long camping trip meals

27 Easy Camping Meals to Make Camp Cooking a Breeze

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Looking for some quick & easy camping meal ideas to make on your next camping trip? Something that won’t be a ton of work, but still tastes delicious? Well, then this list is for you!

We searched through our recipe catalog to find our favorite quick and easy camping meals. All of the following recipes use just a single piece of cookware (pot, skillet, foil packet, pie iron, etc), feature quick-cooking ingredients, and contain elements that can be prepared ahead of time at home, saving you time at your campsite!

The end result: elevated camping meals that come together quickly and clean up just as fast , so you can spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time worrying about the next mealtime.

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So dive in and discover your next go-to camping recipe !

Our best easy camping meals to make camp cooking a breeze

1. Campfire nachos

What could be easier than loading a Dutch oven full of tortilla chips, melty cheese, black beans, salsa, and all your favorite nacho toppings and calling it dinner?!

2. Chicken tzatziki skewers

These Greek-inspired grilled chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce can either be a quick grab-and-go appetizer or the centerpiece of a full dinner spread. Chop the veggies & chicken and make (or buy) the tzatziki sauce at home so all you have to do at the campsite is assemble & grill the skewers.

3. Shrimp boil foil packets

Shrimp, smoky sausage, buttery corn, and zesty lemon, this Shrimp Boil Foil Packet is one of our all-time summertime favorites. And, since the whole meal cooks in foil, there are NO DISHES to clean at the end of the night!

4. Easy chickpea curry

Packed with plant-based protein, completely filling, and loaded with flavor, this easy chickpea curry with coconut milk is sure to hit the spot!

5. Sausage breakfast sandwiches

Make the sausage patties at home and store them in your cooler so you’ll have them ready to throw on the griddle first thing in the morning. Add in a fried egg and hot-honey sauce and you’ll have a tasty breakfast sandwich with minimal effort!

6. Chicken Pad Thai

This chicken pad thai is easy to make on either a one or two-burner camping stove. Make the pad thai sauce at home before your trip, or use store-bought sauce to keep things simple!

7. Dutch oven mac & cheese

Using only 7 ingredients, this Mac & Cheese is a simple yet satisfying meal. Since it cooks in a Dutch Oven, it’s completely hands-off, too – just dump the ingredients in, set it over coals, and dinner’s ready in 10 minutes!

8. One pot pasta primavera

This recipe features a ton of fresh veggies, pasta, and a creamy cheesy sauce that cooks in ONE skillet, so clean-up is a cinch.

9. Easy trail mix recipes

Make these trail mix recipes at home before your trips so that you and your camping crew have lots of grab-and-go snack options throughout the day .

10. Foil wrapped sweet potatoes & chili

This easy vegetarian chili comes together quickly and is perfect for stuffing coal-roasted sweet potatoes.

11. Campfire apple crisp

This apple crisp couldn’t be easier! By using store-bought granola as the topping, all you have to do is saute sliced apples in some butter and brown sugar, then top with granola (and maybe a dollop of whipped cream!)

12. Campfire grilled fish tacos

Using a simple spice rub gives these grilled fish tacos a ton of flavor without a lot of fuss.

13. Grilled Mexican style street corn

A quick and easy camping appetizer, Elote – grilled Mexican street corn – is a great way to make the most out of your campfire.

14. Campfire banana boats

For those who don’t want to dirty another dish in order to prepare dessert, Campfire Banana Boats are here to the rescue! They’re simple: slice a banana in half, stuff with toppings, wrap in foil, and dessert is ready after a few minutes over the campfire. We share 9 different topping ideas in this recipe!

15. Avocado toast breakfast sandwich

This camping breakfast sandwich has it all: avocado, bacon, toast, and a fried egg. Plus, it can all be made with just a single skillet over a camp stove or campfire.

16. Chickpea breakfast hash

A can of chickpeas, chopped veggies, and a few eggs are all you need to whip up this protein-packed vegetarian breakfast. Did we mention it cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup?

17. Sweet potato peanut stew

This is one of our most popular recipes, for good reason: minimal, low prep ingredients, one pot, and it’s SUPER filling. Inspired by West African flavors, this stew combines sweet potatoes and chickpeas in a peanutty tomato broth.

18. Cheesy asparagus one pot orzo

This one-pot pasta is easy to make and you can use nearly any vegetable you’d like. We love asparagus when it’s available since it is easy to prep – just chop and add to the pasta (no peeling required!).

19. Camp stove chilaquiles

Make these stove-top chilaquiles simple by using store-bought tortilla chips, jarred spicy tomato sauce, and eggs.

20. Lime & cilantro grilled chicken tacos

These tacos use a quick citrus marinade to add a blast of summer flavor to the grilled chicken. The marinade can be made before your trip, meaning all you have to do is throw the chicken on the grill when you’re at the campsite!

21. Pineapple chicken skewers

These kabobs feature bright, tropical flavors and are simple to make. Chop the chicken, pineapple, and red onions at home before your trip to cut down on steps at the campsite. Then all you have to do is marinate for 30 minutes, assemble the skewers, and grill!

22. French toast sticks

Who doesn’t love finger food? These French Toast Sticks are easy to make and totally dunkable when served with a small bowl of maple syrup.

23. Cast iron brats with onions and peppers

This meal is easy to make over the campfire or on your camp stove. Simply saute onions and peppers in a skillet or on your griddle with a couple of brats. Serve in a pretzel bun and dinner is ready!

24. Banana bread pancakes

These banana bread pancakes are a real treat in the morning! The dry pancake mix can be made at home, then in camp, you add the milk, eggs, bananas, and chopped walnuts. Served with a drizzle of maple syrup, it’s hard to believe this is breakfast, not dessert.

25. Pie iron pizzas

Pie iron pizzas are such an easy meal to make over your campfire. Using store-bought pizza dough and your favorite toppings, everyone at your campsite will have fun making their own personal pizza pocket.

26. One pot pesto pasta

Make the pesto ahead of time, or pick up a jar from the store, to make the prep for this meal a cinch. The pasta cooks in one pot or skillet so clean up is easy, too!

27. Red lentil sloppy joes

These vegetarian sloppy joes cook in one pot, and are perfect for making into sandwiches, or stuffing campfire baked potatoes.

Megan & Michael are the creators of Fresh Off The Grid, a blog dedicated to helping you fuel your adventures by sharing camp cooking recipes, backpacking meals, and outdoor travel guides. Their recipes and outdoor cooking expertise have been featured in Backpacker Magazine, Outside, REI Co-Op Journal, Food & Wine, and New York Times Cooking.

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18 Comments

They all sound yummy

I made Chickpea Breakfast Hash several times! It was great! I can’t wait my next camping trip so I could experiement with these receipts! Thank you for your sharing!!!

So glad that you enjoyed the chickpea hash! It’s one of our favorites, too. Hope you have a great time on your next trip 🙂

We just got a pop-up camper and your site is incredible!! I was struggling to find camping recipes that were truly home-cooked meals still (I cook from scratch daily but camping food always seems so processed). This site is BLOWING MY MIND!!! Thank you so much for all you’ve done-you’re giving me the confidence I need to start planning and prepping for our first trip.

Sara, thank you so much for your kind comment! Hearing that our site has given you confidence to start planning your first really made my day. Hope you have a wonderful time and we’d love to hear about your new adventures in camp cooking! -M

Tell me about wanting to make great easy camp food with prep done lots before hand in your kitchen you are used too. Also to I agree with you that much camping food is so processed. Yes it is campaing and allow your self to have some goodies but yet keep to your usual eating habits also that it what your body is used and do not want to put it in over drive and get a tum tum ache or just low on energy. Love the fact that many of the recepies are easy to prep befoe hand or even make at your campsite. Also many can be made on the open fire, the two burner mini stove, or for us since we can not tent camp or afford a pop up we are renting a cabin at a camp ground that has kitchen. We love camping miss it and with the covid just need to get out of town and enjoy some out door life. Plus we are having a craving for a camp fire and of course the smores.

I really like your site but having the advertisement in the middle of the blog is not great when someone wants to read your site 🙁

The advertisements should appear between recipe cards and shouldn’t cover any photos or text. If that’s not the case, please let us know. We know ads can be distracting, but they’re the main reason we can generate this content for free.

This post is so helpful!! Thanks for sharing! Excited to try some of these meals on my camping trip next week.

Man…do you remember the feeling when you picked out a CD or an album and all the tracks were splendid?…not just one or two…and then skip the rest. This is how I feel with this post. Spot on. These “tracks” are fantastic. 😉

This site is so great, I love it. I’m not the greatest cook. But the one thing that I knew about was the banana boats. My family always does those, And there delicious😝. So thank you so much for these🤗. You guys are awesome.😜🥰

These recipes look amazing! I just printed a lot of them out, and I’m heading to the store! I needed some new ideas for our camping menu:)

Oh my gosh. I’m making my grocery list for our camping trip and felt so exhausted at the prospect of more cooking and cleanup after cooking nonstop through the pandemic. I googled easy camping meals and feel like I have a new lease on life! I’m scrapping my old standard beef stew and Italian sausage with noodles for some of these delicious recipes that use one pot. Thanks for these recipes. I love the layout of the site and the format of the recipes. So easy to use and save.

you makeing me hungy

Can you make them more like dinner instead of breakfast? Also can you also make them easy with less items. Thanks

Unable to open the recipe for French Toast Sticks. Can the batter be pre-maded?

We fixed the link for the French Toast Sticks. So long as you have a way of keeping the batter properly refrigerated (in a cooler) there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to pre-mix the batter.

my family is going camping and I just printed off the recipe for the banana pancakes and my mother thought it was a wonderful idea to make them! Credits to the owner who made the banana pancakes!!!

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30 Easy Camping Meals to Make Campfire Cooking a Breeze

Camping is the perfect getaway when you're looking to escape into the great outdoors, relax with the sounds of nature, and kick back at your campsite without a single bar of cellphone signal. So don't let complicated cooking get in the way of your vacation. Instead, use one of these easy camping recipes. Try roasting up chicken and veggies in Campfire Foil Packets, get creative with Campfire Pepperoni Pizza, or just boil water to enjoy Backpackers' Thai Noodles. Pack up your cooler, and maybe a Dutch oven or grill, and hit the road!

Camp Breakfast

Great for breakfast or a fun dinner, this hearty skillet meal has everything you need for a fueled-up day: crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fluffy eggs.

Summer Corn Chowder

This dish is hard to beat when fresh corn is in season. It cooks up in the Dutch oven along with potatoes and peppers to create a rich and creamy chowder.

Camping Pasta with Clam Sauce

Everything that goes into this decadent pasta recipe is shelf-stable, so you won't have to worry about overpacking your cooler. Cooked linguine is tossed with an Old Bay-infused sauce, sliced mushrooms, and chopped clams.

This recipe is stick-to-your-ribs filling after a day of hiking. Ground beef and a variety of vegetables all simmer together in a tomato-y sauce. To make it a one-pot meal, simply sauté the beef in the pot instead of a separate skillet.

• Dutch Oven Recipes for Your Next Camping Adventure

Grilled Sausage with Potatoes and Green Beans

Fire up the grill for this flavorful dinner the whole family will love. "My husband and I loved this — we licked the plate clean," says reviewer GINAH1 . "It's important to spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the food doesn't stick."

Backpackers' Thai Noodles

Step aside, ramen! All you need is boiling water to enjoy these instant Thai noodles. Rice noodles and freeze-dried veggies cook up in a creamy and spicy peanut sauce.

Campfire Pepperoni Pizza

Recipe creator gonefishn says, "The smokey flavor from the wood fire puts a great twist on an old favorite and with the help of a pizza stone, doing this over an open fire is easier than you may think." Bring a few of your favorite toppings, like pepperoni, veggies, and red pepper flakes, along for campers to customize their pies.

Tin Foil Stew

Who knew you could make stew without a pot? These easy foil packets are tucked into campfire coals to cook. "Friends loved this when I made it camping," says reviewer RAVENSKYLAR . "Only thing is that I made them up at home, and stuck them in the cooler so they were ready to pop in the coals after a long day fishing, and used multiple sheets of foil for each one so they didn't leak. "

• No-Mess Foil Packet Dinners

Killer Bacon-Cheese Dogs

Hot dogs may be standard camping fare, but this recipe takes it up a notch. Savory bacon is paired up with creamy Swiss cheese and sweet barbecue sauce to create a trifecta of flavor.

Campfire Foil Packs

"These are easy to make for camping, my husband loves them," says recipe creator Natural Chef Michelle . "We prepare them at home and then leave them in the cooler until we are ready to cook."

• Delicious Dutch Oven Dinners

Cowboy Casserole

Made with hearty bacon, beef, and beans, you'll feel like a true cowboy stirring up this meal under the stars. Canned biscuits are layered on top of the beans and beef mixture, baking the flaky golden perfection in the Dutch oven.

Chicken and Chorizo Chili

With a kick from chorizo and chili powder, this ground chicken chili is equal parts delicious and easy to make. Just set up your Dutch oven over the fire and you'll have a filling meal in about an hour.

• Browse Our Entire Collection of Camping Recipes

Beef Shish Kebabs for Freezer Cooking

This meal is perfect for camping, as you can prepare, marinate, and freeze all the ingredients in advance in a resealable plastic bag. When you're ready to go, dinner is ready for the grill.

Earth, Sea, and Fire Salmon

Here's another one of the foil packet recipes for camping that we just love. It's the ultimate quick campfire meal: salmon, potatoes, and veggies all cooked in an aluminum foil packet.

Big Ray's Kielbasa Cabbage Skillet for a Crowd

Cabbage, sausage, and potato all simmer together in a smoky tomato sauce. This is camping food at its best. Instead of bringing large jars of spices, store what you need in an empty Tic Tac box.

Omelet in a Bag

You'll wonder why you didn't think of this before. Cook your bagged omelet in a saucepan of boiling water for super quick cleanup.

Flaming Burritos

This tried-and-true Girl Scouts inspired recipe is quick to make, and requires minimal cleanup. Serve with salsa and some sour cream on the side.

Campfire Breakfast Sandwich

Wake up on the right side of the tent with this simple, four-ingredient breakfast sandwich (made with just bread, an egg, a slice of Cheddar cheese, and butter).

Lori's Campfire Potatoes

"These 'taters are delicious and perfect for a camping trip," says recipe creator Loripowell. "Don't forget to dress them up with sour cream, chives, and crumbled bacon. Be sure to use small potatoes, which cook through over an open fire better than larger ones."

Dutch Oven Mountain Man Breakfast

This hearty breakfast is the perfect filling meal to make over an open fire. Fair warning: The recipe makes a lot, so be prepared to share with your fellow campers.

Campfire Chicken Pot Pie

Make this easy and filling campfire recipe with just five ingredients: refrigerated biscuit dough, a can of cream of chicken soup, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and chicken breasts.

Papa Funk's Campfire Chili

This one-pot chili works in a Dutch oven or in a slow cooker. The easy recipe is "great on a cold night," according to recipe creator Cynthia C O'Connor .

Mom's Campfire Stew

Here's a tip from recipe creator Joe Benecasa : "When we make this for a camping trip, I brown the onions, mushrooms, and meat at home and transport it in gallon-size storage bag."

Over the Fire Scalloped Potatoes

These cheesy potatoes can serve as a side dish or, if you top them with crispy bacon, an easy campfire meal.

Hobo's Delight

This four-ingredient meal (made with ground beef, an onion, baby carrots, and potatoes) cooks in individual foil packets, so cleanup is a breeze.

Grilled Chicken and Potato Foil Packs

Here's another quick, easy, and delicious foil pack dinner. "I made this camping," says reviewer Pharmcook . "It was a hit with everyone including the little ones and cleanup was so nice!'

Meal in Foil

Recipe creator WALLEN says this quick outdoor recipe is a great way to let kids make their own meals while camping.

Poor Man's Beer Batter Fish

Use your freshly caught fish to make this incredibly easy and fast dinner. What's the secret ingredient? Shake and pour buttermilk pancake mix!

Hobo Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

Make this slow cooker stew in a Dutch oven over a campfire or in a slow cooker. According to recipe creator Cindy , you can use a bag of frozen mixed vegetables instead of canned veggies.

Kerr Lake Catfish Stew

"When my children were young, we camped most weekends in the summer," says recipe creator LPK . "Saturday night was usually 'catfish night' with fish straight from the lake into the pot or pan. This was a real quickie favorite."

More Inspiration

Try one of our favorite Camping Desserts to Sweeten Your Trip and explore our entire collection of Camping Recipes .

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Table of contents

Best Backpacking Meals & Food of 2024

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Backpacking Food

Meal planning is one of the most important considerations for any backpacking trip. The food you choose will depend on taste preference, nutritional value, caloric density of each meal, and how easy it is to cook.

Some hikers bring dehydrated meals because they’re quick and easy. Others prepare DIY dinner recipes and use a food dehydrator (check out our favorite DIY meals and dehydrator tips ) to make trail snacks.

Our approach is usually a mix of both methods, and in this post we’ll outline our general backpacking food strategy and suggest some of our favorite meals.

For backpacking, it’s important to keep food as lightweight and compact as possible

Ultralight Backpacking Food Video

As part of our Lightweight Backpacking Gear Basics video series , we put together the video below on ultralight backpacking food choices. Our specific food preferences have changed over the years, but the basic remain the same.

Backpacking Meal Tips

REPACKAGING FOOD – It’s always a good idea to repackage food in Ziploc bags to reduce bulk and have the ability to reseal containers. If you can’t close a food package securely, chances are it will explode in your pack and make a big mess.

SPICES & CONDIMENTS – Eating too much of the same thing over the course of a 5-day backpacking trip gets old quickly. Small packets of salt, pepper, olive oil, hot sauce, and fast food condiment packets (mayo, mustard, etc) can really elevate your backcountry grub. If you want to get real fancy, you can even get a GSI Spice Missile to carry up to six spices for less than 2 oz.

It’s good to bring along a variety of snacks, so you don’t get stuck eating the same thing every day.

FRESH FOODS – We love bringing a couple pieces of fresh fruit, like apples and oranges, on the trail. Fresh fruits have poor calorie per ounce ratios, but they’re a great treat in the backcountry and we like the added nutritional value. Carrots and snap peas are a nice healthy treat that will last a couple days if temperatures aren’t too hot.

AVOID CANNED FOODS – We always avoid canned foods because they’re way too heavy, don’t have enough calories, and create bulky trash to pack out.

Dehydrated meals are quick and convenient, but they cost more than DIY meals .

DIY DEHYDRATED MEALS – If you have the time and energy, it can be nice to make your own trail meals and dehydrate your own snacks. A quality food dehydrator will quickly zap the water out of fruits, veggies, and meats for some awesome DIY trail grub.

HOT DRINKS – Warm beverages and soups are a really nice treat in the backcountry, especially on chilly trips where it’s harder to stay hydrated. We like to sip on tea , cider , and hot cocoa around camp when the temperature dips.

If you’re a coffee drinker, make sure to check out our list of the Best Coffee Makers for Backpacking

ALCOHOL – Generally speaking, it’s not good to drink alcohol right before going to bed. Not only can it disrupt your sleep cycle, but you may also have to use the bathroom more during the night. That said, whiskey and wine tend to make our pack lists on most trips, especially on casual treks with friends. We carry them in trusty, lightweight containers like the Platypus Wine Bag and Flask2Go .

Cocktails Anyone?

Backpacking Meal Suggestions

We almost always start our trail mornings off with a warm cup of coffee . After testing many coffee powders, cubes, bags, and brew styles, our favorite option for taste and convenience is Starbucks Via . We usually have a quick, cold breakfast with our coffee and break camp to hit the trail early – mornings in the wilderness are so peaceful.

Pairing coffee with a calorically dense bar or two is a good way to get some quick energy in the morning. For additional calories, we may munch on some trail mix or mow a packet of almond butter. On casual, low-mileage trips, we like to enjoy warm breakfasts with friends. We’ll usually pair instant oatmeal with some dried fruits and trail mix. Here’s a list of our go-to breakfast choices with links to our favorites:

• Coffee ( Starbucks Via )
• Tea ( Celestial Seasonings – Bengal Spice )
• Bars ( Larabar , Clif Bar , ProBar , Ivan Bar , Luna , Kind , Bobo’s )
• Granola & Cereal ( Bear Naked )
• Powdered Milk ( Nido or Grace Coconut Milk Powder )
• Breakfast Drink Mix Packets ( Carnation )
• Nuts and Seeds ( Almonds , peanuts , etc.)
• Almond Butter Packets ( Justin’s )
• Peanut Butter Packets ( Justin’s )
• Instant Oatmeal ( Quaker )

We almost always have a cold lunch on the trail to avoid the time, effort, and fuel required for cooking. We commonly make tortilla or bagel sandwiches with hard meats and cheeses. Bagels and tortillas tend to hold up well on the trail and provide relatively dense calories. Hard meats and cheeses will easily last a few days, though they’re not great choices for hot weather trips.

Peanut butter, jelly, honey, and foil packets of tuna or chicken are also good sandwich fillers. With foil packets, we’ll mix up tuna or chicken with fast food condiment packs (mayo, mustard, etc.) and make tuna/chicken salad sandwiches.

If we’re still hungry after a sandwich, we munch on some snacks to round out lunch. Here’s a list of our go-to lunch choices with links to our favorites:

• Bagels or Tortillas ( Thomas Bagels , Mission Tortillas )
• Hard Meats – Salami, Summer Sausage, etc. ( Applegate )
• Hard Cheese – Parmesan, Romano, etc.
• Jelly or Honey ( Nature Nate’s )
• Tuna or Chicken in foil packets ( StarKist )
• Dried Pork Packets ( Meat Shredz )
• Small Condiment Packets – Mayo, Mustard, Relish, Hot Sauce, etc.
• Supplement with other snacks (more snack info below)

Freeze dried meal pouches ( Mountain House , MaryJanesFarm , Good To-Go , PackIt Gourmet , PEAK Refuel, etc.) are a convenient, lightweight, and tasty option for backpacking dinners. For some of our favorites, check out our Best Freeze Dried Backpacking Meals  list. When we’re on casual trips with friends, we like to pick a few of our favorites for dinner. Most freeze dried meals cost around $7-12 and feed two hikers, though your mileage may vary.

The main downside with freeze dried meals is they tend to be much more expensive than DIY options. If you’re on the trail a lot (thru-hiking, etc.), the cost of freeze dried meals will add up quickly. Any supermarket will have other “just add water” options (instant potatoes, ramen, etc.) that cook quickly and cost a fraction of the price . Here’s a list of our go-to dinner choices with links to our favorites:

• Freeze Dried Dinners (Some of our faves: Chicken and Dumplings , Biscuits and Gravy , Beef Stroganoff , Chili Mac , Thai Chicken Coconut Curry )
• Instant Mashed Potatoes ( Idahoan )
• Ramen ( Maruchan )
• Instant Soups
• Instant Mac & Cheese ( Annie’s )
• Pasta and Rice Sides ( Knorr )
• Chicken Packets ( StarKist )
• Tuna Packets ( StarKist )
• Dehydrated Vegetables ( Augason Farms )

Snacks are a critical part of any good trail diet. You’ll be burning a ton of calories on long hiking days, so eating a small snack every hour or two is a good way to keep your engine running. We always keep a few snacks in our hip belt pockets while we hike for easy access.

In hot weather, we try to avoid things that melt, like granola bars with an outer layer of chocolate. Trader Joe’s has some delicious and relatively affordable options for backpacking snacks. Here’s a list of our go-to trail snacks with links to our favorites:

• Dried Fruit ( Mango , Apple , etc.)
• Fruit Leather Strips ( Solely )
• Jerky ( Jack Link’s )
• Crackers ( Triscuits , Goldfish , Ritz , etc.)
• Candy ( Snickers , Peanut Butter M&Ms , Chocolate Almonds , etc.)
• Hydration mixes

Check out our list of the Best Energy Bars to take the guess work out of snack shopping for your next adventure

What’s in Our Camp Kitchen?

When we head out on backcountry trips, these are the items usually found in our packs. For more information on our favorite gear, check out the CleverHiker Backpacking Gear Guide and our Best Backpacking Stoves list.

• Stove System: JetBoil MiniMo
• Ultralight Stove: MSR Pocket Rocket 2 & BRS Stove
• 1-2 Person Cookpot: Snow Peak Mini Solo Cookset
• Group Cookpot: MSR Titan Kettle
• Spoon: Sea to Summit Alpha Light Long Spoon
• Cup: Snow Peak Titanium Single 450
• Food Storage: Ursack & BearVault BV500

These Dried Pulled Pork Packets ( Meat Shredz ) make excellent backcountry tacos, ramen, and more!

Critical Food Considerations

LEAVE NO TRACE – You love nature. That’s why you’re out there and that’s why you’re reading this post. So please, always pack out your trash and any food you don’t eat. Yes, truly following LNT rules includes packing out things like spent coffee grounds, orange rinds, and apple cores. Always scan your campsites and lunch spots before hiking on, and if you’re a true LNT rockstar, help pack out trash left behind by other backcountry travelers. Check out our LNT tutorial video for a quick refresher.

FOOD STORAGE – Proper food storage is incredibly important for protecting wildlife . For example, bears that learn to associate humans with food often need to be trapped and killed. So please, always store your food properly in the backcountry. We hesitate to even teach proper bear bagging techniques anymore, because most hikers don’t take the time to do it properly. And even if they do, really smart bears can still bring down a good bear hang. The safest bet for backcountry food storage is an Ursack or Bear Canister .

Bear Canisters are required in some areas, so make sure to check regulations well in advance of your trip

CALORIE INTAKE – Backpackers burn a lot of calories on the trail. On average, hikers usually burn between 3000-4000 calories per day, but thru-hikers hiking 20-30 mile days can easily burn 5000-6000 calories. It’s crucial to pack enough nutrients to give your body the energy it needs. This important calculation will also depend on your size, weight, age, and activity level.

WEIGHT – Bringing too much food is one of the most common beginner backpacking mistakes . And that’s understandable, who wants to risk going hungry in the woods? But carrying a bunch of unnecessary weight can quickly dampen spirits on backpacking trips, so a little experience and pre-trip calorie calculation will go a long way.

Freeze Dried Meals can be a great option when weight savings and convenience are your top priorities

CALORIC DENSITY – It’s important to consider how calorically dense your backpacking food choices are to keep your pack weight down. High-fat foods like olive oil, nuts , peanut butter , and chocolate tend to have high calorie-per-ounce ratios. On the other hand, fresh fruits and vegetables tend to have low calorie-per-ounce ratios. The ideal range is around 120-130 calories-per-ounce total.

FOOD VOLUME   – Certain foods will take up a lot more space in your pack than other foods containing the same amount of calories (think bagels vs almonds ). This isn’t a big deal on short trips, but on long journeys, and especially when bear canisters are required, you’ll want to pay close attention to how much space your food choices will take up.

NUTRITION – Good nutrition on the trail is just like eating right at home. You’ll want a balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates while getting as much fiber,  fruits , and vegetables into your diet as possible. It’s hard to eat really healthy on the trail because processed foods tend to be much more convenient, but finding a good balance is key. Also, we always load up on fresh, healthy foods the moment we’re back in town.

CONVENIENCE – After a long day of hiking, chances are you won’t want to prepare an elaborate meal. Nor will you want to clean up a bunch of dirty dishes when you’re done eating. So we recommend keeping it simple. For dinners, this means we almost always eat “just add water” meals, and for breakfast, we usually have hot coffee with bars and snacks.

Granola with toppings is a fast and easy trail breakfast – we like to eat it with powerdered coconut milk

WATER ACCESS – If your dinners require water for cooking, you’ll want to camp near a water source or make sure to pack plenty of water for a dry camp. If you’re backpacking in an area with scarce water, make sure to plan accordingly.

