HeyReader
When people picture food that they take on adventures, they usually imagine one of two things:
Trail mix and ramen. Story of my LIFE.
And while there's absolutely a time and place for both...I refuse to believe that's the peak of human achievement.
This summer in Alaska, I've been living out of an old bus, backpacking through the wilderness, and cooking on camp stoves with no refrigerator.
Some days I'm guiding hikes, other days I'm out photographing glaciers or kayaking, and by the time dinner rolls around, I'm hungry enough to eat almost anything.
Almost.
Some meals were surprisingly incredible.
Others made me question every life choice that had led me to staring at another packet of instant noodles.
It got me thinking...
Adventure food doesn't have to be complicated, but it also doesn't have to be boring.
A little planning goes a long way.
Here are a few things I've learned this season:
- Tortillas beat bread almost every time. They pack smaller, don't get squished, and last much longer.
- Hard cheeses are tougher than most people think. Many will happily survive several days on the trail.
- One tiny spice container can completely change a meal. Cajun seasoning has rescued more dinners than I'd like to admit.
- Never underestimate the morale boost of a dessert. After a long hike, a little chocolate somehow tastes Michelin-star worthy.
Adventure is hard enough.
Dinner doesn't have to be.
Because of that, I spent the last few weeks putting together something I've wanted for years: a collection of recipes that are actually designed for real adventures. Backpacking. Camping. Road trips. RV travel.
These are the kinds of meals that use simple ingredients, don't require a full kitchen, and leave you with more time to enjoy the sunset instead of scrubbing dishes.
It's the very first Adventure Pack inside Shutterbugs Gone Wild, where members get practical resources like this every month alongside behind-the-scenes stories and photography lessons from my adventures.
If you've ever looked into your food bin and thought, "Please...anything but ramen again," I think you'll enjoy this one.
I'd love to know your favorite trail meal, too. Hit reply and tell me what's earned a permanent spot in your adventure food lineup.
There's a good chance I'll end up trying it on a future trip!
Stay adventurous,
Alexandra | The Bucket List Mermaid
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