Food is a critical part of any outdoor adventure. It fuels your journey, keeps your energy up, and makes those moments around the campfire even more enjoyable. But just as important as packing enough food is ensuring that you minimize waste along the way. Food waste isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a challenge that can impact the environment, your pack weight, and even your trip’s success.
In the backcountry, every crumb matters. Leftover scraps or spoiled food can attract wildlife, create unnecessary waste, and take up valuable space in your pack. That’s why following the principles of sustainability and Leave No Trace is essential for every hiker and camper.
We’ll explore practical methods to help you minimize food waste on the trail. From smart meal planning and packing tips to prioritizing perishables and managing scraps responsibly, you’ll learn how to make your outdoor cooking both efficient and eco-friendly. With a little upfront planning, you can reduce waste, lighten your load, and enjoy every bite along the way.
Plan Your Meals Carefully
Minimizing food waste on the trail starts long before you set foot outdoors—it begins with thoughtful meal planning. Taking the time to plan your meals ensures you bring exactly what you need, avoiding both overpacking and underpacking.
A good example comes from one of my early canoe trips. I went a little overboard and packed 70 pounds of food for a seven-day trip with three people. By the end of the trip, we still had lots of food left over. I hadn’t planned our menus carefully or accounted for individual preferences—one person didn’t like a particular food, so it never got used. Instead, we carried it around the whole time, adding unnecessary weight.
Portion Control
One of the easiest ways to prevent waste is by portioning your meals according to your activity level and trip duration. Use tools like calorie calculators to estimate how much energy you’ll need each day based on your planned activities. For example, a day of hiking with a heavy pack requires more calories than a leisurely paddle on calm waters. Pre-measure ingredients for each meal to avoid carrying excess food that might go uneaten.
Meal Planning Tools and Strategies
- Use a Meal Planner: Map out every meal and snack for your trip. Be as specific as possible, including serving sizes and preparation instructions.
- Stick to Your Schedule: Eating meals and snacks at the planned times helps prevent accidentally consuming food intended for another meal or day. This ensures you don’t run out of food or create unnecessary waste.
- Rely on Tested Recipes: Stick to meals you’ve prepared and enjoyed before, so you know exactly how much to bring and can trust that everything will get eaten. A good practice is to make the meal(s) at home first and try them out.
- Consider Multi-Use Ingredients: Opt-in for ingredients that work across multiple meals, like rice or tortillas, to reduce variety without sacrificing versatility.
A Little More Help in Planning
For a more in-depth guide to planning your trail menu, check out our cornerstone article, How to Plan Your Hiking and Camping Menus. It’s packed with tips for creating balanced, waste-free meals tailored to your adventure.
By starting with a solid meal plan and sticking to it, you’ll ensure less waste, efficient cooking, and happy campers who enjoy every meal.
Pack Smart
Packing food efficiently not only reduces waste but also saves valuable space and weight in your pack. By repackaging and using sustainable storage options, you can minimize your environmental footprint while staying organized on the trail. The less garbage you have, the less impact on the environment you invoke. Using containers that you can wash up and take back home is the ideal scenario for any backpacking or paddling trip.
Repackage for Efficiency
- Minimize Bulk: Transfer foods from their original packaging into lightweight, resealable bags or reusable containers. This is especially useful for freeze-dried meals, snacks, and spices.
- Pre-Measure Portions: Portion out meals and snacks in advance to ensure you only bring what you need. This also makes mealtime faster and reduces leftovers. Portioning can involve liquid measure as well as weight.
- Label Everything: Clearly label what the food is for, the meal, and date your repackaged items. This ensures you can easily identify foods and follow the “first in, first out” rule for perishables.
Choose Sustainable Packaging
- Reusable Containers: To reduce single-use plastics, opt for silicone bags, stainless steel containers, or other reusable options. Consider containers that can nest or stack inside of each other to save space once empty.
- Compostable Options: When feasible, use compostable bags for snacks or single-use food wraps.
- Avoid Disposable Water Bottles: Instead of throw-away plastic water bottles, choose reusable options like Nalgene, Yeti, or similar durable bottles. These are not only eco-friendly but also built to withstand rugged outdoor conditions.
- Waterproof Storage: Keep your food dry and safe from spills by storing it in waterproof bags or containers. Keep in mind that weather can cause problems, which is why I strongly recommend dry bags for everything.
Plan for Bear Canisters
If your trip requires a bear canister, maximize space by organizing your food efficiently:
- Repack bulky items into compact bags.
- Flatten food packages as much as possible without compromising the seal.
- Group meals and snacks by day to avoid unnecessary rummaging.
Packing smart not only reduces waste but also makes your outdoor experience more enjoyable by keeping your gear lighter and more manageable.
Eat Perishables First and Follow Food Safety
When you’re on the trail, managing perishable foods is key to minimizing waste and ensuring food safety. By prioritizing perishables early in your trip and following basic safety rules, you can enjoy fresh meals without risking spoilage or unnecessary waste. Be careful of food poisoning as well; this will end your trip fast!