FUEL – Most backcountry meals require a small stove for cooking – check out our Best Backpacking Stoves list to see our favorites. Plan out how many times you’ll need to cook (including coffee and tea ) to calculate how much fuel to bring. Fuel usage rates vary depending on the stove model, pot size, elevation, and temperature, so knowing exactly how much fuel to bring will take some experience. On an average 5-day, two-person backpacking trip, we usually boil water about 10 times (once for morning coffee and once for dinner), and one small 100 g isobutane fuel canister is usually more than enough.

COST – You’ll usually pay for convenience with backpacking food. Freeze dried meals tend to cost around $7-12 each, but they’re also tasty, convenient, and don’t require any cleanup. We enjoy Mountain House , MaryJanesFarm , Packit Gourmet , Backpacker’s Pantry , PEAK Refuel , and Good To-Go when we’re not preparing our own meals.

VEGAN & VEGETARIAN MEALS – If you’re looking to spice up your animal-free backpacking food options, don’t miss our list of the Best Vegan and Vegetarian Backpacking Meals .

Need More Gear Advice?

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• 10 Best Hiking Shoes
• 10 Best Backpacking Tents
• 10 Best Sleeping Bags
• 10 Best Sleeping Pads
• 10 Best Backpacking Packs
• 10 Best Backpacking Stoves
• CleverHiker Top Gear Picks

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7-Day Camping Meal Plan

By: Author Diana Hansen

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

Categories Collections

Camping Recipes » Collections » 7-Day Camping Meal Plan

Need to plan camping food? This 7-Day Camping Meal Plan has everything you need for a week of eating at the campground. This camp menu includes a daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

How to Make a Camping Meal Plan

Planning a week-long camping trip is a lot of work! You must ensure you have all the necessary camping equipment, personal items, and everything to prepare food. All of this is in addition to planning where the trip will be and securing a reservation. 

That is overwhelming! To make your extended trip more enjoyable, we have created a camping menu with 28 easy recipes you will love. Get our Free Camping Packing List .

Notes about how this plan works:

• Cooking methods include campfire, pie iron, flattop griddle, and Dutch oven. If you do not have a Blackstone flattop, a griddle on a grate over the campfire can be used.
• Three of the days include Dutch oven meals for dinner and dessert. Dutch ovens can be stacked to cook these meals simultaneously. 
• Most recipes target four people but look at yields and adjust as necessary.
• A few recipes require pre-prep, so reading through each ahead is recommended.
• Alternative breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert ideas are listed below in the one-week meal plan.
• There are snack suggestions at the bottom of the post.

Essential Cooking Equipment

The following cooking essentials are needed for this menu but will come in handy on all camping trips.

• Campfire Grill Grate – A grate is used to grill food over an open flame. The metal grate is placed on top of a campfire, allowing the heat from the fire to cook the food evenly. We keep this folding grate packed in our camper to use at campgrounds that do not include one as part of the fire pit. Don’t forget grill accessories !
• Pie Iron – A cast iron pie iron is a cooking tool that consists of two metal plates hinged together. It primarily cooks sandwiches, pies, and other campfire treats over an open flame.
• Dutch Oven – A Dutch oven is a cast iron cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid and feet on the bottom to hold the pot over a heat source, mostly charcoal. Helpful accessories include a charcoal chimney , parchment liners , and a Dutch Oven Accessory Set .
• Foil Pans – We use shallow metal pans made of aluminum foil on a grate over the campfire to cook several of our recipes. We recommend lining pans with parchment paper to keep aluminum from leaching into the food and for easy cleanup.
• Roasting Forks – These tools are used for roasting food over an open flame. They consist of a long metal fork with a handle, allowing you to safely hold food to roast over a fire.
• Cast Iron Griddle – A griddle is a flattop surface for preparing food. It is placed on the grate above the campfire. A Blackstone Griddle serves the same purpose.

One-Week Camping Meal Plan

Let’s get into the 7-day camping meal plan. We have provided suggested and alternative recipes for a week of campground food for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, along with suggestions for snacks.

7 Day Camping Menu

Today's menu includes campfire and Dutch oven recipes. Stack two ovens to make dinner and dessert simultaneously.

Campfire Breakfast in a Bag

Cook eggs and bacon in a paper bag over the campfire.

Easy Campfire Pizza

Elevate a frozen pizza by cooking it over a campfire.

Dutch Oven Lasagna

Experience the comfort of homemade cooking with this one-pot lasagna.

German Chocolate Dump Cake

Dump the ingredients into the pot and create a tasty German chocolate cake.

Get creative on day two with your choice of favorite foods and toppings.

Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Make bacon cinnamon rolls over the campfire in a pie iron.

Picnic Table Charcuterie Board

Build a simple charcuterie board at the campsite using prepared finger foods. Shopping list included.

Grilled Totchos

Make nachos with tater tots covered with your choice of toppings.

Pudgy Pie Desserts

Everyone gets to make their favorite dessert flavor hand pie.

Mountain Man Breakfast

Create this hearty camping breakfast in the Dutch oven.

Grilled Mini Pizza Buns

Use buns to create simple pizzas over the campfire.

Dutch Oven Chicken & Rice

Layer ingredients to create this tasty Dutch oven chicken and rice.

Campfire S’mores Nachos

Grilled S'more Nachos are so easy to make over a campfire or on the grill.

French Toast Casserole

Create this French Toast Casserole in your Dutch Oven for a hearty camping breakfast.

S'more Hot Dogs

Combine two popular camping foods to make S'more Dogs, a unique dish that combines lunch and dessert. Give it a try!

Dutch Oven Mac & Cheese

Enjoy this hearty macaroni & cheese on your next camping trip.

Strawberry Lemon Cobbler

Fresh strawberries and cake mix create a delicious and easy Dutch oven dessert.

Breakfast Foil Packets

Breakfast foil packs are a simple, delicious camping meal with eggs, breakfast meat, and potatoes.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Make everyone's favorite sandwich in a pie iron or over the campfire on foil or a cast-iron griddle.

Dutch Oven Taco Casserole

This taco meal can be adapted with your choice of meat and beans. Turn the heat up or down with salsa or added toppings.

S'mores Charcuterie Board

Build an easy chocolate charcuterie board and let everyone create their own dessert. Shopping list included.

Giant Cinnamon Roll

Bake one HUGE Cinnamon Roll in your Dutch oven.

Pizza Pull-Apart Bread Bites

Create a delicious pan of pizza pull-apart bread over the campfire or on a grill.

Chicken with Pasta & Cheese

Make this amazing chicken & pasta over the campfire with your favorite pasta and sauce.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cake

Enjoy the taste of peanut butter cups in dessert form with this easy Dutch oven chocolate cake.

Griddle Breakfast

Create a diner breakfast on a griddle over the fire or on a Blackstone.

Campfire Pigs in a Blanket

Kids will enjoy making these pigs in a blanket on a stick over the campfire.

Campfire Grilled Nachos

Everyone gets to customize their own pan of nachos with this simple recipe made over the campfire or grill.

S'more Sandwiches

S'more sandwiches are a delicious twist on classic campfire s'mores made on the griddle for a handheld treat.

Alternate Recipes

Switch up this menu with the following camping meal ideas:

• Camping Breakfasts: Pancakes, Instant oatmeal packets, Donuts, Cereal, Yogurt & granola
• Lunch: Pizza Sandwiches , Quesadillas, Reubens , PB&J, Bacon Cheese Dogs
• Camping Main Dishes: Chili Cheese Fries , Grilled Fish, Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches , Sloppy Joes, Salisbury Steak
• Desserts: Grilled Cake & Berries , Turtle Lava Cake , Grilled peaches, Campfire Cookies , S’mores

Camping Snack Ideas

• Granola or protein bars
• Dried fruit
• Ants on a Log
• Cheese & crackers
• Fresh fruit
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Chips & salsa
• Veggies with hummus
• Rice cakes with nut butter

We hope your camping trip is more leisurely since we have done all the meal planning.

Check out more camping recipe collections:

• Weekend Camping Menus
• Easy Camping Lunches
• Blackstone Camping Recipes
• Dutch Oven Dessert Recipes

RV Living, Camp Cooking, and Family Adventure

25 Easy Make Ahead Camping Meals For A Stress-Free Camping Trip!

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If you’re planning a camping or backpacking trip , one of the best ways to make the most of your time is to prepare some make ahead camping meals.

That way, you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the great outdoors. 

Probably our favorite part of camping is the food. There is nothing like enjoying a meal around the campfire with family and friends. There is something very basic and primal about it that makes me feel good down to my roots.  I’m not the only one who feels that way right?  

Eating around the campfire, however does NOT mean that I want to spend all of my camping time cooking, and I also do not want to eat hot dogs endlessly (ugh) so I have discovered more than a few m ake-ahead meals for our camping trip .

These pre-made meal ideas are fantastic for saving time as well as space since you don’t have to lug along as many ingredients.

Camping food doesn’t have to mean sitting around eating beans out of a can. You’ll notice that I have included some different make ahead unique camping meals that you may not have thought to bring camping.

“This Asian Beef And Broccoli Camping Dutch Oven Recipe is perfect for making at home. Then, just write on the bag so you know what is in it and how to cook and serve at the campsite.” – Kim from Camping with Foodies”

Pre Made Camping Meals Are Awesome

Here are my top 5 ways to spend less camping time cooking. 

• Divvy up meals with other family members so each family/member cooks a meal.
• Chop all vegetables at home.
• Marinate and grill any food you can at home, or at least marinate at home if you want to grill at the campsite.
• Bring paper plates, bowls, etc and burn them after = easy clean up!
• Think of meals that can be pre-made at home, and then heated up at the campsite.

Make Ahead Camping Breakfast Suggestions

Here we have included some recipes that are simple, because who wants complicated on a camping trip ! 

Let’s start with an awesome make ahead camping meal for breakfast, which can include muffins (my kids are HUGE muffin lovers), overnight oats to fill-up those tummies before we go exploring.

1. Orange Strawberry Muffins

Orange Strawberry Muffins

“They are quick and easy to put together and great for breakfast, brunch or eating on the go .” – Bintu from Recipes From a Pantry

2. Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

“Ooey gooey, deliciously easy camping recipe you can make ahead and cook outdoors!” Mel from Adventures of Mel.

3. Hot Ham and Pineapple Sandwiches

Hot Ham and Pineapple Sandwiches

“These Hot Ham and Pineapple Campfire Sandwiches are a delicious and easy tin foil recipe . Plus cleanup is a breeze! ” Amber from Dessert Now Dinner Later  

4. Camping Breakfast Burritos

Camping Breakfast Burritos

“These easy campfire breakfast burritos are made ahead at home, then finished off at the campsite, on the grill, or in your oven.” Nicky from Little Family Adventure. A super breakfast recipe that will satisfy even the biggest appetites. 

5. Healthy Veggie Egg Bake

Healthy Veggie Egg Bake

“This breakfast meal prep casserole is so versatile because you can use any veggie you see fit, and it can be made ahead of time!” Rachel from Radical Strength. A hearty breakfast to start your day. 

Make Ahead Meals For RV Camping

On your next camping trip, try some of these delicious make ahead meal recipes that will please the whole family. These dishes are as versatile as they are yummy! There are dinner recipes as well as camping lunch recipes and many can be heated up on an open fire, or even a camping stove. 

Here are the recommended RV kitchen essentials we use on a daily basis that help make cooking in a tiny home a breeze.

6. Shrimp and Summer Veggie Foil Packs

Shrimp and Summer Veggie Foil Packs

“The best part, is that everything is cooked together in individual foil packs so clean up couldn’t be easier !” – Jaclyn from Cooking Classy 

7. Sausage, Potato and Green Beans

Sausage, Potato and Green Beans

“Sausage and veggies packed in easy foil packets. Perfect for camping or a quick dinner!  ”  Chungah from Damn Delicious

8. Pork Green Chile

Pork Green Chile

“I especially love it while camping. You can make a big batch of it, freeze it and reheat it on your campfire or Coleman stove ” Yvette from Muy Bueno Cookbook 

9. Great Grilled Chicken

Great Grilled Chicken

“They are perfect right off the grill and even delicious when reheated”  Rebecca from Strength and Sunshine

10. Slow Cooker Whiskey Beef Stew

Slow Cooker Whiskey Beef Stew

“Whether you are looking for a cozy meal on a cool day, a hearty meal that won’t heat up your kitchen on a hot day, an easy potluck dish or cooking for a crowd, this crock pot Whisky Beef Stew is a godsend . ” Terri from Food Meanderings

11. Make Ahead Mac n’Cheese

Make Ahead Mac n’Cheese

Now, as for storage: we’re going to cover these with foil because again: foil won’t get completely destroyed in a fire pit ” Lauren from Lauren’s Latest

12. Cheesy Buffalo Foil Packets

Cheesy Buffalo Foil Packets

“They are exploding with flavor, have a little kick of heat but still totally kid friendly , and the combo of buffalo + chicken + potatoes + broccoli + cheese = winner winner the best Chicken Foil Packet Dinner! ” Jen from Carlsbad Cravings. Pre make and heat- simple!

13. Cheesy Sausage Rolls

Cheesy Sausage Rolls

“When we first started to camp years ago, we’d eat very simple meals & a lot of canned foods, but now we realize there are options out there for more flavorful meals without having to sacrifice simplicity or the time in preparing those meals. ” from NW Thrifty Mom

These make a great lunch meal as they can be packed and carried as a camping snack on a hike or to a picnic. 

14. Coconut Curry Chicken

Coconut Curry Chicken

“You can absolutely make low carb chicken curry ahead of time! In fact, it’s similar to soups and chilis where it gets even better after a day in the fridge .” Maya from Wholesome Yum. Easy to heat up in your cast iron skillet. 

15. Easy Chicken Fajitas

Easy Chicken Fajitas

“It’s time for cook-outs, camp-outs, deck and barbecue parties with friends. It’s also time to simply enjoy easy-to prepare meals with your family around a picnic table. ” Elaine from Flavour and Savour

16. Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich

Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich

“The flavors in this sandwich are unique and so hard to resist !” Shadi from Unicorns in the Kitchen

17. Foil Pack Philly Cheesesteak

Foil Pack Philly Cheesesteak

“These philly cheesesteak dinner foil packs can be cooked over the campfire (talk about good food while camping!), cooked on the grill, or cooked in the oven.” Chelsea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. Melted cheesy goodness!

18. Asian Beef and Broccoli in the Dutch Oven

Asian Beef and Broccoli in the Dutch Oven

“This Asian Beef And Broccoli Camping Dutch Oven Recipe is perfect for making at home .  Then, just write on the bag so you know what is in it and how to cook and serve at the campsite.” Kim from Camping with Foodies

19. Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Slow Cooker Beef Chili

This slow cooker beef chili recipe is the perfect comfort food . This easy beef chili is slow simmered in smokey spices, fire roasted tomatoes, and has some heat!” Stephanie from Girl With the Iron Cast . The slow cooker is a campers best friend! 

20. Cajun Shrimp Camping Foil Packets

Cajun Shrimp Camping Foil Packets

“These Cajun shrimp packets are packed with bold flavors – an easy and healthy dinner ready in about 20 minutes” Stacey from The Soccer Mom. All the flavor with very little effort! 

21. Keto Low Carb Vegetable Soup

Keto Low Carb Vegetable Soup

“Homemade vegetable soup makes a regular appearance at our house in the winter. It’s warming, it’s filling, and it’s good for us .” Maya from Wholesome Yum

22. Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

Sweet Potato Turkey Chili

“This easy turkey c hilli recipe is just a tad spicy, hearty and super good-for-you with lots of veggies and heart-healthy spices ” Jennifer from In the Kids Kitchen. Gotta love those sweet potatoes! 

23. Pesto Pork Chop and Summer Vegetable Foil Dinners

Pesto Pork Chop and Summer Vegetable Foil Dinners

“ One of the summertime activities I loved doing when I was a kid was making foil dinners . They were a guaranteed dinner whenever I was on a camping trip.  I’m sure they’re a camping classic because they’re easy.” Katie from Good Life Eats.

24. Campfire Veggie Packets

Campfire Veggie Packets

“ Cooking over a campfire can be a little intimidating unless you have this recipe for veggie packets that turn out well every time. You can prepare your ingredients at home, or you can bring everything and assemble it on the site.” from Brit & Co.

25. BBQ Pulled Pork

BBQ Pulled Pork

“We like to cook a pork shoulder in the crockpot, shred it up and bring it with us for awesome BBQ pulled pork sandwiches around the campfire ” Grainne from The Roving Foleys

Make at Home, Heat on the Fire

There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing make ahead camping meals. First, it’s important to to choose recipes that can be easily reheated. So anything that can be made at home and heated up over a campfire is perfect for camping .  Think stews, casseroles, soups, grilled chicken,  slow cooker meals are all perfect for this.

Need help with prepping for your upcoming family camping trip? Check out  this article where we suggest what you should bring,  so you forget nothing!  We’ve all been there and done that, this checklist will ensure that doesn’t happen again!

With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy hassle-free meals that will make your camping trip with the whole family even more enjoyable.

Whether you are  cooking with a large camping  group , or a family of two, camping should be fun from start to finish. Even your kids will love getting involved.

 Ensuring that happens means doing a lot of prep in advance.  With  little bit of advance planning, you can create quick and easy meals that will feed the entire family, and stop you from spending all your time indoors cooking! 

In Conclusion…

Camping is a fun, affordable way to enjoy nature and spend time with fiends and family.

But, like most things in life, it’s more enjoyable when you don’t have to worry about the little things.

That’s where make ahead camping meals come in!

These recipes are simple to prepare, easy to transport, and will save you from having to deal with last minute dinner drama while you’re out in the wild.

One of my personal favorites is to make a big batch of hearty chili before we head out.  I simply cook the chili at home, then pack it into an insulated container.

When we get to our campsite, all I have to do is reheat the chili and add some pre-made cornbread or crackers on the side.

Another great make-ahead option is kabobs.  You can use chicken or beef.  I like to marinate them in advance, then thread them onto skewers.

They are perfect for the first night of your trip, all you need to do is heat them over an open fire.

We hope you enjoy this awesome list of make ahead camping food . If you are looking for some more ideas for camping recipes, check out this list of over 100 + Camping meals!    

Here are my go-to meals that I make on RV travel day .  These are simple meals that I can make ahead of time and heat up quickly once we get to our destination!

Throwing everything into one cooking utensil is my favorite way of cooking, if you agree, check out these amazing slow cooker recipes .

Camping Dessert Recipes ?  You know you want ’em, the best camping dessert recipes – go check them out here . Easy meal prepping and so much fun for your whole camping trip. 

Happy Camping!

Make Ahead Camping Meals

Grainne Foley

Grainne Foley grew up in Ireland and spent summers caravanning around Europe with her family. Now, as a wife and mother of 2, she spent 5 years traveling the USA as a full time RVing family. She is passionate about travel, and helping others who are considering the RV lifestyle. She has created dozens of helpful RVing checklists which are available throughout the website, and has curated hundreds of simple, flavorful meals for families on the go.

2 thoughts on “25 Easy Make Ahead Camping Meals For A Stress-Free Camping Trip!”

Great meals. We will be going camping in a few weeks. I will be having my kids each pick one of these meals and help them make it before we go. I can’t wait.

Great idea- get the kiddos involved.

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23 Easy Camping Meals to Make Family Trips a Breeze

Get outdoors and get fed!

The Spruce / Victoria Heydt

Looking for quick and easy camping meals for your next outdoor trip ? Campfire cooking is all about no-fuss meals that can be assembled quickly and don't take a long time—or a whole lot of pots and utensils. Browse our collection of recipes that work great for the campsite , and satisfy your craving to eat well when you are away from home. All of these recipes use just a single piece of cookware (whether that's a skillet , skewer, pot, grill pan, or foil packet), and many include components that can be prepared (or purchased) before you leave home, saving you time on your trip. You'll enjoy elevated family-style meals that taste delicious, without too much effort or clean-up needed.

French Toast and Sausage Roll-Ups

Diana Rattray

Greet the kids good morning with a camping breakfast of French toast and sausage roll-ups . The whole family will enjoy these fun and tasty breakfast treats of smoky, grilled breakfast sausage wrapped in a pillowy blanket of French toast. Make them in a single pan for a hearty, great-tasting way to start the day outdoors.

Esquites (Mexican Corn Off the Cob)

The Spruce/Kristina Vanni

Shuck some corn (or thaw frozen kernels) before you hit the road, and throw together this easy Mexican corn off-the-cob at the campsite. It cooks up in one pan, with queso fresco, lime, cilantro, and jalapeno peppers, for a South-of-the-border side dish that tastes just like the cheesy corn cobs sold at street food stands in Mexico.

Turkey Sloppy Joes

The Spruce/Diana Rattray

Ground turkey makes these kid-friendly sloppy Joes lower in fat than the kind made with beef. They cook up in one pan, for a leaner, looser, burger-style dinner, without the need to fire up the grill. Feel free to sneak some extra veggies into the saucy meat mixture to fool picky eaters (just chop them up finely). Serve on fluffy buns, with your favorite toppings .

Shrimp Boil Foil Packs

Wrap up a great family day with a celebratory, shrimp boil . All you need to make this classic, low-country boil are a handful of ingredients, aluminum foil, and a campfire or gas burner. It's easy to make, fun to eat, and loaded with plenty of down-home flavor. Serve it with bottled cocktail sauce , or go wild with a generous drizzle of melted butter.

Brochettes (Moroccan Chicken or Turkey Kebabs)

Brochettes may sound like a fancy restaurant meal, but they're a cinch to prep and cook on skewers . These flavorful, zesty kebabs are usually made with either chicken or turkey breast, but dark meat can be used if you prefer. Prep the skewers at home, then pack them into your backpack cooler for easy grilling at the campsite.

Easy Fried Fish Fillets

Fried fish is always a treat but tastes especially great when eaten outdoors with family and friends. Get your fish fry on with our easy recipe for lightly-battered fish fillets that cook up in minutes in a hot skillet. Serve them right out of the pan with lemon wedges, or prepared tartar sauce , for an easy meal that goes great with coleslaw.

Quick and Easy Creamy Coleslaw

A packaged shredded cabbage mixture makes it a snap to assemble a big bowl of coleslaw for serving with fish or grilled meats, or topping burgers and sloppy Joes. The simple, creamy dressing is made with mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed for a slaw with sweetness and tang.

Easy Skillet Chili Mac

Satisfy chili lovers along with macaroni and cheese fans with this campfire-ready mash-up of two family-favorite meals. It all cooks together in a single skillet, including the pasta, to make chow time (and clean-up) a breeze. With ground beef , tomatoes, beans, and cheddar cheese, it's a hearty meal that will hit the spot after a busy day of boating or hiking.

Korean Egg Sandwich

The Spruce / Diana Chistruga

If you believe mornings are better with a breakfast sandwich , this recipe was made for you. This Korean breakfast sandwich, sold by street vendors in cities, is commonly called  tost-u  (toast) or  gaeran tost-u  (egg toast). Eggs, cabbage, veggies, and a sweet dusting of brown sugar combine for a delicious and satisfying way to start the day. You can toast the bread on the grill and top with ketchup, if you like.

Easy Marinated Grilled Chicken Tenders

The Spruce / Rachel Riesgraf

These easy chicken tenders are marinated in  Caesar salad dressing , and then they're grilled to perfection. Serve the chicken breasts whole or slice into strips for an easy salad topper along with any extra dressing. Marinate the chicken in advance, so you can pop it onto the grill for quick cooking at dinnertime.

Seattle Hot Dogs

The Spruce/Leah Maroney

You don't have to travel to Washington state to enjoy Seattle hot dogs . A game day staple in the Emerald City, they are a delicious combo of hot dog and bagel that work great for camping lunches. You make them by splitting open hot dogs, for girdling and topping with sautéed onions, softened cream cheese, jalapeños , mustard, and optional hot sauce.

Campfire Smoked Tuna Dip

The Spruce/Todd Coleman

You don't technically need a campfire to make this delectable tuna dip snack , but it's definitely best done outdoors. Kids will love watching you perform the magic trick of "cooking" canned, oil-packed right in the can, with Greek yogurt and paprika to turn it into a dip. Plate it with crackers or veggie sticks to hold the family over until dinner.

Country Breakfast Skillet

The Spruce/Maxwell Cozzi

Whether you're camping, or waking up at home, this old-fashioned country breakfast skillet always hits the spot. It's a hearty, one-pan cook-up with all of the breakfast favorites, including eggs, potatoes , bacon, and cheese, plus chopped peppers and onion for savory flavor and color. Breakfast isn't just for the mornings, so make this for a fun dinner option.

Juicy Grilled Burgers

The Spruce / Ahlam Raffii

Even when you want convenient dinner foods, it's nice to know what your family is eating. That's why we recommend making your own burger patties to take on camping trips. Simply form these well-seasoned homemade burgers, and pack them between layers of waxed paper in your cooler before you hit the road. They cook up nice and juicy on the outdoor grill, just as you like them.

French Fries on the Grill With Cheese and Bacon

With a pouch of frozen fries, prepared bacon bits, American cheese, and a bit of butter, you've got the makings of a crave-worthy lunch , hearty side dish or snack. You'll use aluminum foil to create packets for the ingredients, which can then sit on the grill and steam to cheesy , potatoey perfection.

Easy Black Bean Salad

The Spruce / Stephanie Goldfinger

With protein-packed beans, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado in a zesty lime vinaigrette, this picnic-ready bean salad is a tasty vegetarian lunch that packs well for taking on family vacations. You can also enjoy it for a light vegetarian lunch or barbecue side dish , with no cooking required. You can use canned or frozen corn in place of the cobs for easy prep.

Vegan Blackened Grilled Tofu

The Spruce / Julia Hartbeck

Blackened seasoning is a fragrant and flavorful  seasoning blend  used on all sorts of proteins to give the outside a dark and charred crust when cooking in a cast-iron skillet.  Tofu gets a level up with a potent mixture of spices that will make the whole family dance. It happens all in one pan, simplifying both prep and clean-up when you're not in your own kitchen.

Anticuchos de Carne

The Spruce/Nita West

Satisfy a carnivore craving with these tasty grilled beef skewers that are great for a family barbecue or camping holiday. Place the meat in the delicious, Peruvian-style marinade before you leave home, for meat that is nicely tenderized and infused with massive flavor by the time you thread it onto skewers, and place it on the grill for cooking.

Quick and Easy One-Pot Spaghetti Dinner

Does the thought of skipping pasta night make you sad? We've got you covered with this clever, one-pot spaghetti dinner that feeds a family, and is easy to pull off even when you're roughing it. Kids and adults alike will love the meaty sauce, which uses ground beef and convenient store-bought spaghetti sauce (or your own marinara sauce from home).

Black Bean and Mango Salad

​The Spruce Eats / Emily Hawkes

Black beans and  mangoes  combine with fresh bell pepper, jalapeño peppers, and cilantro in this simple vegetarian, vegan, high-protein, bean salad . This vegan salad requires few ingredients making prep 10 minutes or less.

Vegetarian Boston Baked Beans With Molasses

Homemade vegetarian baked beans are a great and traditional addition to a picnic, outdoor vegetarian or vegan barbecue, or to bring to any summer potluck. Plus, this recipe is easy to make in large quantities and just about everybody will love these sweet baked beans, even kids! Turn this one pot dinner into a meat lover's party by stirring in pulled pork or chicken, if desired.

Grilled Brown Sugar Bananas

Grilled bananas  are a delicious side dish to accompany savory foods and makes an excellent and easy dessert. Because of their thick and firm texture, bananas are a great fruit to grill when barely ripe, so for this recipe choose firm yellow bananas and not too mature ones, as the heat will cook them to mush.

Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

The Spruce Eats / Pete Scherer

Rice Krispie Treats are a classic dessert that require one pot, little cooking, and some patience. With updated ingredients and a couple of simple tweaks, this recipe for brown butter rice krispie treats restores that bygone “wow!” Make sure you have a baking dish or cake pan along to set the treats for later.

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37 Easy Camping Meals for Stress-Free Cooking

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Are you searching for easy camping meals for your next outdoor adventure? I’ve got you covered!

After three decades of camping, whether it was solo adventures, quality time with my husband, or hanging with my family, one thing has remained constant: the importance of simple and stress-free cooking.

As any seasoned camper knows, preparing meals in the great outdoors can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Quick, reliable, and easy-to-prepare meals not only save time but also allow us to enjoy our time with friends and family without being tethered to the campfire.

In this blog post, I’m excited to present a curated collection of easy car camping meals, including some fantastic recipes shared by fellow bloggers.

So you can rest assured these recipes are tried, tested, and guaranteed to keep hunger at bay while ensuring a fantastic camping experience. Let’s get cooking!

Easy Camping Meals – Breakfast

Alright, listen up fellow campers! Easy camping breakfast recipes are a lifesaver because they let you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying relaxing in nature.

No complicated steps or fancy ingredients are needed – just quick, tasty fuel to kickstart your adventurous day! There are easy camping meals for the family that will make everyone happy!

1. Cinnamon Monkey Bread Foil Packets

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this quick and super easy foil packet breakfast. Your family will love this yummy gooey treat on any morning at camp.

Simply cut up cinnamon rolls, toss them in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, and grill them over a campfire or on the grill.

Top with icing for a delicious and fuss-free breakfast, leaving you with an enjoyable meal and easy cleanup.

2. Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Skillet

You’ll love indulging in the ultimate classic of biscuits and gravy, a delightful all-in-one dish featuring sausage, gravy, eggs, cheese, and flaky biscuits.

You can prepare this hearty breakfast effortlessly over a campfire, stovetop, or grill!

This recipe’s versatility and use of a cast iron skillet make it a favorite, allowing you to cook the sausage, make the gravy, and complete the dish in the oven for a delicious and satisfying breakfast experience.

3. Strawberry Overnight Oats

Say hello to stress-free mornings and delightful camping eats with these family-approved Strawberry Overnight Oats!

This easy make-ahead breakfast or brunch is a game-changer, and you probably have all the simple ingredients on hand.

Simply combine everything, refrigerate or store in a cooler, and voilà – you’ll have a jar of heavenly goodness waiting for you the next day.

These overnight oats not only offer the convenience of meal prepping but also treat your taste buds to the flavors of strawberry shortcake.

4. Sweet Eggy Bread

This simple and delicious sweet eggy bread is like French toast’s familiar cousin, not fancy but oh-so-satisfying. This budget-friendly, quick, and filling breakfast will delight your taste buds.

All you need to know is that it’s good, and you’ll want to make it again and again!

5. High Protein Overnight Oats with Coconut Milk

Discover the secret to crafting a delicious camping breakfast or snack with this high-protein overnight oatmeal recipe made with coconut milk. Just stick them in the cooler at home!

No need for layers of creamy quick-cooking oats and smoothies – this grab-and-go delight is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Versatile and kid-approved, these overnight oats will put an end to missing breakfast due to not having time to cook while adventuring.

6. Gluten-Free French Toast Kabobs

Say goodbye to boring camp breakfasts and hello to the ultimate morning delight – French toast on a stick! YES!

Because let’s be honest, anything on a stick is way more fun, and these gluten-free grilled French toast skewers take breakfast to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Whether you’re craving a delightful summer treat or need a clever way to get the kids excited about breakfast, these kabobs are the answer to all your camping breakfast dreams!

7. Healthy Breakfast Hash with Kale, Sausage, and Apple

Enjoy a super delicious and healthy breakfast with this hash, a fast and easy recipe using only five main ingredients! Perfect for camping trips, this one-pan meal is a great way to incorporate veggies into your day.

Whether made over the campfire or camp stove, it offers a delightfully fresh and unique flavor, and you can even add a fried egg for extra protein.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be turned into a vegan breakfast hash by using plant-based sausage.

8. Skillet Breakfast Sausage

Kickstart your camping mornings with these mouthwatering homemade skillet breakfast sausage patties! Pair them with simple scrambled or fried eggs and a fruit salad.

Whether you’re enjoying a lazy morning at the campsite or preparing make-ahead meals for your outdoor adventures, these flavorful patties cooked in a cast iron skillet will never disappoint.

9. Loaded Breakfast Biscuits

These breakfast biscuits are full of flavor and perfect for camping — they are a great make-ahead breakfast on busy mornings with big plans outdoors.

Before you leave on your trip simply cook the bacon until crisp and scramble the eggs, then assemble the biscuits with the ingredients and cheese for a filling and satisfying baked breakfast treat.

10. Blackstone Folded Breakfast Quesadillas

These quesadillas offer endless variations, and this breakfast version with bacon and ground breakfast sausage is both filling and delicious.

When you’re camping and enjoying a leisurely Sunday morning, these folded quesadillas are sure to become a favorite.

11. Keto Egg Muffins

These keto egg muffins are the perfect on-the-go camping breakfast option for busy mornings adventuring.

Made with eggs, bacon, cheese, and vegetables, they’re a quick and delicious choice that’s packed with protein and low in carbs.

Enjoy a healthy and satisfying breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning long!

12. Greek Yogurt and Fruit Salad

Make a refreshing fruit salad with yogurt! Simply pack an assortment of any fresh fruits you like such as juicy melon, papaya, mixed berries, bananas, and pineapple chunks.

Once you’re at the campsite, combine the fruits in a large bowl and serve alongside individual portions of creamy Greek yogurt.

For an extra nutritious boost, consider adding optional toppings like chia seeds and hemp seeds. This easy and protein-packed breakfast will keep you fueled for all your camping adventures!

13. Homemade Instant Oats

Prepare custom flavors of homemade instant oatmeal at home and enjoy a no-brainer breakfast! Think of this as a dump-and-stir recipe that only requires hot water. A camping stove is perfect for boiling water in no time.

Simply add the instant oats to a bowl and add boiling water. Cover and let the oats sit for 5 minutes and then enjoy!

Easy Camping Meals for Lunch

When hunger strikes and everyone rushes back to the campsite after a thrilling adventure, there’s no time for fuss!

That’s why I’ve curated a selection of fast and easy camping lunch recipes that will keep everyone happily fed in no time. Add these to your camping food menu for the week!

From quick-fix sandwiches to hassle-free salads, these recipes are designed to satisfy your appetite and let you focus on what truly matters – a content and full belly!

14. Sausage and Onion Sandwich

Try this ultimate brunch or lunch delight at camp: the classic British sausage sandwich!

Simple yet mind-blowingly tasty when done right, this recipe leaves no stone unturned – from selecting the perfect bread to mastering the art of cooking sausages.

And don’t even get us started on the sauce debate! Get ready to savor every mouthful you learn the secrets to crafting a sausage sandwich that will leave you craving more.

15. Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

This sandwich is dreamy especially if you’ve got kids! Make a big batch of pimento cheese before you leave for your camping trip.

Pack it up along with a loaf of sandwich bread and some optional toppings. Boom! You’ve got easy and delicious lunches all weekend! There won’t be any leftovers.

16. Smoked Vegan Tempeh BLT Sandwich

Looking to cut your meat intake or are you traveling with vegans? This delicious smoked tempeh BLT tastes exactly like the real thing!

Get your bacon fix by eating this great vegan alternative to the classic bacon sandwich. Ready in just 10 minutes, this meal contains 15 grams of protein per serving, which is a hefty amount for a meatless meal!

17. Granola Crunch Apple-Peanut Butter Sandwich Wraps

No cooking is needed at all! These delicious wraps are full of nutrition to keep you powered up, but they’re a snap to make at home before your trip, or at your campsite!

Quick and adaptable, these crunchy wraps are packed with nutrient-rich fruits, whole grains, and protein, providing a delightful twist to your PB&J routine.

18. Chili Oil Ramen

This easy and budget-friendly dish will be a hit around the campfire, ready in just 15 minutes.

With a spicy kick from the flavorful oil, it’s the ideal meal for a quick and delicious camping lunch, requiring little to no preparation. Say hello to a satisfying 15-minute camping delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

19. Open-Faced Tomato Sandwich

With no cooking a just a few very basic ingredients, this is a super fast, super easy camp lunch! It’s flavorful, fresh, and truly delicious!

Make this when summer tomatoes are at their prime for the best flavor. Nothing beats that burst of juicy goodness in every bite.

20. Healthy Loaded Tuna Salad

This is a healthier tuna salad loaded with crunchy celery, creamy avocado, basil, capers, kalamata olives, pepperoncini peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is it can be rolled up in a tortilla wrap, scooped in colorful bell pepper bowls, or put inside lettuce leaves for low-carb lunches! Definitely give this one a try.

21. Easy Chicken Shawarma

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is marinated in a delicious oriental mixture of spices, then grilled until perfectly cooked. Cook the chicken beforehand for easy prep at the campsite.

Loaded with flavor, serve chicken shawarma in a wrap, topped with yogurt sauce, and your favorite vegetables for the best culinary experience.

22. Cucumber Salad

Indulge in the timeless charm of this beloved classic cucumber salad, boasting a delightful homemade vinegar dressing and aromatic fresh dill.

Whenever the craving for gyros strikes, the tantalizing flavors of this tzatziki salad perfectly capture the essence of those delightful Mediterranean delights, making it an irresistible addition to any camping lunch feast.

23. Hummus Sandwich

I have been making this sandwich since I was a teenager and now my kids love it too! Start by choosing your favorite bread. Spread a generous layer of creamy hummus on one slice.

Then, add a tangy twist by slathering yellow mustard on the other slice. Trust me on this!

Layer a slice or two of cheddar cheese and lettuce, add a handful of fresh sprouts for a delightful crunch, and top it off with juicy tomato, red onion, and refreshing cucumber slices.

Press the slices together to create a mouthwatering, flavor-packed hummus sandwich that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying camping lunch.

Easy Camping Meals for Dinner

As the sun sets and the campfire crackles, there’s no better way to end a day of outdoor exploration than with a hearty and hassle-free camping dinner. After a long day of hiking these recipes will make your belly happy!

My collection of easy camping dinner ideas is a camper’s dream come true! From one-pot wonders to simple grilling delights, these recipes will fill your bellies and warm your hearts, leaving you with more time to share stories under the stars.

Follow your dinner with a make ahead dessert for camping or try your hand at Dutch oven desserts for camping to complete your day with a sweet treat!

24. Authentic Chicago Style Hot Dogs

Chicago-style hot dogs have achieved legendary status for a reason! The irresistible combination of Vienna frankfurters, neon green relish, poppy seed buns, and pickled green tomatoes creates a truly unique and mouthwatering experience.

From mustard (never ketchup), sliced tomatoes, and diced onions to the finishing touch of a pickle spear, spicy sport peppers, and a sprinkle of celery salt, each bite is like savoring a work of art. Get ready to impress any hot dog enthusiast!

25. Easy Chicken Fajita Foil Packets

Whether you cook these on the grill or over the campfire, the whole family will fall in love with these flavorful fajitas. Plus, they’re suitable for low-carb, gluten-free, keto, and paleo diets.

Foil packets make for easy camping dinners that everyone will love!

With minimal prep and just 25 minutes of cooking time, these easy-to-make foil packets, garnished with lime and cilantro, serve up a complete and scrumptious meal that will leave you wanting more!

26. Grilled Marinated Kabobs

Make a simple and delicious marinade using the following ingredients: 1/4 olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, fresh herbs, 1 tsp sea salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.

Prepare the fresh vegetables: cut red peppers, zucchini, and onion into 1-2″ chunks. You can also add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms if you like. Toss the veggies in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.

If you want to add chicken to the kabobs, cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into chunks and marinate them in a separate bowl with the same marinade. Thread the marinated veggies and chicken onto skewers, alternating between the vegetables and chicken.

Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat and grill the kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

27. Shrimp Boil Packets

Foil packets are a must-have for summer camping meals, and these shrimp packets are no exception!

With shrimp, potatoes, onions, and corn all together in a convenient foil packet, it’s an easy and quick dish to cook on the grill or over a fire.

The best part? You can prepare them in advance, making them perfect for camping trips or backyard cookouts, and they require minimal clean-up.

The combination of ingredients cooking and steaming together over the fire creates an incredibly tasty and satisfying meal that you’ll absolutely love – it’s a winner for sure!

28. Savory Veggie Cakes with Leeks

To compliment any camping dinner main dish, these savory vegan veggie cakes feature sweet and tender leeks. With just 4 ingredients and some seasoning, these gluten-free fritters are incredibly easy to make and full of flavor.

Leeks, tenderized in olive oil, add a deliciously sweet, mild-onion-like taste that makes them the star of the dish. Whether you serve them as a side dish or an appetizer, these crispy fritters are a versatile and delightful addition to any camping menu.

29. One Pot Vegan Minestrone Soup

This delicious and comforting one-pot vegan minestrone soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. Make it for an easy camping dinner to serve a crowd.

Bring a loaf of crusty bread or a green salad to serve alongside it. This will be a warming meal for all. In cooler weather, tasty camping soup recipes can turn everyone’s mood around!

30. Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

This super yummy crunchy broccoli salad has been made in my family since before I could remember. It is hands down my favorite make-ahead salad to serve with dinner when camping.

Prep all the ingredients at home in only fifteen minutes and assemble it at camp in a large bowl. Leftovers keep in the cooler for a couple of days too!

31. Beef Quesadillas

Cheesy, crispy, and loaded with delicious flavor, this beef quesadilla is one of the easiest recipes that you can make for a quick lunch or a campfire dinner.

Customize the filling if you wish or change out the protein for whatever you like! Enjoy a simple comforting dinner that was a breeze to make.

32. BBQ Chicken Foil Packets

These foil packets are filled with juicy chicken and vibrant veggies slathered in BBQ sauce.

Whether you cook them on the grill or on the camp stove, these bundles of BBQ’d goodness are the epitome of a fun, delicious, and easy meal that’s perfect for camping.

You’ll love how they offer a balanced meal in one, easy cleanup with no mess, and the lip-smacking BBQ flavor that infuses the veggies and chicken, making it a fantastic summer treat for any camping adventure!

33. Cajun Grilled Cod in Foil

This cajun grilled cod in foil is sure to impress and satisfy everyone! It is ready in 15 minutes with just 5 ingredients, perfect for any outside activity!

This tender white fish perfectly complements Cajun spices. Serve it alongside a green salad for a healthy camping dinner recipe that everyone will love.

34. Finger-Licking Veggie Fajitas

These easy veggie fajitas are perfect for camping. Make them in under 30 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients and one pan.

Loved by both meat-lovers and the whole family, the portobello mushrooms offer a savory, meaty texture as a fantastic meat substitute.

With a delicious mix of peppers, onions, quick homemade guacamole, black beans, and your favorite Mexican toppings, these fajitas are an absolute treat!

35. Hobo Dinner Foil Packets

Enjoy the delectable flavors of these hobo dinners, a filling and savory dinner recipe. Simply place all the ingredients into foil and grill for a convenient and tasty meal.

Packed with seasoned beef, vegetables, and cheese, this dish promises a fun dining experience.

They offer a mouthwatering combination of seasoned beef, vegetables, and cheese, making them a perfect and hassle-free dinner option.

36. Bacon Ranch Foil Wrapped Potatoes

These bacon ranch potatoes are a quick and delicious side dish, loaded with bacon, onions, peppers, and melted cheese.

Simply wrap them in foil and toss them on the grill for an easy 30-minute cooking time.

They are one of the easiest side dishes and the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a crowd or camping, uses simple ingredients and clean-up is a breeze!

37. Honey Dijon Chicken Foil Packet

Whip up these fantastic Honey Dijon Chicken Foil Packets on your camping grill for an effortless and delightful 30-minute meal.

Prepped ahead of time, each packet brims with juicy chicken breasts, vibrant seasonal vegetables, and a mouthwatering honey dijon sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. It’s a campfire feast made convenient and colorful.

Easy Camping Meals: The Basics

Maybe you don’t feel like doing much more than boiling, grilling, pouring, and mixing ingredients! In that case, here is a trusty list of some favorite no-fuss camping meals:

• Ramen : Just boil water to cook the ramen noodles, and you’ve got a warm, comforting meal. Add in beef jerky or an egg for some protein!
• Boxed Mac and Cheese : A camping classic, easy to prepare over a camp stove.
• Canned Chili : Heat it up and serve with crackers or cornbread.
• Precooked Sausages : Grill them over the fire for a smoky flavor.
• Breakfast Sandwich : Fried eggs, English muffins, cheese, and butter…that’s it!
• Canned Stew : A hearty meal and filling, perfect for a chilly night.
• Pancake Mix : “Just add water” versions make breakfast a breeze.
• Couscous : Cooks quickly and can be mixed with canned veggies or meat.
• Prepackaged Pasta Sides : There are many varieties available. Just boil, mix in seasoning, and enjoy.
• Grillable Veggie Burgers : Perfect for a quick and meatless option.
• Tortillas with Peanut Butter and Jelly : No cooking needed, simple and satisfying.
• Canned Baked Beans : Heat them up for a classic campfire side dish.
• Instant Mashed Potatoes : Add hot water, and you’ve got a comforting side.
• Dehydrated or Freeze-Dried Meals : Convenient and lightweight, just add hot water.

The Wrap Up: Easy Camping Meals

Easy camping recipes can turn your outdoor adventures into a delicious and stress-free experience. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes right at your campsite.

From foil-wrapped dinners to one-pot wonders and grilled favorites, these recipes offer convenience without compromising on taste. You’ll love these new favorite ways to prep meals when camping!

Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire or going on a hiking expedition, these easy camping meals ensure you’ll stay energized and satisfied throughout your trip.

So, pack your camping gear, gather around the open fire, and indulge in these fuss-free and delightful meals under the stars! Happy camping and bon appétit!

Read More…

• Korean Recipes for Camping
• Can You Take Bacon Backpacking?
• Camping Safety Tips
• The Ultimate Guide to the BEST Cheeses for Backpacking
• The Complete 3-5 Day Backpacking Gear List
• Dehydrated Hummus for Backpacking
• What is the Difference Between Backpacking and Hiking?
• Day Hike Food List: Snacks, Lunches, and Pre-Hike Advice

Heather Kasvinsky is an accomplished food enthusiast and outdoor adventurist, known for her expertise in all things culinary, including camping and backpacking food. As the founder of This Noshtalgic Life, she has gained a loyal following of readers from around the world who look to her for inspiration and guidance in their own food and travel journeys. Heather's love for exploring the great outdoors with her family is evident in their regular trips to an off-grid cabin in Alaska, while Vermont serves as their home base.

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5 Day Camping Meal Plan for Families

We have a large family (four kids and two adults). We also enjoy camping and we also enjoy saving money.

Recently we went on a long trip out west. We were five days into our trip before we bought our first meal outside of what we packed. This helps save money AND makes life easier so you’re not scrambling to find things to buy when you’re setting up campsites and getting established.

I wanted to share with you our meal plan in case it might be helpful for your camping trip. Below you will find tips for meal planning for camping and a 5 Day Camping Meal Plan. Enjoy!

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Tips for Camping Meal Plans

Here are a few tips for meal planning your camping trips that I hope you will find useful!

• Make food ahead of time . This is my TOP meal planning tip. Anything you can cook, prep, or prepare ahead of time will save you a load of time on your camping trip. You can also freeze things like muffins, soups, and meat so you can heat them up and eat them later.
• Prepare and bring foods you’ll actually want to eat . I highly recommend bringing foods your family will enjoy. Don’t use your camping trip as a place to completely change your diet. If you don’t like eating it you won’t want to get it out and feed everyone after you’ve gone through all the work tasks of setting up a camp.
• Bring some treats along . Camping is a lot of work. Bring little food treats along that you can enjoy as a reward for all that work!
• Pack extra snacks . You’re going to be hungrier when you’re camping. I was constantly hungry when were camping and it’s no wonder. We were setting up our camp, hauling things in and out of our van, and going on long hikes. Snacks are a blessing and they help keep kids happy when they have to wait between meals.
• Some of our favorite freeze-dried meals are:

Backpaker’s Pantry’s 3 Sisters Stew (a good vegetarian option)

Mountain House Buffalo Style Chicken and Mac & Cheese

Chicken Fried Rice from Mountain House

• Adjust meal plan for driving days. Depending on what type of camping you’re doing, you may have long days of driving before you reach your destination. Our out west trip involved many days of driving with days-long-stops in between. I chose the easiest meals for when we were driving and saved the harder meals for when we had a dedicated camp spot.
• Use fresh produce first . Fresh produce won’t last a long time on your camping trip so try to plan meals that involve fresh produce to be eaten earlier on the trip (or after a grocery stop). I made rice and vegetables the first night of our camping trip so they wouldn’t go bad. We also made a buffalo chicken salad one night directly after we bought groceries which didn’t give the lettuce time to wilt.
• We have a Coleman 2-burner propane stove that we really liked. It doesn’t take up too much space and it’s not overly heavy. The only thing we don’t love about it is that you have to use a lighter to light it. It’s budget-friendly and did everything we needed it to do.

• Use a good cooler. There are some coolers that simply keep food colder longer and require fewer ice fill-ups. We really like our Otterbox cooler as it keeps things cold for a long time. We did have to add extra ice along our trip, but we were happy with how cold it was and how much ice remained between fill-ups. RTIC coolers and Yeti coolers are also good options.

These options are a tad pricy compared to your average Igloo cooler, but I do think they’re worth the investment for longer camping trips.

Day 1 Camping Meal Plan

• Breakfast : Chocolate chip muffins (made ahead of time and freeze)
• Lunch: Pepperoni rolls made ahead of time and frozen (you can use our dough recipe here for making pepperoni rolls).
• Dinner : Cut up vegetables and rice sauteed on a camp stove or over the fire (make the rice ahead of time and store in the cooler)

Day 2: Camping Meal Plan

• Breakfast: Cinnamon rolls. I made these ahead of time and froze them in plastic Tupperware in the freezer and then put them in my cooler when we left.
• Lunch: Favorite fruit, flat tortillas with lunch meat or peanut butter and jelly, and chips
• Dinner: Chicken tacos (prepare chicken ahead of time and freeze. Toppings can also be prepared ahead of time) Chicken can be heated up on the camp stove or over a fire in a cast iron skillet .

Day 3: Camping Meal Plan

• Breakfast : Bacon, eggs, and rice (or toast)
• Lunch: Soup that has been prepared and frozen ahead of time (heated over a camp stove or in a cast iron pot over a fire)
• Dinner: Freeze-dried meal . There are a TON of freeze-dried-meal options and though they are a tad pricey, they can be so helpful when you’re trying to make a quick hot meal for your family. 3 freeze-dried meals generally could feed two adults and four children in our family.

Day 4: Camping Meal Plan

• Breakfast: Breakfast burritos cooked on a cast iron skillet (add favorite fillings)
• Dinner: Salmon patties made from salmon pouches and buttered noodles (can add favorite vegetables to this meal. We fried up some onions to go on top).

Day 5: Camping Meal Plan

• Breakfast: Pancakes
• Lunch: Grilled cheese and tomato soup
• Dinner: Hotdogs, s’mores, mountain pies. Can’t go wrong with classic camp foods that everyone loves.

What Would You Add to Your 5 Day Camping Meal Plan?

I love hearing about other people’s camping meal plan ideas as well. What are your camping favorites? Let me know about them in the comments below!

For more ideas about camping, check out our 22 Tips for Van Camping With Kids .

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35+ Easy Make Ahead Camping Meals The Whole Family Will Love

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

Heading out on a family camping adventure and want to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about mealtime headaches? I’ve got you covered, with our guide to easy, make-ahead camping meals that the whole family can enjoy (and will actually eat).

For me, nothing beats heading out in nature on a camping trip to reconnect with my kids, and get out of the day to day routine. I’ve been taking our youngest camping since she was a toddler, and my step kids since they were tweens.

But I have a few rules for meals; they have to be affordable, easy to prep & clean up and delicious to eat. Because I’d rather spend my time doing fun outdoor activities with my family, than spending my whole time on kitchen duty.

Which is why I’ve come up with this pre-made camping meals recipe list. So you too can prepare more breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks and desserts at home, and just focus on fun & making memories, not food, when you’re at your campsite.

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Simple, Family Friendly Pre-Made Camping Meal Recipes

Now it’s mostly just Miss S and I doing our yearly mother-daughter camping trips (as Derek really isn’t into camping & the older kids are adults off on their own adventures). Which means I don’t want to spend my whole time taking care of all the details.

As Miss S is older she can help out a lot more, but there’s still always a lot for me to organize.

Which is why I love and bring mostly pre-made camping meals on our trips. Plus plan our trips with our camping planner , so I don’t forget anything.

Make Ahead Camping Breakfast Recipes

1. Fruit & Yogurt Parfaits

Fruit & yogurt parfaits are a camping staple in our family, as they’re so versatile and easy to make.

We just make the granola & berry sauce ahead of time, and usually put them together onsite in mason jars. But you could also put them together ahead of time at home.

Use whatever berries or fruit you prefer, and you can even buy granola if you don’t have time to make your own.

2. Sausage & Green Chile Breakfast Burrito

Nothing says breakfast like a good breakfast burrito.

Each burrito is packed with a hearty blend of savoury pork sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, tender diced potatoes, and cheese, all brought together with the vibrant kick of green chiles.

I like to freeze them ahead of time in tinfoil, and then we’re stocked for filling camping breakfasts. Just reheat in a campfire or a pan, once thawed.

3. Homemade Granola

We love homemade granola for camping breakfasts, or snacks. Just add milk or yogurt and you’re good to start your day’s activities.

This one I like because there’s date paste for sweetness, nuts & added egg white for a little more protein and it has a crispy, crunchy and chunky texture, even without oats. Super satisfying.

4. Breakfast Croissant Ring

This Breakfast Croissant Ring is as tasty as it is quick to make.

Just wrap pre-bought crescent dough around bacon, egg and cheese, and bake ahead of time at home.

Then reheat in tinfoil over a campfire or cast iron pan at your campsite. Or prep ahead of time and cook in tinfoil or a dutch oven onsite. Check out more of our favourite dutch oven camping breakfast recipes.

5. Sausage & Egg Breakfast Sandwiches

Sausage & Egg Breakfast Sandwiches, that are freezer friendly and have a potato patty for extra goodness are the best camping breakfast idea.

So hearty, they keep my family full for hours, which is handy on busy outdoor days.

Customize by trying out different cheeses, adding tomatoes (when reheating) or pesto sauce, or removing / substituting ingredients you don’t like.

6. Sausage and Veggie Foil Packs

Grab this hearty sausage and veggie foil pack camping meal for those cool mornings. Super flavourful and delicious any time of day really.

Made with seasoned sausage, potatoes, and your fav veggies, just cook in your oven or grill at home, then reheat at your campsite. Or prep ahead in the tinfoil, and cook over the coals within the first couple of days.

Foil packet recipes make the best camping meals.

7. Easy Baked Scrambled Eggs For A Crowd

If you know you’ll be making breakfast for a crowd while camping, then these baked scrambled eggs will save you a ton of time.

Just store in a ziploc or container, and pull out to add to breakfast sandwiches, croissants, or with toast & bacon at your campsite. You’ll have the hungry hoards fed in no time, I guarantee!

🏕️ Check out more of our favourite family camping breakfast recipes here.

Tasty Make Ahead Camping Snacks

I think snacks are an essential part of any camping trip. I swear my kids could just exist on camping snacks, and some days they do, especially when we are out and about exploring the outdoors.

