I've found that the 15 best camping foods offer a mix of nutrition and convenience essential for any outdoor adventure. Mountain House meals, like the Breakfast Skillet and Beef Stroganoff, require just hot water and are ready in under 10 minutes. They're lightweight, portable, and don't need refrigeration. Options such as Chicken Teriyaki with Rice and Creamy Macaroni & Cheese provide hearty meals that are easy to pack. Each dish is designed for ideal taste and minimal cleanup, making them perfect for camping. With these selections, you'll be well-fueled for your next excursion into nature's wonders. More options await discovery.
Mountain House meals offer a variety of options, from breakfast skillets to hearty dinners, all requiring just hot water for preparation.
Each meal has a long shelf life of up to 30 years, making them ideal for camping and emergency food storage.
The meals are lightweight and portable, perfect for backpacking adventures without adding extra weight to your gear.
Many dishes are gluten-free and made without artificial flavors or preservatives, ensuring healthier eating while outdoors.
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet Freeze Dried Camping Food
If you're looking for a quick and tasty meal while camping, the Mountain House Breakfast Skillet is perfect for two people and packs a hearty mix of ingredients.
This freeze-dried dish features hash browns, scrambled eggs, crumbled pork patty, peppers, and onions. It's gluten-free and contains no artificial colors or flavors, making it a wholesome choice for outdoor meals.
Preparing it is a breeze; just add hot water, and in under 10 minutes, you've got a filling breakfast ready to eat.
The pouch design is convenient, shaped like a bowl for easy serving, and there's no cleanup involved.
With a long shelf life of 30 years, it's also ideal for camping trips or emergency food storage, ensuring you're always prepared.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quick, nutritious breakfast option while camping or backpacking.
Pros:
Convenient and easy to prepare with just hot water.
Long shelf life of 30 years, making it ideal for emergency food storage.
Cons:
Only serves two, which may not be enough for larger groups.
Requires hot water for preparation, which may not always be readily available.
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles (Freeze Dried Backpacking Food)
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles is the perfect choice for backpackers and campers seeking a delicious, hearty meal that's quick to prepare and easy to carry.
This freeze-dried meal features real tender beef, noodles, and mushrooms in a rich sour cream sauce. Each pouch contains two servings, making it great for solo adventurers or sharing with friends.
What I love most is the preparation—just add hot water, and within ten minutes, I'm enjoying a filling meal.
The pouch is lightweight, shelf-stable, and boasts a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, ensuring freshness for future trips or emergencies.
Plus, it's made with no artificial flavors or colors, making it a wholesome option.
All in all, it's a fantastic addition to my camping gear!
Best For: Backpackers and campers looking for a quick, nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and carry.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation by simply adding hot water, ready in under 10 minutes.
Lightweight and portable design makes it ideal for outdoor activities and emergency situations.
Cons:
Some users feel the portion size may be small for those with larger appetites.
The taste may not appeal to everyone, as personal preferences vary.
For campers seeking a hearty meal that's quick and easy to prepare, the Mountain House Biscuits & Gravyfreeze-dried food offers a satisfying option with minimal cleanup.
This lightweight package contains real buttermilk biscuit pieces and pork patty crumbles in a flavorful peppered gravy. With a weight of just 4.4 ounces, it's perfect for backpacking adventures.
Preparation is simple; just add hot water and wait under 10 minutes. Plus, you can eat straight from the pouch, eliminating the need for dishes.
While it boasts an impressive 30-year shelf life, it's crucial to recognize the high sodium content, so I always pack extra water.
Overall, it's a popular choice among campers for its taste and convenience.
Best For: Campers and backpackers looking for a quick, hearty meal with minimal cleanup.
Pros:
Lightweight and portable, ideal for outdoor activities.
Quick preparation time of under 10 minutes with no cleanup required.
Cons:
High sodium content may be a concern for some users.
