Originally Posted by toejam

I learned to choke down as much food as possible on backpacking trips a long time ago. You need to eat a lot to keep your energy level up.

I have used Mountain House & Backpackers Pantry, etc. but just can't justify the cost any more as I've watched serving sizes drop and prices rise. For dinner I usually go with dried noodles or rice (Lipton brand is good) and throw in some tuna or chicken (this used to come in a can but now are in foil pouches). I've also gotten foil pouches of chili to put in macaroni & cheese. These dinners are hearty and easy. I usually bring a small bottle of vegetable oil for when the directions say add butter or milk, but I've gone without and it's usually as good. I never carry flour and spices.

For lunch I like dried fruit, bagels, cheese sticks, and summer sausage (I know some people can't eat this stuff). For breakfast I have two pouches of instant oatmeal, dried fruit, and lots of instant coffee.

I've been getting the big bags of mountain trail mix from WalMart lately - the kind with m&m's, almonds, cashews, peanuts & raisins. If you find some beef jerky you like, that's great to have. The best outdoor snack of all is Cliff Bars, if you can find them, usually in Kroger or camping stores. My favorite backpacking indulgence is a bag of small Snickers Bars - bring these to share on a group trip and you'll make friends for life. :cool: