Are you tired of struggling to cook decent meals while camping? Make ahead camping meals are the perfect solution for hungry outdoor lookouts! With a little planning, you can enjoy delicious, homemade food without the hassle of cooking from scratch at your campsite.
From breakfast burritos to pasta salads, these easy-to-make-ahead camping meals will save you time and energy when you’re out enjoying nature.
Prepare these meals at home, pack them properly, and bring them along on your camping trip.
No more bland camp food or expensive convenience store runs! These make-ahead camping meals are nutritious, satisfying, and will enhance your outdoor experience even more.
Quick and Easy Make Ahead Camping Meals
These make ahead meals will save you time and energy at your campsite with minimal cooking required.
From breakfast options to lunch ideas, each recipe can be prepared at home and packed for your next outdoor camping trip. They’re designed to stay fresh in coolers and can be enjoyed with little to no reheating needed.
1. Breakfast Burritos
Perfect for busy mornings, these protein-packed burritos can be customized with your favorite fillings. Wrap in foil, freeze, and microwave when needed for a satisfying breakfast that keeps you full until lunch.
- Ingredients: Flour tortillas, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats (such as bacon, sausage, or ham), cheese, and vegetables like peppers and onions. Add salsa or hot sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein and complex carbohydrates. Contains essential amino acids and can be customized to include vegetables for added vitamins and minerals.
- Storage Tips: Wrap each item individually in parchment paper, then place in aluminum foil. Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
2. Pancake Batter in a Squeeze Bottle
Pre-made pancake batter stored in squeeze bottles allows for quick, mess-free pancakes any day of the week. Just shake, squeeze, and cook for fresh pancakes without the morning prep work.
- Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter or oil. Add vanilla extract or cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Nutritional Value: Provides carbohydrates for quick energy. Add protein powder or use whole grain flour to boost nutritional content and staying power.
- Storage Tips: Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days. Shake well before using. Squeeze bottles should be BPA-free plastic or silicone with secure caps.
3. Overnight Oats in Jars
No-cook method of preparing oatmeal by soaking oats in liquid overnight. The oats absorb the liquid and soften, creating a ready-to-eat, customizable breakfast straight from the refrigerator.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, milk or plant-based alternative, yogurt, sweetener of choice, and mix-ins like fruit, nuts, seeds, or spices.
- Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber, complex carbs, and protein. Contains beta-glucan that helps lower cholesterol and promotes gut health.
- Storage Tips: Store in airtight mason jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Add fresh toppings just before serving.
4. Muffin Tin Egg Bites
Mini crustless quiches baked in muffin tins for perfectly portioned, protein-rich breakfast bites. Versatile and customizable with endless combinations of vegetables, cheeses, and meats.
- Ingredients: eggs, milk or cream, cheese, vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers, and optional meats like ham or bacon. Season with herbs and spices.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of protein and healthy fats. Low in carbohydrates and can provide various micronutrients depending on the added vegetables.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds.
5. French Toast Sticks
Sliced bread dipped in egg mixture, baked or fried until golden, then cut into dippable sticks—a fun, kid-friendly breakfast that’s easily reheated and perfect for on-the-go eating.
- Ingredients: Thick-sliced bread, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and butter for cooking. Serve with maple syrup for dipping.
- Nutritional Value: Contains carbohydrates, proteins, and some fats. The egg coating adds protein, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar.
- Storage Tips: Freeze in a single layer before transferring to freezer bags. Store for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven for the best texture.
6. Banana Bread
Moist, sweet, quick bread made with ripe bananas. A versatile breakfast or snack that can be sliced and frozen for easy grabbing on busy mornings.
- Ingredients: Ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking soda, salt, and optional add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- Nutritional Value: Provides carbohydrates for energy and potassium, as found in bananas. It can be made healthier by using whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar content.
- Storage Tips: Store at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months.
7. Sausage and Cheese Biscuits
Savory breakfast sandwiches featuring homemade or store-bought biscuits, breakfast sausage patties, and melted cheese. Hearty and satisfying for busy mornings.
- Ingredients: Buttermilk biscuits (homemade or store-bought), breakfast sausage patties, sliced cheese, and optional eggs for extra protein.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein and fats, which provide sustained energy. Contains calcium from cheese and iron from meat.
- Storage Tips: Wrap each item individually in parchment paper and foil. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven or microwave.
8. Breakfast Sandwiches
Classic combination of eggs, cheese, and ham on English muffins. A balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fats that can be assembled ahead and quickly reheated.
- Ingredients: English muffins, eggs (scrambled or fried), ham or Canadian bacon, cheese slices, and optional butter or mayo.