8. Pretzel Dogs

Who says hot dogs just have to be cooked on a stick? These hot dogs are a fun take on pretzels, and are wrapped in pastry & topped in chunky salt for a buttery, crispy snack.

They freeze well, so can be easily reheated while camping. While there’s a recipe for the dough included in the recipe, I often just buy pre-made pastry at the grocery store if I’m short on time.

9. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

Chocolate peanut butter balls will be a hit for snack time, with the kids and adults. They taste like chocolate truffles, only they’re healthier.

I like to roll our protein balls in coconut, rather than cocoa for kids, as it’s slightly less messy.

This recipe also happens to be vegan, gluten & dairy free, so suitable for people with food preferences or sensitivities.

10. Dark Chocolate Cherry Trail Mix

Trail mix is the perfect hiking and camping snack and this Dark Cherry Trail Mix hits the spot.

The Protein & fat from the nuts, combined with the salt & sweet make this a filling, satisfying & portable snack.

I’ve been known to add gummy bears & smarties to my kids trail mix to make this even more kid friendly.

11. Pumpkin, Potato Cutlets

Pumpkin Aloo cutlets are fried gems bursting with flavour. Made with mashed potato, grated pumpkin, green chiles and Indian spices. they’re a crunchy, savoury, slightly spicy snack treat.

A great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables, or to celebrate fall camping.

⭐️ Grab more travel snack ideas here

12. Mini Banana Muffins

Mini muffins are the ultimate in make ahead camping snacks for kids.

Plus when you combine the classic taste of banana & chocolate chips it gives that comforting taste of home.

I like to make a big batch when I have a bit of time, freeze them, and then pull them out as needed.

13. Easy Pesto Pinwheels

These savoury puff pastry pesto pinwheels are a great option to pack for picnics, long drives or camping trips. Super quick to make as they’re prepared with just 3 ingredients.

I’ve taken something similar to a camping potluck with other friends while camping, and it’s fancy enough people are impressed and ask for the recipe..

14. Hatch Green Chile Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo  just might become your favorite fresh and chunky salsa.

With diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime & green chiles for extra flavor it goes perfectly with tortilla chips, and on tacos, burritos or quesadillas.

Easy Pre-Made Camping Lunches

15. Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

We always bring some version of a pasta salad on our camping trips and this is our favourite base.

We just switch up the salad dressing and pasta types. Some of our favourites are tortellini, the multi-coloured spiral rotini, and bow tie pasta.

16. Pinwheel Sandwiches

This pinwheel sandwich guide gives great tips to avoid soggy sandwiches plus 4 different pinwheel sandwich recipes to try.

Really they’re so versatile to your family’s tastes. As a family we’ve had & loved BLT, cucumber and creamcheese, banana & peanut butter, turkey & swiss pinwheels.

17. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Sarma)

I LOVE stuffed grape leaves for picnics, road trips and camping breakfasts, lunches, or snacks. I usually just buy pre-made ones, as they do take a bit of time to make.

But you really can’t beat the taste of these freshly made stuffed grape leaves!

Made with aromatic rice, fresh Mediterranean herbs, and spices this Turkish twist is traditionally made for gatherings, special occasions or guests. So treat yourself, by making them from scratch.

18. Yogurt Marinated Chicken

This quick and easy, grilled chicken recipe, with a yogurt marinade makes a great summer lunch.

Pack in your camp cooler, and you’ll have a ready made lunch.

19. Protein Snack Pack

Check out these easy Protein Snack Packs.

They’re packed with hard-boiled eggs, almonds, hummus, and fresh, crunchy veggies. They make a super simple and tasty option for lunchtime or anytime you need a good protein boost.

These tasty snack packs are ideal for a picnic in the park, road trips, or camping lunches. Whether you’re a protein fan or just looking for a yummy, healthy snack, these no cook camping meals are perfect for kids & adults.

20. Chicken Salad Sandwiches with Croissants

Prep the chicken salad ahead of your trip in only 10 minutes with store bought rotisserie chicken. Then assemble your croissant sandwiches at your picnic table.

It also tastes great on brioche buns, in wraps, or on top of salad.

21. Healthy Mango & Cucumber Salad

I’m always looking for a way to jazz up my salads, and this mango, cucumber salad is amazing.

So fresh, and light. It only lasts about 2 days cooled, so don’t make it too far ahead.

Eat it as a side dish with your other lunch items, or alone as a light meal.

Make-Ahead Camping Dinners

22. Sloppy Joes

Scoops of saucy ground beef served up inside soft burger buns, is oh so good, and the ultimate comfort food.

I like to whip up a batch of the Sloppy Joes filling before heading out camping, and just keep it in our cooler. Then we just reheat over our camp stove, or the campfire.

23. Easy Black Bean Soup

Enjoy a warm and tasty bowl of this Easy Black Bean Soup. It’s comforting, creamy, full of flavour, and vegan.

It’s quick to make, and can be spiced up your way by adding your favorite toppings. We like cheese, tortilla chips (for dipping), sour cream and avocado slices.

We’ve had soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner while camping. I think it’s the ultimate pre-made camping meal.

24. Easy Jerk Jamaican Chicken

Baked jerk chicken is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and is tender, and flavorful with a bit of heat.

I’m thinking it would also be great as a marinade for chicken wings too, which we often bring camping too.

25. Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Tacos

Whipping up a batch of slow cooker shredded beef tacos is super easy. Just throw the three ingredients in a slow cooker, and let it do all the hard work.

Then just prep all your favourite taco ingredients ahead of time, put them in ziploc bags or reusable containers and you have yourself a family friendly pre-made camping meal ready to go.

26. Tacos In A Bag

Kids love tacos in a bag (aka walking tacos). It’s like street food, only at your campground. And chips for dinner – it’s like they won the lottery.

If you prep everything ahead of time, especially the ground meat (we also like using shredded meat like chicken, pork or the beef recipe above) it will make everything much quicker.

27. Pizza Dough In a Bag

Have your kids help make dinner with this fun pizza dough in a bag.

It makes a fluffy pizza crust that’s perfect for ovens or campfires.

28. Air Fryer Meatballs

Juicy, air fryer meatballs are handmade balls of freezer-friendly goodness. Ready for spaghetti sauce, in pita with a bit of tzatziki or just as is.

29. Campfire Pizza Bake

Pizza nights just got easier, with this classic campfire pizza bake.

Super easy to make and a crowd pleaser, especially with the kids.

Pre-Made Camping Desserts

30. Whoopie Pies

Whoopie Pies are an iconic treat Maine is known for , and make a fun make ahead camping dessert.

Soft, chocolate cake-like cookies, filled with a decadent peanut butter icing. What more could you want?

31. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are a classic treat and perfect for an after dinner dessert.

32. Three Ingredient Brown Sugar Cookies

Try these 3 ingredient brown sugar cookies. They’re sweet and rich, almost like shortbread cookies.

Super simple and quick, your family can enjoy them in under 30 minutes. They also pack and freeze well.

33. Armpit Fudge (Fudge in a Bag)

A classic Girl Scout / Girl Guide camping recipe. Fudge in a bag is so fun for the kids to make.

But don’t worry there’s no armpits involved, unless the kids get silly.

Pack all the ingredients in a bag, and then your kids can use their body heat, and hands to knead it into a fudgey texture.

34. Mini Brownie Bites

My youngest always asks for mini brownies as her camping treat. While we used to just buy the store bought kind due to time, these ooey goey brownies beat the store bought version by a million times.

Do yourself a favour and take the time to bake a batch before your next family camping trip.

35. Walking Desserts

The sweet answer to taco in a bag ……Walking Desserts. Start with individual packs of cookies, then fill them with pudding or fruit & whip cream.

So many options to try!

36. Banana Bread

I don’t know about you, but we always end up having too many over ripe bananas on the fruit bowl.

Which is why this easy 4-ingredient Banana Bread is perfect for a camping treat, snack or a sweet breakfast.

Final Thoughts: Easy Make Ahead Camping Recipes

So there have some of our family favourite, simple camping recipes to make ahead of time.

With these, you’ll be ready to enjoy your camping trip with yummy food in no time.

Remember, a happy camper is a well-fed camper.

Related camping tips & recipes:

• Best canned food for camping ideas
• Genius family camping hacks
• Easy travel breakfast recipes
• 7 Day Vacation Meal Planning

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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by Mountain House September 01, 2021

49 Quick and Tasty Camping Food Ideas - Easy Camping Meals!

As much as we all love the wild vistas, the geological marvels, and the hiking, swimming, and paddling of a camping trip, a whole lot of the joy of camping centers on food, right? It’s a cliché that grub tastes better outdoors, but darn it it’s a fact , too. Just like back home, though, it’s easy to become bored with your campsite cuisine—or, if you’re new to roughing it, it's hard to know what camping meals to make in the first place.

Well, that’s where Mountain House comes into the picture. First off, our freeze-dried meals make scrumptious entrees that require no more prep work than boiling water—absolutely ideal for both car-camping and backpacking. We’ve been feeding campers since the 1960s, and our products boast a longer shelf life than any of our competitors; ; 30 years from the date of manufacture!

But we also want to inspire you more generally in the campsite-cooking department, which is why we’ve compiled this list of camping food ideas from some standout authorities. Read on and get ready to work up an appetite!

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that certainly applies in the woods. Beginning your day with hearty camping breakfast ensures you’ll have the proper energy for an active morning of outdoor fun and exploration, avoiding the dreaded blood-sugar collapse and ensuing “hanger.”

Here are some easy camping meals for a lovely, laidback morning at the site!

Mason Jar Campfire Pancakes

Made-from-scratch pancakes for camp breakfast! Just add the dry ingredients to a mason jar to create a pre-made pancake mix and then add the appropriate amount of eggs and milk to two more jars (or any other container of your choice) and you’re all set! A great idea we’re all the way behind!

Our freeze-dried Breakfast Skillet pouch only requires some hot water and you’ll have a great-tasting breakfast in no time. But you can also hack your skillet with some extra ingredients like cilantro, chives, and avocado to upgrade your meal and add some black beans for an easy side dish. And if you bring along some tortillas, you can roll everything up into some delicious breakfast burritos!

Campfire Apple Crisp Breakfast

One skillet and a happy campfire are all you need to cook up this fabulously delicious breakfast treat shared by Escape Adventures.

Chickpea Flour Breakfast Scramble

Whip up a vegan-friendly camp breakfast with this Fresh Off the Grid recipe.

Campfire French Toast

If you think French toast is a breakfast classic best reserved for the kitchen back home, think again! This Lil Piglet shows how to make campsite-ready French toast.

Caramelized Banana Oatmeal

The ingredient list and preparation couldn’t be simpler, but Dirty Gourmet’s Caramelized Banana Oatmeal tastes like a genuine gourmet breakfast in the boonies

. Asparagus Pancetta Skillet Hash

It’s easy but ill-advised to skimp on the veggies while out and about in the Great Outdoors. This recipe from Fresh Off the Grid incorporates delicious (and vibrantly colorful) asparagus, a durable and delicious green that’ll last quite a while your comping food storage container.

Campfire Cinnamon Roll-Ups  

Heads up: These devilishly good creations from Almost Supermom are going to earn you plenty of around-the-campfire accolades.

Kielbasa, Pepper, Onion, & Potato Hash

For a super-easy and quick-cooking but also hearty dinner, give this two-skillet preparation (you can make it in one, too, but read the recipe’s disclaimer) from The Two Bite Club blog a try.

Campfire Beer Pancakes

We’re not sure we have to say much else beyond the name of this breakfast dish to get you to check out the recipe over at Chowhound.

Whether you're gunning hard on the trail, the river, or the rock faces, or indulging in more leisurely sightseeing in a national park or scenic corridor, camping inspires a mean and honest appetite. While backpackers might observe the midday camping meal with nothing more than an extended snack break, many other campers like to go for a more ambitious fresh-air lunch, in which case the following camping food recipes ought to fit the bill nicely.

Asian Broccoli Slaw w/Pineapple

Put together this zesty and colorful slaw from The Adventure Bite team before your camping trip, and it’ll just get more flavorful with the extra sitting time in a ziplock bag or Tupperware container.

Mountain House’s Elevated Mac & Cheese

There’s nothing better than mac & cheese for lunch! Plus, it’s kid-friendly! You can give it to the kids right out of the pouch and spice up your own serving with some tasty toppings like salsa and sour cream!

Cheesy Ham & Pineapple Sandwich

by Erin Clarke of Well Plated

This foil-wrapped, fire-cooked winner comes to us from Well Plated by Erin and its creator’s fond memories of Girl Scout campfire cookouts.

Grilled Hot Pastrami Sandwich

Another absolutely scrumptious foil-cooking homerun of a camping lunch, thanks to Kleinworth & Co.

Grilled Halloumi Tacos

This veggie tacos made with the Greek cheese halloumi (another Fresh Off the Grid score) are easy to throw together in the campsite or picnic area.

Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Enjoy the City of Brotherly Love’s signature sammie at the campsite with this hassle-free tinfoil recipe from Twin Dragonfly Designs.

Goat Milk Gouda Veggie Sandwich

Cheese takes a starring role in this delicious sandwich, a blue-ribbon midday reward on the trail. Check out the recipe at Dirty Gourmet!

There's nothing like an evening at the campsite, and nothing like thoughts of dinner to propel a hiker down the trail. Here's a varied roundup of awesomely easy camping recipes: none of them particularly complicated or demanding to make, yet delivering flavors to impress even the pickiest (or snootiest) campsite diner.

Dutch Oven Stuffed Peppers

Easy to assemble, quick to cook, a cinch to clean up: You’ll definitely want to give these oozy delicacies from the Dirty Gourmet recipe archives a try!

Mountain House Restaurant-Style Fettuccine Alfredo

You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to get an amazing pasta meal for dinner. Prepare a pouch of Mountain House Fettuccine Alfredo and add some fresh herbs, mushrooms, shrimp, or breadcrumbs and you’ll have an amazing dinner in about 10 minutes.

Red Lentil Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes are a camping favorite for many, and with this preparation from Fresh Off the Grid, you can put smiles on the faces of the whole crew with a healthier alternative to the traditional.

BBQ Chicken Foil Packs

More foil-wrapped dinnertime goodness courtesy of Life in the Lofthouse!

Salsa & Corn Dumpling Soup

At the end of a long day on the trail or up on the knife-edge ridges, this delicious, warming broth—a gift to us all from the Dirty Gourmet team—is exactly what the doctor ordered.

Skillet Sausage & Potatoes

Smoked sausage, potatoes, and carrots come together in one-skillet harmony in this surefire camp-dinner recipe from Rasa Malaysia.

Dutch Oven Lasagna

Turn the campsite into an Italian trattoria with this easy-to-make Dutch oven preparation of lasagna, thanks to Fresh Off the Grid.

Campfire Whiskey BBQ Chicken

Make this to-die-for BBQ sauce (from Cooking With Janica) ahead of time at home, and you’ll be thanking yourself when the aroma of grilled chicken hits you over the campfire.

Shrimp Scampi Foil Packets

You’ll be dispensing gourmet goodness by following these Damn Delicious (indeed) directions for campfire-style Shrimp Scampi.

Schemed up by a self-admitted non-camper ahead of a camping trip, Made By Luci’s One Pot Chili is tummy-rubbing good— and a vegan, gluten-free dinner option.

Easy Campfire Pizza

Pizza is one of those beloved comfort foods that tend to star in an awful lot of backcountry hankerings. Well, no need to wait until after the camping trip to enjoy it—just check out this Damn Fine Dishes technique for Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet campfire pizza! You can also check out Barbara's cookbook The Culinary Camper which features recipes based on her years of experience in camp cooking.

Speaking of pizza, here’s a sort of backcountry pizza hack employing tortillas instead of dough (courtesy of the experienced camp chefs over there at Backpacker ).

Campfire Hot Dogs

These easy-peasy pigs-in-a-blanket are fun-to-cook crowd-pleasers. (How many hyphens can we have in one sentence?)

Camping Mac ‘n Cheese

Classic comfort food like mac ‘n cheese tastes even  better out in the woods, and this recipe from Hapa Nom Nom is a quick-to-make, one-pot version that nonetheless tilts toward the gourmet side of the spectrum.

Campfire Roasted Pumpkin Rice

The campsite chefs at Dirty Gourmet “campified” an Armenian dish, ghapama , and the result is this delightful Dutch-oven dinner of rice-stuffed pumpkin.

Cheddar Corn Chowder w/Bacon

Bacon tastes all the better in the backwoods. This simple and hearty chowder brought to you by Backpacker , incorporates this reliably magical ingredient to keep hiking muscles well fueled.

Steamed Campfire Broccoli

Steamed broccoli over a campfire? Sure—just follow these steps laid out at the Spicy Apron blog! Don’t forget your aluminum foil!

Trout Tacos

For the angling-inclined among you, check out this great lakeside preparation courtesy of the folks at Dirty Gourmet.

Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

This healthy Fresh Off the Grid dinner option nourishes taste buds, stomach, and soul alike at the end of an invigorating day spent out-of-doors.

Miso Noodle Soup w/Tofu

Healthy, hearty, slurp-worthy: another Backpacker dinner gem.

Don't neglect dessert at the campsite, which besides keeping the camping crew happy sets you up for a nice and warm snooze with some slow-burning sweet-stuff energy. The following confections will knock your socks off under a deep, blazing sea of stars.

A little pre-trip prep work pays off big time at camp when you pop open some jars of this guilt-free Flavour & Savour dessert.

Apricot Coconut Crumb Bars

Another easy and delicious dessert baked ahead of time and highly camp-friendly, via Dirty Gourmet.

Strawberry Almond Cake

Pound cake, dried strawberries, almond butter, and water—BAM. Thanks, Backpacker , for this wilderness dessert.

S’mores Dip

One does not compile a list of camping desserts without including at least one take on s’mores—so here you go, a playful spin on tradition by Hungry Brownie.

Back at home, it's sometimes better to skip the snacks, but on a camping trip, they're an essential part of your daily food intake. They needn't simply take the form of a chocolate bar or handful of store-bought trail-mix: Expand your snack horizons with the following between-meal camping food ideas!

Sun-dried Tomato Bacon Guacamole

Dani over at The Adventure Bite shares a magnificently mouthwatering recipe for guacamole she reports is part of her family’s regular camping cuisine. Chips and guacamole at the campsite—heavenly.

Mountain House Granola and Fresh Fruit

Granola is an amazing snack at any time of day. Mix in some peanut butter or chocolate chips and add some fresh fruit and any other favorite toppings and everyone’s going to ask you to share.

Campfire Chili Cheese Fries

It’s not exactly health food, but hopefully, you’ve earned this decadent happy-hour-at-the-campsite feast from the Kitchen Magpie via some hearty hiking or paddling or rock-climbing…right?

Dried Cherry Almond Granola Clusters

Granola’s a classic trailside snack, of course, packed with both energy and flavor to keep you going when the miles start adding up. Here’s a great recipe for homemade granola from Call Me PMc.

Pecan Raisin Granola

Here’s another top-shelf granola recipe, this one courtesy of Dirty Gourmet.

Campfire Spinach Dip

Head over to Twin Dragonfly Designs and learn how to whip up some creamy, can’t-get-enough spinach dip through some campfire tinfoil cooking.

Tipsy Campfire Nachos

The name for this creation by Amanda over at Peppers & Pennies stems from a Canadian cheese soaked in wine, but the nachos recipe itself also calls for the incorporation of beer, all of which sounds pretty great to us.

Campfire Breadsticks

A dough-wrapped stick, a campfire: what could be simpler? This Shock Munch recipe may well end up in your go-to bag of campfire-cookery tricks.

• As some of the above mentioned recipes suggest, you can save yourself a lot of time and hassle at the campsite by prepping certain ingredients (grated cheese, marinated chicken, etc.) ahead of time.
• Bring some aluminum foil for easy grilling. It also works great for making foil-pack recipes on the camp stove.
• One- or two-pot meals work best at the campsite. You can exercise quite a bit of resourcefulness and creativity by planning out your cooking gameplan: Cook the rice in a pot, then set it aside covered and use the same pot to sauté veggies or heat up curry to go on top. Even if the rice cools down a little more than your liking, you can always dump it back in the pot with the rest of the cooked ingredients to warm it up right at the end, just before serving.

More Mountain House Meal Upgrades

There are many great ways to upgrade Mountain House meals into something new. Here are just a few ideas using the pouches that come in our Classic Meal Assortment Bucket :

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The Ultimate List of Make Ahead Camping Meals

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us .

by Hayley Gibson

Have you ever turned up at your campsite late in the afternoon, used all your energy putting up the tent (perhaps in the drizzly rain) and finally sat down for 5 minutes before cries of “What’s for dinner?!” ring through the air?

Have you then had to prepare an entire meal from scratch to feed the hungry tummies in the camp, wishing there was an easier way?

Worry no more.

We’ve created this ultimate guide packed full of easy make ahead meals for camping, saving you the stress of whipping up a culinary delight on the camp stove.

Covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and (of course) dessert, we have a range of recipes for you to choose from that are easy to make at home and tuck into around the campfire .

The Meal Randomizer

We’ve listed down a lot of meals in this page. Can’t decide on which recipe? Hit the button below and we’ll choose for you!

• Overnight Oats
• Banana Bread
• Pre-Made Breakfast Burrito
• Make Ahead Mason Jar Parfaits
• French Toast Loaf
• Scrambled Eggs
• Blueberry Muffins
• Breakfast Quesadillas
• Pre-Made Peach Breakfast Bake
• Outdoor Apple Pie
• Noodle Cups
• Make Ahead Sandwiches
• Make Ahead Puff Pastry Pockets
• Pre-Made Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
• Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps
• Cold Pasta Salad
• Quick Tomato Soup
• Salads to Go
• Make Ahead Mini Quiches
• Mexican Coleslaw
• Make Ahead Camping Skewers
• Make Ahead Foil Packed Dinners
• Shepherd’s Pie
• Mac N Cheese
• Make Ahead Chicken Enchiladas
• Creamy Mashed Potato
• Make Ahead Sausage and Potato Foil Dinner
• Pulled Pork
• Make Ahead Campfire Pizza Log
• Homemade Burgers
• Make Ahead Slow Cooked Beef Stew
• Salmon and Veggies
• No Bake Smores Bars
• Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcakes
• Tortilla Roll Ups
• Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread
• Make Ahead Grilled Apple Crisp
• Campfire Cones
• ‘Smores Bark
• Make Ahead Plum and Bourbon Crumble
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• ‘Smores Rice Krispies
• Granola Bars
• Fruit Leather
• Energy Balls
• Chocolate Trail Mix Bites
• Make Ahead Spinach Dip
• Cheesy Garlic Bread
• Make Ahead Jalapeno Cornbread
• Make Ahead Campfires Beans
• Make Ahead Hummus

1. Overnight Oats

A classic mason jar meal, overnight oats are a great option for a make ahead camping breakfast. They are quick and easy to make at home and full of essential vitamins and nutrients. Another bonus is that they don’t require any heating up once you arrive at camp – just tuck right in! There are a plenty of optional ingredients you can add to this one to suit each person’s taste – we’ve listed a few below but let your imagination run with this one.

Great for: Early risers – a filling breakfast that will keep you going till lunch time. Campers without a stove/fire-pit looking for breakfasts that require no re-heating. Make-ahead prep time : 5 minutes. Serves : 2

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
• 2/3 cup unsweetened milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup to taste (alternatively use honey)
• 1-2 tablespoons chia seeds
• Chopped walnuts
• Chopped chunks of dark chocolate
• Diced fruit (e.g. banana, strawberries, kiwi, blueberries)
• Coconut flakes
• Peanut butter
• Mix the oats, yogurt, milk, vanilla, maple syrup and chia seeds in a bowl, then spoon into individual mason jars. Layer with any chosen individual toppings.
• Refrigerate overnight.
• Your overnight oats are ready to eat!

Use-by : Store in a cool bag and they’ll be good for up to 5 days . Top tip : Replace glass mason jars with plastic containers for a lighter storage option.

Check out these recipes from Wholefully for 8 variations of overnight oats you can try.

2. Banana Bread

Great for : Families and groups – an excellent sharer meal. Hikers – a great breakfast/snack option and easy to carry around. Make-ahead prep time : 1 hour 10. Serves : Varies depending on slice sizes – this makes one loaf.

• 2-3 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup of margarine
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan.
• Cream together the margarine and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, followed by bananas. Mix in the flour and baking soda.
• Pour the batter into greased loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, inserting a tester until it comes out clean.
• Allow to cool for a few minutes then remove loaf from pan to cool completely.
• At the campsite, eat cold or throw on the campfire grill for a toasty treat.

Use-by : Lasts for 1-2 days at room temperature. Will keep for about 1 week if refrigerated. Top tip : Banana bread doesn’t have to be stored in a cooler which can save space for other meals.

3. Pre-Made Breakfast Burrito

Great for : Groups of people with different preferences – can tailor-make each burrito. Couples – easy to prepare for two people. Make-ahead prep time : 30 minutes. Serves : As many as you require.

• Eggs (scrambled)
• Black beans
• Simply cook-up all the ingredients you choose from the list, roll up in flour tortilla’s and wrap them tightly in tin foil.
• They are perfectly fine to be stored in the freezer before transferring to your cooler.
• Re-heat by placing the foiled burritos on a grill over the fire or next to hot coals. Heat for 10-15 minutes, turning over once. They may need longer depending on how hot the coals are.
• Last but not least, strip back the foil and you’re good to go!

Use-by : You can freeze burritos for up to 3 months. You should then store in a cooler and consume within 2 days. Top tip : If you have made different burritos for different people, use a marker pen to write their names on the foil. That way, you’ll be much more likely to have a bunch of happy campers!

4. Make Ahead Mason Jar Parfaits

Great for : Health-conscious campers. Groups of people where you can tailor each jar to suit their preferences. Make-ahead prep time : 5-10 minutes. Serves : As many as you require.

• Yogurt of your choice (Greek /flavored)
• Oats or muesli
• Chopped fresh fruit (such as apple/grapes/berries)
• Using 8oz mason jars, mix yogurt with oats or muesli and fill the jars around half-way.
• Add your fresh fruit layer.
• Top with granola and pop in the fridge to keep cool.

Use-by : These mason jars will last 3-4 days if kept properly in a cooler. Top tip : Adding the granola last is a good step to keep it from getting soggy. Thanks to  Savory Pantry Blog  for this tip!

5. French Toast Loaf

Great for : Kids – a nice camping treat. Groups – a great sharing meal. Make-ahead prep time : 1 hour. Serves : 6

• 1 loaf of bread of your choice (around 600g)
• 3/4 cup 35% cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Maple syrup
• Berries and nuts (optional)
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf tin with baking paper.
• Whisk the eggs with milk, cream, sugar and cinnamon.
• Position the loaf in prepared tin. Separate the slices a little to allow the mixture to evenly spread. Slowly pour the egg mixture between slices and let it stand for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar (optional).
• Bake in the bottom third of the oven for around 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Once cooled, double wrap with foil and store in the fridge.
• At camp, reheat loaf (still wrapped in foil) over a medium heat, turning often for between 15 and 25 minutes. Once warmed through, serve with maple syrup and add any toppings you choose.

Use-by : Refrigerate, then store in a cooler and consume within two days.

6. Scrambled Eggs

OK so this is only a partial make ahead breakfast, but it certainly saves you carrying around a bunch of eggs that could spell disaster if they cracked all over your cooler! If you love eggs around the campfire, there is a solution. Simply whisk your eggs at home and pour them in a plastic bottle. That way you can store them in your cooler until morning and pour them straight into a hot pan. Credit to The Road Map for this handy tip!

Great for : Hikers as eggs will keep you fuller for longer. Campers looking for a fuss-free breakfast. Make-ahead prep time : 5 minutes. Serves : 1-2 eggs per person. Use-by : Store in a cooler and use within 2-4 days (from when you cracked them).

