Best Food for Long Hiking Trips: What to Carry and Why – On Track Meals

What to Look for in Hiking Snacks

When choosing food for hiking, focus on these three essential elements:

Portability: Lightweight, compact snacks that don’t take up too much space or weigh down your backpack are ideal.
Energy Density: Snacks high in calories, protein, and carbohydrates provide long-lasting fuel for your body.
Shelf-Stable: Items that don’t require refrigeration are perfect for outdoor adventures.

The Power of Protein

Protein is essential for maintaining your stamina and aiding muscle recovery, especially on strenuous hikes. One of the best protein-packed options to carry is biltong.

Chief Biltong, available on our website, is a favourite among hikers. It’s a naturally air-dried meat snack, rich in protein and free of unnecessary additives. Lightweight and packed with flavour, it’s the perfect trail companion for a quick and satisfying energy boost.

Healthy Carbs for Quick Energy

Carbohydrates are your body’s primary energy source. To keep your glycogen stores topped up, opt for snacks that combine complex and simple carbs.

Chief Thankful Bars are a great choice for hikers. These bars are loaded with wholesome ingredients, offering sustained energy without a sugar crash. They’re compact, easy to eat on the go, and come in flavours that are both nutritious and delicious.

Hydration Matters

Proper hydration is as critical as food. While water should always be your primary source of hydration, consider snacks and drinks that help replenish electrolytes. Our Summit Hydration mix is an excellent option for maintaining your electrolyte balance while on the trail. It’s easy to prepare, lightweight to carry, and keeps you hydrated during those long, sweaty hikes.

Other Great Hiking Snacks to Pack

Nuts and Seeds: High in healthy fats and protein, almonds, walnuts, and trail mix are classic options.
Energy Gels or Chews: Quick bursts of energy in a small package.
Hard Cheeses: Long-lasting and satisfying, cheeses like cheddar pair wonderfully with crackers.
Fresh Fruit: Apples or oranges are hydrating and energizing, though they’re heavier to carry.
Coconut Rice Pudding: A calorie-dense and delicious snack, our Coconut Rice Pudding is a fantastic way to refuel on the trail. It’s easy to pack and provides a sweet energy boost when you need it most.

Plan ahead with On Track Meals

At On Track Meals, we specialise in nutritious, shelf-stable food options for adventurers. Whether you’re heading out for a day hike or a multi-day trek, our range of snacks, including Chief Biltong and Thankful Bars, can keep you energised and ready for the trail ahead. Pair these with our Go Packs or MRE buckets to cover all your outdoor nutrition needs.

Final Tips for Staying Energised on the Trail

Eat small, frequent snacks rather than large meals to keep your energy levels steady.
Balance your macronutrients: mix proteins, carbs, and fats.
Always pack a little extra food, just in case your hike takes longer than planned.

Fuel your adventures with the right foods and snacks, and you’ll be unstoppable on the trail! Check out our full range of hiking snacks and meal options at On Track Meals today.

FAQs

What are the best energy-boosting snacks for long hikes?

A: The best snacks for a hike give you energy without weighing you down. Here are a few to consider:

Quick Energy Hits: Dried fruits like mangoes or apricots, or energy gels for instant fuel.
Sustained Power: Snacks like biltong, peanut butter sachets, or cheese sticks pack a protein punch.
Balanced Options: A classic trail mix with nuts, seeds, and a bit of chocolate is great for variety.
Comfort Foods: Calorie-dense options like rice pudding or dark chocolate can lift your spirits mid-hike.

These snacks are light to carry, easy to eat on the go, and designed to keep your energy up when it matters most.

How often should I eat during a long hike?

A; It’s better to snack regularly than wait for hunger to hit. Try this approach:

Every Hour or So: Eat a small snack—something light like dried fruit or an energy bar—to keep your energy levels steady.
After Big Efforts: After a tough climb or long stretch, go for protein-rich snacks like nuts or biltong to help with muscle recovery.
Keep Portions Small: Eating too much at once can leave you feeling sluggish, so stick to frequent, smaller bites.

This way, you’ll stay fuelled and avoid crashing, making your hike more enjoyable from start to finish.

How can I keep my snacks fresh during long hikes?

A: Fresh snacks are just as important as the hike itself. Here’s how to make sure your food lasts:

Pack Smart: Use resealable bags or lightweight containers to keep crackers, nuts, and similar snacks dry and fresh.
Choose the Right Foods: Stick to shelf-stable options like jerky, trail mix, or vacuum-sealed cheese.
Wrap Fragile Items: For fruit or softer snacks, wrap them in wax paper or put them in a small, sturdy container to avoid crushing.
Keep Cool: Freeze items like fruit or cheese overnight if your hike allows it—they’ll stay fresher longer and even help keep other items cool.

With a little prep, your snacks will stay fresh and delicious for the entire hike