Oatmeal for breakfast, peanut butter for lunch, and Mac-n-Cheese for dinner – now that’s a good outdoors menu. Or is it? My wife would certainly say no. It’s not that hard, and certainly not expensive, to create a tasty, easy, nutritious, diverse menu for any length hiking trip. When planning breakfast for hiking, whether it be an overnight or multi-day hike, it’s important to choose foods that are lightweight, non-perishable, and provide sustained energy.
Here’s some great breakfast ideas
Instant oatmeal
Pre-portioned packets of instant oatmeal are easy to carry and only require hot water to prepare. Add nuts, dried fruits, or powdered milk for extra flavor and nutrients.
Energy bars
Pack energy bars or granola bars for a quick and convenient breakfast option. Look for bars with a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
Dehydrated eggs
Dehydrated scrambled eggs are lightweight and can be rehydrated with hot water. You can also add dehydrated vegetables and cheese for extra flavor.
Nut butter packets
Single-serving nut butter packets (like peanut or almond butter) provide a protein and energy boost. Spread them on crackers or tortillas.
Instant coffee or tea
If you’re a coffee or tea drinker, bring instant coffee or tea bags for a morning caffeine kick.
Trail mix
A homemade trail mix with a mix of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate chips can be a quick and satisfying breakfast option.
Freeze dried breakfasts
There are freeze dried breakfast options available, such as scrambled eggs with bacon or breakfast skillet meals. These are convenient but may be heavier.
Tortillas or wraps
Pack tortillas or wraps and fill them with peanut butter, honey, or Nutella for a portable and energy-rich breakfast.
Instant pancake mix
Some instant pancake mixes only require water to make fluffy pancakes. Bring a small container of syrup or honey for topping.
Fresh fruit
While not as long-lasting as dried fruits, some fresh fruits like apples or oranges can be a refreshing addition to your breakfast.
Remember to check the nutritional content of your choices to ensure they meet your energy and nutritional needs for hiking. Also, consider any dietary restrictions or allergies when selecting your breakfast options.
What other great ideas do you have?