- Nutritional Value: Balanced macronutrients with approximately 15-20g of protein per sandwich. English muffins provide complex carbohydrates, which offer sustained energy.
- Storage Tips: Wrap each item individually in parchment paper or wax paper, then place in foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in microwave or toaster oven.
9. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Packets
DIY instant oatmeal packets with rolled oats, dried apples, cinnamon, and sweetener. A healthier alternative to store-bought instant packets with less sugar and additives.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, dried apple pieces, cinnamon, brown sugar or maple sugar, salt, and optional nuts or seeds.
- Nutritional Value: Good source of soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. Contains complex carbohydrates that provide steady energy throughout the morning.
- Storage Tips: Store in airtight containers or ziplock bags in the pantry for up to 3 months. Just add hot water when ready to eat.
10. Mini Quiches
Savory egg custard baked in small pastry crusts. These can be filled with various combinations of vegetables, meats, and cheeses for a protein-rich breakfast option.
- Ingredients: Pie crust, eggs, heavy cream or milk, cheese, vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, and proteins like bacon or ham.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein and healthy fats. The egg base provides essential amino acids, while vegetable fillings add vitamins and minerals.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for best texture and flavor.
11. Granola with Dried Fruit
Crunchy mixture of toasted oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. A versatile breakfast that can be eaten with milk, sprinkled over yogurt, or enjoyed by the handful.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, nuts, seeds, honey or maple syrup, oil, salt, spices like cinnamon, and dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots.
- Nutritional Value: Contains fiber, healthy fats, and some protein. Nuts and seeds provide omega-3 fatty acids, while dried fruits add natural sweetness and antioxidants.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months for maximum freshness.
12. Yogurt Parfaits
Layered breakfast cups with yogurt, granola, and fruit. These visually appealing parfaits offer a convenient, pre-portioned package of protein, healthy carbs, and natural sweetness.
- Ingredients: Greek yogurt, granola, fresh or frozen berries, honey or maple syrup, and optional add-ins like chia seeds or nut butter.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of protein from Greek yogurt (15-20g per serving). Contains probiotics for gut health and antioxidants from berries.
- Storage Tips: Layer with granola on top to maintain crunch. Store in airtight jars for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
13. Cinnamon Rolls
Sweet, spiral-shaped pastries with cinnamon-sugar filling and icing. Pre-baking these treats allows for quick reheating on special mornings or weekend breakfasts.
- Ingredients: Enriched yeast dough, butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, and powdered sugar glaze. Optional additions include nuts, raisins, or cream cheese frosting.
- Nutritional Value: High in carbohydrates and sugars. Provides quick energy but should be balanced with protein sources for a more complete breakfast.
- Storage Tips: Store at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
14. Baked Oatmeal Squares
Oatmeal baked into a sliceable form that can be eaten warm or cold. A portable alternative to traditional oatmeal that’s perfect for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, milk, eggs, sweetener, baking powder, salt, and mix-ins like fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips.
- Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Contains beta-glucan, which helps regulate blood sugar and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze individual pieces for up to 3 months. Eat cold or reheat.
15. Bagels with Cream Cheese Packs
A classic breakfast combination of chewy bagels and smooth cream cheese. Pre-portioning the cream cheese makes this an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
- Ingredients: Bagels (plain, everything, cinnamon raisin, etc.), cream cheese portions, and optional toppings like sliced vegetables, lox, or fruit preserves.
- Nutritional Value: Dense in carbohydrates with moderate protein. Cream cheese adds fat and calcium, while whole-grain bagels offer more fiber than their refined counterparts.
- Storage Tips: Slice and freeze bagels for up to 3 months. Store cream cheese portions in the refrigerator. Thaw bagels by toasting directly from frozen.
16. Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps
Portable and nutritious wraps filled with creamy peanut butter and sliced bananas. A simple yet satisfying meal that provides a perfect balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats for sustained energy throughout the day.
- Ingredients: Tortillas or flatbreads, natural peanut butter or alternative nut butter, fresh bananas, and optional add-ins like honey, cinnamon, or granola.
- Nutritional Value: Good source of protein and healthy fats from peanut butter. Bananas provide potassium, fiber, and natural sugars for quick energy.
- Storage Tips: Prepare fresh or make ahead and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Best consumed within 24 hours to prevent bananas from browning.
17. Breakfast Casserole
Hearty baked dish combining eggs, breakfast meats, vegetables, and cheese. Easily portioned and frozen for a complete meal that reheats beautifully, providing a protein-packed start to your day.
- Ingredients: Eggs, milk, breakfast meat (sausage, bacon, or ham), cheese, vegetables, and optional bread or potato base.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein and healthy fats. It can provide a full spectrum of nutrients depending on the vegetables added. Excellent for sustained energy.
