The trip you are taking plays the major role when deciding what foods to pack. On a shorter day hike you can pretty much take what you want. You're not going far and weight isn't so much of a problem. However, if you are heading out on a multi-day trip weight and backpack space become the issue. If you choose carefully and make informed decisions it is possible to pack everything you need without overloading yourself.
Here are some tips to bear in mind when selecting your foods:
- Dried and dehydrated foods Since most of the water has been removed the food is lightweight and the packets are flat for easy packing. What's more, the nutritional value is mostly preserved. All you have to do is add water so you must plan ahead for that.
- Canned foods Much heavier to carry but again, need little preparation. Soups and baked beans can be emptied into a pan and heated up. That's it.
- Variety is key There is no food out there that covers all your nutritional needs so you must try and bring as much variety as possible. You are putting your body through a lot more stress than usual so bringing foods with the correct nutritional values is so important.
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