What food do you pack?

[Mellow]

Typically, I take protien bars as they are quick easy meals.

I'll also take water and something to snack on like sunflower seeds.

I've never packed much food as there's usually a store close by where I can still get things cheaper than a restaurant but, I'm open to ideas.

[FrioPoint]

I used to take food, a stove and cooking gear. But over the years I have tried to reduce the amount of gear I carry, so now I usually eat at what I think will be the last restaurant I will pass that day. I do carry plenty of water and snack bars though. Since caffeine is one of my food groups I take a few cans of this coffee in a self heating can. Just push the button on the bottom of the can to mix the calcium oxide and water, wait a few minutes, and you have 140 degree coffee. I'm addicted to these and have at least two a day.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/51077495-M.jpg

Typically, I take protien bars as they are quick easy meals.

I'll also take water and something to snack on like sunflower seeds.

I've never packed much food as there's usually a store close by where I can still get things cheaper than a restaurant but, I'm open to ideas.

[Mellow]

I used to take food, a stove and cooking gear. But over the years I have tried to reduce the amount of gear I carry, so now I usually eat at what I think will be the last restaurant I will pass that day. I do carry plenty of water and snack bars though. Since caffeine is one of my food groups I take a few cans of this coffee in a self heating can. Just push the button on the bottom of the can to mix the calcium oxide and water, wait a few minutes, and you have 140 degree coffee. I'm addicted to these and have at least two a day.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/51077495-M.jpg

Hey, those are cool.. how much are they? I was thinking of bringing a stove/gas/pot/etc. but that makes things a lot easier.

[FrioPoint]

I get them at Target for $2.39 each. I think that Krogers also sells them. They come in Expresso, Mocha, Caramel and French Vanilla flavors. The cans are very sturdy and travel well.

Hey, those are cool.. how much are they? I was thinking of bringing a stove/gas/pot/etc. but that makes things a lot easier.

[Mellow]

Hmmm.. I like that, it's still cheaper to bring your own but those look like they pack well and you don't have to bring them back... There have been some real cold mornings I'd love to have one of those.

Thanks!

[Doobage]

Or conversely, if you own an ST1300 you can just put your cold drink in the front glove boxes. (actually, I have done this during the summer with a water bottle and a tea bag. Lovingly shove the tea bag into the water bottle, close the bottle and let it ride in there for about an hour. The vibration does a good job of mixing and the heat makes it nice for a luke warm tea.

I wonder if those self heating cans come with teas...or hot chocolates? Very cool.

[iridefar]

I buy the dehydrated camp food and split it into single serving and then seal it with my vacuum sealer. I typically eat better when camping than I do when I am at home!:rolleyes:

[Trailace]

I don't eat better while I?m on the road but with help from some of you guys I might. My last long ride I lost 10 pounds.

[PhoenixRising01]

I'll pick up some canned or fresh fruit usually, for a snack after I'm set up. Eat meals in restaurants once a day, stay away from the Mc****s, etc, as much as possible. I enjoy finding Mom&Pop places, spread a map out in a booth, and make LOTS of new friends.

[mongo]

I usually take a propane stove/lantern, coffee pot, SS military type mess kit. This way I can have the dried pasta meals (1-2 minutes to prepare ), instant coffee pre mixed to my preference, If I am on a long trip I have been known to carry bacon and eggs in a cooler on the back rack. If I get lazy I can always get a foot long Sub and 1/2 it out for 2 meals.

[Mellow]

How about powdered eggs, is that a good option, other than not being as tasty...

[Mellow]

Where's the cheapest place to buy backpacking type foods?

I looked at www.campmor.com and at those prices it seemed like same price as eating out at $5-7 per meal - minus tip and whatever you decide to drink.

[Mellow]

REI has tons of stuff Here (http://www.rei.com/online/store/Search?storeId=8000&crumb=%26quot%3Bfood%26quot%3B%5E%26query%3Dfood%2 6cat%3D4500061%252C4500042%252C4500034%252C4500065 %252C4500064%252C7015185%252C4500000%26link%3D1%26 noalias%3D1%26inc%3Dsm2825_freezefood.jsi%252Csm39 94_powerfood.jsi%26originalTextQuery%3Dfood%7ECamp ing+%26+Hiking%5E%26cat%3D4500034%2C4500042%2C4500 061%2C4500064%2C4500065&query=food&cat=4500034,4500042,4500061,4500064,4500065&link=1&noalias=1&inc=sm2825_freezefood.jsi%2Csm3994_powerfood.jsi&originalTextQuery=food) But, I've got to think most of this stuff can be purchased elsewhere and put in separate bags.

Things like banana chips.

But, what about their scent? Don't want critters taking your bike apart. When I was at Mt Magazine state park in Arkansas earlier this year one of the Park Rangers told me a guy in a Harley left food in his bike and a bear tore it to pieces trying to get to it.

That's the main reason I typically don't have food.

This year in Yellowstone Park, they told us even the chap-stick would attract bears.

[mongo]

Joe when camping in bear infested areas I usually throw a rope over a tree limb away from my tent and hoist my food up in whatever container I use on the bike.
we used this method all of the time when I was younger and spent alot of time hunting. As far as pices on food, try the Dollar store nearest you, might surprise you what they have from time to time. HEY the more money spent on food the less for gasoline! My wife says my wallet squeeks when I pull it out!:)

[Mellow]

Joe when camping in bear infested areas I usually throw a rope over a tree limb away from my tent and hoist my food up in whatever container I use on the bike.
we used this method all of the time when I was younger and spent alot of time hunting. As far as pices on food, try the Dollar store nearest you, might surprise you what they have from time to time. HEY the more money spent on food the less for gasoline! My wife says my wallet squeeks when I pull it out!:)

They just shut down the dollar store near me, but I'll look around. Thanks!