Mountain House Lasagna with Meat Sauce (2 Servings)
Designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, Mountain House Lasagna with Meat Sauce offers a hearty and convenient meal option that satisfies hunger after a long day of adventure.
This freeze-dried meal features layers of pasta, cheese, and a rich tomato meat sauce, making it a filling choice for camping or backpacking trips. I appreciate that it contains no preservatives or artificial flavors, ensuring a natural taste and maintaining nutritional integrity.
Preparation is a breeze; I just add hot water to the pouch and wait under ten minutes to enjoy it.
The wider, bowl-like design lets me eat straight from the package, saving me time on cleanup. At two servings per pouch, it's perfect whether I'm sharing or enjoying it solo after a long hike.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a hearty and convenient meal option during camping or backpacking trips.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation in under 10 minutes with just hot water.
No preservatives or artificial flavors, ensuring a natural taste.
Cons:
Some users consider the meal to be overpriced.
One pouch may not be sufficient for larger appetites without side dishes.
Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese Freeze Dried Backpacking Food
Whether I'm backpacking deep in the mountains or enjoying a campsite with friends, Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese offers a quick and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare.
This freeze-dried food comes in a lightweight 4.5-ounce pouch, perfect for my outdoor adventures. With hearty macaroni noodles and a rich cheese sauce, it provides a comforting taste that reminds me of home.
I just add hot water, and in under 10 minutes, I'm ready to eat—no cleanup necessary! Plus, it holds up well, backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee.
I appreciate that the packaging is recyclable through TerraCycle, contributing to eco-friendliness.
Overall, it's a solid choice for camping or emergency food storage, making it a staple in my gear.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and backpackers looking for a quick, satisfying meal with minimal preparation.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation, ready in under 10 minutes with just hot water.
Lightweight and portable at only 4.5 ounces, making it ideal for backpacking.
Cons:
Taste and texture may vary, with some users suggesting adjustments to water quantity.
Limited to two servings, which may not be sufficient for larger groups.
Mountain House Chicken & Dumplings Freeze Dried Food (2 Servings)
Mountain House Chicken & Dumplings is an excellent choice for hungry backpackers seeking a quick, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. This freeze-dried food offers two servings, weighing just 4.5 ounces, making it easy to pack.
To prepare, I simply add hot water to the pouch, and in under 10 minutes, I've got a hearty dish of chicken, fluffy dumplings, and vegetables in creamy gravy.
With a 30-year shelf life, it's perfect for camping trips or emergency food storage. Nutritionally, each serving provides 72% of the recommended protein, though I keep an eye on the sodium content.
The recyclable packaging shows Mountain House's commitment to environmental responsibility, enhancing its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts like me.
Best For: Hungry backpackers and campers looking for a quick, nutritious meal with minimal preparation and cleanup.
Pros:
Easy to prepare with just hot water and ready in under 10 minutes.
Long shelf life of 30 years, making it ideal for emergency food storage.
Cons:
Some users have expressed concerns about the sodium content.
Serving size may be inadequate for more intensive outdoor activities.
Mountain House Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce (2 Servings)
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quick and satisfying meal, Mountain House Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce offers a delicious and convenient option that's ready in under 10 minutes.
This freeze-dried meal contains tender spaghetti pasta paired with real beef in a rich marinara sauce, ensuring a hearty dish after a long day of hiking.
Weighing just 4.2 ounces, it's lightweight and perfect for backpacking or camping trips. The pouch is designed for easy eating, making it a hassle-free choice.
Plus, it features a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, highlighting its long shelf life.
With no preservatives or artificial flavors, it's a wholesome option. Just add hot water, and you'll enjoy a comforting meal in no time.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and campers looking for a quick, satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and carry.
Pros:
Convenient preparation: Just add hot water and enjoy a meal in under 10 minutes.
Lightweight and portable: Weighs only 4.2 ounces, making it ideal for backpacking and camping trips.
Cons:
Portion size: Some users feel the servings are more suitable for one person rather than two.
