Felicity Gottlieb is a certified dietitian with a passion for the great outdoors. She expertly melds her knowledge of nutrition with her love of camping to provide invaluable guidance for healthy eating in the wilderness. Felicity has devoted numerous hours to researching and perfecting recipes that are not only nutritious but also tantalizingly tasty for those on camping adventures.
Hey there! Eating healthy while camping is definitely a challenge, but with a little planning and preparation, it's totally doable. Here are my best tips for enjoying nutritious and delicious meals while you're out in the great outdoors:
1. Plan your meals in advance: Before you head out on your camping trip, take some time to plan out your meals. Think about what foods you'll need for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. This will help you make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and avoid any last-minute unhealthy food choices.
2. Pack plenty of fruits and veggies: Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great choice for camping. They're also lightweight and easy to pack. Some good options include apples, oranges, carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. You can enjoy them as snacks or add them to your meals for an extra nutritional boost.
3. Choose whole grains: Instead of reaching for processed and refined grains, opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. These are higher in fiber and nutrients, keeping you fuller for longer and providing sustained energy throughout the day.
4. Don't forget about protein: Protein is essential for repairing and building muscles, especially after a long day of hiking or outdoor activities. Pack protein-rich foods like canned tuna, chicken, beans, and nuts. These can be easily incorporated into meals or enjoyed as snacks.
5. Stay hydrated: It's important to stay hydrated while camping, especially if you're spending a lot of time outdoors. Pack plenty of water and consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets if you'll be relying on natural water sources. Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water, herbal tea, or infused water instead.
6. Opt for healthy cooking methods: When it comes to cooking your meals, choose healthy cooking methods like grilling, steaming, or roasting. These methods require less oil and help retain the nutrients in your food. Avoid deep-frying or using excessive amounts of oil.
7. Try one-pot meals: One-pot meals are a great option for camping as they require minimal cleanup and can be easily customized to include healthy ingredients. Some ideas include vegetable stir-fry with tofu, quinoa and vegetable pilaf, or lentil soup with vegetables.
8. Practice proper food storage: If you're camping in bear country, it's crucial to store your food properly to avoid attracting wildlife. Use bear-resistant containers or hang your food from a tree branch at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk. Also, make sure to properly seal your food to prevent any odors from escaping.
Remember, camping is all about enjoying the outdoors and having fun, so don't stress too much about being perfect with your food choices. As long as you're making an effort to include nutritious options and stay hydrated, you're on the right track. Happy camping and happy eating!