There’s something magical about camping—the fresh air, the stunning views, and the joy of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But let’s be honest, no camping trip is complete without delicious food. For beginners, planning easy camping meals can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little preparation and the right recipes, you can enjoy tasty, stress-free meals that make your outdoor adventure even more memorable.
In this post, we’ll share 10 easy camping meals perfect for beginners, along with tips to help you plan like a pro. Let’s get started!
Tips for Planning Easy Camping Meals
Before we dive into the recipes, here are a few handy tips to make your camping meal prep a breeze:
- Keep it simple: Choose meals with minimal ingredients and prep to save time and effort.
- Pack the right tools: A portable stove, cooler, utensils, and a sturdy frying pan or pot are essentials.
- Consider dietary needs: Plan meals catering to your group’s allergies, intolerances, or preferences.
- Prep ahead: Chop veggies, marinate proteins, or pre-cook certain ingredients at home to make cooking at the campsite easier.
- Pack smart: Use reusable containers and eco-friendly utensils to reduce waste and keep things organised.
10 Easy Camping Meals for Beginners
1. Foil Packet Dinners
Foil packet meals are a camping classic because they’re easy to make and even easier to clean up. Simply wrap your favourite protein (like chicken, fish, or tofu) and veggies in foil, add a sprinkle of seasoning, and cook over the fire or on a grill. The result? A flavourful, mess-free meal!
2. Campfire Hot Dogs
You can’t go wrong with hot dogs when you’re camping. Pack some buns, your favourite sausages, and toppings like ketchup, mustard, or onions. Roast the sausages over the fire, pop them in the buns, and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal.
3. One-Pot Pasta
One-pot meals are a lifesaver when you’re camping. Bring along some pasta, a jar of sauce, and any extras like veggies or pre-cooked chicken. Throw everything into a pot, cook until the pasta is tender, and you’ve got a hearty meal with minimal cleanup.
Tips: Instead of bringing a jar of pasta sauce, grab a ziplock bag and put your sauce in the bag. Also, pre-cook your pasta before hand. If you can’t get a fire going, toss the pasta in the sauce in the zip lock bag and enjoy.
4. Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a filling breakfast burrito. Prep scrambled eggs, cheese, and pre-cooked sausage or bacon at home, then wrap them in tortillas. At the campsite, simply reheat and enjoy a delicious, energising breakfast.
This is a very simple and easy breakfast to bring camping. Make sure to pack some hot sauce!
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Grilled cheese is comfort food at its finest, and it’s incredibly easy to make while camping. All you need is bread, cheese, and a bit of butter. Cook it on a portable stove or over the fire for a gooey, satisfying treat.
My top tips for the best grilled cheese sandwich is to use butter or even better, mayo on the outside of the bread. Pop your sandwich onto a frying pan and cook until golden brown.
6. Campfire Quesadillas
Quesadillas are another quick and versatile option. Pack tortillas, cheese, and any fillings you like, such as beans, chicken, or veggies. Cook them in a skillet or over the fire until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Wraps are great for camping. Packed they can be eaten hot or cold. Bring extra hot sauce to spice it up!
7. Trail Mix and Snack Plates
For a no-cook meal or snack, put together a trail mix or snack plate. Combine nuts, dried fruit, crackers, cheese, and cured meats for a satisfying mix that requires zero preparation. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a quick energy boost.
I always have some trail mix with me in my belt pouch. It’s great for munching on the go but also, stick into some oat for a healthy and tasty breakfast.
8. Campfire Chili
Chili is a hearty, warming meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Use canned beans, diced tomatoes, ground meat (if you like), and seasoning. Simmer everything in a pot over the fire or stove, and serve with bread or crackers.
Tip: Pre-cook your chilli at home then bag up in a zip lock bag. Once you get water on a boil, pop the zip lock back into the water. Less of a mess and it cooks much faster.
9. S’mores Dip
No camping trip is complete without s’mores! For a fun twist, try making s’mores dip. Layer chocolate chips and marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet, melt over the fire, and dip graham crackers straight into the gooey goodness.
10. Overnight Oats
For a no-fuss breakfast, try overnight oats. Before you head to bed, mix oats with milk (or a non-dairy alternative) and your favourite toppings, like fruit, nuts, or honey. By morning, you’ll have a ready-to-eat, nutritious breakfast.
I always like heating some milk in a pot before bed and then pouring the milk into a flask. Next morning I add the warm milk to the overnight oats to have a warm breakfast.
Additional Tips for Success
- Pack non-perishable snacks: Granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are great for emergencies or quick bites.
- Clean up properly: Follow the “leave no trace” principle by packing out all rubbish and cleaning your cooking area.
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and consider packing a water filter if you’re camping near a natural water source.
Conclusion
Camping meals don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With these 10 easy recipes, even beginners can enjoy tasty, stress-free meals in the great outdoors. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire or using a portable stove, these ideas will keep you fuelled and happy throughout your adventure.
So, pack your ingredients, gather around the fire, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a good meal under the stars. And don’t forget to share your favourite camping meal tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Happy camping and happy eating!
Optional Add-Ons
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