Flavor customization: May require additional seasoning to enhance taste according to personal preferences.
Mountain House Chicken Fajita Bowl – Freeze Dried Backpacking Food
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the Mountain House Chicken Fajita Bowl offers a convenient and delicious meal option that's both lightweight and easy to prepare.
This freeze-dried meal comes with two servings, featuring a blend of chicken, bell peppers, rice, black beans, corn, and onions, all seasoned for flavor. It's gluten-free and avoids preservatives or artificial additives, making it a healthy choice while camping.
Preparation is simple: just add hot water, wait ten minutes, and enjoy directly from the pouch. Many users appreciate its taste, describing it as flavorful yet not overwhelming.
I've found it perfect for refueling after a long hike. For those seeking extra protein, adding more chicken can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Plus, the packaging is recyclable through TerraCycle, supporting eco-friendliness.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a convenient, flavorful, and nutritious meal option while camping or backpacking.
Pros:
Lightweight and portable, ideal for backpacking and camping.
Quick preparation time of just 10 minutes with hot water.
Cons:
Some users report occasional chewy texture in chicken pieces.
Flavor might not be strong enough for those who prefer bolder tastes.
Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef Freeze Dried Camping Food (2 Servings)
Perfect for adventurous campers and backpackers, Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef delivers a hearty meal that's easy to prepare and enjoy on the go.
This freeze-dried meal features spicy chili sauce with real beef, macaroni noodles, onions, and beans. Each pouch contains two servings, making it perfect for solo adventurers or sharing with a friend.
What I love about it is the quick prep time—just add hot water, and it's ready in 8-10 minutes.
Plus, the pouch design lets you eat straight from it, which means no cleanup afterward.
With no preservatives or artificial flavors, it's a nutritious option that also has a long shelf-life, making it a reliable choice for camping trips and emergencies.
Best For: Adventurous campers and backpackers seeking a convenient and hearty meal option on the go.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation—just add hot water and it's ready in 8-10 minutes.
Lightweight and portable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and emergency food storage.
Cons:
Some may find the spicy flavor too intense for their taste.
Requires hot water, which may not always be readily available in all camping situations.
Mountain House Beef Stew Freeze Dried Camping Food
Mountain House Beef Stew is a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a hearty, gluten-free meal that's quick and easy to prepare while camping or backpacking.
This freeze-dried food features tender diced all-natural beef, potatoes, peas, and carrots, providing a nutritious option that requires no refrigeration.
I love that it takes less than ten minutes to prepare—just add hot water to the pouch, and it's ready to eat right from the container.
Weighing only 3.3 ounces, it's lightweight and convenient for backpacking trips.
Plus, I appreciate the 30-Year Taste Guarantee and that it contains no artificial additives.
With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it's clear that many fellow campers enjoy this meal as much as I do.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and campers looking for a quick, nutritious, and gluten-free meal option while on the go.
Pros:
Convenient and easy to prepare—just add hot water and it's ready in under 10 minutes.
Lightweight at only 3.3 ounces, making it ideal for backpacking trips.
Cons:
Some users report that the meal can be too watery if prepared as instructed.
Requires hot water, which may not always be readily available in all camping situations.
Mountain House Scrambled Eggs with Bacon – Freeze Dried Camping Food
For anyone seeking a quick and hearty breakfast while camping, the Mountain House Scrambled Eggs with Bacon offers a delicious and convenient freeze-dried option.
This single-serving meal is gluten-free and ready in just nine minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings in the great outdoors. Each pack contains pre-cooked scrambled eggs with tasty bacon pieces, providing a quality source of protein to fuel your adventures.
With no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, I appreciate the natural ingredients and the long shelf life.
Customers generally rate it 4.4 out of 5 stars, praising its flavor and convenience, although some mention it can be a bit salty.
Overall, it's an ideal choice for camping, overnight trips, or even emergency food supplies.
