Best Backpacking Foods For Vegans

Pumpkin and Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bites

Looking for a trail snack that’s easy to pack, keeps you fueled, and adds a bit of fun to your hike? These pumpkin baked oatmeal bites are just the thing. They combine hearty oats, a touch of natural sweetness, and a kick of pumpkin spice to create a bite-sized snack that’s perfect for munching on the go. These little bites are not just delicious—they’re packed with fiber and nutrients to keep your energy up when you need it most. Whether you’re hiking up a mountain or just taking a stroll, these oatmeal bites are the kind of snack that makes you feel good inside and out.

Crunchy Homemade Granola Bars

Say goodbye to store-bought snacks and hello to your new favorite hiking companion. These vegan granola bars are a crunchy, chewy blend of nuts, seeds, and natural sweetness, crafted to keep you going strong on even the toughest trails. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients and just the right amount of sweetness, they’re a no-fuss, no-junk snack that’s all about real flavor and real energy. Whether you’re scaling mountains or just need a midday pick-me-up, these bars are ready to fuel your adventure without any unnecessary extras.

Easy Vegan Pumpkin-Based Oats

Need a breakfast that’s as hearty as it is portable? This pumpkin baked oatmeal is a cozy, satisfying option that you can make ahead and take with you on the trail. Packed with fiber-rich oats, warming spices, and a touch of maple sweetness, this dish offers all the comfort of a warm bowl of oatmeal, but in a convenient, sliceable form. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating it as oatmeal bars on the go, this is a great option for backpacking foods for vegans. It’s a versatile and nourishing choice to fuel your morning hikes or keep you energized during a busy day.

Savory and Satisfying Trail Snacks

When you’re out on the trail, having snacks that are both savory and nutritious can make all the difference. Roasted seeds and beans are perfect options for keeping your energy up and your taste buds happy. These snacks are easy to prepare, portable, and packed with the protein and healthy fats you need to stay fueled during your hike.

Crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

When you’re craving a snack that’s both sweet and savory, these sweet spiced roasted pumpkin seeds are the perfect choice. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and just the right mix of spicy and sweet to keep your taste buds entertained on the trail. Easy to make and even easier to pack, these seeds are a great way to make the most of your pumpkin carving leftovers. Whether you’re snacking straight from the bag or adding them to your trail mix, these pumpkin seeds are sure to squash your hunger.

Spiced and Roasted Chickpeas

Looking for a crunchy, savory snack that’s perfect for hitting the trail? These roasted chickpeas are just the ticket. They’re packed with flavor, thanks to a mix of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne for a little kick. Easy to make and even easier to pack, these chickpeas are a great alternative to traditional chips or nuts—offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re munching on them straight from the bag or tossing them into your favorite trail mix, these savory bites will keep you coming back for more.

Vegan Chocolate Snacks

Let’s be honest—after a day of hiking, nothing feels as deserved as a little chocolate. Vegan chocolate is the perfect indulgence that’s also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your energy up when you need a little pick-me-up!

Trail-friendly Vegan Chocolate Bark

Need a snack that’s trail-ready and hits the sweet spot? This chocolate bark packs a punch with rich dark chocolate, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruits—all in one portable treat. It’s rugged enough to survive your backpack, but still feels like a little luxury after a long hike. Just break off a piece when you need a boost, and you’re good to go. Perfect for fueling those extra miles or rewarding yourself at the summit.

Plant-Based Power Protein Balls

If you are looking for an energy-packed snack for your next hike, these vegan protein balls are your new best friend. With the rich flavor of hazelnuts and chocolate, they’re like a healthy version of your favorite treat, but with an extra boost of plant-based protein to keep you fueled on the go. Easy to make and even easier to pack, these bites are perfect for tossing in your bag before hitting the trail.

Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Bread for the trail? Stay with us. This vegan chocolate zucchini bread is rich, moist, and perfectly chocolatey. It offers the added bonus of sneaky veggies that you won’t even taste. This bread is one of the greatest easy backpacking foods for vegans, offering a satisfying mix of sweetness and sustenance that’s great for an energy boost on the go. Whether you’re fueling up before hitting the trail or rewarding yourself afterward, this bread hits the spot every time.

Plant-Based Snickers Bars

When you’re craving something sweet and satisfying on the trail, these vegan Snickers bars are your go-to treat. They’re packed with the perfect combo of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a chewy caramel layer made from dates. Each bite delivers a hit of energy and flavor that’s way better than anything you’ll find in a store. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and stash in your pack, so you can enjoy a little indulgence wherever your hike takes you.

