Introduction Hiking is an excellent way to explore nature, challenge yourself physically, and enjoy the great outdoors. However, what you eat while hiking can make a significant difference in how you feel and perform on the trail. The right food choices will keep you energized, sustain your endurance, and help you recover faster. Whether you’re planning a long walk or a multi-day hike, this guide will help you determine the best foods to eat and avoid. Plus, if you’re looking for trail-ready food, you can explore great options here.
What is the Best Food to Eat While Hiking?
When you're out on the trail, you need foods that provide sustained energy, are easy to pack, and won’t spoil quickly. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best options:
High-Energy Foods
Nutrient-dense foods provide the quick energy you need while hiking. Consider packing: Nuts, seeds, and trail mix: These are rich in healthy fats, protein, and carbs. Dried fruits: Apricots, raisins, and dates are lightweight and offer natural sugars for a quick energy boost. Energy bars: Granola bars or specially-formulated energy bars pack calories and nutrients into a portable form.
Portable Protein
Protein is essential to keep muscles working effectively during a hike. Some great options include: Jerky: Beef, turkey, or even vegan alternatives provide long-lasting energy. Nut butters: Small packets of almond or peanut butter are perfect for spreading on crackers or fruit. Hard cheese: Small blocks of processed cheese, are easy to carry and don’t spoil quickly.
Complex Carbohydrates for Sustained Energy
Complex carbs provide slow-releasing energy, which is key for endurance: Whole grain bread or tortillas: Perfect for making sandwiches or wraps. Instant oatmeal: Easy to prepare with just hot water and a great option for breakfasts. Quinoa or couscous: These grains are lightweight and easy to cook over a camp stove. You can also check out some pre-packaged hiking meals here to make your preparation even easier.
What Food to Pack for a 3-Day Hike?
Packing for a multi-day hike requires some planning to ensure you have enough energy while also managing the weight of your pack. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
Day 1 – Fresh and Easy
On the first day, you can enjoy some fresh foods before they start to spoil: Fresh fruits: Apples and oranges are durable and can be eaten as snacks. Pre-made sandwiches or wraps: Great for lunch or dinner. Salty snacks: Pretzels or crackers help replenish sodium lost through sweat.
Day 2 – Dehydrated and Non-Perishables
As the hike continues, turn to foods that are lightweight and won’t spoil: Dehydrated meals: Available in a variety of flavours and easy to make with boiling water. Instant noodles or pasta: Lightweight and filling. Shelf-stable proteins: Consider bringing tuna packets, jerky, or shelf-stable tofu.
Day 3 – Lightweight and Energy-Dense
By the third day, it’s best to focus on lightweight and nutrient-dense options: Freeze-dried fruits and vegetables: These add flavour and nutrition without the weight. Energy gels or chews: Perfect for quick energy on the go. Powdered drink mixes: Add these to water to boost your electrolytes and flavour your hydration. For ready-to-pack food options that will last multiple days, check out this selection.
What Food to Take on a Long Walk?
When heading out for a long walk, it’s important to bring food that can be consumed easily and provide enough energy to sustain you over several hours.
Quick Snacks for Easy Access
Pack snacks that are easy to grab while walking: Granola or energy bars: Convenient and full of calories. Fresh fruits: Bananas and apples are great for quick energy. Dried fruits or energy chews: These provide natural sugars for an energy boost without taking up much space.
Hydration and Electrolytes
Proper hydration is key, especially on long walks: Water: Always carry plenty of water, and consider adding electrolyte tablets. Coconut water: This naturally provides electrolytes to keep you hydrated.
Balance of Carbs, Protein, and Fats
Ensure you’re consuming a good balance of nutrients to keep your energy steady: Nut butters: Pair with crackers or fruit for a satisfying snack. Trail mix: A combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides fats, protein, and carbs. Protein bars: For longer walks, protein bars help with muscle recovery. Looking for convenient and nutritious food for your next long walk? Browse a variety of trail-ready options here.
What Not to Eat Before a Hike?
What you eat before hitting the trail can greatly impact how you feel during the hike. Some foods can lead to discomfort, fatigue, or digestive issues.Foods That May Cause Discomfort
Avoid foods that are difficult to digest or may cause stomach upset: High-fat or greasy foods: These include fried foods, fast food, or greasy meats, which can cause sluggishness and stomach discomfort. Spicy foods: Hot sauces and heavily spiced meals may irritate your stomach and lead to indigestion. Large meals: Overeating before a hike can leave you feeling bloated and slow.
Foods High in Sugar
Sugary foods may seem like a quick energy source, but they often lead to an energy crash: Candy and cakes: While they provide a quick burst of sugar, these snacks are not ideal before physical activity. They can lead to a spike in blood sugar followed by a sharp drop, leaving you feeling fatigued. Sugary snacks: Avoid anything overly sweet, like candy bars, before you start your hike. Save them as a treat during or after the hike.
Carbonated Drinks
Carbonation can cause bloating and discomfort while hiking: Soda and sparkling water: These may cause gas and bloating, which are the last things you want to deal with during a hike. Stick to plain water or electrolyte drinks instead.
How to Properly Hydrate for a Hike
Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your energy and performance on the trail. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and poor performance, so it’s essential to plan your water intake carefully. Bring enough water: Aim to carry at least half a litre of water for every hour of hiking, more if you're in a hot or dry climate. Electrolytes: Water alone may not be enough, especially on longer hikes. Consider adding electrolyte tablets or powders to your water to help replenish lost minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Pre-hydrate: Before your hike, drink plenty of water to ensure your body is well-hydrated before you even start. For electrolyte mixes and other hydration solutions, take a look at some of the hiking essentials here.
Additional Food Tips for Hiking
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when choosing and packing your hiking food: Lightweight packaging: Opt for foods that are lightweight and easy to pack. Dehydrated and freeze-dried options are perfect for saving space. Reusable containers: Consider using reusable containers to minimize waste and keep your food fresh. Balance of macronutrients: Ensure your hiking diet includes a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to keep your energy levels steady throughout the hike. If you're looking for hiking meals that are easy to pack and lightweight, check out this collection of hiking food.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Food
To help you prepare for your next adventure, here are some commonly asked questions about hiking nutrition:
How Many Calories Should I Eat While Hiking?
The number of calories you need depends on the length and intensity of your hike. On average, hikers burn about 300–600 calories per hour. It’s important to replenish these calories by eating energy-dense foods, such as nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits. Aim for around 2,500 to 4,000 calories per day, depending on the difficulty of the hike and your body weight.
Can I Bring Fresh Food on a Long Hike?
Yes, fresh food like fruits and pre-made sandwiches are perfect for the first day of your hike. However, for multi-day hikes, it’s best to rely on dehydrated or non-perishable items after the first day to ensure your food stays fresh.
What Are the Best Vegetarian or Vegan Hiking Foods?
For vegetarians and vegans, great hiking food options include: Nuts and seeds for protein and healthy fats. Nut butters paired with crackers or fruit. Dried fruits for natural sugar and energy. Dehydrated meals made specifically for vegans. Tofu jerky or shelf-stable hummus packs. Check out vegetarian and vegan trail-ready meals here.
What Should I Eat After a Hike for Recovery?
After a hike, it’s important to refuel your body with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to aid muscle recovery. Some great post-hike foods include: Protein bars or shakes. Whole grain wraps with lean protein (like turkey or tofu). Fresh fruits or a smoothie with added protein.