Best For: Those looking for a quick, nutritious breakfast option while camping or during emergencies.
Pros:
Convenient preparation with just 9 minutes to cook.
Gluten-free and made with no artificial ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal choice.
Cons:
Some customers find it a bit too salty for their taste.
Texture inconsistencies reported by a minority of users.
Mountain House Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken Freeze Dried Camping Food
Ideal for backpackers seeking a satisfying meal on the go, Mountain House Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken combines convenience and great taste in a lightweight pouch.
This freeze-dried meal offers two servings of tender pasta mixed with creamy butter, parmesan, and chicken, making it a hearty option for any outdoor adventure.
Preparation is a breeze; just add hot water to the pouch, and in under ten minutes, you can dig in without needing a bowl.
Plus, it's designed for portability and requires no refrigeration.
It's made without artificial flavors, ensuring you get quality nutrition.
With a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, this meal can be a reliable choice for camping or emergency food storage.
Enjoy the ease and flavor while exploring the great outdoors!
Best For: Backpackers and campers looking for a convenient, tasty meal option that requires minimal preparation.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation: Just add hot water and enjoy in under 10 minutes.
Lightweight and portable: Perfect for outdoor adventures without the need for refrigeration.
Cons:
Somewhat salty: A few customers have noted the meal can be on the saltier side.
Contains soy: May not be suitable for those with soy allergies or dietary restrictions.
Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice – Freeze Dried Camping Food
Looking for a delicious, gluten-free meal that's easy to prepare while camping? I highly recommend Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice.
This freeze-dried meal features real chicken, rice, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and vegetables, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy oriental sauce. It's gluten-free, certified by GFCO, and contains no artificial preservatives or flavors, ensuring quality and taste.
Preparation is a breeze; just add hot water and wait 8-10 minutes. The pouch design means I can eat directly from it, eliminating any cleanup hassle.
Plus, it's lightweight and portable, perfect for backpacking. With a long shelf life and recyclable packaging, it's a practical choice.
Customers rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars, praising its convenience and flavor.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and campers looking for a convenient, gluten-free meal option.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation with just hot water needed.
Lightweight and portable, ideal for backpacking trips.
Mountain House Chicken Fried Rice – Freeze Dried Backpacking Food
Mountain House Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who crave a quick, satisfying meal without the hassle of cooking or cleanup.
This freeze-dried meal packs a punch with long grain rice, chicken, scrambled eggs, onions, mushrooms, green peas, red peppers, and carrots, all while being gluten-free and free from artificial additives.
I love that preparation is simple; just add hot water, and in under 10 minutes, I'm ready to eat with no dishes to wash.
The pouch is designed for easy consumption, making it convenient for camping. Each serving offers about 600 calories, making it filling enough for a long hike.
Overall, Mountain House Chicken Fried Rice is a tasty, portable option for my outdoor adventures.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and campers looking for a quick, satisfying meal without the hassle of cooking or cleanup.
Pros:
Quick and easy preparation with just hot water needed in under 10 minutes.
Gluten-free and contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
Cons:
Some users may find the price relatively high compared to homemade options.
Mountain House Pad Thai with Chicken – Freeze Dried Backpacking Food (2 Servings)
For backpackers seeking a delicious and hassle-free meal, the Mountain House Pad Thai with Chicken offers a savory blend of flavors that satisfies hunger without the mess. This freeze-dried meal features rice noodles, chicken, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce.
With two servings per pouch, it's gluten-free and free from artificial ingredients, making it a healthy choice for outdoor adventures.
Preparing it is incredibly simple—just add hot water and wait under 10 minutes. The pouch allows for easy eating, so there's no cleanup required.
Plus, with a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, it's reliable for long-term storage. Many users rave about its flavor and satisfying portions, making it a standout option for camping trips.
Best For: Backpackers and campers looking for a convenient, flavorful meal that requires minimal preparation and cleanup.
