When you’re heading out on a camping or hiking trip, keeping your pack light is essential. The last thing you want is to be weighed down by heavy food supplies when you’re miles away from civilization.
That’s where freeze-dried food comes in. Lightweight, compact, and easy to prepare, freeze-dried meals are the ideal solution for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend in the mountains or a multi-day hike through the backcountry, having the right survival food kit can make all the difference.
Key Takeaways
- Freeze-dried food is lightweight and portable – Removing the water content reduces the weight, making it easier to carry on long hikes. A 3-day supply typically weighs only 2 to 3 pounds.
- Easy preparation – Most freeze-dried meals require only hot water, but some can be prepared with cold water for added convenience.
- Balanced calorie intake – Plan for 2,500 to 3,500 calories per day with three meals and snacks like dried fruit and fruit bars.
- Long shelf life – Freeze-dried food lasts 20 to 25 years when stored properly in airtight plastic bags or plastic bins.
- Emergency-ready – Freeze-dried meals are perfect for both camping and emergency situations, serving as part of a basic disaster supplies kit or emergency food supply.
- Protection from wildlife – Store food in bear-proof containers or hang it from a tree to keep it safe from animals.
- Pack smart and light – Keeping your total pack weight under 30 pounds helps conserve energy and makes hiking more comfortable.
- Prepare for common emergencies – Sudden weather changes, injury, getting lost, and wildlife encounters are common hiking emergencies where freeze-dried food and a survival kit can make a big difference.
Why Freeze-Dried Food is the Best Choice for Camping and Hiking
Lightweight and Portable
Freeze-dried food is incredibly lightweight because the freeze-drying process removes all the water content, which reduces the weight significantly. For comparison, a standard freeze-dried meal weighs around 4 to 7 ounces, depending on the portion size. That’s a fraction of the weight of canned foods or fresh food, making it easier to pack and carry for extended periods.
If you’re trying to keep your backpack under 30 pounds (a general recommendation for hiking), switching to freeze-dried meals can help you save several pounds. Every ounce counts when you’re covering miles on foot, so opting for lightweight food can help conserve energy and make your trip more enjoyable. Freeze-dried food is also an excellent addition to an emergency kit due to its lightweight and portability.
Easy to Prepare
Most freeze-dried meals only need hot water to rehydrate. If you bring a small pot or an alternative cooking source like a camp stove, you can enjoy a warm meal in minutes. Some freeze-dried foods, like fruit bars or dry cereal, don’t even require hot water — you can eat them straight from the package.
For meals like pasta alfredo or teriyaki rice, just boil water, pour it into the package, stir, and let it sit for a few minutes. If you want to avoid heating water altogether, some meals can be prepared with cold water — perfect for ultralight backpacking trips.
How Much to Pack
The average adult needs 2,000 calories a day to maintain their weight, according to the FDA. It’s a given that you’ll be burning quite a good amount of calories on your adventure, so a good rule of thumb is to plan for around 2,500 to 3,500 calories per day for hiking and camping, depending on your activity level and body size.
Most freeze-dried food kits provide between 400 and 700 calories per meal, so bringing four to five meals per day along with some snacks (like dried fruit or fruit bars) should cover your needs. For longer trips or emergencies, it’s important to consider an entire disaster supplies kit that includes food, water, and other essential items.
| For a 3-day hiking trip, you’ll need about:3 breakfast meals – Think apple cinnamon cereal or dry cereal3 lunch options – Try high-energy foods like brown rice or pasta alfredo3 dinner options – Teriyaki rice or hearty stewsSnacks – Dried fruit, fruit bars, or protein-rich survival food |
The total weight for a 3-day trip’s worth of freeze-dried food would be around 2 to 3 pounds — much lighter than carrying canned food or fresh food.
Long Shelf Life and Proper Food Storage
Freeze-dried food has an impressive shelf life — often 20 to 25 years when stored properly in airtight plastic bags or plastic bins. That means you can keep a food supply ready for camping trips, emergencies, or just peace of mind. Freeze-dried food should be stored away from moisture and heat to maintain its quality.
| For camping and hiking, keeping food safe from bears and other wildlife is crucial. Freeze-dried food kits are lightweight, compact, and easy to seal in airtight plastic bags or bear-proof containers, making them harder for animals to detect. Hanging them from a tree in a dry bag adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your food supply safe from curious wildlife. |
Some emergency food kits even come in easy-to-carry containers, making packing and storing even more convenient.
Emergency-Ready Food Supply
Another advantage of freeze-dried food is its versatility. The same survival food you use for camping can also serve as part of your basic disaster supplies kit or emergency supply kit. Having an emergency food kit that includes freeze-dried meals ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected situation — from natural disasters to power outages.
Why You Need an Emergency Food Supply
In the face of unexpected disasters or emergencies, having an emergency food supply is crucial for ensuring the well-being and safety of you and your loved ones. An emergency food supply provides the necessary sustenance to sustain life for an extended period, giving you time to recover and rebuild.