Dried Fruit and Nut Mix

Ah, trusty trail mix. Sure, you could grab a premade bag, but where’s the fun in that? Mix things up by creating your own blend with your favorite dried fruits and nuts. They offer quick energy from natural sugars, plus healthy fats that keep you hiking strong, making it a great option for backpacking foods for vegans. Here are some ideas to get you started!

Dried Fruits

• Apples: Lightweight and easy to pack, dried apples add a tart and sweet flavor to your trail mix.
• Apricots: These are chewy and slightly sweet, making them a satisfying snack for quick bites on the go.
• Bananas: With their crunchy texture, dried bananas are a fun addition to any trail mix, offering a mild sweetness.
• Blueberries: Tiny and packed with flavor, dried blueberries are perfect for adding a bit of tang to your snack mix.
• Cherries: Tart and sweet, dried cherries provide a bold flavor that pairs well with nuts.
• Cranberries: These add a tart and slightly sweet element, balancing out the richer flavors in your mix.
• Dates: Naturally sweet and sticky, dates help bind other ingredients together in homemade bars or trail mixes.
• Figs: With their chewy texture and sweet flavor, dried figs are a satisfying snack on longer hikes.
• Mango: A tropical treat, dried mango slices are chewy and provide a burst of sweetness.
• Raisins: Classic and versatile, raisins are a staple in many trail mixes for their sweet, chewy texture.

Nuts

• Almonds: Crunchy and mild, almonds are a popular choice for trail mixes, offering a satisfying texture.
• Brazil Nuts: Large and buttery, Brazil nuts add a rich flavor and variety to your snack mix.
• Cashews: Smooth and slightly sweet, cashews are a softer nut that pairs well with both sweet and savory flavors.
• Hazelnuts: These nuts have a rich, distinct flavor and add a bit of crunch to your trail snacks.
• Macadamia Nuts: Creamy and rich, macadamia nuts are a luxurious addition to any trail mix.
• Peanuts: A classic snack, peanuts are crunchy and pair well with dried fruits for a balanced mix.
• Pecans: With a slightly sweet and buttery flavor, pecans add a soft crunch to your trail mix.
• Pine Nuts: Small and tender, pine nuts are great for adding a unique flavor to your snack mix.
• Pistachios: With their distinctive flavor, pistachios bring a bit of flair and a nice crunch to your trail mix.
• Walnuts: Rich and slightly bitter, walnuts add depth and variety to your trail snacks.

Ready-To-Eat Vegan Food For The Trail

When you’re hitting the trail, having ready-to-eat vegan snacks is all about maximizing convenience without compromising on taste. These pre-packaged options are perfect for when you need quick, reliable energy without the hassle of cooking or preparation. They’re easy to pack, require no refrigeration, and provide the nutrition you need to keep moving. Whether you’re in the mood for something chewy, crunchy, or sweet, these snacks are the perfect trail companions that keep you fueled and focused on the adventure ahead.

Vegan Protein Bars

Vegan protein bars are the ultimate hiking fuel—they pack a powerful punch of plant-based protein to keep your energy up and your muscles happy, all in a compact, no-fuss package. Their portability means you can toss them in your backpack and forget about them until you need that crucial pick-me-up on the trail. Plus, with flavors ranging from chocolatey decadence to fruity bursts, they’re a tasty treat that makes every summit feel even more victorious.

Vegan Jerky

Vegan jerky is a hiking essential that brings the savory satisfaction of traditional jerky without the animal products. It’s tough enough to withstand the rigors of the trail while delivering a savory, protein-rich snack that keeps you going strong. With flavors that range from smoky to spicy, vegan jerky adds a flavorful twist to your hike, making every bite feel like a well-earned treat.

Vegan Graham Crackers

Vegan graham crackers are a perfect hiking companion, offering a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s both lightweight and durable enough for the trail. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack or using them to sandwich some vegan marshmallows around a campfire, they bring a comforting, familiar flavor to your outdoor adventures. Plus, they’re easy to pack and store, making them a versatile addition to any hiker’s snack stash.

Get Cheesy

When you’re deep in the wilderness and craving something with a comforting cheesy flavor, these vegan snacks are just what you need. They’re not only packed with that savory taste but are also easy to enjoy on the go. Whether you’re walking and munching or taking a break to savor every bite, these vegan cheese-based selections are a surefire way to add some zest to your trek.