7. Blueberry Muffins

Great for : Campers looking for breakfasts that don’t need re-heating. Kids – a sweet camping breakfast treat. Couples – easy to prepare and store for 2 people. Make-ahead prep time : 30 minutes. Makes : 10 standard muffins.

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup of oil (neutral flavored oils like vegetable/canola/grape seed)
• 1/3 – 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line muffin tins with 10 standard sized muffin cases.
• Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
• Add oil to a measuring jug that holds at least 1 cup. Next add the egg, then fill the jug to the 1-cup line with milk (about 80-120mls). Add vanilla and whisk ingredients.
• Add the wet mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a fork to combine – don’t beat. Gently fold in the blueberries.
• Divide mixture between muffin cases. Sprinkle some sugar on the tops and bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool and store at room temperature.

Use-by : Muffins at room temperature will last 1-2 days before going stale. Pop in the cooler and they will last about 1 week. Top tip : The mixture should be thick and gloopy as opposed to runny. You can adjust the consistency by adding a tablespoon of milk at a time (if batter is too thick) or a tablespoon of flour (if too runny).

If you loved these blueberry muffins, why not give these other recipes a go:

• Blueberry, Orange, Yogurt Bran Muffins by Food Network
• Banana Crunch Muffins by Food Network
• Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins by Genius Kitchen

8. Pancakes

Great for : Groups – a great sharer breakfast with plenty to go around. Kids – can add their own toppings. Campers on longer trips – pancake ingredients are long-lasting compared to other breakfast options. Make-ahead prep time : 5 mins. Serves : 12

• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/3 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence (optional)
• Measure out all the dry ingredients and store in a zip-lock bag or container.
• Make note of the wet ingredients to add at the campsite.
• Rather than taking a bowl and whisk with you, one tip from Practical by Default is to add your wet ingredients to the dry ones in the zip-lock bag, shaking it up to mix. You can then cut a small hole in the bag and squeeze them onto the pan.
• For toppings, you can have anything from fruit (bananas/strawberries/blueberries) to sweet ingredients (maple syrup/chocolate chips/whipped cream/sugar). Or a combination of all the above!

Use-by : If you store the pre-mix (dry ingredients) in an air-tight container it can last for up to a year. As long as you store your eggs and milk at the right temperature, your pancakes can last your whole camping trip.

9. Breakfast Quesadillas

Great for : Families – a simple, satisfying and nutritious breakfast option. Hikers – protein packed and a healthy start to the day. Vegetarians – meat free. Make-ahead prep time : 20 minutes. Serves : 8 (if making 1 quesadilla per person).

• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can of white beans (or beans of your choice), rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheese (any cheese that melts is good such as cheddar or mozzarella)
• 8 medium tortillas
• Whisk the eggs, milk, salt, pepper and garlic together. Set aside.
• Cook the spinach over a medium heat until it starts to wilt. Add the beans and reduce the heat before pouring in the egg mixture. Move around the pan with a rubber spatula until scrambled. Remove from heat.
• Make the quesadillas by sprinkling cheese onto the tortilla and adding an eighth of the mixture. Finish by folding the tortilla in half.
• Let the mixture cool completely before freezing. Wrap each individual quesadilla in foil and place in freezer.
• Before your trip, place the frozen quesadillas in the cooler to thaw. You can then re-heat by putting it on the campfire (still wrapped in foil) until golden and the cheese has melted. Cut into wedges and serve.

Use-by : Store in the freezer for up to 2 months then pop in the cooler to thaw. Consume the following morning to prevent tortillas getting soggy. Alternatively, you can place the egg filling in the cooler for up to 3 days and assemble the tortillas right before cooking.

This is a vegetarian example but you can add almost anything to a quesadilla, same as the breakfast burrito.

10. Pre-Made Peach Breakfast Bake

Great for : Groups of 4 – easy portions and quick to prepare. Campers looking for a sweet tooth alternative to savory make ahead breakfasts. Couples – portions are ideal for consuming over 2 days. Make-ahead prep time : 35 minutes. Serves : 4

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 peaches, sliced (you can use apples if you prefer)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup flour
• 1/3 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup milk
• 4 eggs, separated
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Melt the butter. Whilst this is melting, add brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to a bowl. Pour in the butter and combine before adding the peaches.
• Arrange the peach slices on the base of a skillet (or you can use a lined 13×9 inch pan).
• Mix the sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, milk and egg yolks.
• In another bowl, beat the egg whites until fluffy peaks are formed. Fold this into the flour mixture and pour over the peaches.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes.
• You can freeze this breakfast bake (including the pan) and pop the whole thing straight on the open fire at your campsite.
• Serve with toppings of choice (maple syrup and dollop cream are great additions for a sweet tooth).

Use-by : After you remove from the freezer, store in the cooler and eat within 2 days.

11. Outdoor Apple Pie

This no-bake recipe from Beyond the Tent is a great breakfast option for campers on-the-go. It can be easily made ahead and is filled with nutrients for a balanced start to the day.

Great for : Hikers – easy to make and eat on a trail, good for energy levels. Single campers – easy to prep for one person. Campers on longer trips – the dry ingredients have a long shelf life. Make-ahead prep time : 5 minutes. Serves: 1

• 1 tablespoon milk powder (alternatively use soy powder)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 finely chopped apple
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup water
• Combine the oats, milk powder, cinnamon and sugar in a container or zip-lock bag.
• At camp, pour the mixed ingredients into a bowl, add water and apple and sit aside for at least 3 hours before tucking in.

Use-by : Fresh apples can last a week if stored in a cool environment. The remaining ingredients will last over a year.

12. Noodle Cups

Great for : Campers on longer trips – these noodle cups are a long-lasting make ahead lunch. Campers that want a healthy alternative to store-bought instant noodles. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes. Serves : 1

• 1-3 teaspoons flavor base (e.g. curry paste/soup stock paste/miso paste)
• 1-3 teaspoons flavor extras (e.g. soy sauce/coconut milk/chili sauce)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup filler ingredients (take your pick from any of these or add your own) – frozen carrots, frozen peas, spinach, tofu, mushrooms, egg, cooked meat etc.
• 3/4 to 1 cup cooked noodles (again the choice is yours) – spaghetti, vermicelli, udon, ramen, soba etc.
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh ingredients – slice of lemon, cilantro, fresh herbs, bean sprouts etc.
• To assemble the noodle cup, add the flavor base and flavor extras to the bottom of the container.
• Next, add your filler ingredients, followed by your noodles that can be packed down.
• Finally, add your fresh ingredients before sealing and refrigerating.
• When ready to eat, simply add enough boiling water to cover the ingredients and let it stand for a few minutes. Then mix everything together and enjoy!

Use-by : These noodle cups can be stored in the cooler for up to a week. Top tip : Separating the noodles from wet ingredients keeps them fresh and chewy as opposed to soggy and saturated.

13. Make Ahead Sandwiches

Great for : Families for a handy pre-made lunch. Make-ahead prep time : 5-6 hours (slow cooking). Serves : 6-8

• 6 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Worcester Sauce
• Barbecue sauce (add as much as you need)
• 1/2 cup salad dressing
• Bread rolls
• Marinate the chicken breasts with the above ingredients and place in the slow cooker. Cook on high for around 5 hours.
• Pull apart the chicken using tongs and mix the sauce into it.
• Once cooled, add to the buns with any additional items (slaw, cheese etc.) and wrap in foil before storing in the freezer.
• Pop the frozen buns in your cooler and let them thaw. Re-heat them on the campfire, ensuring the meat is fully warmed through.

Use-by : Thawed and stored in the cooler, cooked chicken lasts for 3-4 days. Top tip : You can swap the chicken for pulled pork in this one if you prefer (as pictured).

14. Make Ahead Puff Pastry Pockets

An American food-truck favorite, these lunch time delights can still be enjoyed on your camping holiday. The recipe, taken from Cooking Divine , is easy to make at home and packed full of flavor. Give it a try!

Great for : Families and kids – a simple, enjoyable lunch for the whole family. Couples – an easy lunch time option that will last over 2 days. Make-ahead prep time : 30 minutes. Serves : 4

• 1 box puff pastry (14-16oz)
• 1/2 pound steak (chopped)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese
• Small amount of egg wash
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Heat some oil in a sauce pan on a medium heat.
• Once hot, add chopped pepper and onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until soft.
• Add the steak and cook until brown. You can add any seasoning/spices that you wish to include.
• Remove pan from the heat and set aside.
• Sprinkle some flour on a smooth surface, lay out the pastry and cut into 8 equal squares.
• Add 1/4 of the steak mix to 4 of the pastry squares, topping each with some grated cheese.
• Lay the remaining squares over the top, sealing together with a fork.
• Egg wash the outside of the pastry squares, slit the tops and sprinkle some salt on.
• Bake for 20 minutes.
• Once the pastries have cooled, you can wrap them in foil and put them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Re-heat over the campfire still wrapped in foil until meat is piping hot.

Use-by : Transferring the pastries from the freezer to the cooler will keep them fresh for 2-3 days.

15. Pre-Made Ham and Cheese Sandwiches

Great for : Families and groups – great sharer lunch. Make-ahead prep time : 5-10 minutes. Serves : 6 (if you cut the bread into 12 slices).

Simply buy your favorite loaf of bread, cut into slices (though don’t cut through all the way to the bottom), spread with butter and add your slices of ham and cheese (plus any condiments). Wrap the loaf in foil and pop in your cooler. You can grill the loaf over the campfire for that melted cheesy goodness sure to go down well with the group.

Use-by : If stored in the cooler, these sandwiches should last 2-3 days.

16. Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps

Great for : Kids – what’s not to love! People who want an easy fuss-free lunch. Hikers – good source of energy and easy to carry. Make-ahead prep time : 5 minutes. Serves : As many as you need.

Here are some alternatives you can also try:

• Jam and banana (a personal recommendation).
• Peanut butter and jelly.
• Crunchy peanut butter and apple.
• Cream cheese, honey, cinnamon and banana.

Use-by : With banana, we recommend consuming these no later than a day after making. Top tip : To make these even better, throw the tinfoiled wraps on the camp fire for gooey, delicious goodness.

17. Cold Pasta Salad

Great for : Campers looking for a filling lunch option. Couples – can easily divide into containers and take to camp. Groups – can make a large batch and let people help themselves. Make-ahead prep time : 20 minutes. Serves : 8-10

• 1 pound dry pasta of your choice
• 3 small bell peppers, diced
• 1 12 oz jar artichoke hearts in water, drained and chopped
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1 punnet cherry tomatoes, halves
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/3 cup basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper
• Bring a large pan of water to boil and cook the pasta according to packet instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside to cool.
• In a large bowl, add the pasta, peppers, artichoke, cucumber and tomatoes. Stir to combine and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Add the feta and basil and mix into the salad. Season with salt and pepper. Chill in the fridge.

Use-by : Stored in the cooler, pasta salad can last 5-7 days.

18. Quick Tomato Soup

Great for : Rainy day campers or those in colder destinations. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes. Serves : 6

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 can tomato juice
• Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add flour, onion powder and curry powder and stir until combined and smooth. Gradually add sugar and tomato juice. Leave uncovered and cook until soup thickens (about 5 minutes).
• Once cooled, store in a container or zip-lock bag and put in the freezer.
• Once you arrive at camp, heat up in a pan over the campfire. You can serve with croutons, crackers, bread or any other accompaniment.

Use-by : If frozen, allow soup to thaw in the cooler where it can be kept for 3-4 days .

19. Frittata

Great for : Families with kids looking for a quick lunch fix. Vegetarians – a meat-free make ahead camping lunch. Campers on longer trips – a longer-lasting lunch option. Make-ahead prep time : 30 minutes. Serves : 4

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheese
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Whisk eggs with 2 tablespoons water and put aside.
• Add olive oil to a large pan over a medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms until tender (about 5 minutes).
• Add parsley and garlic and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
• Pour the eggs over the mushrooms, stirring to combine before adding the grated cheese.
• Place pan in the oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes. The frittata is cooked when the eggs have set and the cheese melted.
• Cut the frittata into wedges, cover in foil and place in the fridge/cooler.

Use-by : Eat the frittata cold and it will keep in the cooler for 5-7 days if stored in an airtight container. Top tip : Use smoked cheddar cheese to give your frittata a little kick. If the portions are too small, you can easily pair with a salad.

20. Salads-to-Go

These handy little salad jars are the perfect accompaniment to a camping trip. With no preparation needed at camp, these are a winner in our eyes. Thanks to The Chic Site for bringing them to our attention.

If you are doing a longer camping trip, check out this easy Chickpea Salad recipe by Food Network for a pre-made lunch that can last up to a fortnight.

Great for : Campers on longer trips. People looking for healthy make ahead lunches. Make-ahead prep time : 5-10 minutes. Serves : 4-6

• 1 can chick peas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 red pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• Bring together all the ingredients and toss well.
• Add seasoning to taste.
• Refrigerate before transferring to cooler.

Use-by : If stored correctly in a cooler, this salad can last for 2 weeks. Top tip : You can replace the jars with plastic containers for a lighter load.

21. Make Ahead Mini Quiches

Great for : A quick lunch for busy campers. Make-ahead prep time : 45 minutes. Serves : 18-20

• 2 cups broccoli, diced
• 1/2 cup onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup peppers, diced
• 1-2 tablespoons oil
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Add oil and a dash of water to a frying pan and steam the broccoli, onions and peppers, covering until cooked.
• Distribute the veggies into individual holes in a muffin tin and top with cheese.
• Whisk the eggs in a bowl adding salt and pepper to taste and fill each muffin mold.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until egg has set and is no longer runny.

Use-by : Store in the cooler and eat within 3-4 days . Top tip : These pastry-free quiches can also double up as a breakfast option.

22. Mexican Coleslaw

Bursting with Mexican flavors, this cabbage and mango slaw from Food Network is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. Make this crunchy slaw ahead of time and enjoy on its own or as a side with lunch/dinner.

Great for: Vegetarians. Campers looking for a light lunch with a hint of spice. Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes. Serves: 6

• 1/4 red cabbage, sliced
• 1/4 green cabbage, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 mango, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper flakes (or chipotle in adobo sauce)
• Combine the cabbages, onion, mango and cilantro in a large bowl.
• In a separate bowl, add the vinegar, maple syrup and pepper flakes, whisking together and seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Drizzle over the dry ingredients and toss to coat.
• Store in an airtight container and keep in the cooler.

Use-by: Store in the cooler and coleslaw should last 3-5 days .

23. Make Ahead Camping Skewers

Great for : Kids – they can make their own skewers and cook on the campfire. Campers preparing a barbecue. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes (not including marinating time if applicable). Serves : As many as you need.

Here are just a few examples of food combinations for your skewers:

• Vegetables (onion, pepper, zucchini, mushrooms, corn)
• Chicken (plus pepper, onion and chipotle seasoning)
• Sausage (plus onion, pineapple and pepper)
• Lamb (plus onion, pepper and a garlic yoghurt dip)
• Meatballs (plus pepper and sweet & sour sauce)

You can then have a number of different marinades, making this a highly versatile recipe. Here’s a tequila, lime and cilantro one from Food Network to give your skewers a kick (probably best to keep this one for adults only).

• 1/3 cup canola oil
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1 tablespoon tequila
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Pinch of ground black pepper
• To marinate your meat (for example chicken in this recipe) add the above ingredients to a large zip-lock bag followed by the chicken. Allow to marinate for 2 hours.
• Wrap your skewers in foil and refrigerate. Place on the grill over the campfire on a high heat until cooked through.

Use-by : Store raw chicken in the cooler and cook within 1-2 days . Uncooked beef, lamb and pork will keep for 3-5 days in the cooler. Vegetables can last up to a week . Top tip : Put cherry tomatoes on the ends of your skewers as a stopper to prevent other ingredients falling off.

Take a look at this blog post by Yummy Healthy Easy for 15 skewer ideas you can try.

Great for : Families– a great, hearty meal for a night of camping. Groups – easy to make a large portion and share around. Make-ahead prep time : 45 minutes. Serves : 6

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups kidney beans
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• Cook the beef in a large skillet over a medium heat. Add in the onion and cook until translucent.
• Stir in the kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper if desired, (you can also add shredded cheese here if you want). Bring to a simmer.
• Cover the pan, lower the heat and simmer for a further 20 minutes.
• Once cooked, you can place the whole batch in the freezer or divide into separate containers. At camp, reheat in a Dutch oven or pan and serve with a sprinkle of cheese, sour cream and cilantro.

Use-by : Chili should last 3-4 days when taken from freezer and stored in cooler. Top tip : You can easily make a vegetarian alternative – try this lentil chili by Today's Parent  using sweet potato and beans instead.

25. Make Ahead Foil Packed Dinners

Great for : Healthy eaters who want a veggie dish to accompany their main meal. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes. Serves : 4

• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red pepper, cut into strips
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• Cut 4 square pieces of foil, around 12 inches.
• Prepare the vegetables and divide between foil squares. Drizzle oil over and add the garlic powder and a sprinkle of salt. Close the foil and crimp loosely over vegetables to create a packet.
• Store in the cooler until ready to cook.
• Throw the packets on the grill or barbecue set at a medium-high heat. Turn over after a couple of minutes and remove from heat when vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes). Allow to stand for 2 minutes before opening.

Use-by : Store in the cooler and eat within 2-3 days . Other foil packets may vary depending on the ingredients used. Top tip : These veggie packets would go great with enchiladas , mac n cheese or burgers .

26. Shepherd’s Pie

Great for : Families – a true classic that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Couples – easy to divide between 2 with plenty of leftovers for the next night. Make-ahead prep time : 45 minutes. Serves : 5-6

• 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes
• 1lb ground beef
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 can chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups frozen vegetables
• Grated cheese (optional)
• In a large skillet, brown the beef with the garlic and onions over a medium-high heat. Once cooked, add the flour and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
• Stir in the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and tomato paste, simmering until sauce has thickened (5-6 minutes). Remove from heat and add the frozen vegetables, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish, topping with the mashed potatoes. You can sprinkle grated cheese on top if you wish.
• Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
• Transfer to a foil baking pan and cover tightly with foil. Place in the freezer or fridge until ready to take camping.
• When it comes to reheating on the campfire, pop it on the grate for about 20 minutes or until piping hot.

Use-by : You can freeze Shepherd’s Pie for up to 6 months. Allow to thaw in the cooler and it will keep for 2-3 days . Alternatively, freshly baked Shepherd’s Pie will last in the cooler for 3-5 days .

27. Mac n Cheese

Great for : Families – it’s a real hit with the kids. Hikers – after a long day of walking, this carb-loaded meal will boost your energy levels ready for the next day. Make-ahead prep time : 25 minutes. Serves : 4

• 1 1/2 cups macaroni
• 8oz prepared alfredo sauce (just over 1/2 a jar)
• 1/4-1/2 cup milk (either half and half or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
• Cook pasta according to packet directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water.
• Add the alfredo sauce to the cooked pasta, stirring in the milk and the three cheeses. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Divide pasta between four small aluminum pie tins, sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. You can add another layer of cheese here if you wish. Cover with foil (the inside also sprayed with non-stick cooking spray) and seal tightly. Store in the cooler.
• When ready to cook, place each foil dish on a grill over the campfire and cook for 8-10 minutes until hot.

Use-by : If stored in the cooler, consume within 3-5 days .

28. Make Ahead Chicken Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a Mexican staple that are incredibly easy to make ahead of time and devour around the campsite. You can adapt the recipe depending on your taste, adding more spices for a full Mexican flavor or chilis for a spicy kick.

Great for : Groups – easy to prepare beforehand and a good sharing dinner. Families – children (and adults!) will love the cheesy chicken goodness oozing from these enchiladas. Make-ahead prep time : 25-30 minutes. Serves : 6 (assuming 2 enchiladas per person).

• 3 chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 packet enchilada spice mix
• 1 can enchilada sauce (any)
• 12 flour tortillas
• 2 cups cheese, grated
• 1 cup sour cream
• Diced green chilis or jalapenos (optional)
• Cook the chicken in a pan with a splash of oil. Add the onion and cook until browned. Follow with the black beans, spice mix and 3/4 of the enchilada sauce. Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
• Place a small amount of filling down the middle of each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Roll up the tortilla and place in a foil baking tray.
• Once all the tortillas are filled and rolled, spread the remaining sauce over the tops plus the cheese, sour cream and any optional toppings. Cover with foil and put in the freezer.
• Transfer to the cooler still frozen and when ready to eat, place the foil pan over the campfire and cook until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese has melted.

Use-by : Enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months . Once thawed consume within 2-3 days. Top tip : Don’t overfill the enchiladas or they can burst. To mix it up, try using different ingredients with tacos, fajitas and burritos.

A tasty favorite perfect for camping, this paella dish is filled with nutritious ingredients that you can prepare ahead of time before cooking over the campfire. Try this foil packaged paella by Zestuous .

Great for : Large groups – lay all the ingredients out and allow people to help themselves, buffet style. Make-ahead prep time : 10-15 minutes. Serves : Unspecified (this recipe doesn’t include amounts so just make enough for your group numbers).

• Roasted chicken (pre-cooked), shredded
• Chorizo (uncooked), cut into small chunks
• Pepper, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, whole
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Equal parts uncooked short-grain rice
• Equal parts white wine, chicken broth or water
• Prepare the chorizo, chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Store in separate air-tight containers and place in the cooler.
• At the campsite, use double layers of tinfoil and shape into deep bowls.
• Layer up your ingredients in the make-shift bowls before adding your rice and liquid. Give it a stir to soak into the veg and meat.
• Close up the pouch and place on the campfire, away from the direct flame.
• Rotate every 10-15 minutes and cook for around 1 hour once the rice is fluffy and chorizo cooked through.

Use-by : Rotisserie chicken should be eaten within 3-4 days , sliced chorizo should be eaten within a week and prepped veg varies, but will usually last between 3 and 5 days .

30. Creamy Mashed Potato

A great side dish to accompany one of your camp dinners, this make ahead mash is creamy, filling and full of deliciousness. Not to mention the tasty toppings you can add!

Great for : Large groups – this big bowl of mash can be easily shared between big numbers. Couples – divide the recipe between 2 small foil trays and store in the cooler before heating over the campfire. Make-ahead prep time : 30 minutes. Serves : 12-15

• 5lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 8oz pack cream cheese, warmed to soften
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and diced
• 2 green onion stalks, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• Bring a large pan of water to boil, seasoned with salt. Add potatoes and cook until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool.
• Mash potatoes in a large bowl with milk and melted butter. Add cream cheese, onion, garlic and egg and beat to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer potatoes to a foil baking dish, cover with more foil and refrigerate. If you are adding toppings, prepare and store in separate zip-lock bags in the fridge.
• When ready to bake, remove outer foil and heat over the campfire until puffy and hot (about an hour). Add the toppings and bake for another 5 minutes until cheese melts.

Use-by : When stored in the cooler, eat within 3 days . Top tip : You can pair this side with mains such as camping skewers or a foil packed dinner .

31. Make Ahead Sausage and Potato Foil Dinner

This easy make ahead tinfoil dinner just requires a bit of prepping at home before cooking over the coals at camp. Credit to One Sweet Appetite for bringing this one to our attention!

Great for : Solo campers – easy to make a single portion and foil it up. Couples – separate portions make this an easy meal for 2 people. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes. Serves : 4

• 8 red potatoes
• 1 cup green beans
• Dice the potatoes into small chunks.
• You can leave the uncooked sausages whole or cut into chunks too.
• Cut 4 rectangles of tinfoil, folding up the sides so you have a 1-inch rim.
• Spray the foil with cooking spray and distribute the potato and sausages evenly. Add the beans and seasoning, then drizzle with oil. Fold up the sides to create your foil packet.
• At camp, place packets onto hot coals and cook for about 30 minutes, turning every so often.

Use-by : Once prepped and stored in the cooler, consume within 1-2 days . Top tip : You can enjoy these packets with foiled veggies .

32. Pulled Pork

Pop your pork in the slow cooker at home and you can add it to lots of different camp meals – tacos, enchiladas , mashed potato , mac n cheese , bread buns etc. Try this recipe by Food Network for best slow-cooked results.`

Great for : Adding to other campfire meals. Small groups and couples – a shoulder of pork divides well between 2-4 people. Make-ahead prep time : 15 minutes (plus 8 hours in the slow cooker). Serves : 4

• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 boneless pork shoulder (3-4lb)
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• Mix 1 tablespoon of brown sugar with mustard powder, cumin, paprika and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a bowl. Rub over the pork to marinate.
• Heat the oil in a large skillet and brown the pork for about 5 minutes until browned. Set aside.
• Whisk 3/4 cup water into the liquid left in the skillet, then transfer this to the slow cooker.
• Add the tomato paste, vinegar, remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 2 cups water to the slow cooker and whisk together. Add the pork, cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
• Remove pork and place on a chopping board. Strain the liquid in the slow cooker into a pan and bring to a boil, cooking for about 10 minutes until liquid is reduced by half. Sprinkle with salt. Pull the pork in a bowl and pour over 1 cup of the reduced liquid, plus salt and vinegar to taste.
• Wrap the pork tightly in tinfoil and refrigerate.

Use-by : Stored in the cooler, pulled pork should last for 3-4 days . Top tip: You can eat cold or re-heat over the campfire wrapped in tinfoil.

33. Make Ahead Campfire Pizza Log

Who would have thought you could enjoy pre-made pizza around the campfire? Unlike a typical pizza, this one is rolled into a log, but we assure you it tastes just as good and is the ultimate comfort food after a busy day of activities. Give this recipe by Shock Munch a go to find out for yourself!

Great for : Hikers after a long day of walking. Pizza-loving campers. Make-ahead prep time : 25 minutes. Serves : 1-2 people (makes 1 pizza log)

• 1 can pizza dough, store bought
• 1/2-1 cup pizza sauce
• 8oz shredded mozzarella
• Toppings of your choice (e.g. veggies, pepperoni, cooked chicken etc.)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Pinch of salt, garlic powder and oregano
• Roll out the pizza dough and spread sauce around, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
• Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and then add your toppings, being careful not to add too many.
• Carefully roll the dough into a log and pinch the ends so the dough sticks together.
• Use a fork to poke some holes in the top.
• Melt butter in a pan and spread on top of the dough followed by the salt, garlic powder and oregano. Wrap in tinfoil and place in the freezer.
• At camp, place the foiled pizza log onto hot coals, cooking for about 30 minutes and turning occasionally.

Use-by : Thawed pizza dough will last in the cooler for about 3 days . If for example you use cooked chicken as a topping, this will last 3-4 days in the cooler.

34. Homemade Burgers

There’s nothing quite like a burger when you’re camping, especially if you have the barbecue handy! Instead of buying pre-made burgers from the store, have a go at these homemade patties by Red and Honey . They are simple, full of flavor and devoured by all who eat them. You have been warned!

Great for : Reheating on the barbecue. People in groups who can add their own burger toppings. Make-ahead prep time : 20 minutes. Serves : Makes 12-15 patties.

• 5-6lb ground beef
• 4 tablespoons coconut flour
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 3 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• Mix all ingredients together with hands/a spoon/mixer.
• Shape into patties and place on parchment paper on a baking tray.
• Transfer to freezer then place frozen patties in a zip-lock bag or plastic container.
• Reheat on the barbecue or over the campfire.

Use-by : Thawed burgers should be eaten within 1-2 days . Top tip: You can alternatively use this recipe for meatballs, shaping into small balls rather than patties and pairing with pre-cooked pasta and tomato sauce.

35. Make Ahead Slow Cooked Beef Stew

This beef stew is a hearty, nourishing dinner that can be frozen ahead of time and reheated at camp. Give it a try using this recipe by Six Sisters’ Stuff .

