Nothing sounds more exciting or exhilarating than a wonderful hiking trip on the weekend. Backpacking is a great way to enjoy nature and spend some quality time away from the hustle-bustle of daily life.

Whether you are planning a day trip hiking on your favorite local trails or a week-long hiking excursion, one of the most important things is to bring the right food along to give you plenty of energy to tackle any trail.

When choosing the right food for your hiking trip, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Avoid sugary and fatty foods as they can make you feel more lethargic after giving a short burst of energy. Select foods that include proteins and complex carbohydrates for lasting energy that is released slowly as the food is digested.

Also, make sure you bring along something cool and refreshing such as fresh fruits, cool pasta salads, and some beverages to help you stay hydrated and prevent your body from overheating.

Here are some quick and easy healthy meals and snack ideas for backpackers and travelers to help you make the perfect meal choices for your trip:

Nuts And Seeds

Nuts and seeds are some of the best snacking options for hikers and backpackers. Not only are they highly portable and can fit anywhere in your backpack, but they are also packed with healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber that is essential for backpackers to stay fueled throughout the hike. They are also high in calories and can help backpackers make up for the calories they burn on the trail. Create a simple mix in a Ziplock bag with your favorite snacks such as almonds, walnuts, cashew nuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.

Nutrition Bars

Energy or nutrition bars offer a large dose of carbohydrates and protein. They are also super compact, and you can add plenty of your favorite bars to your backpack without worrying about making the backpack too heavy. Choose bars that contain essential minerals and vitamins as well as healthy fats to help you refuel your body quickly any time you feel like your energy is depleting. Make sure you select nutrition bars that have no added sugars and are made with all-natural ingredients for maximum benefits.