Wild Camping Food Ideas: What to Eat When Sleeping Under the Stars
When I first started wild camping, food was the part I got wrong. I’d either carry way too much (and curse my backpack on the uphill) or I’d skimp, end up hungry, and stare longingly at my last packet of biscuits. Over time, I’ve learned that wild camping food is all about balance: you want it to be lightweight, nourishing, and something you’ll actually look forward to eating after a long hike.
Here are some wild camping food ideas I’ve tried (and loved), plus tips to keep your meals simple, tasty, and practical.
Planning Food for Wild Camping
Before we jump into meals, it helps to think about what makes good wild camping food:
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Lightweight & compact – bulky tins or glass jars are a nightmare.
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High-energy – long days on the trail burn more calories than you think.
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Easy to cook – one-pot meals, boil-in-bag, or even no-cook options are your best friends.
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Non-perishable – think dried, cured, or long-life foods.
If you stick to those principles, packing food for wild camping becomes much easier.
Easy Meals for Wild Camping
One-Pot Dinners
There’s nothing better than chucking everything in one pot and letting it bubble. Red lentil stew, couscous with dried veggies, or even instant noodles with a handful of dried mushrooms — all super filling and low effort.
Freeze-Dried or Dehydrated Meals
Honestly, when you’re tired, freeze-dried meals for wild camping are a lifesaver. They’re lightweight, tasty (if you choose wisely), and only need boiling water. I usually pack one or two for backup nights.
Wraps & Tortillas
My go-to for lunch. Tortillas don’t squish like bread, and you can fill them with cheese, salami, tuna, or even peanut butter for a sweet hit. They’re also easy to eat on the move.
Pasta, Rice & Couscous
Quick carbs are always welcome. Couscous is especially good because it “cooks” just by soaking in hot water. Add stock powder, dried tomatoes, or a pouch of tuna and you’ve got a meal in minutes.
Wild Camping Breakfast Ideas
Breakfast is where I keep it simple. A hot bowl of porridge with dried fruit and nuts feels like a hug in a bowl. Granola with powdered milk works if you’re in a rush, and strong coffee (instant, of course) is a must for me.
Snacks and Quick Energy
I’ve learned not to underestimate snacks for wild camping. They keep your energy up without the faff of cooking:
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Trail mix (nuts, raisins, chocolate bits)
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Energy bars or flapjacks
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Hard cheese and crackers
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Dark chocolate for a morale boost
Food Treats and Comforts
If you’re camping somewhere chilly or damp (hello, UK weather), morale food matters. I’ll often pack a little something extra — maybe dark chocolate, a malt loaf, or even marshmallows to toast if I’m camping with friends. It feels indulgent but makes the experience so much more fun.
Sample Wild Camping Meal Plan
Here’s what a simple lightweight wild camping food plan looks like for me:
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Day 1 – Porridge breakfast, wrap with cheese and chorizo for lunch, couscous with tuna for dinner.
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Day 2 – Granola breakfast, tortilla with peanut butter for lunch, freeze-dried curry for dinner.
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Snacks both days – Trail mix, flapjacks, chocolate.
This keeps my pack light, gives me plenty of energy, and avoids food boredom.
FAQ: Wild Camping Food Ideas
What is the best food to take wild camping?
Lightweight, calorie-dense foods work best: couscous, pasta, oats, nuts, cheese, cured meats, and freeze-dried meals.
Can you take fresh food wild camping?
Yes, but choose wisely. Hard cheeses, cured meats, and sturdy veg like carrots or peppers keep well. Avoid dairy or soft fruit unless you’re camping just one night.
How much food should I pack for wild camping?
Plan for around 2,500–3,500 calories a day depending on your hike. Bring a little extra — it’s better to carry 200g more than run out.
What can I eat without cooking?
Wraps with cheese or peanut butter, crackers, trail mix, granola, and cold-soaked couscous are all good no-cook wild camping meals.
Final Thoughts
Wild camping food doesn’t have to be boring. With a little planning, you can eat well, travel light, and even look forward to mealtimes. My advice? Pack what you know you’ll enjoy, keep it simple, and always bring one little treat — because good food in the wild makes the whole adventure better.