Great for : Families looking for a hot, filling dinner option. Campers in colder conditions. Make-ahead prep time : 10 minutes (plus 8 hours in the slow cooker). Serves : 6

• 1 pound beef stew cubes
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4-6 red potatoes, cubed
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 package frozen peas
• 1 package onion soup mix
• Add beef cubes to the slow cooker crock pot. Layer with carrots, followed by potatoes and topping with the bay leaf.
• In a different bowl, combine remaining ingredients and pour mixture over the beef and veg.
• Cover and cook on low for around 8 hours.
• To freeze, either separate the stew into separate containers or place the whole thing in a large zip-lock bag. You can then reheat in a pan at camp.

Use-by : Allow stew to thaw for 24 hours and then consume within 3-4 days .

36. Salmon and Veggies

This flaky salmon with lime butter and vegetables is a winner when it comes to preparing ahead of time. Courtesy of The Recipe Critic , this gourmet camping meal is easy to prepare and tastes delicious – let us know if you agree!

Great for : Family camping. Solo campers/couples – individual foil wraps make these an easy dinner option for 1 or 2 people. Make-ahead prep time : 10 minutes. Serves : 4

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 zucchini, sliced
• 2 yellow squash
• 1 pound asparagus
• 1 red pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Zest of one lime
• 1 lime, quartered
• Cut 4 sheets of tinfoil and place a fillet of salmon down the center of each. Divide the veggies among the packets.
• Mix the melted butter, lime juice and lime zest in a small bowl. Pour into each foil packet and add a lime wedge before sealing. Place in the cooler until ready to cook.
• At camp, place foil packets on hot coals and cook for 13-15 minutes or until salmon is piping hot.

Use-by : Fresh salmon usually lasts 1-2 days if stored in the cooler.

37. No-Bake ‘Smores Bars

It wouldn’t be a camping holiday if there weren’t any ‘smores! These yummy make-ahead bars courtesy of Turnip the Oven are enough to get those mouths watering.

Great for : Campers with a sweet tooth. Sharing around the campfire. Make-ahead prep time : 20 minutes. Serves : 32

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 can (14oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
• Line a 13×9 inch baking tray with parchment and lightly apply non-stick spray.
• Beat the butter, sugar and vanilla with a stand/hand mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour, graham cracker crumbs and salt, followed by the condensed milk. Add 1 cup of marshmallows and 1 cup of chocolate chips, stirring to combine.
• Transfer to tin and flatten out evenly. Sprinkle over the remaining marshmallows and chocolate chips. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge.
• Once firm, cut into small squares and store in an airtight container.

Use-by : These bars can be stored in the cooler for up to 5 days . Top tip : Cut these bars up into bite-sized chunks as they are very rich. This will also make them last longer (or not)!

38. Mason Jar Strawberry Shortcakes

This make ahead mason jar dessert is a delicious treat that can be grabbed straight from the cooler and is perfect for those summer nights around the campfire. Thanks to Food Network for this tasty recipe.

Great for: An after-dinner summer dessert. Small groups – individual mason jars make them easy to distribute. Make-ahead prep time: 30 minutes. Serves: 12-14

• 6 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2/3 cup + 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter/margarine, melted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 and 2/3 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
• Whipped cream for garnish
• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Mix the strawberries with 2/3 cup of sugar. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, add the melted butter, milk, baking mix and remaining sugar, combining until a soft dough is formed. Mold into biscuits and place onto a cookie sheet.
• Bake for 9-10 minutes until golden brown.
• Once cooled, place one shortcake biscuit in each mason jar and top with strawberries. Place in the cooler along with your whipped cream that you can add before you eat.

Use-by: Store in the cooler and eat after a few days otherwise shortcake may become mushy.

39. Tortilla Roll-ups

Tortillas crop up often in this guide and for good reason! This tortilla inspired dessert by Echoes of Laughter is a great DIY campfire treat for all the family. You can assemble your tortillas at home adding all your favorite sweet treats, wrap in tinfoil and throw them on the fire at camp. Here are some ingredients you could add:

• Marshmallows
• Chocolate chips
• Strawberries

Great for: Anyone with a sweet tooth (kids and adults alike)! Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes. Serves: One tortilla per person. Use-by: There is no specific use-by date for tortillas but once opened they should be consumed within a week. As these tortillas are pre-filled, we recommend eating within 2 days. Top tip: Pack any perishable items separately and add to your tortilla at camp, such as bananas or whipped cream. You can also swap tortillas for crepes if you prefer.

40. Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

This classic campfire dessert is one to make those taste-buds tingle. Prepare your ingredients at home and then cook at camp – it will taste all the better coming straight off the campfire. Try this adapted recipe by Say Not Sweet Anne and don’t be surprised if you attract other campers with the delicious smells wafting from your fire!

Great for: Sharing around the campfire. Make-ahead prep time: 5 minutes. Serves: 4-6

• 1 tube biscuit dough (refrigerated)
• 1/2 cup pre-mixed cinnamon sugar (using the ratio 2 tablespoons of cinnamon to every half cup of sugar)
• Measure out your ingredients and store in separate zip-lock bags. Keep your biscuit dough and butter in the cooler. Line an old cake pan with tinfoil in preparation.
• At camp, use your hands to roughly cut the biscuits into quarters.
• Add a few biscuit chunks at a time to your bag of cinnamon sugar and shake. Once coated, add to the pan and repeat.
• Spread a small amount of butter over the biscuits and wrap the pan in a layer of foil to seal everything in.
• Bake over a medium heat for 20-30 minutes, allow to cool then tuck in!

Use-by: We doubt you’ll have any of these leftover but just in case, store in an air-tight container at room temperature (or as close to) and consume within 2 days .

41. Cookies

Cookies are the perfect make ahead treat to take with you on your camping adventure. You might want to cook up a big batch as they have a tendency to disappear before your very eyes! To continue with camping traditions, here’s a ‘smores cookie recipe courtesy of Sweet Paul .

Great for: Everyone. Make-ahead prep time: 35 minutes. Serves: Makes 16 cookies.

• 1 1/2 cups graham crackers, crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 lb butter
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate (of choice), chunked
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Combine the flour, crackers, salt and baking powder in a bowl and set aside.
• In another bowl, mix the sugars and butter until well combined. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract then add the flour mixture. Add the chocolate chips and stir to combine.
• Scoop the mixture into small balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes.
• Whilst baking, get your marshmallows and chocolate chunks together. Remove cookies from oven and quickly press 3 chocolate chunks and 4 marshmallows into each cookie.
• Bake for another 2 minutes or until marshmallows go brown.
• Allow to cool and store in an airtight container.

Use-by: Cookies can last 2-3 weeks at room temperature (but are usually gobbled up way before that)!

For some other make ahead cookie recipes, have a go at these:

S'mores Oatmeal Cookies by The Whole Bite Raisin Pecan Oatmeal Cookies by Food Network Chocolate Toffee No-Bake Cookies by Mom on Timeout Dark Chocolate Almond Trail Mix Cookies by Beaming Baker (vegan and dairy free)

 42. Make Ahead Grilled Apple Crisp

These foil-packed apple crisps are a great after-dinner treat for the whole family. Try this easy make ahead recipe by What Should I Make For... and see for yourself!

Great for: Families – a traditional dessert brought straight to your campsite. Couples – individual foil packages mean you can each have another the following night. Make-ahead prep time: 15 minutes. Serves: 4

• 2 apples, peeled, cored and diced
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2oz unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Cut 4×11-inch pieces of tinfoil and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
• Toss diced apples with lemon juice and sugar and set aside.
• Mix all remaining ingredients in a bowl until fully combined.
• Set your grill to medium-low heat.
• Divide the apples between the 4 pieces of foil, followed by the topping. Do this down one half of the foil so you can then easily fold over and crimp the edges. Store in the cooler.
• At camp, place foiled pouches on the grill and cook for 20 minutes.

Use-by: The apple in this recipe will last 3-4 days in the cooler so consume within that time. Top tip: Double wrap the apple crisp in extra foil before storing/cooking to prevent leakages.

43. Campfire Cones

Although you don’t need ice cream for this one, we can assure you, you’re still in for a tasty treat. You can prep your cones either at home or camp, depending on how much storage space you have. Get the kids involved with this recipe from Genius Kitchen .

Great for: Kids – they can help assemble the cones and won’t even realize there’s no ice cream involved! A ‘smores alternative. Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes. Serves: 1

• 1 ice cream cone
• Fillings of your choice (marshmallows, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, coconut, peanut butter, Nutella etc.)
• Assemble your cone at home and wrap tightly in tinfoil.
• At camp, use long tongs to roast in an open flame until fillings melt (about 5 minutes). Once cooled, pull away foil and dig in!
• Alternatively, prepare the fillings at home and store in containers. You can then assemble at camp instead.

Use-by: If making ahead, consume within 2 days. If assembling at camp, just follow the use-by dates on the ingredients but they should have pretty long shelf lives.

44. ‘Smores Bark

Another insanely delicious must-have dessert around the campfire. ‘Smores bark by Cook Craft Love has all the ingredients for a tasty treat and is so easy to make at home and transport to camp.

Great for: Munching on around the fire. Sharing with your fellow campers. Make-ahead prep time: 1 hour. Serves: 8-10

• 24oz chocolate chips
• 8oz marshmallow fluff
• 2 sheets of graham crackers, crushed
• Nuts (optional)
• Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave until smooth. Remove and spread half the chocolate over a lined baking tray or silicone baking mat and place in the fridge. Allow to set for 15 minutes.
• Microwave the marshmallow fluff for 15-30 seconds. Remove chocolate from fridge and spread the fluff on top leaving about 1/2 an inch around the perimeter. Place in the fridge for 15 more minutes.
• Remove from fridge and pour over the remaining melted chocolate, topping with the crushed graham crackers. Put back in the fridge for 1 hour until it sets before breaking it into pieces.
• Store in an airtight container in the cooler.

Use-by: We’re sure you’ll have no problems eating this up but so that the crackers don’t dry out, consume within 2-3 days. Top tip: You don’t have to store these in the cooler but make sure they are kept out of direct sunlight to prevent a sticky chocolate mess.

45. Make Ahead Plum and Bourbon Crumble

This mason jar dessert from Food Network is easy to make at home and is the perfect summer dessert for adults to enjoy around the campfire whilst the kids tuck into their cones or cookies.

Great for: Adults – the bourbon adds a nice kick to this warm dessert. Make-ahead prep time: 40 minutes. Serves: 4

• 2 plums, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
• 4 teaspoons bourbon
• Spray a grill pan and place over a medium-high heat. Add the plums cut-side down and cook until just charred, about 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
• In a bowl, combine the butter, 4 tablespoons of sugar, flour, cinnamon and lemon zest. Use your hands to create small clumps of crumble which you can then add to your mason jars.
• Next, score the tops of the plums and place one (grill-side up) in each jar. Add one teaspoon of bourbon to each plum and evenly sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar over the plums. Divide the remaining crumble between the 4 jars then place them in an 8×8 inch baking dish. Fill the dish with 1/4 cup water to make a water bath.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until crumble is golden and plums are soft.
• You can re-heat at camp as long as the mason jars are standing in a water bath. If not, they can also be eaten cold, served with whipped cream from the cooler.

Use-by: Store in the cooler and consume within 2 days.

46. Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Another easy foil recipe that you can prepare at home, bundle in foil and throw on the fire. Dessert has never been so simple! Try this one on your next camping trip, courtesy of Echoes of Laughter .

Great for: Campers craving a warm, satisfying dessert. Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes. Serves: As many foils as you require.

• Pineapple chunks (fresh/canned)
• Pound cake, cubed
• Brown Sugar
• Prepare your tinfoil and spray with cooking spray.
• Add a handful of pineapple chunks to each foil packet.
• Top with pound cake cubes, followed by a good spoonful of butter and brown sugar.
• Fold the packets and store in the cooler.
• At camp, place on a grill over the fire for 15-20 minutes, once the butter has melted with the sugar, forming a sauce.
• For added toppings, sprinkle over some cinnamon or nutmeg or add a dollop of whipped cream from the cooler.

Use-by: To prevent the pound cake becoming soggy, consume within 2 days.

47. ‘Smores Rice Krispies

You can never have too many ‘smores desserts and this one by Cook Like a Champion can be made ahead and requires no re-heating at camp. Simply grab and go!

Great for: Sharing – these convenient bars are great for passing around the campfire. Make-ahead prep time: 30 minutes. Serves: Makes 24 bars.

• 8-9 graham crackers
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 8oz bittersweet chocolate, split into squares, set 1/2 cup aside
• 1 bag (10oz) mini marshmallows, set 1 cup aside
• 6 cups rice cereal
• Pre-heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13×9 inch baking dish with tinfoil, spraying lightly with cooking spray. Lay graham crackers along the base of the dish to cover.
• Set a large saucepan over a medium heat and add 6 tablespoons of butter followed by the sugar. Once melted and bubbling, pour and evenly spread over the crackers. Bake for 7-10 minutes, remove from oven and place chocolate squares on top. Bake for a further 2 minutes until chocolate melts and spread evenly over the crackers.
• Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over a medium-high heat. Continuously stir in the marshmallows until melted, followed by the rice cereal until covered. Scoop the mixture onto the chocolate covered crackers and use your hands/spatula to press into the dish. Scatter over the remaining chocolate (chopped) and marshmallows and place in the refrigerator to set.
• Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.

Use-by: Store at room temperature conditions for 5 days to make sure these bars stay chewy and crispy.

48. Popcorn

Forget buying ready-made popcorn from the store – now you can do all your prep at home, wrap in foil and ‘pop’ over the fire! Indulge in the smoky flavors from the campfire with this recipe from The Cookful .

Great for: Individual campers – popcorn is wrapped in separate pieces of tinfoil so everyone can enjoy their own bag. Make-ahead prep time: 5 minutes. Serves: 1

• 2 tablespoons popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons oil (neutral flavor such as vegetable/grapeseed)
• 2 pinches of salt
• Cut an 18 inch piece of foil and add the popcorn kernels to one side of the foil, in the middle. Drizzle with oil and add salt.
• Fold over the foil and crimp the edges, leaving room for the popcorn to expand. Make sure the top edge of the foil has plenty of layers that will withstand your campfire fork once poked through.
• Store in a zip-lock bag/container ready to heat at camp.
• When ready to make, poke the fork through the foil and hold it above the flames of the campfire. Once the popping is over (5-7 minutes later) remove from heat and enjoy.

Use-by: Store any leftover popcorn in an airtight container which will last 2-3 weeks .

49. Granola Bars

Home-made granola bars make great snacks whether you are camping or hiking. By cutting out the processed ingredients often found in store-bought bars , you can create much healthier versions, such as these easy no-bake bars by Red and Honey .

Great for: Hikers looking for an energy-boosting snack. Campers who want to snack on something healthy. Make-ahead prep time: 15 minutes. Serves: Makes around 16 bars.

• 2/3 cup coconut oil
• 2/3 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 2/3 cup honey
• 2 cups oats
• 2 cups total of additional ingredients (such as dark chocolate chips, nuts, raisins, dried fruit etc.)
• In a heat-proof bowl, combine the coconut oil, peanut butter and honey and warm until everything melts. Stir the mixture, adding the oats followed by your additional ingredients.
• Press mixture into a 9×13 inch pan and refrigerate. Once firm, cut into bars and store in the fridge/cooler.

Use-by: Store these bars in an airtight container in the cooler and they should last for weeks . Top tip: If adding chocolate, allow the mixture to cool completely before adding to make sure the chocolate doesn’t melt.

50. Trail Mix

Ideal for hikers and energetic campers, home-made trail mix can be pre-made using all your favorite ingredients. Packed full of protein and fiber, it is a great energy boosting snack that can replenish lots of burned calories.

There are so many combinations of trail mix that you make ahead for your camping trip. Examples include:

• Raisins, peanuts and M&M’s.
• Nuts (almonds/pecans/walnuts), seeds (pumpkin/sunflower), chili powder, ground cumin, sea salt, cayenne pepper and garlic powder.
• Dark chocolate, coconut flakes, peanuts, raisins, banana chips and sea salt.

See the full list of 21 trail mix combos by Greatist for more inspiration.

Great for : Hikers – a great snack when walking to boost energy levels. Families and groups – you can make a big batch and store in a place where people can help themselves during the day. Campers wanting nutritional snacks. Use-by : Store trail mix in an airtight container and it should last for 1 month .

51. Fruit Leather

Instead of buying fruity sweet snacks from the store, try making this fruit leather at home for a healthy alternative. It’s so easy to make ahead and is a guilt-free treat to snack on at camp. Try this raspberry and peach one from Food Network and see what you think.

Great for: Kids and adults – a healthy substitute for sugary sweets. Using up leftover fruit and turning it into a nutritious snack. Make-ahead prep time: 15 minutes (plus 4-5 hours bake time). Serves: 12

• 7oz frozen raspberries
• 7oz frozen peaches
• 1 teaspoon orange zest, grated
• Place the fruit in a strainer over a bowl to thaw.
• Preheat the oven to 175°F (80°C). Line a large baking tray with Silpat (silicone mat) or unbleached parchment paper. Add the thawed fruit and orange zest to a blender and puree until smooth. Spread the mixture over the Silpat evenly and bake for 4-5 hours until dried but still flexible. Allow to cool before pealing off the Silpat and cutting into strips.

Use-by: Store in an airtight container and it will last for 2 weeks . You can also freeze for up to 1 year . Top tip: Frozen fruit tends to work best overall but you can also use fresh or canned.

You can be as creative as you like with fruit leather, adding all your favorite fruit combinations and extras like nuts and seeds. Here are some more recipes for you to try courtesy of Mom With a Prep .

52. Energy Balls

For a great grab ‘n’ go snack, these little bite-sized balls can be made using a variety of healthy ingredients to give you a burst of energy when you need it most. Try this blueberry and almond no-bake recipe by Sweet Peas and Saffron and make sure you pack plenty for your next trip.

Great for: Kids – a quick snack that is also nutritious and a good source of protein. Hikers – a great energy booster. Campers craving a healthy snack. Make-ahead prep time:  20 minutes. Serves: 16-18

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1/3 cup almond butter
• 1/2 cup oats
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup dried blueberries
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• Add coconut oil to a large bowl and stir to melt (at room temperature).
• Mix in the maple syrup (or honey) and almond butter, stirring to combine. Next add all the remaining ingredients and mix together.
• Roll in small balls using a tablespoon and refrigerate.

Use-by: Store in the cooler and consume within 1 week . You can also freeze these balls for up to 3 months if you prefer.

For more recipe ideas, check out this Good Housekeeping article with 44 energy ball variations.

53. Chocolate Trail Mix Bites

If you find yourself having the munchies at camp, these simple make ahead bites are a healthy snack, rich in antioxidants and only 39 calories each! Thanks to Simply Taralynn for this one.

Great for: Hikers needing a little energy boost. Campers looking for a healthy snack whilst still getting their chocolate fix. Make-ahead prep time: 5 minutes. Serves: 8-10

• 1/4 cup trail mix (the choice is yours)
• 3 tablespoons dark chocolate chips
• Melt the chocolate in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until smooth.
• Use a tablespoon to drizzle the chocolate onto a piece of wax paper in circles, about the size of a quarter.
• Take pieces of trail mix and lightly press down into the chocolate. Refrigerate to set.

Use-by: Store in a zip-locked bag or container and keep in the cooler so they don’t melt. These bites will last weeks if not months depending on the sell-by date of ingredients.

54. Make Ahead Spinach Dip

This versatile dip can be enjoyed as a snack with chips/bread or an appetizer before dinner. Either way, it's so easy to make ahead and can be transported to camp in foil packets. Credit to Outdoor Connection for this tasty recipe.

Great for: Snacking on before dinner. Sharing with a small group. Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes (plus 4-5 hours refrigerator time). Serves: 6

• 3/4 cup frozen spinach, drained and chopped
• 250g cream cheese
• 3/4 cup Parmesan, shredded
• Additional items (optional) – bacon, green onions, garlic, mozzarella etc.
• Mix all the ingredients together and store in the fridge for 4-6 hours so ingredients can combine.
• Prepare your tinfoil and layer the spinach dip down the middle. Fold over to create a packet and add more layers of foil to prevent burning. Store in the cooler.
• At camp, place the foils near the hot coals for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.

Use-by: Thawed spinach lasts about 4 days so it is recommended to eat this dip within that time.

55. Cheesy Garlic Bread

This delicious pull-apart cheesy garlic bread by Today's Parent will go down a treat with your campers. Simply make ahead and wrap tightly in foil, ready to throw straight on the fire. Simple!

Great for: Sharing as an appetizer before dinner. Make-ahead prep time: 10 minutes. Serves: 8

• 1 500g large round loaf
• 2 cups grated cheese
• 1/4 cup garlic butter, melted
• Cut the loaf into 1 inch slices, leaving an inch or so at the bottom to keep the loaf intact. Turn the loaf and slice the other way to make squares.
• Stuff with cheese and drizzle 3 tablespoons of garlic butter into the loaf. Use the remainder to brush over the top.
• Wrap in tinfoil and store in the cooler.
• At camp, pop the loaf on a barbecue or grill on a medium-low heat for about 25 minutes. Flip halfway through and remove once cheese has melted.

Use-by: Bread tends to dry out in the fridge so consume within a few days whilst its still fresh.

56. Make Ahead Jalapeno Cornbread

The jalapenos in this recipe by Food Network give your standard cornbread that extra kick. Eat as a pre-dinner snack or pair as a side with campfire chili for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Great for: Sharing around the campfire with friends or family. Make-ahead prep time: 35 minutes. Serves: 6-8

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a 10-inch skillet in the oven for 5 minutes to heat up. Remove and add butter. Once melted, set aside.
• Add the corn and eggs to a food processor and blend until corn is slightly smooth. Add in the flour, cornmeal, sour cream, sugar, salt and baking powder and blend until smooth. Scoop mixture into a bowl and mix in the jalapeno and melted butter.
• Pour the mixture into the skilled and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown. Insert a tester to make sure center is cooked.
• Once cooled, remove from skillet and wrap in tinfoil. You can either store in the freezer, fridge or pantry before taking it to camp. You can reheat at camp over a grill or barbecue.

Use-by: Stored at room temperature, cornbread will last 1-2 days . To maximize shelf life, store in the cooler and consume within 1 week .

57. Cheesy Dip

If you love cheese, chili and beans try this satisfying Mexican dip from Beyond the Tent and make sure it accompanies you on your next camping trip. Indulge around the campfire with a big bag of tortilla chips and scoop up the cheesy goodness.

Great for: Sharing around the campfire. A mid-afternoon indulgent snack. Make-ahead prep time: Serves: 10-12

• 1 pack cream cheese
• 1 can black beans
• 2 cans no bean chili
• 1 bag (8oz) shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Layer a 9×13 inch foil pan with half of the cream cheese, about 1/2 an inch thick.
• Spread one can of the chili and half the can of black beans over the cream cheese.
• Add the remaining cream cheese, spreading over the beans, followed by the second can of chili. You can also add a layer of jalapenos if you wish.
• Finish by adding the shredded cheese and wrap the pan in tinfoil.
• Store in the cooler and then pop on the grate over the fire for 20 minutes, until bubbling.

Use-by: This dip will keep in the cooler for 3-4 days . Once heated, eat immediately.

58. Make Ahead Campfire Beans

These smoky campfire beans by Today’s Parent are great as a snack with cornbread or as a side dish to a main meal. Simply make ahead and reheat over the fire.

Great for: Vegetarians. Sharing around as a mid-afternoon snack. A barbecue dinner, letting people help themselves. Make-ahead prep time: 40 minutes. Serves: 6

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cans (540ml) navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup water
• Add oil to a saucepan over a medium heat, followed by onion. Cook for about 4 minutes, until soft.
• Stir in tomato paste, mustard, maple syrup, molasses, paprika and salt. Pour in the beans, then the water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan, simmering for 25 minutes until sauce thickens.
• Once cooler, store in a foil container in the cooler read to re-heat on your campfire.

Use-by: Cooked beans will last 3-5 days in the cooler.

59. Make Ahead Hummus

You can never have too many dips when it comes to snacking! Whether you pair this one with carrots and corn chips, or spread on some warmed French bread, your taste buds will not be disappointed. Try it now using this recipe by Grateful Grazer .

Great for: Sharing with fellow campers. Pairing with salads, cooked meats, sandwiches and more. Solo campers and couples – make as much as you need and store in a small container. Make-ahead prep time: 5 minutes. Serves: 4-6

•   1 can (15oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1/2 lemon zest and juice
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• Pinch of salt and paprika
• Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth. Add extra oil if necessary to reach preferred consistency.
• Scoop into an airtight container and refrigerate.

Use-by: Keep in the cooler and use within 1 week .

We’re hopeful you’ll find plenty of make ahead meals on this list to take with you on your next camping trip. Before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, here are a few final tips:

• Most items on this list can be substituted depending on dietary requirements to suit your group of campers.
• Items in the freezer can be transferred straight to the cooler which also keeps the rest of your food cold. Always keep the cooler temperature between 0 and 5 degrees.
• Store raw meat separately to prevent cross contamination. Store in air-tight containers to prevent leakages.
• Eat meals in logical order depending on shelf life (i.e. eat perishable items first).
• Use heavy duty tinfoil when food is going to be placed over the campfire to prevent splitting and burning.

Let us know in the comments if you take any of these make ahead meals on your next trip, or if have any others you recommend. Happy camping!

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40 Easy RV Camping Meals for Your Next RV Trip

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Are you looking for easy and delicious meals to make while on your next camping trip? Whether you’re in an RV, a tent, or just at a campsite, we have the perfect meal ideas for you! From hearty breakfasts to easy dinners, check out our list of RV camping meals that will be sure to satisfy any appetite.

When it comes to camping in an RV, meal planning can be a bit of a challenge. But with a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can enjoy delicious meals while on the road. Before you embark on your RV journey, take some time to plan out your meals. Think about what food you’ll need to bring and how you’ll be cooking it. If you’re able to bring along a slow cooker or Instant Pot, that can be a great way to cook up some delicious meals without having to do too much work. For more tips on RV cooking you can subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media.

Can I use a crockpot or instant pot in my RV

Yes, you can! Using a crockpot or instant pot in your RV is a great way to make delicious meals with minimal effort and clean up.( I personally think it’s the best way) This type of kitchen appliance is ideal for RV trips as it allows you to cook without taking up too much counter space and without having to use a large number of pots and pans. Especially if you don’t have a full kitchen in your RV. You can use it to make anything from hearty stews to quick and easy one-pot meals that require minimal preparation and cooking time. With an Instant Pot, you can even make meals like rice, soup, oatmeal, and more with just the press of a button! And since both appliances can be used while camping, they are perfect for RV trips – no matter how long or short. This is such a good idea for not having to heat up your RV’s oven in the hot summer months. Don’t forget to also take advantage of the outdoor grill at your campsite where you can grill up some hamburgers and hot dogs and eat on the picnic table.

How do I plan a meal for an RV trip?

Planning a delicious meal for an RV trip doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the pantry. Dry goods, canned foods, grains, beans, starches like bread, potatoes, and pasta all travel well and withstand a variety of temperatures. Instant Pot Shredded Chicken, boil in the bag meals like omelets and rotisserie chicken ranch wraps are easy to prepare in an RV kitchen. Make homemade pita “chips”, crackers or tortilla crisps with hummus for snacking. For quick snacks, pack nuts and fruits that don’t need to be refrigerated. Also, bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking. With a little planning, you can create delicious meals for your RV trip that are both healthy and satisfying. The last thing you want to to have to do is run to a local grocery store after setting up camp.

