When it comes to the best dehydrated backpacking meals, you'll want options that are lightweight, nutritious, easy to prepare, and taste good after a long day of hiking. A nutritionally dense backpacking meal or a high protein snack can make all the difference in keeping your energy up and your spirits high.
Dehydrated backpacking meals have become a go-to solution for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who need lightweight, nutrient-dense, and easy to prepare food without sacrificing flavor. They're designed to provide that fuel for long days ahead.
With so many choices available in the market, we've curated a list of the top dehydrated backpacking meals based on reviews, taste, convenience, and portability. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal with bold flavors or simply a protein-packed fuel source, we've included them all.
1. Mountain House Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Shop: Mountain House Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce - $9.59 per 2 servings
2. Backpacker's Pantry Pad Thai
This Thai-inspired dish combines rice noodles, vegetables, and a flavorful peanut sauce that makes a bold unique dish for hiking. It's vegetarian-friendly and also packs 22g of protein per serving. A nice added bonus is that it comes with a packet of peanut butter for some added richness.
Shop: Backpacker's Pantry Pad Thai - $10 per pouch
3. Bighorn Rich & Creamy Mushroom Pasta
This creamy stroganoff features a rich mushroom sauce over pasta, delivering a comforting and satisfying experience after a long day of hiking. Packed with essential nutrients and energy-boosting carbs, it’s designed to keep you fueled for your adventures. Lightweight and easy to prepare with just hot water, this meal is perfect for those who want a delicious, meat-free option without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Shop: Bighorn Rich & Creamy Mushroom Pasta - $17.95 per 2 servings
4. People's Choice Beef Jerky Box
Now it might not seem like a traditional dehydrated meal when you think of one, however, we've learned that many outdoor enthusiasts consume our jerky as meals and it is technically a dehydrated food product. Jerky is an excellent meal for any adventurer because it's rich in protein, lightweight, and comes in a variety of delicious flavors and styles. Throw a few packs in your bag and your ready to go!
Shop: People's Choice Beef Jerky Box - $35.99 - $89.99
5. Good to Go Mexican Quinoa Bowl
Simply add some water and you'll be enjoying this meal on the trail in minutes. These meals are handcrafted by real cooks, so you know the flavor is there. They also have a minimum shelf life of two years so they can last a long time. The best part is that they're made with no preservatives and offer a better-for-you, better-tasting dehydrated meal on the go.
Shop: Good to Go Mexican Quinoa Bowl - $15.95
6. Firepot Porcini Mushroom Risotto
Made with Arborio rice, porcini mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, this vegetarian risotto delivers a comforting meal while outdoors. It's lightweight and easy to prepare and packed with energy sustaining carbs and nutrients.
Shop: Firepot Porcini Mushroom Risotto - $15.15 per 2 servings
7. Harmony House Vegetable Sampler
The Harmony House Dehydrated Vegetable Sampler is a fantastic option for backpackers who want to customize their trail meals with nutritious, lightweight ingredients. This sampler includes a variety of dehydrated vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, onions, and tomatoes, allowing hikers to enhance their meals with extra flavor and nutrients.
Shop: Harmony House Vegetable Sampler - $59.97 per 15 count
8. Peak Refuel Biscuits and Gravy
Peak Refuel Biscuits & Sausage Gravy is a hearty and satisfying breakfast option for backpackers who want a high-protein, energy-packed meal to start the day. Featuring real buttermilk biscuits, savory pork sausage, and creamy, peppered gravy, this meal delivers a comforting, home-cooked taste on the trail. With 34 grams of protein per serving, it provides the fuel needed for long hikes and strenuous adventures.
Shop: Peak Refuel Biscuits and Gravy - $14.95 per 2 serving pouch
9. RecPak Performance Ultralight Instant Meals
RecPak Performance Meal Replacement is a game-changer for backpackers who need a high-calorie, nutrient-dense meal in a compact and lightweight form. Designed for endurance and efficiency, each pouch delivers up to 700 calories with a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbs to keep you fueled during long treks.
Shop: RecPak Performance Ultralight Instant Meals - $37.99 per 3 pack
10. Heather's Choice Morning Glory Oatmeal
Inspired by the flavors of morning glory muffins, this oatmeal blend features gluten-free rolled oats, dried carrots, raisins, coconut, and warming spices for a comforting and hearty meal. Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, it provides long-lasting fuel for outdoor adventures.
Shop: Heather's Choice Morning Glory Oatmeal - $8.95
11. Packit Gourmet Texas State Fair Chili
Packit Gourmet Texas State Fair Chili is a hearty and flavorful option for backpackers craving a classic comfort meal on the trail. Made with all-natural freeze-dried beef, beans, tomatoes, and a bold blend of spices, this chili delivers a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and rich flavors.
Shop: Packit Gourmet Texas State Fair Chili - $13.99
For more outdoor and camping content, check out our list of 77+ bug out bag essentials.