[Doobage]

I usually try to buy food that I can buy in bulk and cook. Nothing horribly complicated and certainly sealed, non-smelly food. As mongo mentioned...dried pastas are an excellent way to cook up a nice hot meal. Canned goods, while heavy, are also a good quick way to set up a hot meal.

The main reason "camp" foods are expensive is because they are intended to be portable and long lasting. But on the bike, you can restock food every couple days. And weight isn't too much a problem since you only need to worry about a couple days at a time...So size and refrigeration are really the only two things I'd be worried about when considering bike-camp food.

And as always, NEVER keep food with you in the tent, don't make a mess cooking, cleaning, or eating next to your campsite. Better yet, make a mess at somebodies camp site that is annoying you. :)

[Trailace]

My wife says my wallet squeeks when I pull it out!:)

My wife tells me the same thing. :D

[mongo]

How about powdered eggs, is that a good option, other than not being as tasty...

Joe I was at work when answering these the other night and had to leave the thread. Instead of powdered eggs try the real thing. I don't know if your wing goes with a cooler or not but Wallmart (and camping stores) sells egg carriers that are plastic, and you can get them to fit from 1/2 to 1 1/2 dozen. My wife picked 2 up ($1.50 each) about five years ago when our great neice broke a dozen eggs on a fishing trip and both work as good as new now after many rough camping trips, Family and bike.

[Mellow]

I've seen those yellow containers, always wondered if they really work.

We may just end up with a big cook out... :tent3:

[irone10]

hello all. i like m.r.e great selections and tasty. i heat water with a nesbit stove it packs to about the size of a pack of cigarttes and burns solid fuel:)

[Trailace]

hello all. i like m.r.e great selections and tasty. i heat water with a nesbit stove it packs to about the size of a pack of cigarttes and burns solid fuel:)
Welcome irone10
Where do you buy m.r.e?

[irone10]

Welcome irone10
Where do you buy m.r.e?

thanks. there not the military issue just any of the dehydrated meals available at most sporting goods store. i buy from bass pro shops and stock up when there on sale

irwin

[Trailace]

thanks. there not the military issue just any of the dehydrated meals available at most sporting goods store. i buy from bass pro shops and stock up when there on sale

irwin
Ok thanks!

[Mellow]

What's a good sale price for those foods, been looking at REI and some other places and the average price is $5-$8 per pouch (2 servings).

At those prices, it's just as cheap for me to get burger somewhere. Of course, those prices are still cheaper than a nice restaurant.

[bobncj]

I started using MREs after I teased my wife about the great meals she must be having while deployed. She put one in a box and sent it home saying "Here,you eat it." :p Not bad and pretty simple. Comes with an envelope that you add water to and it heats stuff up in a few minutes. I just bring a few spices. I carry a mess kit too. I usually eat breakfast at the Mom & Pop places and grap lunch while site seeing. MREs in the evening at the campground with my feet up.

[Trailace]

I started using MREs after I teased my wife about the great meals she must be having while deployed. She put one in a box and sent it home saying "Here,you eat it." :p Not bad and pretty simple. Comes with an envelope that you add water to and it heats stuff up in a few minutes. I just bring a few spices. I carry a mess kit too. I usually eat breakfast at the Mom & Pop places and grap lunch while site seeing. MREs in the evening at the campground with my feet up.
Where can I buy MREs?

[Mellow]

Where can I buy MREs?

I saw a lot of them on ebay for about $3 each... The only problem I see with them is they are supposed to be an emergency 1 meal per day option so they are packed with calories - 2400 in some of them. I've looked and haven't seen any 'lite' versions.

I was just looking at campmor and there are a few $3-$5 meals and this one HERE (javascript:windowOpen('http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/campmor/food_details.jsp?productId=23811724&memberId=12500226',550,500,1,1,0,0))is also low in sodium which most of them are packed with.

Here are some more options:
http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=226&categoryId=237&catalogId=40000000226

[Trailace]

I saw a lot of them on ebay for about $3 each... The only problem I see with them is they are supposed to be an emergency 1 meal per day option so they are packed with calories - 2400 in some of them. I've looked and haven't seen any 'lite' versions.

I was just looking at campmor and there are a few $3-$5 meals and this one HERE (javascript:windowOpen('http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/campmor/food_details.jsp?productId=23811724&memberId=12500226',550,500,1,1,0,0))is also low in sodium which most of them are packed with.

Here are some more options:
http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=226&categoryId=237&catalogId=40000000226
Thanks Joe
Sometime I only eat once a day you never stop.

[mongo]

I just recieved some stuff for the bike yesterday from Whitehorse Press and I noticed in their catalog they to have the MRE's. Around $6 though. These are some good people to do business with.

[Mellow]

Thanks Joe
Sometime I only eat once a day you never stop.

Okay, are you saying sometimes YOU never stop and only eat once a day or are you telling me sometimes you only eat once a day and I never stop?

[Mellow]

I found some Mountain Home Teriaki Chicken and Rice and Beef Stoganoff meals for $5.44 at Wal-mart.

I had to really search for them in the camping area. I'll give them a try during the Big Bend trip and see how they work.

[Trailace]

Okay, are you saying sometimes YOU never stop and only eat once a day or are you telling me sometimes you only eat once a day and I never stop?
I'm saying YOU NEVER STOP so I don't get to eat.