Beyond just food, it offers a sense of security and peace of mind, knowing that you are prepared for any situation. An emergency food supply can help prevent hunger, thirst, and malnutrition, which can exacerbate the effects of a disaster. By having a well-stocked emergency food supply, you can focus on other critical aspects of survival and recovery.
Types of Emergency Food Kits
There are several types of emergency food kits available, each designed to meet specific needs and circumstances:
- Basic Disaster Supplies Kits: These kits typically include non-perishable food items such as canned foods, dried fruits and nuts, and energy bars. They also come with other essential supplies like water, first aid kits, and flashlights, making them a comprehensive solution for basic disaster preparedness.
- Freeze-Dried Food Kits: These kits contain freeze-dried meals that can be rehydrated with water, providing a lightweight and compact source of nutrition. They are perfect for both emergency situations and outdoor adventures.
- MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) Kits: These kits contain pre-cooked, pre-packaged meals that can be heated with a flameless ration heater. They offer a convenient and easy-to-prepare source of nutrition, ideal for quick and hassle-free meals during emergencies.
Choosing the Right Emergency Food Kit
When selecting an emergency food kit, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure it meets your needs:
- Number of People: Determine how many people the kit needs to support. This will help you choose a kit with the appropriate quantity of food and supplies.
- Duration: Consider how long the kit needs to sustain life. Some kits are designed for short-term emergencies, while others can support you for weeks or even months.
- Dietary Restrictions and Preferences: Take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences to ensure the food in the kit is suitable for everyone.
- Type of Emergency: Think about the specific type of emergency or disaster the kit is intended to address. Different situations may require different types of food and supplies.
- Storage Space and Weight: Evaluate the storage space and weight constraints of the kit. Ensure you have enough space to store the kit and that it’s easy to transport if needed.
- Cost and Value: Consider the cost and value of the kit. Look for kits that offer a good balance of quality, quantity, and price.
Additionally, pay attention to the shelf life of the food items in the kit. Proper food storage is crucial to ensure the food remains safe and edible for an extended period.
Packing Tips for Hiking and Camping
- Bring a small pot – A compact pot or camp stove allows you to boil water quickly for freeze-dried meals.
- Pack enough water – You’ll need at least 3L per person per day for drinking, but bump it to 4L for meal prep.
- Use airtight plastic bags – Protect food from moisture and animals.
- Store food away from your sleeping area – Keep food in plastic bins or a bear-proof container to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Include a backup battery – Powering your phone, headlamp, or other devices is crucial during long trips.
Stay Prepared for Whatever Happens During Your Hike
When you’re out on the trail, far from help and modern conveniences, having the right supplies and knowing how to respond to unexpected situations can make all the difference. Here are some common emergencies where having a survival food kit can come in handy:
1. Sudden Weather Changes
Weather can shift rapidly in the wilderness, bringing unexpected storms, high winds, or sudden drops in temperature. Having a well-stocked emergency kit that includes freeze-dried food, an emergency blanket, and proper rain gear can help you stay warm and nourished until conditions improve.
2. Injury or Medical Emergency
Twisted ankles, cuts, and other injuries are common while hiking. Carrying a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is essential. Freeze-dried meals and high-energy snacks can also help keep your strength up while you wait for help or recover from an injury.
3. Getting Lost
Losing your way on the trail can quickly turn a day hike into a survival situation. A hand crank radio, local maps, and a backup battery for your phone can help you find your way or call for help. An emergency food kit with freeze-dried meals and fruit bars can keep you energized while you figure out your next steps. They’re also light enough that you don’t burn too much energy on your way back.
4. Water Shortages
Running out of water or finding contaminated water sources is a serious risk during long hikes. Always carry enough water (at least 3L per person per day) and pack a water filter or purification tablets. Freeze-dried foods require water to prepare, so proper planning is key to staying hydrated and nourished.
5. Wildlife Encounters
Bears, snakes, and other wildlife are common in remote areas. Store food properly in airtight plastic bags or bear-proof containers and keep it away from your sleeping area to avoid attracting animals. Freeze-dried meals and snacks are easy to pack away and secure, making them a smart choice for bear country.
6. Nightfall and Unexpected Delays
If your hike takes longer than expected or you misjudge the daylight, you could find yourself on the trail after dark. A headlamp or flashlight with a backup battery, along with some easy-to-prepare freeze-dried meals, can help you stay comfortable and alert until you find a safe place to rest.
7. Hypothermia and Heat Exhaustion
Exposure to extreme cold or heat can be life-threatening. Carry layered clothing, a hat, and emergency blankets to manage your body temperature. High-energy foods like fruit bars and freeze-dried meals can help maintain your energy levels and body heat in extreme conditions.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the best lightweight food for camping and hiking, freeze-dried meals are hard to beat. They’re lightweight, easy to prepare, and provide the fuel you need for outdoor adventures. Plus these survival food kits tend to offer high-quality options designed to keep you energized on the trail. Pack smart, keep it light, and enjoy the adventure!