Prioritize Perishable Foods
Some foods, like hard cheeses and dry-cured meats, can last longer than others without refrigeration. However, it’s important to consume these items early in your trip to avoid spoilage, especially in warm weather:
- Hard Cheeses: Options like parmesan or aged cheddar are great for outdoor trips due to their long shelf life. Eat these within the first few days in hot conditions to ensure freshness.
- Dry-Cured Meats: Salami, pepperoni, and similar meats can last for a few days once opened. In cooler temperatures or if unopened, they may last longer, but it’s best to consume them sooner rather than later.
- First In, First Out (FIFO) Rule: Follow the restaurant rule of “first in, first out.” Use older or opened items before starting new ones. Labelling foods with the date they were packed helps you keep track.
Follow Food Safety Basics
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw ingredients separate from ready-to-eat foods. Use dedicated utensils for different types of food.
- Store Food Properly: Protect your food from direct sunlight and keep it in a cool, dry place whenever possible. If carrying ice packs for perishables, use them strategically to extend freshness. For winter trips, you can take advantage by utilizing nature's seasonal refrigeration.
- Don’t Delay Consumption: Once a package is opened, make sure to consume it promptly. Waiting too long increases the risk of spoilage and waste. Another rule to follow is "When in doubt, throw it out".
Seasonal Considerations
The season and temperature of your trip greatly affect how long perishables will last:
- Warm Weather Trips: Limit the amount of perishable food you bring, and consume these items early in the trip.
- Cold Weather Trips: Cooler temperatures allow you to keep perishables longer, but still be mindful of exposure to the elements.
You might want to check out more information about Four-Season Camping & Hiking Food Strategies.
By handling perishables responsibly and following simple food safety practices, you can enjoy fresh, satisfying meals without worrying about unnecessary waste or food-related issues. Or worse, food poisoning!
Use All Edible Food
One of the simplest ways to minimize food waste on the trail is to make use of every edible item you bring. By being creative with leftovers and thinking ahead, you can turn potential waste into valuable meals or snacks.
Fishing for Sustainability
Freshly caught fish can be a delicious addition to your camping meals, but sustainability and proper handling are key:
- Follow Local Regulations: Always have a valid fishing license for the area you’re exploring, and adhere to size and catch limits to protect fish populations.
- Catch Only What You’ll Eat: Avoid overfishing by catching only what your group can consume. Any excess fish should be released promptly and handled carefully to ensure survival.
- Proper Cleaning Techniques: Clean fish responsibly to minimize impact on the environment. If possible, clean your catch over the water while in your canoe or kayak to avoid attracting bears or other wildlife to your campsite. Dispose of fish remains in deep water, far from shore, as this is typically recommended in wilderness areas.
- Cook and Consume Promptly: Fresh fish is best enjoyed the same day it’s caught. Prepare and cook it immediately to reduce the chance of spoilage and waste.
Nick (my friend's son) did some fishing on Lake Lanezi, Bowron Lakes Provincial Park and caught a trout.
However, it was too small, so he had to release it back into the water.
Get Creative with Leftovers
Leftovers don’t have to go to waste. Here are a few ways to repurpose them into new meals or snacks:
- Wraps and Sandwiches: Use leftover proteins, veggies, or cheeses as fillings for tortillas or flatbreads.
- Trail Mix Additions: Toss leftover dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate into your trail mix for a quick energy boost.
- One-Pot Wonders: Combine leftovers into a single pot with some broth or seasonings to create a hearty soup or stew.
EXAMPLE: I remember bringing 12" tortilla shells for tuna wraps but I also used the leftover shells for quesadillas. On another trip out, I used the extra shells I had for thin-crust pizzas! Multiple uses for the same ingredient.
Plan Multi-Purpose Meals
Choose ingredients that can be used in multiple ways to maximize versatility and reduce waste:
- Rice and Grains: Cooked rice can serve as a base for savoury meals or be mixed with dried fruit and honey for a sweet breakfast.
- Tortillas: Use tortillas for wraps during lunch and as a side for dinner.
- Powdered Ingredients: Items like powdered milk or cheese can be added to coffee, soups, or pasta dishes. *Watch for a recipe I will post for Fettuccini Alfredo!
Share Excess Food
If you find yourself with extra food nearing its expiration, consider sharing it with your group before it goes to waste. Many trail companions will happily trade or share meals, especially if their supplies are running low.
One example is when I went on a canoe trip with my friend and his thirteen-year-old son, Nick. I can't eat a whole box of Kraft Dinner (KD), so Nick, being young and hungry all the time, was more than happy to take over and include it with his meal! He had his plate ready for it!
Minimize Ingredient Waste
- Peels and Skins: Many fruits and vegetables have edible skins that are nutrient-rich, so skip peeling when possible. Apples are often peeled by people, but it goes great when you make an apple crisp on the fire!
- Dry Ingredients: If you bring dry ingredients like flour or oats, measure carefully to avoid overpacking. Leftover dry goods are harder to repurpose on the trail.
By using every edible part of your meals, you can keep waste to a minimum while maintaining variety and satisfaction in your trail dining.