[Mellow]

I'm saying YOU NEVER STOP so I don't get to eat.

Yeah okay MR. 8-gallon gas tank... Not to mention you are some sorta cyborg and only require 4 hrs of sleep every 5 days.

[Rich Johnston]

As far as food goes that's dictated by the cooking equipment you tote with you. When camping I like to eat GOOD! I have the luxury of a 20 cubic foot trailer and a 24 qt. cooler on the tongue rack. We have a 2 burner propane stove and a whole mess kit that I've been refining for the last couple of years. Every night is a meal. Chicken, steak, corn beef & cabbage, hamburger steaks w/ homefried potatoes I'm only limited by my imagination. Eating good is our reward for a good ride and I love to cook when I'm camping. I've gained a few pounds on trips in the past. I'm almost famous for my semi-gormet meals at Willville M/C campground and have been known to feed Will once or twice. He and his dog Two Steps always ask what I'm cooking up when were there. And again it's easy to cook big when you pack up the trailer. Some times I ask my self if it's worth it to haul all this stuff with me when were out. When we're done with a big days ride and I've got on my shorts and prison apron stirring diner and having a beer I'll tell you that hell yes it's worth it. I don't try to rub it in, but I do take a little pleasure in sipping my beer and flipping dinner in the pan as I tell folks that I don't have a clue where the closest restaurant is.

...Rich

[Lazarus]

Got a little bit of a different idea for you guys... How would you like nice hor fresh bread when you're camping? Years ago my wife and I discovered something called bannock. It's pretty much one of the most basic forms of bread. Mix 1 cup of your favorite flour (we usually use half white & half wheat), 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt per serving (makes about 9" round by 1/2" thick when cooked). Put this in a zippy-bag and then when you want your bread add about 1/2 cup of water (you kind of have to get a feel for this to get the cinsistency you want) and mix/knead it all up with your hands-you'll end up with about a fist-sizeed gooey ball (less water=less gooey, but you need enough to make it stick together). Then spread the dough into the bottom of a frying pan or onto a flat surface (griddle, rock, whatever) that you've sprinkled with flour (one of the beauties of bannock is that you need absolutely no oil or fat to make it) or if you've made it dry enough you can even wrap it around the end of a stick (or a weiner or sausage on the end of a stick!) and cook it until it's just VERY slightly brown on the outside. Now go ahead and hear your meal! Because it's so basic bannock is quite easy to tinker with. You can substitute honey for the sugar, add berries or other fruit to it, slather it with garlic butter for killer garlic bread or use it as the crust for pizza. If you're planning on keeping the pre-mix powder for a while make sure you've got it well sealed so it stays dry and critters can't get at it. It makes a nice, easy and very satisfying meal and my wife and I always carry at least a couple of bags of the premix powder when we're camping.

[Mellow]

That's cool.. man, I'm getting hungry already... Might have to throw a BBQ during the next camp out.

[Big Bandit]

I have hesitated to respond to this thread because I have only taken one motorcycle camping trip. When I take my truck and my daughters, I carry dutch ovens and a coleman stove and try to be the best cook in camp. Even when backpacking I try to cook good meals. I have baked cakes on a backpacking stove before. On my one motorcycling camping trip I would get up in the morning and make coffe and eat a couple of granola bars or make some instant oatmeal, if it was cold. Most of my lunches were something hot, I could buy at a gas station while filling up. Supper, I would normally eat out at a restaurant. I have never camped and had access to so many stores and restaurants. If I were camping with some other folks I think it would be fun to stop at the last store before the campground and cook up a good supper in the campground. I just could not get excited about cooking for myself.

[Trailace]

I have hesitated to respond to this thread because I have only taken one motorcycle camping trip. When I take my truck and my daughters, I carry dutch ovens and a coleman stove and try to be the best cook in camp. Even when backpacking I try to cook good meals. I have baked cakes on a backpacking stove before. On my one motorcycling camping trip I would get up in the morning and make coffe and eat a couple of granola bars or make some instant oatmeal, if it was cold. Most of my lunches were something hot, I could buy at a gas station while filling up. Supper, I would normally eat out at a restaurant. I have never camped and had access to so many stores and restaurants. If I were camping with some other folks I think it would be fun to stop at the last store before the campground and cook up a good supper in the campground. I just could not get excited about cooking for myself.
You can cook for me and Joe can clean. LOL

[oldbmw]

You can get lots of easy to pack stuff from a Whole Foods or other health food store. I had some powder stuff one time that when mixed with water made a vegetarian hamburger patty. And there was this powdered black bean stuff to. Not bad when backpacking but I work up more of an appetite schlepping a 30 pound pack that twisting the throttle.

[Mellow]

You can get lots of easy to pack stuff from a Whole Foods or other health food store. I had some powder stuff one time that when mixed with water made a vegetarian hamburger patty. And there was this powdered black bean stuff to. Not bad when backpacking but I work up more of an appetite schlepping a 30 pound pack that twisting the throttle.

I may check that out this weekend... Thanks

[Trekker]

Ya know, it's not to much trouble to pack a small one-burner Coleman stove (or other brand) with a small cookset & coffee perker. I love to have real coffee in the morning, and I can also heat up water for instant oatmeal. Friut and nut mixes (gorp) are easy to pack, too. Once you have decided to pack this small amount of hardware, the meal decisions can come. I agree with many of the posts saying they get lunch on the road, then you can choose to make a simple dinner at camp or eat out. Just depends. If I have my small gear with me I can keep my options open. (I learned about this gear from my younger backpacking days).

