The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Breakfast Ideas. Not just Oatmeal!

When you’re out exploring the great outdoors, starting your day with a hearty breakfast is essential. But when you’re backpacking, you don’t have the luxury of a full kitchen. This is where creativity and planning come into play. In this article, we’ll explore some fantastic backpacking breakfast ideas that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. So, let’s dive in!

Why is Breakfast Important While Backpacking?

Before we dive into the backpacking breakfast ideas, let’s understand why breakfast is so crucial. When you’re backpacking, you’re burning a lot more calories than usual. Your body needs fuel to keep going. A good breakfast not only provides you with the energy you need but also boosts your mood and keeps you motivated throughout the day.

Nutritional Balance

It’s important to have a breakfast that’s balanced in nutrients. Carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle repair, and fats to keep you full for longer. Including a mix of these nutrients in your breakfast ensures that you’re getting everything you need to tackle the day’s adventures.

Oatmeal: The Classic Backpacking Breakfast

One of the most popular backpacking breakfast ideas is oatmeal. It’s lightweight, easy to cook, and can be customized in countless ways. Oatmeal is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a day full of activities.

Its light weight makes it convenient to carry, and it doesn’t take up much space in your backpack. The ease of cooking oatmeal is another reason why it’s a favorite among backpackers; just add hot water, and it’s ready in minutes.

But the real charm of oatmeal lies in its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste buds by adding a variety of toppings like nuts, dried fruits, honey, or even a dash of cinnamon. For those who like a savory twist, adding cheese, avocados, or a sprinkle of spices can transform the humble oatmeal into a gourmet delight.

This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a different flavor every day, adding a touch of excitement to your morning routine in the wilderness.

Instant Oatmeal Packs

Instant oatmeal packs are a backpacker’s best friend. They’re pre-portioned and cook very quickly. Add hot water to your oatmeal pack, and you have a warm and filling breakfast. Mix in some dried fruits, nuts, or a spoonful of peanut butter to make it even more delicious.

Instant oatmeal packs are a backpacker’s best friend. They’re pre-portioned and cook very quickly, making them the ultimate convenience food for those on the move. Just add hot water to your oatmeal pack, give it a stir, and within a couple of minutes, you have a warm and filling breakfast that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

But it doesn’t have to be bland – this is where you can get creative. Mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet touch, or add nuts such as almonds or walnuts for that extra crunch and a boost of protein. A spoonful of peanut butter can add a creamy richness that’s not only delicious but also packed with energy. For those who like a bit of spice, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavour.

1. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal

Ingredients:

Instant oatmeal (1 packet or 1/2 cup)
Dried banana slices
Peanut butter (2 tablespoons)
Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon)
A pinch of salt
Hot water

Instructions:

In a bowl or eating container, combine the instant oatmeal, dried banana slices, and a pinch of salt.
Add hot water and stir until the oatmeal is cooked and has a creamy texture.
Stir in the peanut butter until well combined.
Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
Enjoy your creamy and energy-packed peanut butter banana oatmeal!

2. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients:

Instant oatmeal (1 packet or 1/2 cup)
Dried apple slices
Almonds or walnuts (handful)
Cinnamon powder (1/4 teaspoon)
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon)
Hot water

Instructions:

Combine instant oatmeal, dried apple slices, nuts, cinnamon powder, and brown sugar in your bowl or eating container.
Add hot water and stir until the oatmeal is cooked to your liking.
Let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy the warm and comforting apple cinnamon oatmeal as you start your day in nature.

3. Tropical Paradise Oatmeal

Ingredients:

Instant oatmeal (1 packet or 1/2 cup)
Dried pineapple and mango pieces
Shredded coconut (1 tablespoon)
Chia seeds (1 teaspoon)
Honey or agave syrup (1 tablespoon)
Hot water

Instructions:

In your bowl or eating container, mix together the instant oatmeal, dried pineapple and mango pieces, shredded coconut, and chia seeds.
Add hot water and stir until the oatmeal is cooked and creamy.
Drizzle with honey or agave syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your tropical paradise oatmeal and imagine yourself on a beach, even if you’re in the mountains!

These recipes are not only delicious but also customizable. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have available. Happy backpacking!