- Storage Tips: Cut into individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.
18. Protein Muffins
Bakery-style muffins enriched with protein powder, nuts, seeds, and fruits. These nutrient-dense portable snacks provide sustained energy and muscle-supporting protein in a convenient package.
- Ingredients: Flour (regular or alternative), protein powder, eggs, milk, sweetener, oil or butter, baking powder, and mix-ins like berries, nuts, or chocolate.
- Nutritional Value: Higher protein content than regular muffins (8-15g per serving). Contains balanced macronutrients for sustained energy and muscle support.
- Storage Tips: Store at room temperature for 2-3 days, refrigerate for 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
19. Chia Pudding Cups
Creamy pudding made from chia seeds soaked in liquid until they expand and gel. A nutritional powerhouse that works as breakfast, snack, or dessert with endless flavor variations.
- Ingredients: Chia seeds, milk or a plant-based alternative, sweetener, vanilla extract, and optional toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, granola, or coconut.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Contains calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants while being low in added sugars.
- Storage Tips: Store in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Add crunchy toppings just before serving.
20. Pasta Salad with Veggies
Cold pasta mixed with fresh vegetables, cheese, and dressing. A versatile, make-ahead lunch option that can be customized with different proteins, vegetables, and dressings for varied flavors.
- Ingredients: Cooked and cooled pasta, assorted vegetables, cheese, protein (optional), and vinaigrette or creamy dressing of choice.
- Nutritional Value: Provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. Vegetables add vitamins and minerals, while added proteins can create a complete meal.
- Storage Tips: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best flavor, bring to room temperature before eating.
21. Chicken Salad Wraps
Creamy chicken salad wrapped in tortillas or lettuce leaves. A protein-rich lunch that combines lean meat, crunchy vegetables, and a binding sauce for a satisfying meal on the go.
- Ingredients: Cooked diced chicken, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, celery, onions, dried cranberries or grapes, nuts, seasonings, and wrap of choice.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein with approximately 20-25g per serving. Contains healthy fats and can be made lighter using Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Storage Tips: Keep chicken salad and wraps separate until ready to serve. Chicken salad lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
22. Tuna and Cracker Packs
Portable lunch combining protein-rich tuna with crispy crackers. These DIY packs mimic store-bought versions but offer fresher ingredients, higher-quality tuna, and customizable flavors.
- Ingredients: Canned tuna (packed in water or oil), crackers, mayonnaise packets or small containers, and optional add-ins like relish or lemon juice.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Low in carbohydrates, with crackers providing whole grains if whole wheat versions are used.
- Storage Tips: Store tuna in the refrigerator in sealed containers for up to 3 days. Pack crackers separately to maintain crispness.
23. Cold Fried Chicken
Crispy fried chicken served chilled for a protein-packed lunch option. A classic picnic food that’s perfectly portable and delicious straight from the refrigerator without reheating.
- Ingredients: Chicken pieces, flour, seasonings, eggs, breadcrumbs or cornflakes, and oil for frying. Optional herbs and spices for extra flavor.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein with approximately 25-30g per serving. Contains fats from frying, but provides sustained energy throughout the day.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tastes great cold, but is best enjoyed at room temperature for optimal flavor.
24. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Mini sandwiches made with sweet rolls, ham, and cheese, baked with a savory butter glaze. These pre-baked treats can be eaten cold or quickly reheated for a satisfying lunch.
- Ingredients: Sweet dinner rolls (kept connected), sliced ham, cheese (Swiss or cheddar), butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Nutritional Value: Balanced combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Each slider provides approximately 10-15g of protein and quick energy from the rolls.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven or microwave, or enjoy cold.
25. Grilled Veggie Wraps
Colorful tortilla wraps filled with grilled vegetables, hummus, and optional cheese. A vegetarian-friendly lunch option that’s full of flavor, fiber, and plant-based nutrition.
- Ingredients: Tortillas, grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, onions), hummus or other spread, optional cheese, and seasonings or herbs.
- Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables. Plant-based protein from hummus and complex carbohydrates from whole grain wraps provide sustained energy.
- Storage Tips: Assemble wraps and wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
26. Pita Pockets with Hummus and Cucumber
Stuffed pita bread with creamy hummus, crisp cucumber, and other fresh vegetables. A Mediterranean-inspired lunch that offers plant-based protein and refreshing crunch in a portable package.
- Ingredients: Whole wheat pita bread, hummus, sliced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese (optional), and fresh herbs like mint or parsley.
- Nutritional Value: Good source of plant-based protein and fiber. Hummus provides healthy fats while vegetables deliver vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Storage Tips: Keep components separate until ready to eat. Hummus and cut vegetables will last 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in airtight containers.
