Don't be a hangry hiker. Take advantage of our packaged camping meal deal! 

MAY 1ST through AUGUST 31ST

Buy 5 packaged meals, get the 6th meal of equal or lesser price for FREE

See our selection of backpacking meals! 

Backpacking meals are usually defined by their drying method. The difference comes down to how the water is removed and what that does to the food’s taste, texture, weight, and price.

🥘 Dehydrated meals

• Process: Food is heated (air-dried) to evaporate water.
• Texture: Often denser and sometimes chewy after rehydrating.
• Taste: Can lose some flavor due to heat exposure.
• Weight: Light, but usually a bit heavier than freeze-dried.
• Rehydration: Takes longer and may need simmering (not just hot water).
• Cost: Generally cheaper.

Common examples: dried pasta meals, beans, rice mixes, jerky.

❄️ Freeze-dried meals

• Process: Food is frozen, then water is removed via sublimation (ice → vapor).
• Texture: Much closer to original food when rehydrated (even crispy when dry).
• Taste: Better flavor retention since there’s no high heat.
• Weight: Extremely light (one of the lightest options for backpacking).
• Rehydration: Fast—just add hot water, wait a few minutes.
• Cost: More expensive due to the complex process.

🏕️ Which should you choose?

• Go freeze-dried if you want maximum convenience, lighter pack weight, and better taste (great for long trips or ultralight backpacking).
• Go dehydrated if you’re trying to save money or don’t mind a bit more cooking effort.