Many of those just add boiling water meal packs originally made for camping are ok, but you can find similar options at your normal grocery store. You might end up with some pot clean-up chores, but that's a small price to pay for a full belly of decent food. The key to packing decent meal options is in the planning stage. I can bring a small amount of spices to enliven some bland tasting cheap noodle or rice mix. Add some canned meat & whatever else and you have Jambalaya! Canned soups & stews are also easy to pack and heat. I like to bring cheese, pepperoni & crackers for sophisticated snacking around the campfire.

[motomac]

Joe, I think he said he only eats once a day, and you never stop eating!!!

[Mellow]

Joe, I think he said he only eats once a day, and you never stop eating!!!

That's what I thought, he's not wrong, I just wanted to make sure I understood it.

[Tor]

Or conversely, if you own an ST1300 you can just put your cold drink in the front glove boxes. (actually, I have done this during the summer with a water bottle and a tea bag. Lovingly shove the tea bag into the water bottle, close the bottle and let it ride in there for about an hour. The vibration does a good job of mixing and the heat makes it nice for a luke warm tea.

I wonder if those self heating cans come with teas...or hot chocolates? Very cool.

Hm,,gotta try that......:D

[Motocentaur]

Those dehydrated backpacker meals can be pricey, so I hit the packaged entree section of the supermarket and get the "just add water" side dishes:

mashed potatoes, noodles and sauce, rice and beans, soups, etc. The variety of things these days is nearly as great as backpacker selections. Toss in a few veggies and some meat (canned or fresh), and you're all set.

[Blues Traveler]

One of my favorite and easy meals camping is poached salmon, garlic mashed potatoes, and some sort of canned veggie. Everything cooks up on the stove. Amazing what a little tinfoil can do for salmon on the stove. Always comes out great.

Breakfast: eggs, bacon, a few bell peppers, potatoes and onions make for a great scramble and a one pan clean up.

Camping needs the smell of bacon in the morning along with a strong cup of coffee.

Plan ahead, most of this stuff you can cut up and prepare at home. Potatoes can be tossed in the micro wave. Salmon is frozen and packed last just before I take off. And will be ready to cook by the time camp is settup and your ready for it.

On our week plus trips we don't cook every meal. We all like eating out too but we do try to cook at least a couple of times on the trip and always try to cook at least one breakfast.

[Mellow]

Yeah, for the most part, it's quicker, easier and cheaper to just grab a burger before heading to the campground for the night. But, if done right, you can save a lot of money bringing food. Just depends on how much time you have. If you want to get packed quickly, it helps to not have all that extra cooking gear / food to pack up but I'm sure you'd get used to it.

[basco]

I am still convinced that eating out is the best way to go. So many more advantages.
1. Cost (sometimes)
2. No clean up
3. Don't attract animals, especically bears
4. Less work
5. Find some interesting places
6. Just relax as you come back from an all day's riding
7. Less stuff to pack
8. No clean up
9. Don't worry about refrigeration (I only carry a packable cooler for beer)
10. Makes less of a dent in riding time

Did I say no clean up?

[Mellow]

The first time I really had the chance to cook while camping was on my last trip to Big Bend (http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=152). I made some noodles just to hold me over for the evening as I was tired after attempting to hike up to the Guadalupe Peak. Got a late start, had the wrong boots and probably not enough water.

I brought some of the packaged hiking food/meals with me but everyone ate at some 'place' the rest of the trip so I didn't have a chance to try them out. I should have on our last night at Davis Mtns State Park (http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=43) as the Dinner at the Indian Lodge wasn't that good and too much money in my opinion.

On my next big trip w/Trailace to California I think I'll bring some quick, easy food with me but probably nothing elaborate, just the noodles and maybe a few hiking meals just in case it's late and I'm tired and don't want to head into town. The noodles and meals don't usually require much cleaning... Not to mention, since I'm on the Wing... I just press the button marked "Go Go Gadget, Dishwasher" and it's all done.:D

[RangerBen]

WalMart now has meals in a package cost 2.00 bucks meat and veggies, It's made for microwave but just place n baggy and boil in coffee pot,no clean up and you have hot water for afternoon coffee. You will find it on the same Isle as packaged meals, dry soup, rice and such.

Ben

[Mellow]

WalMart now has meals in a package cost 2.00 bucks meat and veggies, It's made for microwave but just place n baggy and boil in coffee pot,no clean up and you have hot water for afternoon coffee. You will find it on the same Isle as packaged meals, dry soup, rice and such.

Ben

What brand? Or there many brands? At $2, this may just be cheap enough to avoid fast food places.

[STeveGray]

What brand? Or there many brands? At $2, this may just be cheap enough to avoid fast food places.

Quality and health issues are usually enough to convince me to avoid fast food places!

[Trailace]

Rick loves Fast Food.:D

[RangerBen]

Mellow

The meals are Hormel, price 1.98,I use the pot roast, gravy, potatos, and carrots. Just drop the 10 oz pack in boiling water for 8 min and dinner is ready. Walmart food section . They have about 5 or 6 different meals just depends on what you want. I dont eat them every day but keep them on the bike when Im just to tired to prepare something better.
They are about the same as the frozen meals that you microwave, on these you dont need a freezer or icebox or can opener. I ate out of to many cans when I was in the Army.

Ben

[Mellow]

Cool, I'll check it out.. always looking to try new things.

[Mellow]

Mellow

The meals are Hormel, price 1.98,I use the pot roast, gravy, potatos, and carrots. Just drop the 10 oz pack in boiling water for 8 min and dinner is ready. Walmart food section . They have about 5 or 6 different meals just depends on what you want. I dont eat them every day but keep them on the bike when Im just to tired to prepare something better.
They are about the same as the frozen meals that you microwave, on these you dont need a freezer or icebox or can opener. I ate out of to many cans when I was in the Army.