Homemade Vegan Cheez-Its

These are a hiker’s dream snack: compact, easy to carry, and perfect for munching on the move. These crispy, cheesy bites travel well in your pack and deliver that savory satisfaction you crave when you’re deep into your trek. Whether you’re powering through a tough trail or taking a moment to enjoy the view, these add a fun, flavorful crunch to your adventure, making every step a little more delicious.

Savory Kale Chips

These cheezy dehydrator kale chips are the ultimate hiking snack—lightweight, umami-rich, nutrient-packed, and deliciously crunchy. Perfect for when you’re on the trail and need a savory boost, they’re easy to pack and provide lasting energy with every bite. Plus, making them at home ensures they’re fresh, flavorful, and free from any unnecessary additives, giving you a healthy snack that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.

The Best Vegan Cheese Slice Brands

When you’re heading out for a hike and want to keep things interesting, vegan cheese slices can be a game-changer. Whether you’re crafting a killer sandwich, layering them on crackers, or just enjoying them as-is (because why not?), these slices pack a flavorful punch that’s easy to carry. Just remember to stash them in a cooler or insulated pouch to keep them fresh and ready for action. They’re not just a great way to add a satisfying bite to your trail snacks—they’re also versatile and convenient, making them the perfect hiking companion.

Around The Campfire

There’s something magical about gathering around a campfire, whether it’s under the stars or in the bright light of day. It’s a time for connection, laughter, and savoring simple, comforting treats. Whether you’re toasting, roasting, or just enjoying the warmth, these moments bring a special kind of joy that’s best shared with good company and great food. Here are some ideas for a vegan campfire party!

Campfire Banana Boats

When you’re out hiking, there’s nothing quite like a treat that’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat. Enter the campfire banana boat—a perfect vegan hiking dessert that’s easy to prepare and totally customizable. Packed with gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crunchy toppings, this sweet treat is the ideal way to wrap up a day on the trail. Whether you’re deep in the woods or just hanging out by a backyard fire, these banana boats will add that extra bit of joy to your outdoor vegan adventure.

Vegan Marshmallows For Toasting

When you’re out on the trail, nothing beats the nostalgic joy of toasting marshmallows over a campfire. Vegan marshmallows are fluffy, gooey, and perfect for roasting! Grab a stick, skewer a marshmallow, and let it get golden and melty. Or, take it up a notch and make vegan s’mores—because why settle for just one campfire treat when you can have the ultimate combo?

General Hiking Tips

So, you’ve got your vegan snacks packed and your trail map ready, but what about those little things that can make or break your hiking adventure? From staying hydrated to finding the right vegan footwear, these general hiking tips are here to ensure your day in the great outdoors is nothing short of epic. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting out, these pointers will keep you safe, comfy, and ready to conquer whatever the trail throws your way. Let’s dive in and make sure you’re hiking smart, sustainably, and in style!

• Stay Hydrated: Always carry enough water and sip regularly to stay hydrated, especially on long hikes or in hot weather. Pack fruit-infused water for an extra burst of flavor!
• Layer Up: Dress in layers to easily adjust to changing weather conditions, ensuring comfort and warmth throughout your hike. We love these cute vegan tees!
• Plan Your Route: Study your trail ahead of time, and carry a map or GPS to stay on course and avoid getting lost.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave natural areas as you found them to preserve the environment for future hikers.
• Proper Footwear: Invest in sturdy, comfortable hiking boots to protect your feet and prevent injuries on uneven terrain.
• Emergency Kit: Always carry a basic first-aid kit, along with a whistle and a flashlight, for safety in case of accidents or unexpected delays.
• Know the Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared for sudden changes to avoid dangerous conditions. Don’t forget the vegan sunscreen!
• Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed wildlife, as it can be harmful to them and dangerous for you.
• Energy-Rich Snacks: Pack nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars to keep your energy levels up throughout the hike.
• Tell Someone Your Plan: Let a friend or family member know your hiking plans and expected return time in case of an emergency.

Get Packing!

As you gear up for your next adventure, remember that the right vegan backpacking foods can make all the difference in keeping your energy levels high and your taste buds happy. With a variety of nutritious, portable, and delicious options, you can fuel your journey with confidence and flavor. From savory snacks and protein-packed treats to sweet campfire delights, these plant-based options ensure you’re well-prepared for whatever the trail throws your way. So, get packing and embrace the great outdoors—your vegan adventure awaits!