BY TEDDY COSCO

When you're out on the trail, every ounce counts. Being efficient is key to a successful hike, and this extends to the snacks you pack. Just like a Leatherman multitool has multiple functions, your hiking snacks can serve multiple purposes, providing not just sustenance but also versatility in meal preparation. Here are my top five favorite hiking snacks that tick all the boxes: lightweight, high caloric density, shelf-stable, multipurpose, and, most importantly, tasty!

1.    Chocolate

Why I Love It: Firstly, because chocolate. It's an irresistible treat that's perfect for a quick energy boost. High in calories, chocolate can keep you going when you start to feel fatigued. If you want to get fancy, chocolate with added caffeine can provide an extra kick to keep you alert and energized.

Versatility: Chocolate isn't just a standalone snack; it can transform a basic meal into something special. For instance, packet oats are a common breakfast for hikers. Melt some chocolate into your oats, and you've got a delicious, morale-boosting meal. The only downside is that chocolate can melt in high temperatures, so store it in a sealed container and keep an eye on the weather.

2.    Dried Fruit

Why I Love It: Dried fruit eliminates the extra weight and risk of bruising and spoilage that fresh fruit has. Dried mango is my absolute favorite, and I often snack on it even when I'm not hiking. It’s a great high-energy snack that satisfies the sweet tooth.

Versatility: Dried fruit can also enhance other meals. Finely chop dried mango and add it to your breakfast oats for a sweet, nutritious boost. It’s lightweight, shelf-stable, and provides a good mix of carbohydrates and fiber to keep you fueled on the trail.

3.    NUTS

Why I Love It: Nuts are calorically dense and unaffected by heat, making them ideal for hot climates. They’re easy to snack on while hiking, providing a quick energy boost with minimal effort.

Versatility: Nuts can also be used in meal preparation. For example, I've made a pesto by smashing up pine nuts and basil with the hammer of my multitool, then added this to dried noodles. The result was a delicious, nutrient-dense meal that was easy to prepare on the trail.

4.    cheese

Why I Love It: Cheese is another high-calorie, satisfying snack. I prefer cheeses that come with their own packaging, like Babybel, or hard cheeses like parmesan. Parmesan is particularly light due to its low moisture content and is incredibly calorically dense.

Versatility: Cheese can elevate a variety of meals. Add parmesan to pasta or grate cheddar into packet mac & cheese for an enhanced flavor experience. Just be mindful of the temperature, as cheese can melt. Store it in a sealed container and be aware of the heat.

4.    cured meats

Why I Love It: Cured meats like salami or pepperoni are hiking staples. They're salty, savory, and packed with calories. Fat provides 9 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram for protein and carbs, making these meats incredibly energy-dense.

Versatility: Cured meats are fantastic for lightweight cooking. You can render out the fat in a pan to fry other items, such as rehdyrated noodles. A personal favorite is the East Coast Canadian pub delicacy "chicken lips," which is essentially fried pepperoni. It’s a tasty, high-energy treat that can double as an ingredient for other meals.

Bonus: Combine for Maximum Impact

Many of these snacks can be combined to create even more versatile and tasty trail food. GORP (Good Old Raisins and Peanuts) is a classic example that combines dried fruit and nuts. Trail mix can also be made from a mixture of nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate, providing a diverse range of nutrients and flavors in one handy snack.

Conclusion

Choosing the right snacks for hiking is about more than just taste. It's about efficiency, versatility, and maximizing your caloric intake while minimizing weight. These five snacks are my personal favorites because they meet all these criteria and more. They provide the energy and nutrition needed for long hikes, can be used as ingredients in various meals, and are shelf-stable to withstand the rigors of the trail. Whether you follow my picks or find your own substitutes, the key is to choose snacks that will keep you energized and satisfied, making your hiking experience as enjoyable as possible. Happy trails!