When preparing for a backpacking trip, one of the most important things to consider is the type of food you’ll pack. Not only does it have to be nutritious and filling, but it also needs to be easy to carry and prepare. If you’re lactose intolerant or simply prefer to avoid dairy, finding suitable meals can be challenging. However, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious and nourishing meals while out in the wilderness.
Below, we’ll introduce you to the best dairy-free backpacking meals that are easy to prepare, delicious, and packed with nutrients. From breakfast meals to snacks, dinners, desserts, and beverages, we’ve got you covered.
We understand that backpacking can be a physically demanding activity that requires energy and stamina, which is why we’ve focused on meals that are rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.
So, let’s dive in!
Dairy-Free Backpacking Breakfast Meals
Who doesn’t love a hearty breakfast to start the day, especially when out in the wilderness? If you’re looking for dairy-free breakfast ideas for your next backpacking trip, look no further. We’ve got three delicious and easy-to-prepare breakfast meals that will keep you fueled for your adventures.
1. Diary-Free Oatmeal
First up is dairy-free oatmeal. This classic breakfast staple is perfect for a cold morning in the mountains. To make it, all you need is some rolled oats, water, your favorite toppings, and a stove or campfire. You can add some dried fruits, nuts, or seeds for extra flavor and nutrients.
2. Vegan Pancakes
Another great option is vegan pancakes. These fluffy and delicious pancakes are made with almond milk or other non-dairy milk, flour, baking powder, and sweetener. You can also add some vegan butter or syrup for extra taste. If you’re short on time, you can make the batter at home and bring it along with you on your trip.
Just pour it on a griddle or pan and cook until golden brown on both sides.
3. Homemade Granola
Last but not least is homemade granola. This crunchy and nutritious breakfast is perfect for those who prefer something light and easy to carry. You can make a big batch at home with oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and some sweetener.
Next, pack it in a resealable bag or container and enjoy it with some non-dairy milk or yogurt. You can also add some fresh fruits for extra vitamins and fiber.
With these dairy-free breakfast meals, you’ll have the energy and nutrients you need to tackle any hiking trail. Plus, they’re all easy to prepare and pack, so you can spend more time enjoying the great outdoors.
Dairy-Free Backpacking Lunch Meals
After a morning of hiking and exploring, it’s time for a delicious and energizing lunch. But what do you pack when you’re avoiding dairy? Don’t worry, we’ve got three tasty and satisfying lunch meals that will make your taste buds sing.
1. Vegan Quinoa Salad
First on the list is a vegan quinoa salad. This colorful and nutrient-packed salad is easy to prepare and perfect for a midday meal. Cook some quinoa, then mix it with chopped veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and avocado.
You can also add some chickpeas or other beans for extra protein. Top it off with a simple dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, and some herbs.
2. Dairy-Free Wrap
Next up is a dairy-free wrap. Wraps are a great lunch option because they’re portable, easy to eat, and customizable. Use a whole wheat tortilla or wrap and fill it with your favorite non-dairy protein source like hummus, grilled tofu, or tempeh.
Add some veggies like lettuce, spinach, shredded carrots, and red cabbage. You can also drizzle some tahini or hot sauce for extra flavor.
3. Lentil Soup
Last but not least is a hearty lentil soup. This comforting and nourishing soup is perfect for a chilly day in the mountains. All you need is some dried lentils, veggies like onions, carrots, and celery, and some herbs and spices. You can also add some chopped sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
Cook it on a stove or campfire and enjoy a hot and satisfying lunch.
Dairy-Free Backpacking Dinner Meals
After a long day of hiking and exploring, a hearty and satisfying dinner is just what you need. But when you’re avoiding dairy, it can be challenging to find delicious and filling meal options.
Don’t worry, we’ve got three tasty and easy-to-prepare dinner meals that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
1. Vegan Chili
First on the list is vegan chili. This flavorful and spicy dish is perfect for a chilly evening in the mountains. All you need is some canned or cooked beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, and some vegetable broth.
You can also add some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients. Serve it with some cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.