I recommend doing a meal plan so you can see what coupons you have before you go. If you are not sure how to meal plan, we have an awesome solution for you. We have already created 6 days worth of meals in our printable camping meal plan . It’s on sale for a limited time! The meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas, as well as a few snacks. You’ll also get a printable grocery list as well to help you shop. If you have picky eaters you won’t have to follow our meal plan to an exact T, feel free to substitute anything you need to, but this will give you a good start. We also have some links to some our favorite easy RV meals below. Which one is your favorite easy RV dinner idea?

What food should I bring on an RV trip?

When planning a trip in an RV, it’s important to think ahead and plan meals that are easy to prepare and won’t take up too much space. Homemade pita chips, crackers, or tortilla crisps with hummus are a great way to start off any meal, while Instant Pot Shredded Chicken is a delicious and nutritious main course. Biltong and Jerky make for delicious snacks, while country-style barbecue can be cooked up quickly at the campsite. Pre-prepping purees in advance will help save time and space. With some careful planning, you can enjoy delicious meals during your RV adventure! If you plan on cooking on an open flame make sure you bring a cast iron pan or dutch oven for the hot coals.

We also like to prep our veggies ahead of time. Ones we know will use like green onion, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes. You can even prep your ground beef ahead of time, or purchase a rotisserie chicken and pre shred it. Check out our Camping Hack: Reuse Old Creamer Bottles . While we love to eat a good meal, we don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking, but spend more time enjoying our vacation. So we try to meal prep and plan easy delicious meals with simple simple ingredients. I also try to keep things like peanut butter, cans of black beans and tomato sauce that are sorta shelf stable and can be used for a lot of things.

We also like to keep the following in our RV:

• Homemade taco seasoning
• Homemade dry onion soup mix
• Homemade ranch seasoning mix
• Garlic Powder
• Minced Garlic
• Salt and Pepper
• Homemade Pulled Pork Rub
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• Tortilla Chips

What can you cook on at a campsite?

Cooking outdoors at a campsite can be an enjoyable and delicious experience. RVers have many options for preparing meals when camping, such as cooking on a portable stove, grilling on a barbecue, using a pressure cooker or slow cooker, and Dutch oven cooking. With these methods, you can create a variety of easy and delicious meals such as Instant Pot Shredded Chicken, Egg and Sausage Breakfast Roll-ups, and Country-Style Barbecue. Planning ahead is important to ensure that you have all the ingredients and supplies needed. And don’t forget to bring along some healthy snacks like trail mix or fresh fruit to munch on throughout your trip!

How do you eat healthy when camping in an RV?

When camping in an RV, it’s important to make sure you’re eating healthy. You can still enjoy delicious and nutritious meals while on the road. To ensure you get all the nutrients and vitamins you need, try to incorporate plenty of fresh produce and lean proteins into your meals. You can also opt for one-skillet meals to help save on time and washing up. Other easy, healthy options include yogurt, fruit, oatmeal, tacos, cheese, whole grain crackers, slow-cooker one-pot meals, and grilled meats and vegetables. Muesli is also a great breakfast on the go as you can make your own combination of grains, seeds, nuts and dried fruit before setting off. Don’t forget breakfast is the most important meal of the day . Finally, don’t forget to pack plenty of healthy snacks for when hunger strikes. With a little planning and creativity, you can easily eat healthy during your RV camping trip.

Check out these 45 Easy Camping Meals for Your Next RV Trip. Cooking in small spaces on the go can be delicious! (Yes we have updated this post to include 45)

My husband and I love to road trip. We recently got to experience what it was like to vacation in an RV after purchasing a pop up camper which we soon upgraded to a travel trailer. One of the best things about vacationing in an RV is you can save money by cooking your own meals. Plus you are getting the benefits of a home cooked meal and fresh ingredients.

I thought I’d put together some easy meal ideas for you, to make planning a little easier. Don’t forget you can even bring your slow cooker or instant pot along. My favorite is the Ninja Foodi because it’s a pressure cooker, slow cooker and air fryer all in one. It will totally save space. I also love to bring my cast iron skillet . Trust me, you CAN eat GOOD when you are camping in an RV. We hope you enjoy these easy recipes.

45 Easy Camping Meals for Your Next RV Trip. Save Time with RV Meal Planning:

You can also check out our instant pot recipes, slow cooker recipes and air fryer recipes for easy RV recipes.

• Grilled Chicken and Roasted Potatoes (We used the Weber Roasted Garlic & Herb seasoning)
• THE BEST CAMPFIRE CHEESY POTATOES ( this one is sure to be a crowd pleaser and can be made for large groups)
• SMOKED CAMPFIRE QUESO FRESCO ( this one is a family favorite)
• Pie Iron Pizza Pockets Perfect for Camping
• Cast Iron Mac and Cheese
• Easy Campfire Fajitas
• Dutch Oven Chicken
• Homemade Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls

Campfire Pizza Recipe in Foil

• Bacon Jam Recipe: Bacon Apple Onion Jam
• Campfire Potato Nachos Recipe & Oven Recipe
• Camping Hack: Muffin Mix Pancakes
• Shish Kabob Recipe
• Best Dutch Oven for Bread Recipe
• Cowboy Queso Dip
• Easy Philly Steak Sandwiches
• Skinny Chicken Salad Sandwiches
• Spaghetti Boats
• Easy Homemade Goulash
• Hearty Chili Chicken and Rice Skillet Meal
• Rosemary Lemon Porkchops
• Buffalo Chicken Wraps
• 300 Calorie Quesadilla
• Grilled Pizza
• Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
• Slow Cooker Chicken Street Tacos
• Easy Crockpot Meatballs
• Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
• Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork ( or BBQ Chicken)
• Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
• Easy Homemade Chili ( simple meal)
• 10 Simple Slow Cooker Recipes  
• Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
• Make up a fruit salad ahead of time.

RV Camping Breakfast Meals

• Camping Pancakes
• Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
• Campfire Breakfast potatoes
• French Toast is also an easy delicious breakfast idea.
• Breakfast sandwiches with canned biscuits

Campfire Desserts

• Easy Grilled Blueberry Pie
• Cast Iron Skillet Blueberry Cobbler
• CAMPFIRE ORANGE CINNAMON ROLLS
• CAMPFIRE DESSERTS: S’MORES CAMPFIRE CONES

In conclusion, planning ahead is essential for RV camping meals. Not only will this help you stay organized and save money, but RV meals don’t need to be complicated. A slow cooker can be a great way to make meals that last for days. Additionally, better food buying choices, like avoiding produce in wasteful plastic containers, can help ensure you are eating healthy and responsibly. Finally, keeping it simple with yogurt, fruit, oatmeal, tacos, wraps, and cheese can be quick and easy meals on the go. With these tips in mind, you can plan delicious RV camping meals that your whole family will enjoy.

Have you had any experience cooking in an RV? What is your favorite meal idea? We would love to hear about them! If you are viewing this check out our blog as we’ve added a ton of new recipes since we’ve written this. JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP !

If you are thinking about  RVing with Your Pets , Georgia is a very pet friendly state. Check out all of our tips.

Take Our Camping & RVing Like a Boss Course

Looking to get the most out of your camping or RVing experience? Then this course is for you! Camping & Rving Like a Boss offers tips and tricks that will help you save time and money, so that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest. Join our Course .

My Favorite camping Supplies

• First Aid Kit
• Coleman Camping Cot
• Waterproof Solar Charger
• Portable Fire Pits
• Expandable Smore’s Sticks
• Cast Iron Camping Tripod
• Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven
• Solar Lanterns
• Solar Generator

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12 comments.

My favorite meal to cook while RVing is grilled cedar plank lemon pepper salmon, rice pilaf, and grilled asparagus and zucchini.

Thanks for sharing Shanna!

Our family loves when we make camp fire breakfast burritos, which you can just as easily do in the RV, scrambled eggs with bacon and heated refried beans on a flour tortilla shells, topped with diced tomatoes, shredded cheese and sour cream. Any thing else you might like to add. Yummy there so very good.

We like chorizo and eggs scrambled together on a tortilla. Also slices of ham cupped in muffin pan drop in an egg and some cheese and bake til egg is done

Thanks Sandy – sounds yummy!

Anything in my instant pot…my go to way to cook …in a fraction of the time.. Forget to defrost meat for dinner?? Toss it in frozen…no take out for us.

Planing to buy an rv,supper nervous about meals.thank you for sharing hope me the best .

You’re quite welcome! 🙂

We bring packaged mini-pizza crusts, pizza sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for one night; Mahi-mahi steaks for tacos along tortillas, salsa, and all the fixings; Pasta and bottled sauce, use the cheese for the pizza; Quesadillas with the taco cheeses and salsa; Grilled cheese (mozzarella, Parmesan, and Mexican mix) and veggie sandwiches (olive oil sautéed tomato and red onion slices, and avocado) on sandwich thins; Veggie and turkey burgers on sandwich thins;

Great ideas Miriam – thanks for sharing!

We are full-timers… and the best invention EVER is the “Power Air Fryer Oven Plus! It is small , Fast, and easy to clean up! You can make anything from fried eggs to cakes and everything in between! It has a rotisserie,and makes the crispiest French fries ever! All the meats cook quickly and are moist and delicious! There are several racks ,so you are able to cook several items at once! And the best feature is no Fat, just good flavor!

Peanut butter and bread. That’s my menu and I’m sticking with it.

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Shop best sellers, what’s excellent about make-ahead meals for your camping trip, breakfast make-ahead camping meals, lunch/dinner make-ahead camping meals, dessert make-ahead camping meals.

18 Stress-Free, Healthy Make Ahead Camping Meals!

Estimated time to read 10 minutes

The best way to ensure you make the most out of a camping trip is by reducing any avoidable stress!

Being prepared with make-ahead camping meals can prevent unnecessary tension surrounding picky eaters or a lack of ingredients, and can save the time of prep and cooking - leaving you more time for fun!

We know that it can be hard to find exciting inspiration for make-ahead camping meals, as many online sources are quick to promote plain and boring freeze-dried meals or hot dogs. As a result, we have created an exclusive list of our favorite, hassle-free camping meals, that are as delicious as they are nutritious!

Check out 18 different recipes below, from breakfast to lunch and dinner, that can be made ahead of your trip. We have you covered for both savory dishes and sweet desserts - meaning you will be able to find the perfect meal balance for your whole family during the whole camping trip .

Make-ahead camping meals have many benefits, and that is why we highly recommend preparing your favorite camping meals ahead of your trip.

1). No Campground Hassle

Firstly, planning meals ahead of camping trips help to reduce any mealtime stress, which is especially noticeable if you have any fussy eaters camping with you.

Having made ahead camping meals will also ensure that you have a good supply of food in case of any emergencies and that everyone will be well-fed for the duration of the trip.

2). Easy to Make and Affordable

Make-ahead camping meals are easy and cheap to make, which is great if you are camping on a budget. Pre-made meals often involve very few ingredients and a lower cook time, which is perfect for getting a lot of meals made quickly before the camping trip.

Preparing what you are making in advance can also help you to develop a meal plan for the trip, which you can then send to your fellow campers to ensure that everyone is happy with the meal options.

3). Healthy and Delicious

Making your camping meals ahead of time can also let you have more control over the nutritional content of the recipes. For more active and adventurous camping trips, providing vitamin and protein-dense foods is fundamental for replenishing your muscles after a long day.

The following healthy meals that we suggest all focus on offering delicious tasting food, without having to compromise on healthiness!

Here are some of our favorite camping breakfast recipes that you can make ahead of your camping trip! Meal planning can be a great tool for helping to organize your trip, so make sure to keep a note of your favorite ideas.

1).  Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast burritos are a delicious classic of camping-safe freezer meals! These filling burritos made ahead of your camping trip, will provide mountains of flavor with practically no mess.

Once you have prepared them, simply store the frozen camping breakfast burritos in a cooler box, then pop them over a campfire when you are hungry!

These burritos are bursting with protein and, due to preparing this meal ahead of time, you can tailor the fillings of each burrito to each camper's food preferences. From adding extra shredded cheese and meat, to which vegetables people would prefer (our favorite is bell pepper)! 

A tip for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet would be to replace any meat fillings with beans for just as much protein.

2).  Mason Jar Parfait

Mason jar parfait is a recipe inspired by the latest health trend of 'overnight oats' and the main focus is the same: delicious food with convenience in mind.

This simple recipe is incredibly quick and easy, and you only need yogurt, muesli, granola, an apple, and some grapes! With these ingredients providing 4 servings, your whole family can enjoy this whilst camping as a vitamin-filled breakfast.

The parfait can last for 5 days without the need for a refrigerator, as long as it is kept in a relatively cool environment. Therefore, this sweet dish is a brilliant camping dish that you can make almost instantly ahead of time.

3).  Blueberry and Apple French Toast- in Foil

Click the link to see how quick and easy blueberry and apple french toast make-ahead camping recipes meals can be! Preparing the mix at home will not only make it easier for traveling whilst camping, but it also allows you to adjust flavors to suit your palette more!

For example, the cinnamon and vanilla extract will infuse even more, which means that the camping meal will be even more delicious.

4).  Cornmeal Griddle Pancakes

This tasty cornmeal griddle pancake recipe has already become a make-ahead meal essential for many! Pancakes are a well-loved breakfast meal, and for sleepy chilly campers, this warm sugary dough will be sure to brighten up their day. 

To prepare ahead for your trip, we recommend mixing the dry ingredients together and adding the wet just before you want your breakfast. You can add any yummy fillings at this point, like chocolate chips or crushed-up bananas, and then cook over the fire.

We are certain that everyone will love these fluffy breakfast pancakes so much that you'll be wanting them for dinner too!

5).  Mason Jar Overnight Oats

Much like the mason jar parfait, this mason jar overnight oats breakfast recipe is a great meal that is nutritious, dense, and extremely filling. These overnight oats are also a great option if the kitchen facilities on your campsite are limited, as they do not require any camp cooking or fuss at all!

For those with a sweet tooth, you can add chocolate chips to the recipe, woot woot!

6).  Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Being able to cook a whole camping meal in one grill is one of the best benefits of make-ahead camping meals. This delicious grilled chicken fajitas recipe does just that, reducing any mess or hassle! 

Make-ahead of this camping dish by mixing the simple ingredients of chicken breasts, green, yellow, and red pepper, as well as red onions together.

Then, simply add some chili powder and a  spice mix of your choice . Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil with cooking spray, and cook in a foil baking pan for just under 20 minutes for a tasty grilled camping lunch meal or chicken dinner.

Serve this meal to your campers alongside tortilla chips and canned black beans for a crowd favorite make-ahead camping meal! Add sour cream for an extra flavor kick. 

 7).  BBQ chicken foil packets

This BBQ chicken foil packet  recipe is extremely easy to make ahead of camping trips and packs a bunch of vegetables in too! Camping recipes often lack fresh vegetables so we recommend adding as many of your favorite vegetables as you'd like or a side of potato salad. 

With only around 10 minutes of prep time, all you need to do is pop the foil packets into the freezer and then keep them cool until you wish to cook them.

8).  Grilled Steak Shish Kabobs

Another delicious freezer-friendly make-ahead camping meal are these grilled steak shish kabobs ! This camping recipe can be made ahead of your trip for a fraction of the usual price and they will taste just like famous gourmet meals. 

Buying meats and vegetables whilst on sale will reduce the cost of this dish so you'll be saving both time and money. After prepping them, all you'll have left to do during camping is to grill them, leaving you with more time to enjoy your trip.

9).  Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

A summer favorite, this make-ahead camping meal will help add some sunshine to your trip. The flavorful shrimp boil foil packet dinner incorporates seafood, corn, and sausage, which is sure to be a camping lunch favorite! 

With prep time completed beforehand, you'll only need to cook this shrimp boil tin foil packet for around 15 minutes before you can tuck it in.

10).  Mediterranean Chicken Salad

A Mediterranean chicken salad is a healthy camping meal that isn't as carb-heavy as our other suggested make-ahead camping meals. Use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Leafy salads may struggle to hold their own after a few days on a camping trip, so our top tip is to use crunchier and stronger vegetables.

11).  Southwest Chili Quesadillas

Add some delicious Southwest Chili flavors to your list of make-ahead camping meals! These Southwest Chili Quesadillas are vegetarian-friendly and only require a quick griddle on a campfire ! Add some more delicious Mexican flavors to your list of make-ahead camping meals with some black beans.

The rich flavors of the  Proper Good Southwest Chili  are the perfect mix for warming up on those cooler camping nights!

12).  Grilled Pastrami Sandwiches

Grilled pastrami sandwiches are great make-ahead camping meals due to the ease of their preparation!

These smoky sandwiches only take around 10 minutes to assemble (depending on how many campers you have) and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Any leftovers can also be rewrapped and reheated in order to be enjoyed at a later time. 

Serve with tomato sauce, chili powder, cream cheese, or even balsamic vinegar for an extra kick of flavor!

13).  Asparagus and Goat Cheese Frittata

This make-ahead camping recipe will put gourmet meals to shame! With just a couple of ingredients, such as eggs, veggies, and a variety of cheese types (even cream cheese if you'd like), this asparagus and goat cheese frittata is as simple to make as it is healthy.

This family favorite camping meal will be guaranteed to leave every camper speechless.

14).  Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

This fruity meaty concoction will provide campers with those summery sweet and savory flavors that make one of the favorite camping lunch recipes. As one of our favorite make-ahead camping meals, these grilled chicken and pineapple tin foil packets will leave every camper chomping away around the campfire.

 This make-ahead chicken dinner only takes 10 minutes to prep and a further 15 minutes to cook on the campfire. Using chicken breast, this made-ahead camping recipe will help to nourish any tired muscles due to its essential protein content!

15).  Veggie Sausage Packets

For the vegetarians (or even vegans) at your campsite, it's important that you are able to make ahead equally delicious camping dinners for them too! As they won't have the protein from meat, make sure to choose a meat substitute that is packed full of nutrients.

Mix these veggie sausage packets in with marinated peppers, onions, and potatoes for a wholesome fulfilling lunch or dinner meal.

16).  Apple Crisp Foil Packets

Using slow energy-releasing oats and sweet crispy apples, this apple crisp foil packet  dessert recipe is a true summer camping trip favorite! Campers will love crunching into the sweet treat, and it's the perfect sugary burst to enjoy after your camping adventures.

17).  Cherry Hand Pies

These campfire cherry hand pies are so deliciously tender, they'll be one of your favorite camping dessert recipes after just one bite!

Part of this camping meal's charm is the fresh bright flavor of the cherries, and around a campfire, these make-ahead pies will leave you feeling incredibly content. 

A top tip for this make-ahead camping recipe is to have a spare container for the leftover cooking oil, as unfortunately, you cannot dispose of this oil down any drains.

18).  Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Skewers

These sweet fruity skewers combine the delicious ingredients of cake with pineapple! This pineapple upside down cake skewers recipe is super easy to make ahead at home, and these tasty skewers make for a great light dessert after lunch or dinner.

In summary, these tasty make-ahead camping meals will provide you with delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes that all of your campers will enjoy.

Preparing these camping meals ahead of your trip will help to save you and your family time and money so that you can enjoy this and your next camping trip properly!

Camping meals can be a tedious part of the camping experience, so it's no surprise that more and more people are turning to made-ahead camping meals or pre-prepared camping recipes!

Alternatively, if you're really stuck for a time due to various camping adventures, you can enjoy  Proper Good's mouth-wateringly nutritious ready-made meals  (and keto meals for camping )  that make for a perfect camping lunch or dinner. Happy camping! 

Written by Proper Good,

Aug 30, 2021

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• TRIP REPORTS

Canoe Camping Meals: 10 Easy Canoe Trip Recipes

After a long day of paddling and portaging, there are few things better than starting a fire and cooking up a nice warm meal. Backcountry cooking is one of my favourite parts of a canoe trip, so I love any opportunity to experience backcountry-adapted gourmet canoe trip meals.

In this post, you’ll find 10 canoe camping recipes to try on your next trip.

For more canoe trip recipes (and a comprehensive guide on how to build the perfect canoe trip menu) check out my eCookbook: The Voyageur’s Backcountry Cookbook .

Canoe Trip Breakfast Ideas

1. breakfast sandwiches.

Another great choice is breakfast sandwiches. If it’s early in the trip, you can bring English muffins. If you want to have this meal later into the trip, you can use wraps, powdered egg and bacon bits or sausage.

Ingredients : wraps or English muffins, powdered eggs, powdered milk, bacon or sausage, ketchup packets, cheese optional: avocado, tomato

Instructions :

• Mix powdered eggs and powdered milk at a 6-to-1 ratio and mix with water until thick and runny. Scramble the eggs.
• If needed, cook the bacon and toast the english muffins.
• Add scrambled eggs, bacon and cheese to english muffin or wrap. Add toppings and ketchup and close.
• Optional: Wrap in tin fold and heat over the fire to keep them warm and toasty while you wait for your coffee to brew.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

2. Cinnamon Buns

Another classic for a rest day is cinnamon buns. They require a Dutch oven and some prep work, and you’ll want to make sure you pack some butter dedicated for this meal because it needs a lot of butter.

Ingredients : baking mix*, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, optional: nuts, raisins, powdered sugar

• Add equal parts flour and baking mix into a bowl with a little cinnamon; gradually add water and stir. You want a ball of dough that holds, but you don’t want it too sticky.
• On a cutting board with a little flour, roll out the dough so it’s flat and in an oval.
• Spread butter over the surface of the dough, then add a generous amount of brown sugar. Sprinkle cinnamon and nuts / raisins.
• Roll it lengthwise so it looks like a tube. Then, slice the tube so you have a bunch of little cylinders.
• Butter the inside of the Dutch oven. Be generous! Then put your cinnamon rolls (cylinders) into the Dutch oven. Place on the embers of the fire and wait. They will probably need ~20 minutes, but check regularly.
• Once crispy brown, remove and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top.

Tip : To make baking mix, combine 4 cups of flour, 2.5 tbsp of baking powder, 1/4 cup milk powder and 2 tsp of salt in a bag.

Bonus: Oatmeal

Oatmeal is my go-to backcountry camping meal because it’s so easy to make and clean up. Plus, there are a ton of ways to make oatmeal more interesting.

Here are two of my favourite recipes for oatmeal, and I have six other recipes in this blog post.

Sweet & Savoury Oatmeal

This recipe is met with mixed reviews. Cut leftover  bacon  into small pieces (or you could try packaged bacon bits) and top the oatmeal with  shredded cheddar cheese  and  diced apples . A little  nutmeg  and  brown sugar  bring this bowl to life. As I said, this sweet & savoury bowl gets varied feedback – bacon in oatmeal?!? But hey, don’t knock it til you try it. I’m a huge fan now, myself.

Maple Oatmeal

Maple syrup in oatmeal – a Canadian classic, eh? Instead of brown sugar, sweeten this bowl with  maple syrup , adding toppings like  craisins  and  coconut  to create texture. If you’ve got a fresh  banana , a few slices go great with the maple.

Read More : 8 Recipes to Make ~Not Boring~ Oatmeal on Camping Trips

Tip : Don’t make the oatmeal in the pot! Instead, boil water in the pot and put quick oats in everyone’s bowl. Let each person add the amount of hot water they need to get their oatmeal to the desired consistency. I personally, like my oatmeal very dry and hate it when someone makes a single batch. This also makes cleaning up easier because you don’t have to wash a pot.

Canoe Trip Lunch Ideas

I typically eat a lot of wraps for lunch on canoe trips. They’re easy to pack, quick to make and there’s a decent amount of variety you can get with fillings.

3. Burrito Wraps

Burritos are a crowd-pleaser. They require some work the night before but are worth the effort. You can also cook rice and add it to the burrito to make it even more filling. This is also a great opportunity to use sriracha or other hot sauce.

Ingredients : wraps, cheese, onion, peppers, tomato sauce, refried beans

• The night before: If needed, rehydrate refried beans, tomato sauce and veggies by adding them to a saucepan or pot with a small amount of clean water. Stir regularly, adding more water as it is absorbed.
• Once everything is rehydrated, let it cool and then store it in a Nalgene or bag.
• Day of: Spread bean mixture in the centre of the wrap and add cheese. (Don’t use cheese if vegan).
• Fold into a burrito. You can heat the burrito over a stove if you’d like.

4. Hummus Buddha Bowls

This is a high-protein, high-nutrient lunch that you can make reasonably quickly. The only downside is that it does require a dish and utensil. But other than that, this is an easy canoe trip lunch idea!

Ingredients : Cooked quinoa, dehydrated hummus (you can purchase dried hummus or dehydrate your own ), nuts / seeds (I like pine nuts or crushed walnuts), spices, Flax Crackers and / or Vegetable Chips (see below for making your own).

DIY Veggie Chips : Thinly slice easily chip-able vegetables (i.e. sweet potatoes, zucchini, beet, carrot). Toss vegetables in a tiny bit of olive oil and salt. Place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Cook on low heat (max 200 F) for at least 45 minutes.

• Pack the dehydrated hummus with the spices and nuts / seeds.
• Cook the quinoa the night before and store it in a plastic bag or sealed container.
• Rehydrate hummus in a bowl by slowly adding water and stirring. You’ll probably need about 1/4 cup of water, but you’ll know you’ve added enough when it’s reached your desired consistency. You can also add a small splash of olive oil, which will give the hummus a nicer texture, but I’m usually too lazy for that.
• Mix the quinoa with the hummus and nuts / seeds.
• Scoop the hummus mixture with your crackers and veggie chips and enjoy!

Note : Most people prefer this without the cup of quinoa, but I just don’t find this meal filling enough without the added grain.

Bonus : Sprinkle some dried kale on top for extra nutrients and additional crunch!

Canoe Trip Dinner Ideas

5. chilli & garlic bread.

This is my favourite camp meal. This is a meal best prepared by two or more people (someone to do the garlic bread and another to do the chilli).

Ingredients :

dehydrated ground beef or textured vegetable protein (TVP), dehydrated beans, dehydrated veggies, dehydrated tomato sauce, spices and bread mixture

• Make the garlic bread according to the instructions on page 42. Make chilli according to the instructions below:
• Add a splash of clean water to the pot and some dehydrated tomato sauce. Stir regularly. As the sauce absorbs water, add a little more.
• Once the sauce is almost rehydrated, add in the vegetables, and ground beef or TVP and big handfuls of dehydrated beans. Continue stirring and adding water if necessary. Add spices.
• Stir regularly. If the chilli looks too thick, add water. If the chilli looks too watery, add either more TVP or put a small handful of potato pearls.
• Let simmer on low heat.

6. Thai Red Curry

This is a super easy but super delicious meal to make. It’s so easy because most of the flavour comes from the red curry paste. You don’t need to refrigerate the paste before you open it, so I’ll buy a few small jars.

Ingredients : rice, coconut milk, jar of red curry paste, cayenne pepper, onion, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, chickpeas.

• Boil water in a pot. Pour in rice and stir. Go with a water-to-rice ratio of 2:1.
• In a frying pan, rehydrate veggies and chickpeas if necessary. Pour in a can of coconut milk. Add some red curry paste and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Once rice is cooked and the sauce is done, scoop rice into bowls and add a big spoonful of sauce onto the rice.
• You can garnish with cilantro and peanuts if you’d like.

Canoe Trips Snacks

7. protein-based snacks.

So much of the food on canoe trips – especially the snacks – is carb-based. This is great for quick energy, but sometimes you need something with more fat and protein to sustain you on those long days.

Dates + Cheese + Pepperoni

This may seem like a weird combo, but it works out to be the perfect salty-sweet snack. Stack a date on a small slice of cheese and wrap in pepperoni. It’s actually very tasty.

This is a tasty, yet filling snack option. You can buy beef jerky in bulk or make your own and eat it after a long portage. The salt will be good after a long period of sweating!

Pepperoni Sticks

Similar to the above, pepperoni sticks are a filling afternoon snack. And if you want to experiment, use those individual packets of cream cheese as a dip. Personally, I love it.

Tuna on Crackers

Another high protein option, you can bring tuna canned or in individual packets (you can even get different flavours). Scoop onto crackers and enjoy!

