, and packed with the calories you need.
Here are some meal options to consider:
The Importance of Getting Enough Calories Daily
Backcountry tripping can demand a lot from your body, and eating enough calories is important to fuel your adventure. Aim for 3,000–4,000 calories per day, depending on the intensity of your trip. Under-eating can lead to fatigue, sluggishness, and even difficulty staying warm at night. Prioritize nutrient-dense meals and snacks to keep your energy levels high, ensuring you can paddle, portage, and enjoy the trip to the fullest.
Types of Meals You Can Bring
Fresh Foods (Days 1 & 2)
Fresh ingredients are great for the first couple of days on your adventure. Think pre-cut fresh veggies, hard cheeses, and vacuum-sealed meats. To maximize freshness, portion out perishable foods and vacuum-seal them individually.
Dehydrated Meals (Homemade & Store-Bought)
Dehydrated meals are lightweight, easy to prepare, and perfect for longer trips. You can buy pre-made backpacking meals or dehydrate your own at home—soups, stews, and pastas work great!
High-Calorie, No-Cook Options
Pack trail mix, nut butters, protein bars, jerky, and dried fruit for quick energy on the go. These are easy snacks to eat while paddling, hiking or after a rough portage!
Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks
Pack lots of easy-to-grab, high-calorie snacks! Think protein bars, trail mix, peanut butter-filled pretzels, cheese sticks, and dried fruit. Having a variety of salty, sweet, and protein-rich options will keep you satisfied and fueled throughout the day.
Packaging Options
Ziploc Bags: Lightweight and great for organizing individual meals.
Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Keeps food fresh longer and prevents leaks.
Jars & Containers: Ideal for pre-mixed seasonings or sauces.
Food Barrel Organizers: Helps keep your meals sorted and easy to grab.
Nalgene Bottles: Perfect for storing oils, peanut butter, or pancake mix.
Easy-to-Cook Meals for Long Travel Days
On days when you’re covering a lot of ground, opt for meals that require minimal prep and cooking time. Instant rice, pasta, and pre-made dehydrated meals are lifesavers when you're too tired to cook and just need to boil water.
Sample 3-Day Backcountry Meal Plan
Day 1
Breakfast: Fresh eggs, 2-minute bacon & english muffins + instant coffee
Lunch: Summer sausage & cheese with crackers
Dinner: Beef burgers & fresh veggies
Snacks: Trail mix, jerky, granola bars
Day 2
Breakfast: Pancakes with maple syrup & 2 minute bacon
Lunch: Hummus & pita with cucumber slices and kale.
Dinner: Dehydrated chili with cornbread
Snacks: Cheese sticks, peanut butter pretzels, energy bars
Day 3
Breakfast: Instant oatmeal with nuts & dried fruit Lunch: Tuna packets with wraps & mustard
Dinner: Instant ramen with dehydrated veggies & beef
Snacks: Dark chocolate, mixed nuts, dried mango
Final Thoughts
Backcountry meals don’t have to be boring or bland. With some planning, you can eat well, stay energized, and truly enjoy your time in the wilderness. Remember to pack foods you love, bring a mix of textures and flavours, and keep your meals simple yet satisfying.
Oh, and don’t forget the hot chocolate—because nothing beats a warm drink by the fire after a long day of paddling!
Comments