Eating Gluten-Free in the Outdoors: Your Meal Planning Made Easy

Eating Gluten-Free in the Outdoors: Your Meal Planning Made Easy

Apr 29, 2025Erin Wyatt

Exploring the outdoors—whether it's hiking, camping, or tackling a multi-day adventure—should be all about freedom, not frustration. But if you're living gluten-free, meal planning can sometimes feel like a tricky puzzle. The good news? It doesn't have to be.

With the right approach, you can eat safely, nutritiously, and deliciously—no matter where your boots take you. Here's how to simplify gluten-free meal prep for the great outdoors.

Know Your Essentials

Before you even think about packing, it’s smart to know your gluten-free staples. These will form the backbone of your meal plan:

  • Proteins: On Track Meals, Chief Biltong, hard cheeses, nuts, seeds.
  • Carbs: Gluten-free oats, rice, corn tortillas, GF pasta, On Track Meals mashed potatoes.
  • Snacks: Trail mix, dried fruit, popcorn, gluten-free muesli bars.

Extras: Olive oil sachets, tamari (gluten-free soy sauce), seasoning blends.

Build Your Menu with On Track Meals + Gluten-Free Sides

Here’s how you can turn your On Track Meals into full, satisfying meals with easy, gluten-free sides you can pack and prep outdoors:

🍳 Breakfast Options

All Day Breakfast
Suggested Sides:

  • GF toast or rice cakes (vacuum packed)
  • A boiled egg (if you’re carrying a cooler early on)
  • A piece of fruit or dried fruit for natural sugars

Coconut Rice Pudding
Suggested Sides:

  • Sprinkle in cinnamon or freeze-dried berries
  • Add a spoonful of nut butter for extra calories
  • Serve with a cup of black coffee or herbal tea for warmth

🍽 Main Meals (Lunch & Dinner)

Slow Cooked Aussie Steak & Mash
Suggested Sides:

  • Instant peas or freeze-dried green beans
  • GF corn chips for added crunch
  • A drizzle of olive oil or sachet of mustard

Beef Bolognese
Suggested Sides:

  • Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice
  • Pair with a small salad mix or veggie pouch
  • Sprinkle with grated parmesan (pre-packed)

Coconut Ginger Chicken
Suggested Sides:

  • Instant basmati rice or rice noodles
  • Dried mango or pineapple for a tropical vibe
  • Roasted cashews for a crunchy contrast

Mild Chilli Con Carne
Suggested Sides:

  • GF corn tortillas or corn chips
  • Instant rice or OTM mash
  • Top with shredded cheese (packed)

Sweet & Sour Pork
Suggested Sides:

  • White rice or quinoa
  • Dried pineapple chunks
  • GF veggie stir-fry sachet

Spicy Mexican Bean
Suggested Sides:

  • Serve in GF wraps or tacos
  • Add guacamole or avocado if day-one
  • Crunchy tortilla chips on the side

Chickpea Curry
Suggested Sides:

  • Jasmine or basmati rice
  • Roasted peanuts or cashews
  • Coconut milk powder to mellow spice (optional)

Bean Bolognese
Suggested Sides:

  • GF pasta or polenta
  • A touch of grated cheese
  • Side of steamed spinach (freeze-dried)

Snacking Option

Chief Biltong

Perfect as-is or paired with:

  • Dried fruit for a sweet-savoury combo
  • Nuts or trail mix
  • Hard cheese or GF crackers

Prep for Convenience

Outdoor eating should be easy. Our 3 or 5 Day GoBuckets now come in a GF version. Combine gluten-free meals, snacks, hydration support, and flameless heaters, all in a neat grab-and-go solution. Less gear, less fuss, more adventure.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

Pack a small cutting board, separate utensils, and clearly label your gear if you’re out with friends. A bit of prep now avoids issues later.

Final Thoughts

Living gluten-free doesn’t mean eating boring or being under-fueled on your outdoor adventures. With a few smart sides and On Track Meals' full gluten-free range, your next trip can be as delicious as it is exciting.

Explore the full range of gluten-free adventure meals today at On Track Meals—ready when you are.

FAQs

Q. What gluten-free foods should I bring on an outdoor adventure?

A: Essentials include gluten-free proteins (like On Track Meals, Chief Biltong), gluten-free carbs (oats, rice, GF pasta), snacks (trail mix, dried fruit), and extras like olive oil and tamari for seasoning.

Q. Can I use On Track Meals for gluten-free outdoor meals?

A: Yes! On Track Meals offers a full gluten-free range, and you can pair them with gluten-free sides like rice, corn tortillas, and veggies to create complete meals for your adventure.

Q. How do I avoid cross-contamination while eating gluten-free outdoors?

A: Pack separate utensils, cutting boards, and clearly label your gear. A little prep goes a long way in preventing cross-contamination and ensuring safe, gluten-free meals.

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