#165 Becoming a Backcountry Foodie with Aaron Owens

Aaron Owens runs “Backcountry Foodie,” a one-stop shop for backpackers and long-distance hikers who want to level up their food game in the backcountry. From ultra-light food recipes and meal planners to a robust calorie calculator and resupply service, Aaron has you covered. She loves backcountry food so much that she’ll even pack your food bag for you and ship it to your home so all you need to do is toss it in your pack and head out the door!


Key Takeaways:

• Food plays a crucial role in backpacking and can impact performance and enjoyment on the trail
• Creating a diverse menu with foods that you enjoy from home can help maintain energy levels and prevent boredom
• Understanding your caloric needs and eating regularly throughout the day is essential for sustained energy and avoiding bonking
• While junk food can provide quick energy, it's important to balance it with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats for optimal performance
• Transitioning to a new diet on the trail should be done gradually to avoid digestive issues and other negative effects on the body.
• Customize your meal plans based on your hiking strategy and preferences.
• Maximize the nutritional value of each bite by incorporating combination foods
• Eat every hour to hour and a half to maintain energy levels throughout the day
• Consider freeze-drying your own meals for a lightweight and personalized backpacking experience
• Keep a hiking food journal to track what works and what doesn't for future trips

Show Notes and Links:

• Aaron's Backstory
• The Importance of Food in Backpacking
• Creating a Diverse Menu
• Understanding Caloric Intake
• The Importance of Eating Regularly
• The Pros and Cons of a Junk Food Diet
• Transitioning to a New Diet and Its Effects
• Emergency Food and Snacks
• Customized Meal Plans Based on Hiking Strategy
• Maximizing Caloric Intake
• Combination Foods
• Eating for Warmth in Cold Weather
• Eating on the Go
• Palette Changes
• Freeze Drying
• Foodie Services
• https://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/53/
• https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodie
• https://www.youtube.com/c/BackcountryFoodie

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show.

• Website
• Join the podcast email newsletter
• Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links)
• Monthly Podcast Support
• Courses
  • Learn How To Backpack
  • 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking
  • Thru-Hiking 101
• Resources
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Facebook Groups
• emory@byland.co