Overnight Oats

If you prefer cold breakfasts or want to save time in the morning, overnight oats are a great option. Before going to bed, mix oats with water or powdered milk in a sealable container. Add in some nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, and let it soak overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a refreshing and nutritious breakfast ready to go.

Pancakes with a Twist

Who said you can’t enjoy pancakes while backpacking? With just a few ingredients, you can make delicious pancakes even in the wilderness. All you need is some pancake mix, water, and a portable stove or campfire.

You can even add in some extras like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Just mix the ingredients, pour onto a hot pan, and cook until golden brown. Top them with some honey or nut butter, and voila! You have a scrumptious breakfast that feels like a luxury in the great outdoors. It’s a delightful twist to the usual camping breakfast and sure to be a hit among fellow campers.

Toppings

For toppings, you can use honey, almond butter, or even fresh fruits if you have them. It’s a delightful breakfast that feels like a real treat when you’re out in the wild.

The sweetness of the honey, the creaminess of almond butter, or the freshness of fruits can elevate your pancakes to gourmet levels. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even sprinkle some nuts or chocolate chips on top.

These toppings not only add flavor but also pack in additional nutrients to keep you energized for your outdoor activities. There’s nothing like enjoying a stack of pancakes with your favorite toppings amidst nature.

Breakfast Burritos for Backpacking Champions

Breakfast burritos are another excellent backpacking breakfast idea. They’re filling, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Imagine starting your day with a warm tortilla stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of veggies or meats.

You can even add some salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick. It’s like having an entire breakfast plate wrapped up in a convenient package. Not only do breakfast burritos provide a hearty meal to start your day, but they also offer a burst of flavors that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds during your outdoor adventure.

Tortillas

Tortillas are great for backpacking because they’re flat and don’t take up much space. They’re also very versatile. You can use them for breakfast burritos, wraps, or even as a makeshift pizza base.

Their durability makes them ideal for packing, and their adaptability means you can get creative with fillings, making them a staple in any backpacker’s meal plan. Whether you prefer them with savory or sweet fillings, tortillas are an essential item to bring on your backpacking trip.

Fillings

For fillings, you can use dehydrated eggs, cheese, and pre-cooked bacon. If you have fresh vegetables, you can add them too. Wrap everything in a tortilla, and you have a breakfast burrito! Additionally, you can add some spices or herbs for extra flavor.

If you’re carrying canned beans or corn, throw them in for a more substantial meal. For those who like it spicy, a dash of hot sauce can make a world of difference. The possibilities are endless. The combination of proteins, veggies, and carbs will keep you full and energized for a day of hiking and exploring the great outdoors.

Granola: The Crunchy Delight

Granola is a crunchy and satisfying breakfast option. It’s lightweight and high in calories, making it perfect for backpacking. Comprising oats, nuts, seeds, and often honey or other sweeteners, granola can be a nutrient-dense source of energy.

It’s also incredibly versatile – you can eat it straight as a snack, add powdered milk and make it into a cereal, or even sprinkle it on top of yogurt or fresh fruits if you have them. Moreover, it’s non-perishable, so it stays fresh for a long time. For those looking for a delicious, no-fuss breakfast that provides sustained energy for those long hikes, granola is an excellent choice.

Store-Bought or Homemade

You can either buy granola from the store or make it at home. If you’re making it at home, you can customize it with your favorite nuts and seeds. Making granola at home also allows you to control the amount of sugar and fats, making it a healthier option. Plus, the aroma of baking granola is absolutely delightful!

Recipe 1: Classic Honey Almond Granola

Ingredients:

2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup almonds, chopped
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a large bowl, mix oats and almonds.
In a small saucepan, heat honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until melted and combined.
Pour the honey mixture over the oats and almonds, stirring well.
Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Recipe 2: Chocolate Coconut Granola

Ingredients:

2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a large bowl, combine oats, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts.
In a small saucepan, heat cocoa powder, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Mix the cocoa mixture with the oats, ensuring everything is well coated.
Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Allow to cool and store in an airtight container.

These homemade granola recipes are perfect for backpacking trips, providing you with the energy and nutrients needed for your adventures.

Backpacking Breakfast Scramble

A breakfast scramble can be incredibly satisfying and energizing. It’s like having a full breakfast plate, all in one dish. Imagine fluffy eggs mixed with a medley of colorful vegetables, savory bacon or sausage, and melted cheese.