Pros:
Convenient preparation by simply adding hot water and waiting under 10 minutes.
Lightweight and portable, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and emergency food storage.
Cons:
Some users recommend waiting longer than the minimum hydration time for enhanced flavor.
While the portion size is generally satisfying, those with larger appetites may find it necessary to consume both servings.
When I'm picking camping foods, there are several significant factors I consider.
Nutritional value is essential, as I need the energy to enjoy my outdoor adventures.
I also think about preparation time, weight, shelf life, and any dietary restrictions I might have to guarantee a successful trip.
Nutritional Value Importance
Choosing camping foods with high nutritional value is vital for fueling our adventures and keeping our energy levels up. When I'm out in the wilderness, I need meals that provide the necessary energy and sustenance for my activities.
Foods rich in protein, like chicken or beef, help with muscle repair and recovery, especially after a long hike. I find that having these high-protein options in my meals makes a significant difference in my stamina.
Carbohydrates are another important component; I often pack pasta or rice for quick energy release during physically demanding tasks. They keep me going when I need it most.
It's also important to include a variety of nutrients in my meals. A well-balanced diet means I get the vitamins and minerals that support my overall health while I'm exploring the great outdoors.
I pay attention to sodium levels in my camping foods, too. Excessive sodium can lead to dehydration, particularly in hot weather when I'm sweating a lot.
Preparation Time Efficiency
Quick prep time is vital for camping foods, as I want to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the great outdoors. When I'm out there, convenience is key. Many camping meals only require hot water and are ready in under 10 minutes, making them perfect for those long days of hiking or exploring.
I appreciate the pouch design of freeze-dried meals, which allows me to eat directly from the package. This means less cleanup, so I can kick back and soak in the scenery after a busy day.
Efficiency in preparation can greatly enhance my camping experience. After an exhausting day, the last thing I want is to spend hours over a stove. Quick-prep meals also cater to my needs as a hiker; they're often lightweight and require minimal cooking gear.
Plus, in emergencies, having access to meals that I can prepare in a flash is essential for maintaining energy and morale. By choosing foods that prioritize preparation time, I guarantee that I can focus on what truly matters—enjoying my adventures in nature.
Weight and Portability
Prioritizing weight and portability is essential for my camping meals, as it directly impacts how easily I can hike and explore without being weighed down. When I choose camping foods, I always look for lightweight options. They not only reduce my overall pack weight but also make my hikes more enjoyable. Freeze-dried meals are a great choice since they weigh less than traditional canned or fresh foods, allowing for more efficient packing.
I also appreciate how many camping meals come in compact pouches that fit easily into my backpack. This design minimizes bulk, making it simpler to carry my supplies. Additionally, I find that packaging often features resealable designs, which help with portion control and reduce food waste, a key consideration when I'm in the outdoors.
I tend to favor options that provide multiple servings within a single pouch. This approach not only lightens my load but also guarantees I meet my nutritional needs without carrying excessive weight.
Shelf Life Longevity
When I pack for a camping trip, I always consider the shelf life of my food to confirm I've safe and nutritious options for the duration of my adventure. I usually look for foods with a long shelf life, ideally around 30 years. This guarantees that my provisions remain safe and delicious over time.
Freeze-dried meals are often my go-to choice, as they tend to have the longest shelf lives in the industry. They're perfect not only for camping but also for emergency food storage.
I also pay attention to products that come with a 30-Year Taste Guarantee. These foods maintain their flavor and nutritional integrity, giving me peace of mind while I'm out in the wild.
Proper packaging is another essential factor; I prefer options in resealable pouches, as they help protect the contents from moisture and air exposure, which can spoil food quality.
Additionally, I always check for certifications that indicate no artificial preservatives or colors. These can negatively impact the longevity and safety of the stored foods, so I make sure to choose wisely.
This way, I can focus on enjoying my camping experience without worrying about my meals.