Ben

I just tried one of these for lunch... not bad at all... I may take a couple on my next trip. I thought the container might be too fragile but it's not bad... Thanks for the tip.

[RangerBen]

Howdy Joe


The daughter and I just returned from 15 day trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons.
We pulled a trailer and was not to strapped for space. I carried 6 of these meals for 2 people . At the end of some days we were just to tired to prepare a meal, even the daughter thought they were ok,not as good as mom cooks but mom was at home. The Tai chicken was a bummer but the others were ok. And yes lighting will run thru the ground and up a bike. We were hit in Northern Colorado not direct I dont think ,but it blowed my hands of the bars. Safe trips.

Ben

[Mellow]

Howdy Joe


The daughter and I just returned from 15 day trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons.
We pulled a trailer and was not to strapped for space. I carried 6 of these meals for 2 people . At the end of some days we were just to tired to prepare a meal, even the daughter thought they were ok,not as good as mom cooks but mom was at home. The Tai chicken was a bummer but the others were ok. And yes lighting will run thru the ground and up a bike. We were hit in Northern Colorado not direct I dont think ,but it blowed my hands of the bars. Safe trips.

Ben

Wow!... glad you're okay... Don't forget to get some new undewear.

[sleddog]

I enjoy cooking / grilling & especially eating!

When packing into the backcountry on horseback I found an easy way to enjoy real food without all the hassle of cooking & cleanup. It has worked while camping on the bike as well.

I prepare all the food at home....use your imagination as to what you want to eat. I have grilled steaks, chops, and fish. Prepared baked potatoes, home fries, hash browns, veggies (frozen) Bacon, sausage, eggs (scrambled, over hard) pancakes, chili, soups, pastas, again whatever you want to eat. After preparing, I put individual meals in Vacuum Seal bags & freeze. I have two small collapsible coolers, "his-n-hers" I load the coolers bottom to top, in order the meals will be used. To prepare a meal just place the bags in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes & WaLaaa you have a great home cooked meal. Just toss the water & clean up is finished!

Give it a try,

Sleddog

[STeveGray]

Hey, Sleddog! Welcome to the site! WELCOME

How many days worth of meals can you take like that? I'd be concerned that after more than a day or so food would start to go bad. It isn't going to stay frozen, even in a cooler (especially in the kind of temps we've been having lately.)

I sure like the idea, though. Not only would you get much better quality meals but it would be so easy! An unbeatable combo!

[sleddog]

Thanks for the Welcome Steve!

Being the food is fully cooked then vacuum sealed in the bags, it takes a lot longer for it to spoil. That being said, I plan the meals & pack them according to when they will be used. I only open the coolers long enough to take out what I need...

Breakfasts that have eggs will be used the first couple mornings, other meals are biscuits & gravy, pancakes/french toast & sausage. Dinners would be Chili & grilled cheese sandwiches , Baby Back Ribs, fried Sweet Potatoes & green beans. Grilled meats with baked potatoes & frozen veggies. I sometimes use powdered potatoes in a ziplock bag & add some of the boiling water to mix. Then throw a package of Powdered gravy into it......

I put the small collapsable coolers inside the main cooler & keep ice around them. It is surprising how long the food in the small coolers will stay frozen.

Give it a try..........

[STeveGray]

Thanks, Sleddog. I will give it a try. I'm not real big on fast food and prefer to cook a decent meal. This really sounds good to me. The vacuum packing would make a big difference, I think. Thanks for the idea!

[max]

whenever we are out on a multi day trip there are always 2 or 3 mre's broken up and distributed around the bike. I carry one of the little Coleman F1 ultralight stoves and and 4 cup coffeepot for morning coffee and heating water/cocoa. HINT: if you stay in a motel grab the coffee packs for the little 4 cup most have in the room now they're perfect for morning motorcycle coffee and include creamer,sugar and a spoon.
we will stop for breakfast at a mom and pop if we can find one. A huddle house or similar if we cant. lunch is usually a gas station sandwich while fueling with a rest stop. IF they have cooked food that is, I aint microwaving nothing for road food. if not, the appetizer pack from an mre makes a good light lunch and is even better when consumed on a mountaintop overlooking a beautiful valley.
supper is the mre entree with the dessert pack and your beverage pack. the citrus punch isn't bad but the cider is good when heated in the coffeepot.

my riding partner and I both carry a few MRE's and couple of 1 liter water bottles and do really well as far as eating on the road.

[SidecarMike]

A local Amish run food store has dried soup mixes in bulk. My favorite tastes like Mrs. Grass Chicken Soup. I usually carry enough of that to feed a campground. About the only way I'll eat chicken. I also carry dried mushroom and pea soup.

[Aussie_John]

In Australia we're a pretty simple bunch. I like to pack dried fruit and mixed beans then buy anything else as I feel like it. One thing I can't leave home without would have to be Biltong.

Its dried beef with some spices, similar to beef jerky but a much stronger and hotter taste. Its very easy to make, takes me about 5 hours from start to finish. Lasts for weeks without any refrigeration but I struggle to make it last the trip becasue I like it so much. Great for snacking or if your like me you'd make a meal out of it.

[Tx White Knight]

That sounds good Aussie John, do you have a recipe for fixin this up? :)

:tent5:

[2.0Dogs]

Yes, recipe needed or you could just send a couple hundred pounds for a sample.:D

[Tx White Knight]

Yes, recipe needed or you could just send a couple hundred pounds for a sample.:D

Yep that last part will work too :D

:tent6:

[2.0Dogs]

Peanut butter and jelly. Poptarts for breakfast.