Manage Scraps and Waste Responsibly
Even with careful planning and smart packing, some scraps and waste are inevitable on the trail. Managing them responsibly is essential to uphold Leave No Trace principles and minimize your impact on the environment.
Pack It In, Pack It Out
The golden rule of outdoor adventures: everything you bring with you must come back out. This includes food wrappers, packaging, and even organic scraps. The idea is to make the environment look natural as though no one has stepped foot in that area.
- Dedicated Trash Bag: Carry a lightweight, sealable trash bag specifically for waste.
- Double-Bag for Odor Control: Use a second bag to contain smells and prevent leaks, especially in bear country.
Compostable Waste
While it might seem harmless to discard food scraps in nature, this practice can disrupt local ecosystems and attract wildlife. Instead:
- Pack Out Compostables: Treat fruit peels, eggshells, and other compostable waste like any other trash. Store them in a separate, odour-proof bag if possible.
- When Permitted: If the area allows it, bury small organic scraps in a cathole 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites, or trails. This method should only be used sparingly and in compliance with local guidelines.
- Utilize National Park Facilities: Many national park campsites include designated outhouses or greywater disposal systems where food-based scraps and dishwater can be safely discarded. This is often a better option than digging catholes or risking contamination near water sources.
Cleaning Up After Cooking
Proper cleanup is as important as waste disposal.
- Minimize Dishwater: Use as little water as possible when cleaning cookware. Scrape off food particles and pack them out instead of rinsing them into the ground.
- Biodegradable Dish Soap: Always use biodegradable soap to avoid introducing harmful chemicals into the environment. Even biodegradable soap should be used sparingly and away from natural water sources.
- Dispose of Dishwater Properly: Strain food particles from dishwater using a fine mesh or strainer, then scatter the water at least 200 feet from water sources. In campsites with designated greywater disposal areas, use those facilities instead for a more eco-friendly solution.
Avoid Attracting Wildlife
Improper waste disposal can endanger both you and the animals.
- Secure Food Waste: Use bear-proof containers or hang food waste in odour-proof bags when camping in areas with bears or other wildlife.
- Follow Regional Rules: Some areas, such as national parks, have specific requirements for food and waste management. Always check and follow local regulations.
Managing scraps and waste responsibly is a critical part of sustainable camping. By keeping your campsite clean and adhering to Leave No Trace principles, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty and safety of the wilderness for future adventurers.
Choose Foods with Minimal Waste
Selecting the right foods can significantly reduce the amount of waste you generate on the trail. By focusing on options with little to no packaging and planning for minimal leftovers, you can enjoy your meals while staying eco-friendly.
Opt for Bulk and Repackaging
- Bulk Buying: Purchase trail-friendly staples like rice, oats, nuts, and dried fruits in bulk. This reduces the need for individual packaging and allows you to portion food precisely for your trip.
- Repackaged Meals: Transfer bulk or prepackaged foods into reusable bags or containers to reduce waste and save space. Label everything to ensure easy identification.
TIP: When repackaging meals or ingredients into plastic bags or zip-lock bags, use a straw to suck out the remaining air. This will help make more space for your food.
Choose Foods with Edible Parts
- Fruits and Vegetables: Bring items with edible skins like apples, carrots (without the tops), and cucumbers. These produce minimal scraps and are nutrient-dense.
- Whole Foods: Focus on foods that don’t require peeling or trimming, such as nuts, seeds, and hard cheeses.
DIY Trail Snacks
- Homemade Energy Bars: Skip store-bought snacks wrapped in plastic by preparing your own bars or balls using oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
- Dehydrated Meals: Make your own dehydrated meals at home with ingredients that you like especially if you have special dietary needs. Not only is this more sustainable, but it also cuts down on packaging waste.
Eco-Conscious Brands
When purchasing prepackaged meals or snacks, support brands that prioritize sustainability:
- Look for companies using compostable or recyclable packaging.
- Choose brands with transparent commitments to reducing environmental impact.
Minimize Single-Use Packaging
- Reusable Wrappers: Use beeswax wraps or silicone bags for snacks and sandwiches instead of plastic wraps or disposable bags.
- Compact Packaging: Select foods with minimal or lightweight packaging that’s easy to pack out. For example, protein bars come individually wrapped and then packaged in a box—lose the box!
By choosing foods with minimal waste, you not only reduce your environmental impact but also simplify your packing and cleanup process. Sustainable choices can make a big difference in keeping the wilderness pristine for everyone to enjoy.
Leave No Trace, One Meal at a Time
Reducing food waste on the trail isn’t just about practicality—it’s about preserving the wilderness for future generations. By planning your meals carefully, packing smart, prioritizing perishables, and managing scraps responsibly, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures while minimizing your impact on the environment.
Every small decision, from choosing reusable containers to following Leave No Trace principles, contributes to a more sustainable outdoor experience. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or canoeing, these strategies help you tread lightly while enjoying the nourishment and joy that good food brings.
If you have other ideas that can contribute to this topic, we would love to hear from you!