After a long day of hiking or swimming, the last thing you want is a boring meal. You need proper food to refuel for tomorrow's adventure, but what are good meals to make while camping?
The best ones are high in protein, easy to prepare, and don't require much cleanup. Whether you’re van camping with a full cooler or backpacking with a single burner, planning saves you from a disappointing dinner.
Let's explore some simple options that taste great.
Breakfast Burritos
Want an easy, protein-packed breakfast? Prep some eggs, sausage, and peppers at home before your trip, and keep the mix in a cooler. In the morning, spoon it onto tortillas, sprinkle some cheese, and wrap them in foil.
Toss them by the fire or on a portable stove, and you’ll have a hot, hearty breakfast without the hassle of cracking eggs at the campsite.
Grilled Sandwiches
Cold sandwiches can get soggy in the cooler, so why not try something better? Bring a skillet and butter the outside of your bread, then toast it in the pan until it’s crispy and golden.
It only takes five minutes and completely transforms your midday break. Plus, it’s a quick, satisfying meal to fuel you for the rest of your hike.
One-Pot Chili
Chili is perfect for feeding a crowd, even when you're camping. Use canned beans, tomatoes, onions, and ground beef, and let it simmer on your portable camping stove.
If a dutch oven feels too bulky, a smaller, sturdy pot works perfectly. Simply scale the recipe to fit your pot and cook smaller portions.
With the right camping and outdoor gear, preparing meals like this becomes effortless. There’s nothing better than enjoying a stew on a cold night—it's well worth packing the essentials!
Foil Packet Meals
Nobody wants to be stuck scrubbing dishes, especially after a long day. That’s where foil packets come in handy. Just chop up chicken or steak with potatoes and onions, toss them with your favorite seasoning, and wrap it all up in heavy-duty aluminum foil.
Pop the packet onto the hot coals, give it a couple of turns, and in no time, you’ve got a delicious meal. Just eat it right out of the foil and enjoy zero cleanup!
Skillet Steaks
There’s nothing like cooking a steak over an open flame. To save time at the campsite, season your steak before you head out. Then, sear it in a cast-iron skillet for a perfect crust.
It might seem like a gourmet meal, but steak is one of the easiest dishes to cook outdoors. Pair it with a baked potato, and you’ve got a protein-packed meal to help you recover after a long day.
Ditch the bland snacks and try these ideas on your next trip. Figuring out what good meals you can make while camping upgrades your entire experience. Pack your cooler, grab your gear, and eat like a king under the stars.