Dietary Restrictions Consideration
Choosing camping foods that align with dietary restrictions is vital for guaranteeing everyone in the group can enjoy the meals safely and comfortably.
First, I always look for gluten-free options, as many camping foods contain gluten. This is important for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, so I check for certifications from organizations like GFCO.
Next, I pay close attention to allergen information. Ingredients like soy, nuts, dairy, or eggs can trigger reactions, so I make sure we avoid those if anyone in the group has allergies.
Sodium content is another factor I consider, especially since some freeze-dried meals can be high in sodium, which isn't suitable for individuals on low-sodium diets or with hypertension.
I also prefer meals that have clear nutritional labels. This helps me find options that meet specific dietary needs, such as high protein or low carbohydrate choices.
Finally, I check for artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, as some folks prefer natural foods or may have sensitivities to synthetic additives.
Flavor Variety Options
To keep meals exciting and enjoyable during camping trips, I always consider the variety of flavors available in the foods I pack. Flavor variety is essential for preventing meal fatigue, especially on longer adventures. I like to choose freeze-dried meals that come in a range of tastes—savory options like beef stroganoff or chicken teriyaki, and breakfast choices such as scrambled eggs with bacon.
Incorporating a mix of flavor profiles—spicy, creamy, and hearty—ensures that everyone in my group can find something they enjoy. This variety not only makes shared meals more appealing but also caters to different taste preferences. I also pay attention to balancing nutrition by selecting meals that include proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables, all while keeping the dining experience interesting.
I find that bringing familiar and comforting flavors, like macaroni and cheese or lasagna, can enhance morale and satisfaction during our outdoor adventures. By focusing on flavor variety, I make sure that our meals aren't just sustenance but also a highlight of our camping experience. With careful planning, I can create a menu that excites and nourishes everyone on the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store Freeze-Dried Camping Food Properly?
I always store freeze-dried camping food in airtight containers, keeping them in a cool, dark place. I also check the packaging for expiration dates and avoid moisture to guarantee they stay fresh for my trips.
Can I Rehydrate Freeze-Dried Meals With Cold Water?
Did you know that about 90% of freeze-dried food's weight is water? I've found that while I can rehydrate freeze-dried meals with cold water, it takes much longer than using hot water for best results.
Are There Vegetarian Options Available in Freeze-Dried Meals?
I've found plenty of vegetarian options in freeze-dried meals. Brands often offer a variety of choices, including hearty soups and pasta dishes, ensuring I can enjoy tasty meals while sticking to my vegetarian diet.
What Is the Shelf Life of Freeze-Dried Camping Foods?
The shelf life of freeze-dried camping foods usually ranges from 10 to 30 years if stored properly. I always check the packaging for specific dates to guarantee I'm getting the most out of my meals.
How Do I Clean up After Cooking Freeze-Dried Meals Outdoors?
After cooking freeze-dried meals outdoors, I usually wait for everything to cool, then I pack up the trash, rinse my pots with minimal water, and wipe down surfaces with a biodegradable wipe to keep it clean.
How Can I Pair the Best Camping Foods with the Perfect Brew Using a Camping Coffee Maker?
When it comes to camping food, it’s important to pair it with the perfect brew made from the best camping coffee makers for your outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer a hearty breakfast with a strong dark roast or a light lunch with a refreshing iced coffee, the right coffee maker can make all the difference.
Conclusion
When choosing camping foods, it's crucial to take into account factors like nutritional value, preparation time, and shelf life.
Remarkably, studies show that over 70% of campers prefer meals that require minimal cooking and cleanup. This statistic highlights the growing demand for convenient options like freeze-dried meals.
By selecting the right foods, you can guarantee a satisfying and energizing outdoor experience, allowing you to focus on your adventures instead of meal preparation.
Jason is the author of Laienhaft, a blog for all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Jason has you covered. He’s also an expert on survival skills – if you’re ever lost in the wilderness, he’s the guy you want to find!
