Have you ever lugged around heavy cans or jars of food while backpacking? It might be a mistake we all have done one time or another. Do you want to lighten your load without sacrificing taste and nutrition? If so, dehydrated meals may be the solution for you.
And let’s face it – after a long day on the trail, a delicious meal can be just what you need to boost your morale and keep going. But selecting the right meal brand can be overwhelming – there are so many options out there!
Helpful Tip: Personally I stay away from Spicey foods or foods that I’m not use to. You don’t want to try a new food on trail and not know how your body will react. Last thing you want is diarrhea or feeling ill miles from help.
Mountain House
When it comes to dehydrated meals, Mountain House is the first brand that comes to mind. With over 50 years of experience, Mountain House has established itself as a leader in the industry. Also you can find Mountain House Meals almost any outdoor store and even Walmarts and some other grocery chains.
Their meals are known for their long shelf life, easy preparation process, and delicious taste. One of the most popular meals from Mountain House is their Beef Stroganoff with Noodles.
This hearty meal features tender beef strips cooked in sour cream sauce with mushrooms and noodles. Another fan favorite is the Biscuits and Gravy meal which tastes like a home-cooked breakfast even on the trail.
Mountain House offers an extensive range of flavors including vegetarian options like their Pasta Primavera or Rice and Lentils Pilaf. Their unique offerings include breakfast options like Granola with Milk and Blueberries or Scrambled Eggs with Bacon.
Personal Favorite: Chicken and Dumplings
Backpacker’s Pantry
Backpacker’s Pantry may not have been around as long as Mountain House but they are quickly making a name for themselves in the dehydrated meal market. They pride themselves on using organic ingredients, reducing waste through recyclable packaging, and supporting sustainable agriculture practices. Their Three Sisters Stew is a popular choice among hikers as it features organic sweet corn, black beans, and quinoa seasoned with cumin and mild chili peppers.
Another favorite option is their Pad Thai which features stir-fried rice noodles with vegetables coated in peanut sauce. Backpacker’s Pantry offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options like their Chana Masala or Cuban Coconut Rice & Black Beans.
Personal Favorite: Pad Thai
Good To-Go
Good To Go takes a unique approach to dehydrated meals by using fresh ingredients and slow-cooking techniques. Their meals are inspired by international cuisine which makes them a popular choice for those who crave gourmet food on the trail. Their Thai Curry meal features jasmine rice, broccoli, cauliflower, snap peas, and red peppers in a creamy yellow curry sauce.
Another unique option is their Smoked Three Bean Chili which has been described as “restaurant quality” by satisfied customers. Good To Go offers plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options like their Herbed Mushroom Risotto or Classic Marinara with Penne.
Personal Favorite: Mexican Quinoa Bowl
AlpineAire Foods
If you’re looking for dehydrated meals that cater to specific diets or dietary restrictions then AlpineAire Foods is the brand for you. They offer an extensive range of health-conscious options including gluten-free, vegetarian, low-sodium, and even paleo-friendly meals. Their Wild Quinoa Pilaf features quinoa mixed with wild rice in a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
Another popular option is their Spicy Southwest Hummus which includes dehydrated hummus mixed with vegetables like bell pepper and onion. AlpineAire Foods also offers plenty of snack options like their Chocolate Cranberry Crunch which features dark chocolate chunks mixed with cranberries, almonds, and coconut flakes.
Personal Favorite (if you can find it) Mountain Chilli
Patagonia Provisions
Patagonia Provisions may be a newer player in the dehydrated meal market but they are already gaining popularity among hikers who value ethical sourcing practices. They use organic ingredients sourced from small-scale farmers to create delicious meals that are healthy for both you and the planet. Their Red Bean Chili is made from organic beans mixed with sweet potatoes in a smoky chili sauce.
Another delicious option is their Mussels Paella which includes organic brown rice cooked in vegetable broth with chorizo sausage and mussels. Patagonia Provisions also offers plenty of breakfast options like their Tart Cherry and Chia Oatmeal which features organic oats mixed with chia seeds and tart cherries.
Personal Favorite: Black Bean Soup
Nutritional Value
When considering dehydrated meals for backpacking, it’s crucial to prioritize nutritional value. After all, you will be relying on these meals to fuel your body during physically demanding activities.
Look for brands that offer a balance of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fat) as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid meals that are loaded with sodium or artificial additives.
One brand that stands out in terms of nutrition is AlpineAire Foods. They offer a wide range of options for dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Their meals are also packed with nutrients and use whole food ingredients like quinoa, lentils, and vegetables. When preparing for a strenuous outdoor adventure, choosing AlpineAire will ensure you’re fueled up with quality nutrition.
Weight and Packability
Another important factor when selecting dehydrated meals for backpacking is weight and portability. You want to choose products that won’t weigh your pack down or take up too much space in your bag.
Look for lightweight pouches or containers that can easily fit into your pack without taking up much room. One brand that excels in this area is Good To Go.
Their packaging is compact without sacrificing flavor or quality ingredients. Additionally, their meals have an impressive shelf life of four years, making them a smart choice if you’re planning more than one trip.
Choosing the right dehydrated meal brand can make all the difference during a backpacking trip. Prioritizing nutritional value and weight/portability are key factors when making this decision.
One trick to cutting more weight and space is to empty your dehydrated meals into baggies except one meal. Then reuse that one bag left to cook your other meals that are in the baggies.
By selecting brands that prioritize nutrition and convenience, you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors instead of worrying about what to eat. So, next time you’re planning a backpacking trip, consider one of these top-performing brands and fuel up for your next adventure!