27. Antipasto Skewers
Italian-inspired appetizers on skewers featuring cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, and olives. These portable, hand-held treats pack significant flavor and protein in a fun-to-eat format.
- Ingredients: Cured meats (salami, prosciutto), cheese cubes, marinated vegetables (artichoke hearts, roasted peppers), olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
- Nutritional Value: High in protein and healthy fats. Contains various micronutrients from vegetables. Lower in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb meal plans.
- Storage Tips: Store assembled skewers in airtight containers with a damp paper towel for up to 2 days. Ideal for next-day consumption.
28. Cold Soba Noodle Bowls
Chilled Japanese buckwheat noodles with vegetables and a savory dipping sauce. A refreshing alternative to hot lunches, especially during warm weather, with satisfying texture and umami flavors.
- Ingredients: Soba noodles, sliced vegetables (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers), protein like tofu or edamame, and sauce with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Nutritional Value: Contains plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates. Buckwheat noodles provide more protein and fiber than regular pasta, with essential amino acids.
- Storage Tips: Store noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Keeps for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Mix just before serving.
29. Caprese Pasta Jars
Layered jars with pasta, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil in a balsamic dressing. A visually appealing, portable lunch inspired by the classic Italian salad with added pasta for substance.
- Ingredients: Cooked pasta, fresh mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar or glaze, salt, and pepper.
- Nutritional Value: Provides carbohydrates from pasta and protein from cheese. Contains lycopene from tomatoes and healthy fats from olive oil.
- Storage Tips: Layer with dressing at the bottom, then add pasta, followed by the remaining ingredients. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Shake before eating.
30. Egg Salad Sandwiches
Creamy chopped hard-boiled eggs mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings on bread. A protein-rich classic that makes excellent use of leftover eggs for a quick, satisfying lunch.
- Ingredients: Hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, and bread of choice for serving.
- Nutritional Value: Excellent source of protein and healthy fats. Eggs provide high-quality protein with all essential amino acids and important nutrients like choline.
- Storage Tips: Store egg salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Assemble sandwiches just before eating to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Some More Delicious Make Ahead Camping Meals
Expand your camping menu with these additional make ahead meals that go beyond the basics. From wraps and salads to hearty hot dishes and sweet treats, these recipes offer variety for multiple days outdoors. Many can be fully prepared at home and reheated or enjoyed cold at your campsite
31. Chicken Caesar wraps
32. Turkey and spinach pinwheels
33. Couscous salad with feta
34. Greek pasta salad
35. Ramen noodle salad
36. Falafel and tzatziki boxes
37. Pulled pork sandwiches (meat pre-cooked)
38. Bean and corn salad jars
39. Chili (frozen in bags)
40. Mac and cheese (baked or frozen)
41. BBQ pulled chicken
42. Foil packet fajitas (prepped at home)
43. Chicken stir-fry with rice
44. Spaghetti and meatballs
45. Lasagna rolls
46. Beef stew (pre-cooked and frozen)
47. Taco meat (cooked and frozen)
48. Sloppy Joe filling
49. Baked ziti
50. Shrimp boil foil packs
51. Teriyaki chicken and veggies
52. Burrito bowls
53. Shepherd’s pie
54. Chicken and rice casserole
55. Gnocchi with tomato sauce
56. Grilled kabobs (marinated and skewered ahead)
57. Meatball subs (frozen meatballs)
58. Black bean and quinoa bowls
59. Pasta primavera
60. White chicken chili
61. Trail mix bags
62. Energy bites
63. Rice Krispies treats
64. Brownies
65. S’mores kits
66. Granola bars
67. Chocolate chip cookies
68. Banana muffins
69. Fruit leather
70. Apple chips
71. Mini donut bags
72. No-bake cookie balls
73. Popcorn in baggies
74. Cornbread muffins
75. Chocolate bark
76. Fruit and nut bars
77. Peanut butter pretzel clusters
Wrapping It Up
Make ahead camping meals are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts who want good food without the campsite cooking struggle.
With options for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, you can keep your energy up throughout your experience.
These meals save valuable time at the campsite, reduce the number of cooking supplies you need to bring, and minimize cleanup.
They’re also budget-friendly compared to buying pre-packaged camping meals or eating at nearby restaurants.
If you’re a seasoned camper or planning your first outdoor trip, these make ahead camping meals will boost your experience and let you focus on what matters – enjoying the great outdoors!
Which make ahead camping meal will you try on your next adventure? Comment below with your favorite!
If you’re interested in more informational food and cooking content, feel free to click here and explore other blogs that you might enjoy.