[Flingshot]

Peanut butter and jelly. Poptarts for breakfast.

Yummy bear bait, my favorite.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Aussie_John]

A good link to follow is

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biltong

I use rump or topside but any lean cut of beef will do. Trim off any fat as it doesn't cure properly then slice it into 6 inch (or there abouts) long strips about 1/4 inch in diameter. This is a lot thinner than traditional biltong but this cures very quickly and I find it much easier to eat.

1. Put the strips of meat in a shallow dish and cover them with cider vinegar. Let them sit for 1/2 an hour.
2. The spices need to be spread out on a flat dish or plate, then the meat can be dipped in (only on one side) and hung in the oven to dry. I start by making a pile of pepper, then a slightly larger pile of ground coriander, then a sligtly larger pile of salt and a slightly larger pile of brown sugar. Mix them all together on the dish so it makes a sparse layer that the strips can be dipped in.
3. Dip one strip at a time in the spice mix and immediately hang it over the bars of an oven rack or something similar. Make sure there is a tray underneath to collect the juices. I use foil and some paper towel at the start as most moisture comes off the meat within 15 minutes.
4. Use a fan forced oven and set it at 70 celcius. Leave the oven door open slightly so the moisture can escape. It takes around four hours for the meat to shrivel up and turn a dark brown colour. I let it sit for a further hour until it cools. Its amazing how little is left after it dries.

If the meat feels juicy it needs longer. It should feel pretty tough at first then it softens as you chew it. Sometimes adding chilli or peri peri is nice depending on how hot you want it. I don't have any idea how long it is safe for so I won't be help responsible for food poisoning lol:D but I don't refridgerate it and it has lasted for three weeks in a hot cupboard. Apparently the vinegar chemically cooks the meat and preserves it at the same time. Happy Eating!

[Tx White Knight]

Thanks John, sounds good, I will try give it a shot when I get home at Christmas time :)

It might even be good done in a smoker too??

:tent5:

[2.0Dogs]

Yes, I think using the smoker would be a good way to make it. Be sure an add some mesquite or fruit wood to your smoker. No water if you have a water smoker.

[Aussie_John]

Smoked should work a treat. Let me know how it goes.

[2.0Dogs]

We are headed into the cooler time of year here. That's when I do my cooking. Time to fire up that smoker for some brisket, turkey and fish. I love jerky so I'm your recipe for Biltong. You guys that fish the gulf for Sea trout, I have found it smokes better than Salmon. Fish is quick too. Two hours and it's eat'in time.

[George]

Another late thread for me. I'm just getting into really camping which means cooking. Happy to hear those new micro-wave meals can be boiled. The price is right.

There are lots of dried (just add boiling water) packages in the rice and beans sections at most groceries. Usually to large for indidvidual meals, they can be split into smaller packs using zip loks. I'm gonna try that on my next trip.

At the SeaSTOC event a couple weeks ago Fred and his wife did some great camp cooking. Alicia and Keith did great breakfasts every morning. I did boiled water (coffee and instant oatmeal) and grazed off the others' tables. :D

What else? I did a nice salad for Saturday night dinner. Usually not enuff fresh veggies at camp events. Also, boiled some 'taters using the penny stove. Turned out great. :D

Carry yur own spices. Add a garlic bulb and a couple small cans of peppers and yur ready for a gourmet meal.

[Mellow]

George spurred an idea in my head - that's the first one for the year..

Are animals attracted to spices? Just wouldn't want to keep them inside the tent or put them in some nice pretty saddlebags to find out something scratched all the paint off to get at the pepper.

[vt1099ace]

thanks. there not the military issue just any of the dehydrated meals available at most sporting goods store. i buy from bass pro shops and stock up when there on sale

irwin

I found the brown plastic bagged MRI's at military surplus stores, cases of them...can't remember how much though, I think $75-80 (@ 24 meals/case or so).

[Ripshod]

Well I can't resist a little bragging on this subject. When my buddy and I go on our 2 - 3 week annual long distance trip, we refuse to do without good meals. Of course it means more prep time and more cleanup time but as far as we're concerned, it's worth it. We both love riding, camping and eating, more or less in that order, so we try not to scrimp.

Neither of us is big on breakfast so in the morning I just whip out the percolator and make a big pot of coffee. By the time the pot is empty, we're packed and ready for the road. We're always ready to eat before noon, so we try to find a good place to stop for an early lunch at around 10 or 11. Dinner is the big meal of the day.

The first night out, I bring some choice steaks from the local butcher, along with a big foil packet of chopped, spiced and buttered veggies to toss in the coals. On subsequent nights, we either stop at the last real grocery store for dinner or we get to camp, dump gear in a pile, and one of us goes back to the last store we passed, but that's only practical if we know the campsite isn't too far out in the sticks. If you're picky, you can always find something good. Maybe the salmon steaks look good, or maybe it's the filets, but if we're going to go to the trouble, we want it to be as good as we can get.

I carry enough gear to be sure that, no matter the weather or camping conditions, we can rustle up some good grub. While there's nothing better than steaks on a fire, we're equipped to grill out under any conditions - even on top of the picnic table.

