Ideas for Camping Food

Oh, the great outdoors. In Canada, we have a world of wonder in our very own backyard. You don’t have to travel far to experience all that camping has to offer. But, if you haven’t been a camper your whole life, you should make sure you are prepared. So, get planning! Keep in mind; you want to prep as much as you can before you head out. That way, you can enjoy your time. One of the biggest questions, when people think about camping, is: What will we eat? Therefore, this month, we have ideas for camping food, along with other tips and tricks. You’ll be cooking on the fire in no time.

When you think about ideas for camping food, what comes to mind? Of course, everyone thinks hotdogs and s’mores. However, you can’t live off that for days. At least, you probably shouldn’t! Eating balanced meals while camping doesn’t have to be hard. So, let’s get started with the basics.

Ideas for Camping Essentials

Equipment List for Camping

• Wood
• Matches/Lighter/Firestarter
• Roasting Sticks and Grill for Fire
• Tin Foil
• Pots/Pans
• Oven Mitts
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Cooler
• Plates, Bowls and Utensils
• Water Jug
• Dish Soap
• Garbage Bags
• Food Storage Containers

Essential Food Items for Camping

So, whether you are heading out for a few days or a few weeks – keep in mind, you should have a few essential ingredients to keep on hand. Some foods work well, while others fail miserably. Don’t get stuck going to bed hungry. If you bring these items with you, you’ll be good to go. Not to mention, you’ll have enough energy to get you through whatever you have planned for the day.

Eggs

Some foods shine with camping. For example, eggs are one of the best ingredients to have on hand. Plus, they won’t break the bank. When thinking of ideas for camping food, make sure eggs are on the top of your list.

Speaking of breaking, that leads us to another tip. If you are worried about breaking your eggs, don’t fret! We suggest cracking eggs into a water bottle. Then, you can pack them and go.

Looking for scrambled eggs in the morning? No problem! Just shake them up, and you’re ready. It’s as easy as that. In short, pre-packing your eggs will save you time and space in your cooler.

Another way to bring eggs with you is to hard-boil them ahead of time. You can even peel them too. Boiled eggs make a great addition to a meal. Or, eat them on their own. Treat your campers to a tasty egg salad sandwich on a hot summer’s day. Your friends and family will thank you for prepping ahead.

Healthy Proteins

We know that staying energized while camping is essential. So, when thinking of ideas for camping food, bring a variety of healthy proteins. Hotdogs and hamburgers just don’t cut it in terms of nutrients. Although, you can prep ahead and set yourself up for success.

Firstly, proteins are more than just meat. Remember to pack a stash of healthy nuts and seeds to fuel your day. Pumpkin seeds, almonds, and walnuts are all examples of high protein snacks. Dried fruit or beef jerky are also great options. No refrigeration needed!

Heading out for a hiking trip? Check out these tips on How to Find Hiking Trails

However, for the main meals, pre-cook as much as possible. If you are someone who can’t forgo a healthy portion of meat at dinner, we don’t blame you. But save yourself the time; cook some chicken before you go. Then, add it to salads, tacos, nachos, or foil packet meals.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables may not be at the top of your list. Nonetheless, raw veggies make a great snack. Bring along some hummus, and you’ve got a healthy lunch. Fruit can also be cut up ahead of time and stored in containers. However, not all fruits and vegetables are cut out for camping. When thinking of ideas for camping foods, pack a few of these options:

• Pears, apples and oranges are excellent choices as they do not need to go in the cooler. Additionally, no prep required. Just pop them in your bag and be on your way. If you plan on hiking, don’t forget these easy handheld snacks.
• Cucumbers, carrots, celery and bell peppers are our suggestions for vegetables. Eat raw, or throw into a stir-fry at dinner. These crisp vegetables make the most versatile choices.

If you have kids, you might be more inclined to pack a plethora of fruit. Cutting up melon, berries, and stone fruits will save you. You can even make individual portions for each kid. Talk about grab and go snacks. Both parents, and kids, will be happy and full. For more tips and tricks on keeping your kids happy, see Camping with Kids.

Ideas for Camping Food: Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Now, it’s time for the good stuff. You know what you should bring, and how to bring it. But, how do you choose what to make with it? You can keep things basic, or, you can jazz it up. Choose one of these fantastic recipes on next time you are thinking up ideas for camping food.

Breakfast

Breakfast Foil Packs

Strawberry and Cream Cheese Campfire Crepes

Campers Breakfast Hash

It should be noted that oats also make for an easy, healthy breakfast. Enjoy them hot in the morning, or try out overnight oats. There are lots of fun recipes out there.

Lunch

Campfire Nachos

Pineapple Chicken Skewers (Make ahead)

For an easy lunch, chop up some of your pre-cooked chicken. It’s great for salads and sandwiches. No heating required.

Dinner

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp & Vegetables – (any protein would work for this one!)

Red Wine Marinated Hanger Steak w/ Flatbreads

Easy Grilled Corn with Chipotle and Lime

Are you ready to gear up? At the Hilltop Acres Store, we have a few items to get you started. In stock, we have a variety of eggs for you to choose from for breakfast. Not to mention, we can get you stocked with chicken, beef, or pork – whichever you prefer. While you’re here, grab some local maple syrup as Banana Bread Pancakes are always a hit with the kids!

In other words, you want to feel good about what you’re bringing with you. Call us today to get your order in. We look forward to seeing your friendly faces this camping season.