8. Homemade Fruit Leather

Rather than buying (expensive) store-bought fruit leather, you can easily make your own at home in either a dehydrator or in your oven. Below I’ve outlined the steps that I take to create fruit leather at home.

If you don’t want to make your own, this is my favourite store-bought fruit leather. My only issue with it is that I need two to feel satisfied and they’re pricey – definitely buy in bulk rather than from the grocery store!

Note that I do all my dehydrating in an oven, rather than a dehydrator. If you have a proper dehydrator at home you can still follow this process but you may need to adapt a few steps for your specific dehydrator.

Ingredients : Apple sauce, optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, shredded coconut, chopped nuts.

• Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting it has.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Do not use wax paper!
• In a big bowl, pour in a can of apple sauce.
• This is the creative part: mix in any additional toppings / fillings that when make your fruit leather more fun. I always add cinnamon and nutmeg; I’ve also experimented with shredded coconut. I think chopped nuts could also be really tasty, though I’ve never tried that myself.
• Use a spatula to pour your mixture onto the parchment paper and spread until it’s a consistent thickness across the sheet, no more than 1/2 inch thick.
• Place in the oven.
• Cook time will depend on the thickness of your spread apple sauce and your oven’s lowest temperature, but I’ve found it to take about 6-7 hours in my oven.

Canoe Trip Desserts

9. lazy cheesecake.

This is such a lazy dessert I’m almost embarrassed to include it, but it’s so tasty. And it’s an awesome dessert if you are camping somewhere that has wild blueberries!

Ingredients : cheesecake powder, graham crackers, chocolate chips or fresh or dried blueberries

• In your bowl, add a few spoonfuls of cheesecake powder. Add clean water slowly, stirring until it is a thick liquid.
• Crush graham crackers over your bowl and add either chocolate chips or fresh blueberries. Enjoy!

Note : You could also make this un-lazy, by making a graham cracker crust and cooking it in a Dutch oven (page 63 of my cookbook).

10. Chocolate Cake

This is what I try to prepare whenever there is a birthday on trip. I discovered it on MyCCR a while back and fell in love. I use a Dutch oven, but if you have Reflector Oven and cake pan you can use that instead.

Ingredients : chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding, milk powder, egg powder, water, butter, flour, chocolate chips, icing sugar.

• Mix 1/2 box of cake mix with 1/2 package of instant pudding mix, 1/2 cup of milk powder and 1/4 cup egg powder (you can put this all in a plastic bag at home).
• Grease a Dutch oven with butter. Sprinkle a little flour on the butter (this helps with sticking).
• Pour the dry ingredients and 1 cup of water in the Dutch oven and stir. If the mixture is really thick, add a little more water.
• Cover Dutch oven and place in the embers of the fire.
• After 30 minutes, check on the cake. Stick a fork in the middle – fork should come out dry if the cake is done.
• When done, use a knife to separate the cake from the oven along the edges. The cake may come out with the knife, or try flipping the oven upside down and over a plate or cutting board, and giving it a little shake. The cake should fall out (flip the cake over so it’s right side up).
• Finally, sprinkle some icing sugar on top, cut and serve! You can also bring shelf-stable icing to spread on top.

Canoe Trip Recipes – Final Thoughts

If you need more inspiration for creating excellent canoe trip meals, consider checking out The Voyageur’s Backcountry Cookbook . It has a ton of canoe trip food ideas, plus tips for meal planning, food preparation, dehydration and more.

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

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Where do you source your cheesecake powder. I am only able to see very large quantities for over $100. I can see a Jello no Bake cheesecake mix, but it doesn’t seem the same as the cheesecake powder.

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40 Best Canned & Non-perishable Easy Camping Foods (Free Printable)

If you need easy camping food ideas with minimal planning you are in the right place! Read on for a list of canned and non-perishable foods that make great camping meals and snacks. If you plan to be off the grid for long periods, you will also need nonperishable foods with a long shelf life. I promise this won’t be a list of every canned food in your pantry. These are some of the best camping foods – eaten as is or cooked with only water. In addition to camping, these foods are a great way to prepare for emergency situations. You will need a camp stove (or heat source) with a pot and/or pan for cooking some of these foods.

If you find this list useful, I include a free printable version at the bottom of the list.

Expert tip – don’t forget the can opener! Permanently add one to your camping kitchen supplies or put it on your camping food list to make sure you don’t forget it.

Grocery Store Camping Foods

All of these foods can be found at your local grocery store. We cover freeze-dried meals and dehydrated foods in another article. Everything here should last a long time – usually at least a week without a cooler or refrigerator. This simplifies food storage and allows you to shop in advance. This list works well for most types of camping including car camping, canoe and kayak trips, festivals, and primitive tent camping. Some will work for backpacking, but many canned and precooked foods are too heavy for anything other than a short trip.

Prepping for Emergencies

During a natural disaster or power outage, it’s vital to have food available which will keep without refrigeration. FEMA recommends everyone store 2 weeks of ready-to-eat food as emergency food supplies for everyone. Keeping a collection of the food listed here in your pantry. You will have them available for camping trips and any future emergency situation. Your emergency supplies reduce your stress during difficult situations and might be lifesaving. If you are worried about using up canned goods, plan meals with a mix of fresh foods and work them into your normal diet. Prepping with canned foods is the best option for working on a budget as well (freeze dried foods are expensive).

Canned vs Pouch Foods

Metal cans are a traditional package that preserves food. Canned food still provides the best shelf life for many foods at the grocery store. However, foods packaged in plastic pouches are a great option to increase your choices. They also offer single serving sizes and different flavor varieties.

Soups and Stews

1. Canned soups and stews – These make camp cooking easy – just pour them into a pot and warm up over a camp stove or campfire. It doesn’t get any easier for a hearty meal. Does a can of chicken noodle soup come to mind when you think of canned soup? Visit your grocery store to see the varieties available.  Campbell’s Chunky soups are hearty soups that include over 40 varieties (shown on their website). My husband loves the Jambalaya with Chicken, Sausage, and Ham. I’m a fan of the Chicken Corn Chowder. I’m sure you can find a variety you like. 

Dinty Moore also makes a classic beef stew which some campers swear by. Progresso offers a variety of traditional classics as well. If you need vegetarian or a more healthy option, try Amy’s brand.

2. Ramen Noodles – Don’t laugh at this one! A package of ramen noodles plus a pouch of chicken makes an easy and satisfying meal. There are also many recipes online to enhance ramen noodles soup. If you are willing to shop online, you can find healthier brands. Here is a combination for inspiration: creamy chicken ramen noodles, a pouch of chicken, diced sun dried tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese.

Canned meats are good options when you don’t have fresh meat available. Look for canned versions of most meats you normally cook with. Check out some of these ideas.

Chicken and Fish

3. Chicken and Tuna Pouches – I mention these pouches because they are available in a variety of flavors you won’t find in cans. Lemon pepper, buffalo, smoked, and fajita are some flavors for chicken . With tuna , look for sweet and spicy, ranch, smoked, lemon pepper, Thai chili, sun-dried tomato and basil, and jalapeno. Meat pouches are a good choice when cooking for only yourself. Try them on crackers, or pita bread. You can also add them to soups and pasta mixes for extra protein.

4. Chicken, Tuna, and Ham Salad – These are available in cans and pouches of different sizes. Bumble Bee brand and Tyson package a chicken salad kits with some crackers for a snack or light lunch. These salads are perfect for quick lunches because they don’t require any cooking. Want more flavor and variety? Add some goodies like dried cranberries, nuts, finely chopped shallots, chopped green onion, mustard or hot spices. 

5. Canned Salmon (or single-serve pouches) – Salmon is mainly available plain or smoked. I haven’t found many other flavors. I add salmon to creamy Alfredo pasta with some dill for a wonderful meal. Check out my recipe for Sweet and Spicy Canned Salmon Dip as well and enjoy it with crackers.

canned Beef and Pork

6. Pulled port in BBQ sauce – I’ve seen this pork option in both pouches and cans . I’m planning to try adding this to mac and cheese next time I go camping.

7. Canned Chili (with or without beans) – You can’t go wrong here if you like chili. Add additional spices or some diced shallots for extra flavor. 

8. Summer Sausage – This versatile sausage is shelf-stable before opening and tastes wonderful without any cooking. Serve the traditional way with crackers and cheese or cut it up to add to rice and pasta dishes. You can also make sandwiches with it. 

9. Canned ham or SPAM – Slice canned ham for sandwiches, or fry some slices and serve with hash browns (made from dried shredded potatoes).

10. Vienna Sausages – These little cans of sausage are great for one person. You can skewer them and heat them over a fire like mini hot dogs. If you heat them in water, be sure to keep the water from boiling or the sausages will split. Enjoy with some BBQ sauce and some beans or rice.

Dried and Cured Meats

11. Pre-cooked Bacon – Pre-cooked bacon is pure camping joy! While this bacon is often sold in the refrigerated case with other bacon, it does NOT require refrigeration until it’s opened. It’s typically packaged in a cardboard box and says fully cooked on the package. Look for the smallest packages (usually 12-15 slices) unless you are cooking for a big group. I typically cut it up and add it to pasta and hearty soups for extra flavor. I also heat it up on the griddle when making pancakes or breakfast tacos. Add it last and watch it closely to prevent burning – it’s already cooked.

12. Jerky – Beef, turkey, and even bacon jerky are available in spicy and sweet flavors. Jerky is a popular easy snack for good reason. You can also cut it up to add to other meals. 

Boxed Meals and Sides

Rice dishes.

13. Cajun and Creole Boxed dinners – Boxed meal mixes like Jambalaya, Gumbo, and Red Beans and Rice are available from several brands. Zatarain, Bayou Magic , and Tony Chachere are some brands to try (Bayou Magic is a favorite at our house). Some only require you to add water and meat, while others require canned ingredients such as diced tomatoes or cream of celery soup. Try canned chicken and or summer sausage for easy shelf stable add-ins. 

14. Flavored rice mixes  – Knorr brand and others make flavored rice (and pasta) side dishes that make a simple meal starter. Just add your choice of meat or vegetables to turn these into simple meals.

15. Instant rice – While white rice is plain on its own, season it up and serve it as a side dish with other foods. Or add it to soups for more calories. You can combine it with seasoned diced tomatoes, a meat of choice, and spices to make a quick meal.

Pasta Dishes

16. Boxed Mac and Cheese – This is always a favorite among kids, and you can turn it into a main dish for adults by adding meat or other vegetables. A BBQ restaurant combines mac and cheese with meat and BBQ sauce to make amazing quesadillas, so get creative with it! Be sure to pick mixes that include a packet of cheese sauce. Boxes with dried cheese mixes usually require milk and butter so check the instructions before you buy one.

17. Chicken or Tuna Helper – These boxed meals are meant for fresh meats, but they work with canned meats as well. 

18. Pre-cooked pasta pouches – I found this by chance at Walmart recently: Pesty Portobello Ravioli. It’s a pouch of fully cooked pasta intended to be heated in the microwave. I carefully heated it in a pot of boiling water instead (you will need to support the vented top) and it turned out perfectly. They also make other flavors and quinoa pouches. You can often adapt dishes meant for the microwave like this Devour brand pasta. I cooked it in a saucepan instead of the plastic bowl.

19. Canned Pasta – Did anyone else love SpaghettiOs as a kid? What about canned ravioli? These days I prefer the more grown-up pasta pouches, but these old-fashioned favorites are still around. Your kids may thank you for including them on your next adventure.

Fruits and Vegetables

While you may not want to open a can of green beans and eat it plain, there are some options that make good meal starters or snacks. I won’t list all the canned vegetables available, but these are versatile ingredients in many easy recipes like 7 Can Taco Soup .

Canned Fruits and Vegetables

20. Canned beans – Beans canned in the sauce make solid meals by themselves. Try ranch-style beans or baked beans as good examples. My husband loves ranch-style beans with jalapenos.

21. Nut Butters – Peanut, almond, or cashew butter are popular main ingredients for campers or backpackers. Make sandwiches and tortilla rolls, serve with crackers, or add some chocolate chips and mini marshmallows for an easy treat. Expect to see some “creative” backpacking meals featuring peanut butter around the web. 

22. Pasta Sauces – spaghetti sauce, marinara sauce, Vodka Sauce – and let’s include alfredo sauce to keep the sauces together. Heat and serve over pasta and you have a simple meal. Add some protein or vegetables like canned mushrooms, and serve with grated cheese to increase the flavor. Tip: Turn alfredo sauce into a spicy cream sauce with by adding a little chipotle chili powder.

23. Fruit cups – Fruit makes a great snack or side served with other foods. Various fruit cups are sold for packing lunches, including applesauce, mandarin oranges, fruit cocktail, and peaches. Canned fruits work better for multiple servings or making other recipes.

24. Hummus Cups – Like fruit cups, these packets are single serving cups (typically 2 oz) that you can enjoy anywhere. They make great snacks or provide protein for a no-cook lunch. Enjoy these with pita chips or pretzels.

Fresh and Dried Fruits and Vegetables

25. Fresh Fruits – While some fruit won’t stay fresh long without refrigeration, many will be fine for a week-long camping trip. Apples, pears, and oranges are great single-serving and healthy choices.

26. Dried or Freeze Dried Fruit – Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can be snacks by themselves or mixed with nuts. Fruit leathers or roll-ups are other forms of dried fruit that are fun for children as well. Many stores also carry dried pineapple and other fruits in health or bulk sections. Depending on your grocery store, you may be able to find single-serving packets of freeze-dried apples and strawberries.

27. Instant Potatoes – Look for instant pouches of mashed potatoes for a quick and easy meal starter. Add some protein and spices and you have a delicious and easy meal. With a bit more work, you can fry up some hash browns from a carton of dehydrated shredded potatoes. These and other potato meal ideas are sold in the same section of the grocery store.

28. Mixed Nuts – Salty, spicy, or sweet – there are so many varieties to choose from! Bring your individual favorites or combine them for more variety.

29. Trail Mix – I always take trail mix when camping and hiking. I make my own mix of nuts and dried fruit, but there are many varieties and brands available. Your grocery store will have several varieties, but you can find many more online. 

Bars and Breakfast Foods

30. Granola and Cereal bars – Check in the breakfast food aisle of your grocery store for these delicious snacks. Granola bars often feature numerous flavors with nuts and chocolate. These snacks are often high in sugar – if you want healthier options, keep reading.

31. Protein, Nut and Energy Bars – While some stores combine all the bars, many stock the protein and energy bars in a health food section (while granola bars are near breakfast cereal). The energy bars in this area include classic Cliff bars, nut bars like Kind brand, and Laura bars which feature simple clean ingredients. Go shopping for even more options.

32. Oatmeal – Instant oatmeal packets dress up this traditional favorite with a variety of easy flavors. This product on Amazon shows you some of the varieties available (https://www.amazon.com/Quaker-Instant-Oatmeal-Variety-Breakfast). Bananas, cranberries, strawberries, cinnamon, and more – they have it. 

33. Instant pancake mix – Instant pancake mixes have gotten SO good in the last few years. These just add water mixes taste amazing and I use them if I don’t have time to make my own. There are high protein options and a variety of flavors as well. I’ve you haven’t tried instant mixes in the last few years, check out the newer options available.

34. Breakfast cereals – I enjoy snacking on dry breakfast cereals like Honey Nut Cheerios. Have them as a snack or well… eat them for breakfast.

Baked Goods

35. Bread or Tortillas – Sandwich bread, buns, pita bread, tortillas, and other baked bread with a spread or meat make quick no cook meals. Make sandwiches, and wraps, or toast them as a side. The fresh-baked bread and tortillas in the bakery usually taste better than those in the main bread aisle, but they will only be good for a few days. Packaged goods with preservatives will last longer (often a week) when needed.

36. Crackers and chip s – Crackers and chips (potato or vegetable) are popular snacks in American diets and camping is no exception. Healthy versions to fit most diets are available.

37. Pretzels – While pretzels are basically a type of cracker, I want to point them out separately. When hiking and backpacking, pretzels hold up better than crackers. In my experience, they break and crush less easily. 

38. Baked desserts – This is a wide category, but I’ll keep it simple and just mention a few. From cookies to snack cakes, these sweets are calorie dense – good for backpacking, but probably not so healthy otherwise. Enjoy these

39. Hard cheese – Hard cheese like cheddar, swiss, and parmesan don’t require refrigeration. They may get oily, but they are safe to eat when stored at room temperature. Keep them in a block until you are ready to eat, and then slice or grate as needed. 

40. Cheese Whiz or Dip – Canned cheese may not be the health food of choice, but it’s fun and easy for snacks. 

41. Cheese Crisps – While these little treats look like crackers, they are made entirely out of baked cheese. They make a great healthy snack, especially if you want to manage carbs. Several brands and varieties are available, from simple Parmesan crisps to ranch and everything bagel flavors. 

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Best Restaurants in Moscow City (Business District), Central Russia

Moscow city (business district) restaurants, establishment type, online options, traveler rating, dietary restrictions, restaurant features, neighborhood.

13 Best Russian Foods and Where to Find them in Moscow

Russian food might not be at the top of everyone’s list of must-try cuisines of the world, but Russia has many fantastic foods to try. Many people (wrongly) believe that Russian food is simply meat, potatoes, and soup. While this stereotype is true to some degree, Russians do indeed eat a lot of meat, potatoes, and soup, there is much more to Russian cuisine!

Let’s take a look at the best Russian foods that you need to try on your trip to Russia. Here are the top 13 dishes that you can’t miss. We have also included the top restaurants to try the best versions of these dishes in Moscow.

Borscht is the first dish that comes to mind for many when they think of Russian cuisine. Did you know that borscht is actually Ukrainian? All Russians know this, but the historical closeness of Russia and Ukraine lead borscht to become just as much a Russian dish as it is Ukrainian. 

Everyone’s grandmother has their version of borscht, but it is typically made from a hearty beef broth. It gets its bright reddish-purple color from beets and tomato paste. If there is one dish that you absolutely must try in Russia, it is definitely borscht.

Is it considered trying Russian food if you haven’t tried borscht? We don’t think so.

Where is the best borscht in Moscow? 

Mari Vanna is a classic Russian restaurant in the style of an old Soviet apartment it also has one of the best versions of borscht in Moscow. Dr. Zhivago has fantastic traditional borscht that won’t disappoint. Korchma Taras Bulba is one of the best Ukrainian restaurants in Moscow, so you can be sure the borscht is legit.  SibirSibir is a Siberian restaurant with excellent borscht as well.

Beef Stroganoff

Another dish that is always mentioned among the best Russian foods is beef stroganoff. Typically, the dish is a saute of beef with a sauce made from sour cream and beef broth. Beef stroganoff is usually served atop macaroni, rice, mashed potatoes, or buckwheat. Most Russian restaurants serve this dish over mashed potatoes. 

Are you looking for the best version of beef stroganoff in Moscow? Dr. Zhivago has no equals and there is no competition. The classic beef stroganoff at Dr. Zhivago is as perfect as it is traditional.

If you ask a Russian what their favorite Russian food is, many will say pelmeni. It is also one of the most time-consuming dishes to make. Pelmeni is a Russian version of dumplings or ravioli. They are small meat-filled dumplings that are boiled and served with sour cream. 

When it comes to Russian food, pelmeni is another must-try while visiting Moscow. You don’t have to go to an expensive restaurant to have them either. One of the highest-rated restaurants in all of Moscow only serves different types of pelmeni. 

That makes Lepim I Varim the only restaurant for pelmeni in Moscow. Every restaurant has its version of pelmeni, but the variety and quality of pelmeni at Lepim I Varim is unrivaled.

So you’ve tried borscht and are looking for another popular Russian soup to try? Look no further than solyanka, a bowl of sour and spicy soup that is common all around Russia and the former Soviet Union.

Solyanka is typically made with various smoked meats, pickles, capers, and olives. Some brine from these ingredients is also usually included. Russians always top their solyanka with a dollop of sour cream. The taste of solyanka is a bit more complex than most Russian food because it is sour and spicy. Two tastes that aren’t terribly popular among Russians, but solyanka is definitely a favorite food in Russia.

If you want to try the best solyanka in Moscow, you can’t go wrong with Varenichnaya No. 1 , which has one of the best classic versions of solyanka.

Minced meat wrapped in leaves is a common dish around the world. In Russia, golubtsi are made with ground beef wrapped inside of a cabbage leaf. They are also usually in a tomato sauce and lightly spiced. Golubtsi is probably the quintessential dish that all Russians ask their grandmothers to make. As with a number of other Russian foods on this list, the best version of golubtsi is probably with a Russian friend at their grandmother’s house.

That said, there are still some great golubtsi to be had in Moscow.  

Odessa Mama makes some of the best golubtsi in Moscow and they have a number of other dishes on this list to try.

Olivier Salad

The most Russian food of them all is olivier salad. It is one of the Russian foods that almost every single Russian eats at New Year. It is a salad made from diced vegetables and meat (typically ham or bologna) and then mixed with mayonnaise. The origins of the dish come from a Russian chef in the late 1800s of Belgian and French descent. He created the dish with lavish ingredients and it subsequently became famous all around Russia. During Soviet times, the recipe was adapted for regular people to make at home. 

Today, olivier salad or oliv’ye in Russian is a dish that reminds Russians abroad of home.

If you want to try the best olivier salad in Moscow, these restaurants have the best versions. 

Dr. Zhivago is one of the best Russian restaurants in Russia, and you can find multiple stellar versions of olivier salad here. Varenichnaya No. 1 is the place to go if you want to try the old Soviet version of olivier salad.

There are many theories about how blini became popular in Russia. There is no question that blini are one of the most popular Russian foods. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, blini were the street food of choice in Russia. Even to this day, it is very easy to get blini on the go just about anywhere in Russia. 

Blini are very thin pancakes very similar to French crepes. And just as with crepes, blini can be filled with anything sweet or savory. Many Russians make and eat them for breakfast with jam. 

If you want to try blini in Russia, we think the streetfood style is more authentic than going to an expensive restaurant and having blini with black caviar. But if you can afford it, blini with black caviar is also worth trying!

Teremok is a very popular Russian fast-food chain. You can find Teremok everywhere in major Russian cities. All of the famous Russian restaurants also have blini, but try them here for a quick, delicious, cheap meal. 

There isn’t a single Russian who doesn’t like shashlyk or Russian barbecue. There is an entire culture around grilling shashlyk in Russia and we won’t even pretend to be experts. But, one of the best Russian food experiences that you can have is going to someone’s dacha (country house) and making shashlyk over a charcoal fire with a bunch of friends. 

Shashlyk can be made out of just about any meat, but the most common is pork or chicken. The meat is cut up into chunks, marinaded, and grilled over charcoal. There are a million different marinades, but the best one is made with tons of onion crushed up with your hands mixed with kefir or ayran and some spices. You can also add tomato paste for color.

Shashlyk MUST be grilled over a charcoal fire. If you use a gas grill, it is not shashlyk. 

Unfortunately, due to the fact that proper shashlyk is cooked over a charcoal fire, it is harder to find at restaurants. 

Here are a few restaurants, but it is better to find some friends and make shashlyk in the park!

Maska is located in a park, so you have some of the atmosphere typically associated with shashlyk. It is the perfect place to eat during a warm summer evening.  Almaz is a bit more upscale than the other options but still reasonable. They have a wide variety of shashlyk that you can try.  Acha Chacha is one of the only Abkhazian restaurants in Moscow and they make fantastic shashlyk. 

The most divisive Russian food has to be holodets. You either love it or you hate it. Holodets is a meat jelly that is served cold. Beef bones are typically boiled for a very long time to get the gelatin out of them and create a rich broth that will form the jelly around the boiled meat. This Russian food is usually seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and topped with horseradish.

Of course, the best place to try holodets is at home, made by a Russian grandmother (do you see a pattern here?). If you don’t have the opportunity to try homemade holodets, you can also try it at a number of restaurants in Moscow. 

Omulevaya Bochka is a Siberian restaurant in the center of Moscow and their holodets is one of the best.  Mari Vanna also has great holodets. 

Salo or salted pork lard is also a divisive food among foreigners visiting Russia. It is also another Russian food that is arguably more popular in Ukraine, but nonetheless, it is popular across Russia. The best place to buy salo in Russia is not a supermarket or a restaurant. The markets in every Russian city are the best place to buy salo.

In the market, you can always taste everything before you buy it and with so many salo options, it will be hard to find the best one if you can’t try them all. Of course, learning some Russian will make this process much easier. If you don’t speak any Russian, be sure to take someone along with you who can translate. The old ladies selling food won’t speak English. In the worst case, pointing will work, but don’t count on a good price. 

If you speak Russian, simply ask the women selling salo which are their favorites. They will give you a taste immediately in an attempt to get you to buy their salo. Want a real local tip? In most markets, there will be a few sellers nearby all selling salo. Try to taste from each of them and play them off each other for the sale. 

Our favorite markets in Moscow are the following: 

Leningradsky Market is one of the legendary markets of Moscow off the tourist path. Dorogomilovsky Market is probably the most famous of all Moscow markets. Danilovsky Market is a more commercial market and the prices are higher, but it is worth a visit. 

Syrniki are one of the most popular Russian breakfasts. They are thick pancakes made out of cheese curds, egg, flour, and a bit of sugar. They are fried up on a skillet and typically served with sour cream and fresh homemade jam. 

Most Russians would argue that getting syrniki at a restaurant is just not the best way to try them and we tend to agree. The best syrniki are made by a Russian grandmother, or if you are lucky, your Russian wife or girlfriend.  

That said, we still think you can find decent syrniki in these restaurants in Moscow.

Kofemania is a small chain of rather expensive coffee shops, but it has a cult following for its syrniki. Dr. Zhivago is one of the best restaurants for Russian food in Moscow and their syrniki do not disappoint. 

Do you want to know the best way to get three Russians arguing? Just ask them what is okroshka best made with. Unless all three agree, which is unlikely, an argument will ensue. 

Okroshka is also a divisive Russian food among foreigners. Essentially, it is a vegetable salad that you pour kvass or kefir over to make a cold soup. Most Russians prefer to use kvass according to a survey conducted by Yandex. 

There is a myriad of other ways to make okroshka though people have made it with sour cream, ayran, and ryazhenka.  

Here are the best places to try okroshka in Moscow:

Ruski has a great okroshka made with kvass, which is said to be the best in Moscow. Margarita Bistro has a more modern take on okroshka, but it is also highly regarded.

Pirogi and Pirozhki

Every Russian grandmother loves to make pirogi and pirozhki from time to time. They are a baked dough with different fillings. Russians love their sweets and pirogi are no exception, they can be filled with just about any fruit you can imagine or savory fillings like meat, fish, mushrooms, cabbage, or other vegetables with spices. 

Pirozhki used to be found all over the place in Russia from metro stations to street stalls. Unfortunately, this culture in Moscow is no more. You can still find pirozhki around Moscow if you keep your eyes out though. 

Our favorite pirozhki are from Dashini Pirozhki . They are delivery only, and the site is only in Russian unfortunately. If you email them, they will speak English. 

Pirogi are large pies you eat with a knife and fork and pirozhki are simply smaller versions.

Pirogi are a Russian food eaten in a restaurant. You can find many restaurants with pirogi and they are definitely a Russian food you must try when visiting Russia. One of the most popular places in Russia to try pirogi is Stolle , it is a chain, but their pirogi are excellent. You can find their restaurants in most major Russian cities. 

We hope that our recommendations were helpful on your trip to Moscow. If you know of other restaurants with great versions of these dishes, let us know in the comments, we will add them to the article. 

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1 thought on “13 Best Russian Foods and Where to Find them in Moscow”

You forgot the mushrooms that Russian grandmothers make for the winter according to their own recipes. If you haven’t tried them, make sure you do it. I think you can buy them at the market, too.

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