Here's a little dinner we came up with last August. The salmon was pretty fresh and very tasty, The cookpot had pasta with broccoli and if I'm not mistaken, we had some foil-wrapped bakers sitting in the fire.

http://www.funhouserock.com/funhouse/blab/picture.php?albumid=13&pictureid=406

We also like to find good fresh sweet corn to foil wrap and toss in the coals. A flattened roll of heavy-duty foil is a peice of must-have camping gear. Supermarkets have mixed salads-in-a-bag and some even have two pouches to mix up some fresh dressing. Sometimes we get the flavored pasta packets (I keep a little bottle of olive oil in the kitchen - it's a great substitute for butter) and toss in a pack of frozen broccoli florets. The main course, though, is almost always some slab of grilled animal. In a pinch, we've picked up stew chunks of beef and chopped up a lot of fresh veggies, wraped it up in a thick foil pouch and had a heapin' helpin' of hobo stew.

http://www.funhouserock.com/funhouse/blab/picture.php?albumid=13&pictureid=407

Of course, there are obvious tradeoffs. With lots more gear to unpack, wash and repack, there's a little less time spent on the road and then of course, I have 75 pounds of gear strapped to my bike, but over the years we've come up with a camping lifestyle that's just what we like. I've heard it said that it's a lot easier to pick a wife than it is to find just the right riding buddy. That's probably true.

[Ozarkcowboy]

Looking good Ripshod!! My favorite is to pack a big frozen Polish sausage and also some spuds/vegie's in heavy duty foil.The sausage keeps the foil pack cool enough for my usual 2-3 hr trecks to the campgrounds and set-up.On longer trips a frozen container of soup,chili or spaghetti will keep a few drinks cold for supper.For b-fast I take a pack of frozen bacon which keeps a few eggs cool overnight.On My own I usualy pack a 10" cast skillit and a two burner propane coleman type stove.This all fits in the bottom of a large duffel bag if I pack well.If I'm pretty confident firewood will be available I'll leave the stove at home.NOTHING BETTER than a good meal around the campfire!!!When I take the family the sky is the limit and I pack all sorts of foods.Happy stomachs = Happy kids... Sure sounds like you know what you are doing and thanks for the tips.

[okc_native]

Hello everyone,

My husband and son swear by Old Wisconsin brand beef bites. They also make beef sticks. They aren't greasy like slim jims. They travel well and if your gonna fish, they make good bait. They are harder to find here, so my last batch came from Amazon.com.

Okc_native

[Ironheadziggy76]

Welcome to the site Okc! I think I have tried those in the past and really liked them. I have to agree, Slim Jims seem to have gotten even greasier lately if that's possible. :(

[bigTom]

Welcome okc_native!

The little store where I shop has the Old Wisconsin products. I have tried the Brats, they are pretty good. I'll look for the rest!

Glad you are here!

[DAD]

I Always carry the two basic food groups, Miller Lite & Cigars!:tent8:

[Ironheadziggy76]

I like your style DAD, I carry a travel pack of Wild Turkey and Skoal Straight Long Cut! :p

[DAD]

I like your style DAD, I carry a travel pack of Wild Turkey and Skoal Straight Long Cut! :p
HERE HERE!!!!!!!;)

[Black and Blue]

I Always carry the two basic food groups, Miller Lite & Cigars!:tent8:

DAD: Miller Lite:confused:

Ironheadziggy76: :D:D:D:D:D

[DAD]

DAD: Miller Lite:confused:

Ironheadziggy76: :D:D:D:D:D
YEA, I know, what can I say, I'm a wuss:o

[Black and Blue]

YEA, I know, what can I say, I'm a wuss:o

:D:D:D:D:D

[Tx White Knight]

I did carry good food like cookies and chips and cokes but now I am boarderline diabetc I am going to have to change some things, ok a lot of things "LOL"

I am going to try smoking some beef and then drying it to make jerkey, then carry some frozen smoked meats, and fresh fruit like apples and pears maybe? ick :o

:tent8:

[Black and Blue]

A SAFETY NOTE for those who might not have heard...
Packaged peanut butter crackers are currently being recalled because of salmonella.
I'm sure I have a couple of crushed packages in the bottom of a bag I have to dig out and throw away.

[Ripshod]

I also carry a package of Fig Newtons in my tank bag. They stave off hunger when brunch is delayed, and they give me a little rush of nutrition when I get the mid-afternoon sleepies.

[2.0Dogs]

http://www.mredepot.com/servlet/StoreFront

http://freezerbagcooking.com/

http://www.internet-grocer.net/index.htm

[sawguard]

I do not carry cooking supplies and I do not cook in camp.
Like others if near some civilization I"ll stop and eat before I camp.
But I almost always keep a small,collapseable ice chest and I pickup water,
some fruit, cheese and perhaps some jerky or other lean meat.

NO mess to clean up, finger foods, simple, no gear, empty the ice chest the next day and go again.

Never had problem with animals, and I hope not to with this style of camp eating.

I DO pack my .357 when I"m traveling alone however, especially when camping

[swandog]

at my local store you can buy pre cooked bacon that only needs heating , and shelled eggs in a small milk container . an easy way to have bacon and eggs for breakfast,

[motomac]

I don't eat better while I?m on the road but with help from some of you guys I might. My last long ride I lost 10 pounds.

You lose much more and we'll call you Stick.

[swandog]

In Australia we're a pretty simple bunch. I like to pack dried fruit and mixed beans then buy anything else as I feel like it. One thing I can't leave home without would have to be Biltong.