It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that delights the palate. What’s more, it’s customizable; you can throw in whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether it’s bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, spinach, or even some leftover grilled chicken, everything works in a scramble.

It’s also a great way to pack in a variety of nutrients. With some herbs and spices, you can elevate it to gourmet levels. A breakfast scramble is not just a meal; it’s an experience, especially when you’re enjoying it in the great outdoors. It sets the tone for the day and ensures you’re fueled and ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.

Dehydrated Eggs

Dehydrated eggs are a backpacker’s secret weapon and a game-changer for those who love a hearty breakfast but need to keep their packs light. They’re incredibly lightweight, compact, and have a long shelf life, making them perfect for extended trips.

Easy to cook, you just add water to rehydrate them, and within minutes, you have eggs that are ready to be scrambled. But that’s not all; these rehydrated eggs can be the base for an array of dishes, not just scrambles.

You can use them for making omelets, breakfast burritos, or even mix them into a pancake batter. They retain much of the flavor and texture of fresh eggs, ensuring that you don’t have to miss out on a classic breakfast even when you’re miles away from the nearest kitchen. It’s amazing how such a simple ingredient can vastly expand your culinary options in the wilderness.

Add-Ins

Add in some pre-cooked bacon or sausage, cheese, and spices. If you have fresh vegetables, chop them up and add them to the scramble. Cook everything together, and you have a hearty breakfast scramble.

Breakfast Bars and Energy Bites

For those mornings when you want to get an early start and don’t have time to cook, breakfast bars and energy bites are perfect. They are the epitome of grab-and-go, requiring no preparation or cooking time.

Packed with nutrients, these compact bars and bites often contain a mix of grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, providing a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This ensures sustained energy release, which is essential for those long hikes or climbs.

Additionally, they are incredibly lightweight and take up minimal space, making them easy to pack even in the smallest of backpacks. For those who have a sweet tooth, many breakfast bars come with chocolate or other sweet flavors, giving that much-needed morale boost in the morning.

They are not just convenient; they are a smart choice for maintaining high energy levels during your outdoor adventures.

Pre-Made or Homemade

You can buy pre-made breakfast bars, or you can make them at home. Homemade energy bites made with oats, nuts, seeds, and honey are also a great option.

Nutrition-Packed

These are packed with nutrition and can be eaten on the go. They’re perfect for those high-energy days when you need to keep your body fueled.

Hot Beverages to Start Your Day

Starting your day with a hot beverage can be incredibly comforting when you’re out in the wilderness. The warmth of the drink not only helps to stave off the morning chill but also has a calming effect. Whether it’s a cup of coffee to awaken your senses, a tea to soothe your soul, or hot cocoa for that touch of sweetness, a hot beverage can be a morale booster. It’s also a moment to pause, take in the surroundings, and mentally prepare for the day’s adventures. This simple ritual of sipping a hot drink amidst nature can be one of the most cherished and grounding experiences of a backpacking trip

Coffee

For coffee lovers, instant coffee is the easiest option. If you prefer freshly brewed coffee, consider bringing a portable coffee maker. Instant coffee offers the advantage of being quick and hassle-free, while a portable coffee maker can elevate your coffee experience to new heights even in the wilderness. With a portable coffee maker, you can enjoy the rich aroma and flavor of freshly brewed coffee, making your mornings truly special. It’s like bringing a piece of home comfort to your camping adventure. Whether you’re a fan of a strong espresso or a smooth Americano, having coffee your way can be the perfect start to an adventurous day.

Tea

Tea is lightweight and comes in a variety of flavors, making it an ideal companion for backpackers. It’s also a great way to warm up on a cold morning. From the classic black tea to the aromatic green tea, or even herbal teas like chamomile and mint, there’s a tea for every palate.

Moreover, tea is known for its health benefits, including its antioxidant properties. For those who prefer a caffeine-free start, herbal teas are a fantastic option. Carrying a small assortment of tea bags adds negligible weight to your pack but adds immeasurably to the pleasure and comfort of your mornings in the great outdoors.

Conclusion: The Joy of Backpacking Breakfasts

Backpacking is an adventure, and the food you eat should reflect that. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious breakfasts that fuel your body for the day’s adventures. From classic oatmeal to breakfast burritos, there’s no shortage of backpacking breakfast ideas. So pack your bags, and don’t forget the granola!