2. Vegan Stir-Fry
Next up is veggie stir-fry. Stir-fry is a great dinner option because it’s quick, easy, and customizable. Use your favorite non-dairy protein source like tofu, tempeh, or seitan, and add some veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. You can also use a stir-fry sauce made of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and some sweetener. Serve it over some rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
3. Spaghetti With Tomato Sauce
Last but not least is spaghetti with tomato sauce. This classic pasta dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a night when you’re craving something comforting. Use whole-grain spaghetti and top it with a simple tomato sauce made of canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and some herbs. You can also add some vegan meatballs or sausages for extra protein.
Dairy-Free Backpacking Snacks
Snacks are an essential part of any backpacking trip, providing energy and sustenance between meals. However, when you’re avoiding dairy, it can be tricky to find satisfying and nutritious options.
Fear not, we’ve got you covered with these three delicious dairy-free snack ideas.
1. Trail Mix
First on the list is trail mix. This classic snack is easy to make and can be customized to your preferences. Combine some nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts with some dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, and raisins. You can also add some seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
Pack it in small resealable bags for easy snacking on the go.
2. Hummus
Next up is hummus with veggies. Hummus is a great snack because it’s high in protein and healthy fats, and it’s also very versatile. You can dip in some veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a crunchy and refreshing snack. You can also add some pita chips or crackers for extra carbs.
3. Energy Balls
Last but not least is energy balls. These bite-sized snacks are packed with nutrients and can help keep you fueled during long hikes or outdoor activities. You can make them with dates, nuts, and seeds, and flavor them with cocoa powder, vanilla extract, or coconut flakes.
They’re easy to pack and store, and they’ll satisfy your sweet tooth without any dairy.
Dairy-Free Backpacking Desserts
Just because you’re out in the wilderness doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice dessert. In fact, there are plenty of delicious and easy-to-make dairy-free desserts that are perfect for backpacking trips. Here are three options that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth:
1. Chocolate Banana Boats
First up is chocolate banana boats. This is a classic campfire dessert that’s easy to make and tastes delicious. Simply take a banana and slice it down the middle, leaving the skin on. Stuff it with some dairy-free chocolate chips, and wrap it in foil.
Place the banana boat on the coals of your campfire for a few minutes, until the chocolate is melted and the banana is warm and gooey.
2. Fruit Salad
Next on the list is fruit salad. This may seem like a boring option, but trust us, it doesn’t have to be. Cut up some of your favorite fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and mango, and toss them together in a bowl. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for some extra flavor. You can even add some dairy-free whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy.
3. No-Bake Oat Bars
Last but not least is no-bake oat bars. These bars are easy to make and can be customized to your preferences. Mix together some oats, nut butter, honey, and your favorite toppings like dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips. Press the mixture into a pan, and let it chill in the fridge until firm. Cut into bars, and pack them for your trip.
With these dairy-free dessert options, you don’t have to sacrifice your sweet tooth on your backpacking trip. They’re all easy to make and pack, and they’ll provide a satisfying end to your meals. So go ahead and indulge a little, you deserve it after a long day of hiking and exploring.
Related: Freeze-Dried & Gluten-Free Camping Food Ideas
Dairy-Free Backpacking Beverages
When you’re out exploring the great outdoors, it’s important to stay hydrated. But sometimes, plain old water can get boring. Luckily, there are plenty of dairy-free beverages that are perfect for backpacking trips.
Here are three options that are sure to keep you refreshed:
1. Hibiscus Tea
First up is hibiscus tea. This tea is made from the dried flowers of the hibiscus plant and is known for its tart and refreshing flavor. Simply boil some water, add the dried hibiscus flowers, and let steep for a few minutes. You can sweeten it with honey or agave if you’d like.
2. Homemade Lemonade
Next on the list is homemade lemonade. This classic drink is easy to make and tastes great. Squeeze some fresh lemons into a water bottle, add water, and sweeten with sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Shake and enjoy.
3. Infused Water
Last but not least is infused water. This is a great way to add some flavor to your water without adding any calories. Simply add some fresh fruit, herbs, or cucumber slices to your water bottle and let it infuse for a few hours before drinking. Some great combinations include lemon and mint, cucumber and lime, or strawberry and basil.