Its dried beef with some spices, similar to beef jerky but a much stronger and hotter taste. Its very easy to make, takes me about 5 hours from start to finish. Lasts for weeks without any refrigeration but I struggle to make it last the trip becasue I like it so much. Great for snacking or if your like me you'd make a meal out of it.

yes i find beef jerky makes a fine supper

[greybeard]

makes a fine stew when mixed with a few freeze dried veggies and water then heated to a boil for just long enough to rehydrate the meat a little very flavorable

[Dstrickland]

I like the backpacking food/dehydrated stuff. It packs well and is easy to prepare. Adds to the experience. Also the gorp or pogy bait as we called in the Army must be on the menu. Nothing like C-ration coffee to get the blood boiling P^

[Tx White Knight]

I like the backpacking food/dehydrated stuff. It packs well and is easy to prepare. Adds to the experience. Also the gorp or pogy bait as we called in the Army must be on the menu. Nothing like C-ration coffee to get the blood boiling P^

Yep blood boiling and bowels going :eek: Nothing like opening a can of meat and having to scrape the grease out first :D

[Dstrickland]

Scrape it out? That went on the bolt carrier group of my M16A1. Waste not, want not. C-ration coffee to get things loose and peanut butter and John Wayne bars to tighten them back up again. Hooo Yaa! RLTW!

[JaySoy]

I heard once that hot food is an appetite suppressor, so I bring some good chipotle powder and a bottle of hot sauce. Spices even make ramen noodles interesting.

A lot of the time, I'll cook lentils and rice in the same pot, then hit them with some hot sauce. That fills you up good and only takes about 20 minutes.

You can also get creative with chili made with canned chicken. You kinda need a couple of people though, because once you use a couple of cans of beans, you have a lot of food on your hands.

Pork n Beans out of the can is a super easy meal too that is really good if you haven't had them in a while.

[les1234]

Yep blood boiling and bowels going :eek: Nothing like opening a can of meat and having to scrape the grease out first :D


How about those green canned scrambled eggs?

Was always such a dilema with the c-rats.....if you got one with the big can for the main course, those mostly weren't too bad(Spagetti, Stew, pork'n'beans). But then you got a small dessert, and if you weren't lucky it might be a fruitcake.

On the other hand, if you got a small main course, most of them were nasty(grease and ham, grease and mystery meat, green eggs).But then you got a large dessert....canned fruit!

[Clamper]

Hmmmm... Biscuit & a round thing. Sometimes tasted like Cheese sometimes it didn't. Do you still have your trusted P-38?

[TJ Willy]

I take MREs. Only problem with them is they take up a lot of space if you leave them in their original packaging. If I can't spare the space (I usually can), I sometimes open them up and remove some of the goodies found within. Or put them in a small compression sack and squish it all a bit. You can't hurt them for the most part unless you get crackers.

The latest gen MREs are GREAT! You get everything and it depends on the meal. Most even come with a little bottle of tabasco and even an after dinner mint/gum. If you score the one with poppy seed cake, cheese and crackers, and a bag of skittles... you my friends, are living high on the hog.

Chemical heaters are really good too.

For example our TAT ride, we had a lite breakfast... either cliff bars or the like or some dehydrated eggs. For lunch, we either ate an MRE or stopped for lunch somewhere. If we stopped for lunch, then we MRE'd dinner or vice versa.

On the way home, off TAT, we were burning up miles and stopped for fuel somewhere in Oklahoma. It was either stale pizza at the gas station or a tasty MRE. So we pulled the bikes off the side and had us a full lunch. It worked out great.

I get MREs on base. I can't buy them, but I know guys that pick them up for me. The National Guard was giving them out a case a day to some of friends in affected areas. They gave me a bunch too.

They take up space but if you can pack them, it is worth it.

The brown plastic bag in my Caribou case is one of the new style MREs. The brown paper bag held a couple warm beers. :D This pic was taken on the Oklahoma TAT. (OK was GREAT by the way.)

http://tj-willy.smugmug.com/photos/400093214_uSXUP-L.jpg

[Clamper]

I can't burn off enough calories to eat MRE's. Plus the amount of sodium will choke a horse. The whole camping trip would be spent in the can.:):o

[TJ Willy]

I can't burn off enough calories to eat MRE's. Plus the amount of sodium will choke a horse. The whole camping trip would be spent in the can.:):o

:D:D

The entrees are enough to fill someone up and you could skip all the rest. That would cut the calories in half.

But yeah, your right... not the solution for everyone.

[Dstrickland]

I've still have my P38 with my dog tags. The fruit cake I could wash down. The chocholate choke roll was a far more evil adversary:eek:

[Clamper]

I have often thought, if I was to sneak over to the homes of my two boys, I would find most of my camping gear, tools, Honda 3000 gen-set, ID tags, reloading supplies, and other stuff that has disappeared over the years. Last Fathers Day, we went over to number two's house and we were eating off our camp dishes. When I brought up that they looked familiar, he just smiled, and said "really are you sure?"
I'm glad they use the stuff, and not just lost it or gave it away.

[TJ Willy]

I have often thought, if I was to sneak over to the homes of my two boys, I would find most of my camping gear, tools, Honda 3000 gen-set, ID tags, reloading supplies, and other stuff that has disappeared over the years. Last Fathers Day, we went over to number two's house and we were eating off our camp dishes. When I brought up that they looked familiar, he just smiled, and said "really are you sure?"
I'm glad they use the stuff, and not just lost it or gave it away.

Funny story.

My Dad come to visit a while back. He wanted to buy his first Harley. We finally settled on an 07 Heritage. It was weird though b/c I would poke around like I use to as a kid and he ended up tagging a few things he "could use". I just smiled and said sure Dad. Circle of life thing I guess. :)

[EmilyJackM]

I take also protein bar,but I like pizza and hotdogs.
also maximum time i take water,i refress my body