35 Easy and Delicious Pre-Made Camping Meals for Your Next Trip
You’re here because you want your next camping trip to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Trust me, I get it.
I’ve spent countless nights under the stars, and I know firsthand that the last thing you want to worry about is what to eat.
Pre-made camping meals can be a real game-changer, saving you time and effort so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors.
Let me take you back to one of my camping trips.
It was a perfect weekend getaway, but I had made the rookie mistake of not prepping my meals.
After a long day of hiking, I was too tired to cook, and the instant noodles I had packed just didn’t cut it.
That’s when I realized the magic of pre-made meals.
On my next trip, I had prepped everything in advance, from breakfast burritos to chicken wraps.
Not only did I eat well, but I also had more time to relax and soak in the beauty of nature.
In this article, I’ll share 35 easy and delicious pre-made camping meals that will elevate your camping experience.
Whether you’re a breakfast lover, a lunch enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a hearty dinner around the campfire, I’ve got you covered.
We’ll also explore the benefits of pre-made meals and dive into specific recipes that are perfect for any camping adventure.
Benefits of Pre-Made Camping Meals
Convenience and Time-Saving Aspects
Pre-made meals are all about convenience.
Imagine arriving at your campsite with everything ready to go.
No chopping, no mixing—just pure enjoyment.
This means you spend less time cooking and more time exploring.
Enhanced Camping Experience with Less Hassle
Cooking at home is a breeze compared to the unpredictable nature of outdoor cooking.
By preparing meals in advance, you eliminate the hassle and potential stress of cooking over a campfire or a small camping stove.
Healthier and More Satisfying Meal Options
When you prepare meals ahead of time, you control the ingredients.
This means healthier and more satisfying options compared to store-bought, processed foods.
Fresh veggies, lean proteins, and wholesome grains can be part of your camping menu.
Breakfast Ideas
1. Overnight Oats
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Rolled oats
- Milk or a milk alternative
- Chia seeds
- Honey or maple syrup
- Fresh or dried fruit
Preparation: Combine all ingredients in a mason jar, stir well, and refrigerate overnight.
Storage Tips: Keep refrigerated until you leave for your trip. Once at the campsite, store in a cooler to maintain freshness.
2. Breakfast Burritos
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Scrambled eggs
- Cooked sausage or bacon
- Cheese
- Salsa
- Tortillas
Preparation: Assemble the burritos by layering eggs, meat, cheese, and salsa on a tortilla. Wrap tightly in foil.
How to Wrap and Store: Store in a cooler until ready to heat. To reheat, place foil-wrapped burritos over the campfire or on a portable stove.
3. Mini Frittatas
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Eggs
- Diced vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions)
- Cheese
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Whisk eggs and mix in vegetables, cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour into muffin tins and bake until set.
Storage Tips and Reheating: Store in an airtight container in a cooler. Reheat over the campfire or on a portable stove.
4. Yogurt Parfaits
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Yogurt
- Granola
- Fresh fruit
- Honey
Preparation: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in a mason jar. Drizzle honey on top.
Layering Tips for Freshness: Keep granola separate until ready to eat to maintain its crunch. Store parfaits in a cooler.
Lunch Options
5. Mason Jar Salads
Ingredients and Layering Tips:
- Dressing (bottom layer)
- Hard vegetables (carrots, cucumbers)
- Beans or proteins (chicken, chickpeas)
- Leafy greens (top layer)
Storage and Freshness Tips: Layer ingredients to prevent sogginess. Store in a cooler and shake well before eating.
6. Cold Pasta Salad
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Cooked pasta
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olives
- Feta cheese
- Italian dressing
Preparation: Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Refrigerate before packing.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in a cooler.
7. Chicken Wraps
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Grilled chicken strips
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Avocado
- Tortillas
Preparation: Assemble wraps by layering chicken, lettuce, tomato, and avocado on a tortilla. Roll tightly.
Wrapping and Storage Tips: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and store in a cooler.
8. Quinoa Bowls
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Cooked quinoa
- Black beans
- Corn
- Avocado
- Salsa
Preparation: Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate before packing.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in a cooler.
Dinner Recipes
9. Chili
Chili is a campfire classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Ground beef or turkey
- Diced tomatoes
- Kidney beans
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Brown the ground meat in a skillet. Add diced tomatoes, beans, chopped onions, and bell peppers.
Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until everything is well-cooked and flavors meld together.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Let the chili cool before transferring it to airtight containers.
Store in a cooler.
Reheat over a campfire or a portable stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
10. BBQ Chicken and Veggie Packets
These packets are super convenient and packed with flavor.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- BBQ sauce
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Cut the chicken and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place a portion of chicken and veggies on a large piece of aluminum foil.
Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top.
Wrapping and Cooking Instructions: Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a sealed packet. Store in a cooler.
When ready to cook, place the packets over the campfire or on a portable grill.
Cook for about 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
11. Beef Stew
A hearty stew is perfect for those cool camping nights.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Beef chunks
- Carrots
- Potatoes
- Celery
- Onion
- Beef broth
- Tomato paste
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Brown the beef chunks in a pot. Add chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions. Stir in beef broth and tomato paste.
Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer until the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Allow the stew to cool before transferring it to airtight containers.
Store in a cooler.
Reheat over the campfire or a portable stove, stirring occasionally for even heating.
12. Shrimp Foil Packets
These shrimp packets are a quick and tasty dinner option.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Cherry tomatoes
- Zucchini
- Lemon slices
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Combine shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and minced garlic in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and add salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Wrapping and Cooking Instructions: Place the mixture on a large piece of aluminum foil.
Add a couple of lemon slices on top. Fold the foil to create a sealed packet. Store in a cooler.
Cook the packets over the campfire or on a portable grill for about 15 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked through.
Snacks and Sides
13. Trail Mix
Trail mix is the quintessential camping snack—easy to make and great for munching on the go.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts)
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- Chocolate chips or M&Ms
- Seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)
Preparation: Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Adjust the proportions to your taste.
Storage Tips: Store in resealable bags or airtight containers to keep everything fresh.
Keep a bag handy in your daypack for quick snacks during hikes.
14. Hummus and Veggie Sticks
Hummus with veggie sticks is a refreshing and healthy snack.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Store-bought or homemade hummus
- Carrot sticks
- Celery sticks
- Bell pepper strips
Preparation: Cut vegetables into sticks or strips. Portion hummus into small containers or keep it in its original container.
Storage Tips: Store the hummus and veggie sticks in a cooler to keep them fresh. Pack them in separate containers to avoid sogginess.
15. Cheese and Crackers
Simple yet satisfying, cheese and crackers are a go-to side.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Cheddar with whole grain crackers
- Brie with water crackers
- Gouda with multigrain crackers
Storage Tips: Store cheese in a cooler to keep it from melting. Keep crackers in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
16. Energy Bars
Energy bars are perfect for a quick boost.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Rolled oats
- Peanut butter
- Honey
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts
Preparation: Mix oats, peanut butter, honey, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts in a bowl.
Press the mixture into a lined baking pan. Refrigerate until firm, then cut into bars.
Storage Tips: Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or store it in a resealable bag. Keep it in a cooler or a dry food bag.
Desserts
17. S’mores Kits
S’mores are a camping classic, and they never fail to bring out the kid in all of us.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Graham crackers
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate bars
Preparation: Pack graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars in separate resealable bags.
For a fun twist, include some peanut butter cups or flavored marshmallows.
Packing Tips: Store the ingredients in a sturdy container to prevent them from getting crushed.
Keep everything in a cool, dry place to avoid the chocolate melting.
18. Campfire Cones
Campfire cones are a fun and delicious twist on traditional s’mores.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Ice cream cones
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips
- Berries or banana slices
Preparation: Fill ice cream cones with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and your choice of berries or banana slices.
Wrap each cone in aluminum foil.
Cooking Instructions: Place the foil-wrapped cones near the campfire or on a grill for about 5-7 minutes, rotating occasionally, until everything is melted and gooey.
19. Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad is a great way to end a meal on a healthy note.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Assorted fresh fruits (berries, grapes, melon, pineapple, etc.)
- Lime juice
- Honey
Preparation: Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with a splash of lime juice and a drizzle of honey.
Storage Tips: Store the fruit salad in an airtight container in your cooler to keep it fresh and chilled.
20. Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can never go wrong with classic chocolate chip cookies.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Chocolate chips
Preparation: Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.
Combine both mixtures and fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and bake until golden brown.
Storage Tips: Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
21. Veggie Stir-Fry
A simple veggie stir-fry can be a quick, healthy dinner option.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Optional: tofu or tempeh
Preparation: Chop vegetables and stir-fry them in a hot pan with olive oil and minced garlic.
Add soy sauce or tamari to taste.
If using tofu or tempeh, cook it until crispy before adding the veggies.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Store in airtight containers in your cooler. Reheat over a camp stove, stirring occasionally.
22. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is hearty, nutritious, and easy to make ahead.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Lentils
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onion
- Garlic
- Vegetable broth
- Bay leaves
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Add lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the lentils are tender.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Store the soup in airtight containers in your cooler. Reheat over a camp stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
23. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are filling and flavorful.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Bell peppers
- Quinoa or rice
- Black beans
- Corn
- Tomatoes
- Spices (cumin, paprika, salt, pepper)
Preparation: Cook quinoa or rice. Mix with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices.
Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff the peppers with the mixture.
Storage Tips: Store stuffed peppers in an airtight container in your cooler. Reheat over a campfire or camp stove until warmed through.
24. Vegan Burrito Bowls
These burrito bowls are packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Rice or quinoa
- Black beans
- Corn
- Salsa
- Avocado
- Lettuce
- Lime wedges
Preparation: Cook rice or quinoa and let it cool. Layer with black beans, corn, salsa, avocado slices, and shredded lettuce.
Storage Tips: Store each component separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh.
Assemble your burrito bowl just before eating.
Kid-Friendly Meals
25. PB&J Sandwiches
PB&J sandwiches are a staple for any camping trip with kids.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Bread
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
Preparation: Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread and jelly on another. Press the slices together and cut them into halves or quarters.
Storage Tips: Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or place it in resealable bags.
Store in a cool place to prevent the jelly from making the bread soggy.
26. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is always a hit with kids.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Macaroni
- Cheese sauce or shredded cheese
- Milk or cream
Preparation: Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and mix in cheese sauce or shredded cheese with a splash of milk or cream.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Store in an airtight container. Reheat in a pot over a camp stove, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.
27. Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas are fun and easy to customize.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- English muffins or mini pizza crusts
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded cheese
- Toppings (pepperoni, veggies, etc.)
Preparation: Spread pizza sauce on English muffins or mini pizza crusts. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and add desired toppings.
Storage Tips: Store in airtight containers. To reheat, place on a grill or camp stove until the cheese melts.
28. Chicken Nuggets
Homemade chicken nuggets are a kid-friendly favorite.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Flour
- Egg
- Bread crumbs
Preparation: Coat chicken pieces in flour, dip in beaten egg, and roll in bread crumbs. Bake or fry until golden brown.
Storage and Reheating Tips: Store in an airtight container. Reheat over a camp stove or grill until warm.
Quick and Easy Meals
29. Instant Noodles with Veggies
Instant noodles are perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Instant noodles
- Mixed veggies (frozen or fresh)
Preparation: Cook instant noodles according to package instructions. Add mixed veggies during the last few minutes of cooking.
Storage Tips: Keep the ingredients separate until ready to cook. Store mixed veggies in a cooler to keep them fresh.
30. Tuna Salad
Tuna salad is a great no-cook option.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Canned tuna
- Mayonnaise
- Relish or diced pickles
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Drain the canned tuna and mix with mayonnaise, relish, salt, and pepper.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the cooler. Serve with crackers or bread.
31. Couscous Salad
Couscous salad is light and refreshing.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Couscous
- Diced veggies (cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers)
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Preparation: Cook couscous according to package instructions. Mix with diced veggies, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the cooler.
32. Cold Cut Sandwiches
Cold-cut sandwiches are quick and satisfying.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Bread or rolls
- Cold cuts (ham, turkey, roast beef)
- Cheese
- Lettuce and tomato
- Condiments (mustard, mayo, etc.)
Preparation: Assemble sandwiches with cold cuts, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and condiments.
Storage Tips: Wrap sandwiches in plastic wrap or store in resealable bags. Keep in a cooler until ready to eat.
Drinks
33. Homemade Lemonade
Homemade lemonade is refreshing and easy to make.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Lemons
- Sugar
- Water
Preparation: Juice the lemons and mix with water and sugar to taste. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Storage Tips: Store in a pitcher or large bottle in the cooler.
34. Iced Tea
Iced tea is a classic camp drink.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Tea bags
- Water
- Ice
- Lemon slices (optional)
Preparation: Brew tea bags in hot water. Let cool and pour over ice. Add lemon slices if desired.
Storage Tips: Store in a pitcher or large bottle in the cooler.
35. Hot Chocolate Mix
Hot chocolate is perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Cocoa powder
- Sugar
- Powdered milk
Preparation: Mix cocoa powder, sugar, and powdered milk in a jar. When ready to use, add hot water and stir until dissolved.
Packing Tips: Store the mix in a sealed jar or container to keep it dry.
Conclusion, 35 Easy and Delicious Pre-Made Camping Meals
Pre-made camping meals can transform your camping experience.
They save you time, reduce hassle, and ensure you have tasty and nutritious meals.
Whether you’re whipping up a batch of overnight oats or assembling PB&J sandwiches, these recipes will keep you well-fed and happy on your adventure.
I encourage you to try these recipes and customize them to your liking.
Have fun with your meals and don’t forget to share your personal experiences and favorite recipes by sharing this article on Pinterest.
Camping is all about enjoying the great outdoors and having delicious, easy meals makes the experience even better.