When you're hitting the trails, whether it's for a casual day hike or a more intense outdoor adventure, the right snacks can make all the difference. Here are five trail foods every outdoor enthusiast in Australia should always have in their pack.
What Makes a Good Outdoor Snack?
The best snacks for hiking have a few key attributes:
Lightweight: While they don't need to be ultra-lightweight like for multi-day backpacking trips, you don't want to be lugging a heavy load. So, perhaps leave the full-sized watermelon at home! 🥲
Nutritious: You'll be burning calories and need to keep your energy up. Look for snacks that pack a lot of calories into a small serving, with a good balance of carbohydrates for quick energy, and fats & proteins for sustained energy.
Shelf-Stable: While an insulated tote or backpack can help, it's best if your snacks don't require refrigeration.
Portable and Packable: Your snacks will likely be stored in a backpack, so choose options that won't take up too much space or get smashed to bits.
Minimal Packaging: The less packaging you bring, the less trash you'll have to carry out.
1. Granola Bars
Granola bars are an excellent choice for any outdoor activity. They provide a good source of energy, protein, healthy fats, and fibre. Plus, they're easy to pack, making them the perfect snack for any adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, granola bars are sure to help you make the most of your time on the trail.
2. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a perennial favourite for outdoor activities because it's lightweight, easy to store, and nutritious. It provides a quick energy boost from the carbohydrates in dried fruit or granola, and sustained energy from the fats in nuts. It's a versatile snack that you can easily customise to your taste.
3. Jerky (Meat Strips, Bars, or Sticks)
Jerky is a fantastic shelf-stable protein source that's lightweight and easy to pack. It's rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout your body, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels during outdoor activities. Zinc supports your immune system, helping you stay healthy in the great outdoors. Jack Link's offers a range of jerky products, from beef and biltong to pork, meat sticks, and meat protein bars, perfect for carrying along on your adventures.
4. Crackers/Biscuits
Crackers are a great building block for many outdoor adventure snacks. Look for sturdy crackers that won't get pulverised in your pack. They can be paired with cheese, dips, or eaten on their own for a quick and satisfying snack.
5. Fruit Leathers
Fruit leathers are a brilliant way to bring the flavour of fresh fruit on the trail without the weight and mess. They're nutritious, high-energy snacks that are great for both kids and adults. Fruit leathers are also portable, making them convenient additions to school lunchboxes or backpacks for camping, fishing, or hiking. Plus, making fruit leather is a good way to use up leftover canned fruit and slightly overripe fresh fruit.
Conclusion
Next time you're preparing for an outdoor adventure, make sure you pack these essential trail foods. They’ll keep you energised, healthy, and ready to tackle whatever the great outdoors throws your way.