Already planning your next camping trip? I can't think of a better way to explore the outdoors, take in nature and spend time with fellow campers. It also gives you a chance to wind down a bit and get away from how busy life can be.
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At home, you probably have a stocked pantry, refrigerator and cabinets with all of your favorite foods. However, when it comes to camping trips, food is scaled down a bit since there's not as much space. That might bring up the question, "What necessary food items should I bring on this trip?" Well, consider a few things- how many days will you be away, how big is your group, what kind of kitchen equipment is available and how much space is provided. Also, have an idea of meal planning for each day and consider the foods and snacks everyone enjoys.
Check out our ultimate camping food list below so you know exactly what to bring on your next adventure.
1. Eggs
Eggs are so versatile and can be made in so many different ways-scramble them, fry them, or hard-boil. Bring some eggs along with you on your camping trip for that extra boost of protein and for a hearty breakfast.
If you have some time before your trip, you can hard-boil them ahead of time if that's what you prefer. Or, if you'd rather have scrambled eggs, crack however many eggs you need into a bowl, season them up, give them a whisk and pour into a large plastic bag. Toss the bag into the freezer and bring it with you on your trip. They defrost quickly and you won't have to worry about eggs shells.
2. Bread
Bread is always a necessary food item to bring along. It has a long shelf life and you can do so many things with it. Whip up a killer camping breakfast by dipping some bread into a sweetened egg mixture for French toast or toast a few slices in a cast iron pan to go along with your eggs.
3. Tortillas
Whether you prefer corn or flour tortillas, bring them along on your camping trip. Breakfast burritos, nachos, quesadillas, you name it. You could even sweeten them up and smear on some peanut butter and jelly.
4. Condiments
Condiments are so important to take while you're away from home. Ketchup, mustard, cooking oil, bbq sauce, hot sauce, soy sauce, mayonnaise, maple syrup, the list goes on and on. Bring the condiments you know you will use and need. Extra bonus points if you have small foil packets of some of these condiments.
5. Seasonings
The obvious: salt and pepper. Others to consider taking on your camping trip: garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, sugar, cinnamon, etc. Dried herbs also add delicious flavor to fish and meats and have a longer shelf life than fresh herbs. Take along dried oregano, basil, rosemary, etc.
6. Bagels
Bagels are just plain delicious. They're also a great source of carbohydrates, which will give you the energy you need for those long backpacking hikes. Toast them, spread on some cream cheese or butter, create the perfect breakfast sandwich or eat them straight up. Just don't forget the bagels!
7. Instant Coffee, Tea Bags & Hot Chocolate Mix
In my opinion, coffee is absolutely necessary on camping adventures. That boost of caffeine helps get the day going. Instant coffee, tea bags and hot chocolate are all great to bring along because all you need is hot water and your favorite mug.
8. Dried Foods
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Dried foods like beef jerky and dried fruit make great snacks and have a long shelf life. Beef jerky is packed with protein and dried fruit lasts a lot longer than fresh fruit. You can even create your own trail mix with dried fruit and nuts for a healthy snack on the go.
9. Marshmallows
100 percent necessary! I know that when I'm sitting around the campfire, there's one thing on my mind and its marshmallows. Simply toast them over the fire or bring some chocolate bars and graham crackers for s'mores.
10. Pancake Mix
Pancake mix isn't just for making pancakes. A box of pancake mix can be used in so many different ways and most of the time, the only ingredient you need is water. Make biscuits, dumplings, muffins, even pizza dough for a campfire pizza dinner.
12. Meat
Hot dogs, ground beef, steak, bacon and chicken are basic meats to take along with you. Bring some veggies and foil as well to create a foil packet dinner.
13. Granola Bars
Crunchy granola bars are easy to pack and great energy boosters. Filled with nuts, dried fruits and other ingredients, granola bars were made for camping trips.
14. Canned Goods
Canned goods like beans, vegetables, soups and sauces are shelf-stable and can be used in so many different ways. Just make sure you bring along the can opener!
15. Pasta
Precook pasta and noodles ahead of time and store in plastic bags with a few teaspoons of olive oil. No need to worry about boiling water and draining the pasta because it'll be done ahead of time.
