Hiking Lunch Ideas: 5 favorite meals for the trail
Ever hear the phrase “it tastes better in the backcountry”? Although I would often agree with that sentiment, my favorite hiking lunches are also the ones I like to whip out at home on occasion because they’re JUST that good! To me, food is important for both fuel and enjoyment. It’s also super fun to impress and inspire other adventure companions with your hiking lunch ideas 😉 This post will help you get beyond the typical trail snack like granola bars and beef jerky.
After getting some inspiration and a possible craving, you can download these recipes and more ideas for FREE at the form down below:
What makes a great hiking lunch?
We usually save our warm and involved meals for dinner whether out on the trail or back home. Hiking lunches need to be a little different as they are designed for extended, but quick breaks. Here are the things I like to keep in mind when thinking of hiking lunch ideas:
- Portable – Your hiking lunch should be easy to pack and carry. It’s nice to not be burdened by extra weight during a trek, so lightweight and compact meals are ideal.
- Non-Perishable – Plan hiking lunches with durability in mind. If you’re going out on a shorter day hike, don’t stress too much about it. Just ask yourself if you’d be willing to eat it after a few hours in the expected weather conditions.
- Quick and Easy – Although your lunch will likely take more time than a quick bar or handful of trail mix, you’ll still want to keep it simple. Stopping an hour or more for lunch can make a day of hiking feel extra long. If your intention and plan is to take a long lunch, by all means, enjoy it!
- Delicious – This is actually a very real consideration: if you’re not going to want to eat it, then don’t bring it! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve brought food that would be “nutritious” for me on a hike, only to decide it’s really not enjoyable.
Hiking Lunch Ideas for Your Next Adventure:
The GOAT: Pita Pizzas
This one deserves a spot at the top because it’s pretty much everybody’s favorite hiking lunch. It’s not infrequent that my trail group starts dancing when I pull it out to prepare. I mean, what’s better than a pizza in the backcountry?
Pita Pizzas are a fun meal for a group because everyone can make theirs exactly how they want it with only a few ingredients. Throw in a pack of pitas, a squeeze bottle of sauce, shredded cheese, and any toppings your heart desires for one of the most rewarding hiking lunches out there.
The only thing you’ll need to watch out for with this tasty meal is micro trash. But don’t sweat it too much: it’s such a loved meal that most don’t allow any bits to escape their belly.
Yummy Chicken Salad Wraps
This one takes some prep work at home but is super simple once you’ve hit the trail. I love that you can make it with many different ingredients so it doesn’t get boring. Great for a single serving or ten, chicken salad wraps will have you feeling nourished and refreshed during a day in the wild. Mix up some of your favorite fresh ingredients and spices with canned or cooked chicken, and you’re set! There’s nothing like a lunch break that incorporates lean protein and complex carbs to keep your blood sugar happy on those longer hikes.
Charcuterie Fun
Now here’s one of the best ideas to utilize your creativity! There are many different ways you can create this great lunch. From the classic summer sausage and hard cheeses to pita bread and fresh fruits, the possibilities are truly endless. Other great options to add to your charcuterie spread can include bell pepper, dried fruits, deli meat, hard cheeses, and maybe even a little dark chocolate for a special treat. Although this has potential to be one of the easiest hiking lunch ideas, I challenge you to make it special: take time to enjoy it. Sit down, breathe in the fresh air, and take time to savor your meal in the great outdoors.
Hearty Buddha Bowl
This is another hiking lunch that can be taken in many directions. My favorite inspiration for making buddha bowls is to see what’s already in my fridge. Leftovers from the week can be a helpful start in building this tasty backcountry meal. Use rice, quinoa, or even pasta as a base and add your favorite veggies, protein, and dressing from there. Don’t complicate it too much — pack food that sounds good to you!
The Classic PB&J
I feel like no conversation about day hike food goes without mentioning the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This lunch option is a favorite go-to for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere and for good reason. They’re incredibly affordable, relatively shelf (read: backpack) stable, and contain helpful nutrients for hikers. Packed with protein, fat, fiber, and FLAVOR, there’s no denying why this lunch has been a favorite for decades.1
How to Pack Lunch for a Hike
Wondering what tools to use in packing and eating your hiking lunch? Below are my personal favorites (but not necessary) for trail cuisine:
The Spork for Everything
Silicone Bag
Beeswax Wraps
Insulated Food Container
Reusable Food Pouches (you’ll see why in the hiking food recipe book here!)
Conclusion
When it comes to hiking, a well-planned lunch can make a world of difference. What I love most about these hiking lunch ideas is that I can use everyday ingredients found at the grocery store. To prepare, I don’t have to hunt down a fancy ingredient, specific tool, or expensive meal kit. These lunches are not only great for hiking, but nourishing for any adventure like road trips, a day at the beach, or car camping.
What are your favorite hiking lunch ideas? Let me know in the comments below!
