What do you like to cook on the trail that you can get on a thru-hike? I'd like to get a centralized thread going so there's a good list, as a resource (and because I'm curious to see what else I'll be able to pick up ). Include ingredients or recipes. If there's a tip that makes it easier to cook on-trail, make sure to include it too!

I'll start the list!


  • Mac and Cheese (any tips?)
  • Lentils (let them soak in a water bottle all day, and they'll cook quicker for dinner)
  • Rice (any tips? I think it cooks more quickly if you soak it like lentils. If possible, you can also get "instant-cook" rice, which you just have to boil)
  • Quinoa (any tips? never had it, just seen on the forums)
  • Couscous (any tips? never had it, just seen on the forums)



What are you thinking?