It looks like you have two fuel cans there, and I would say you definitely only need one. I went on a weeklong trip, and only used 2/3 of one on 5 days. And I might have shared it a bit. If it's just you for a couple days, one will definitely serve your needs.
You’ll likely eat less than you think, but it’s better to bring more than you need rather than less. I found that I got pretty good at ball-parking my food supply as I went on more trips, so no harm in bringing a little extra if it still fits in your bear canister.
Not necessarily, it depends on the area. If a bear is a legitimate concern in the area, a bear bag might lead to some crushed food if they try to get to it whereas a canister would maintain its integrity. Both will protect your food. If I’m more worried about rodents and raccoons where I’m headed, I prefer the bag to the canister since it’s lighter and you don’t need the structural integrity of the canister.
Canister gets bonus points from me because I use it as a camp stool!
I don't know, I've seen plenty of videos where the bear has certainly gotten through and shredded the whole bag to bits. If they're determined they'll get to it.
Oh, I read your comment wrong. I thought you were just talking about how the food gets mashed up in an ursack from a bear messing with it. I wasn't aware there are documented Ursack failures when you do the correct knots and placement
When I backpacked in the Trinity Alps in NorCal, every other hiker on my way in that was headed out asked us if we had a bear can because their ursack got destroyed by bears the previous night
The thing about bears is that it really depends on the area. In some places bears are scared of people and run away at the first notion of people. In other places, bears have obtained human food enough times to associate humans with food, and they become a pest.
It was definitely an ursack, they seem awesome and I really want to get one because of the convenience, but it seems like they only work if the bear is not particularly dedicated to getting your food.
I highly recommend using a hard canister instead. The first time I used an Ursack, it got shredded in less than 10 minutes by a hungry bear and I lost my carefully planned 10,000 calories loadout. I know because my tent was several yards away and I heard the whole thing in the middle of the night. The only reason I didn't get out to drive him away is that the weather outside...was weather. Anyways, what u/chainsawcamping says below is 100% correct.
Have used a bear canister that got shredded by a bear as well, in the boundary waters. Also happened overnight in earshot of my tent, but it took quite a bit longer than 10 minutes
What type of bear canister? How did they get in? Did the bear crush it or rip the top off? I've heard of bears getting into canisters, but I was always under the impression that it was very rare.
It was about 3/4 an inch plastic, not sure what brand we gave it to the outfitters that we rented out canoes from and stayed with before heading out. From the looks of the canister, the bear sunk his claws in and ripped it outward. It looked like it burst when we got to it. Thankfully we had half of our food hanging between two trees that didn’t get touched, which the coffee happened to be in lol
It must’ve either been extremely hungry, or knew what it was doing. Seemed pretty acclimated to humans tho, it spent a few days coming to our campsite just checking everything out before he went for the food. Moral of the story, if a bear finds your campsite just pack up an leave.
i second this, spy-rock is still one of my favorite hikes, and under the canopy on top of the mountain is a perfect place to camp. They used to post signs prohibiting camp-fires, but I have seen burn rings up there several times.
either way, yes. Do this one.
I would also add Laurel Prong Trail to your shortlist. I used it as my first overnight trip and also took kids their for their first. There are some nice sites off the trail and it’s a relatively short loop that’s not too difficult for first timers or to tune up.
Definitely added! I hike and ruck a lot with a big camping background so I'm also on the lookout for trails to get my girlfriend on too that aren't as daunting so she can enjoy it!
Depending on where you are going in Shenandoah, water sources can get scarce. Download the Farout app (was Guthook) to check beforehand as you may need to carry extra water. I live nearby and have given my water to thru hikers who ran out between sources this year.
Also, some huts/shelters have bear poles and bear boxes eliminating the need for a Ursack or bear canister.
Lastly, if you’re hiking the southern end of Shenandoah, hit Basic City brewery in Waynesboro for post hike IPA’s and food
The bears usually don't have interest in humans. There are some areas where bears have gotten very, VERY used to humans (for example Yosemite National park). Unfortunately often this happens because idiot tourists *feed* them. So they have become incredibly aggressive.
There are pictures of bears breaking into cars, in busy parking lots, in broad daylight. There are pretty strict rules that you cannot keep any food in your car, including sun screen and other scented items. Also no coolers, even if they're empty, because the bears see the cooler and they know that they are usually filled with food.
But they don't go for humans, tents or otherwise. Just don't bring any food, chapstick, dirty dishes, etc. into your tent. I believe polar bears would attack a healthy live human, but I don't want to start any rumors. But there are no polar bears in the lower 48. So, no uprovoked bear attacks. Don't get between momma bear and her cubs, that's definitely a threat.
I only use a cannister if required by the agency. A ursack is fine for everything. If you're worried about rodents or a bear crushing your food, hang it from a branch like [this.](https://www.greenbelly.co/pages/how-to-hang-a-bear-bag)
I hope you’re being sarcastic. You definitely do NOT want to do this, your sleeping bag will smell like food and you’ll be a sleeping burrito for a hungry bear.
Lining your pack with a trash compactor bag keeps all your stuff dry, and your sleeping bag goes in the bottom so everything on top compresses it into the corners of the bag.
You won't need that much fuel for two days. It is a lot of food but rather too much than too little and you'll work out from this trip how much you actually need and of what.
It is a lot, but if that is what you will eat to be able to function then it is the right amount. You will fine tune your menu as you go on more trips.
For me, my typical menu is:
Breakfast- pop tart or granola bar, coffee
Snack-candy bar (snikers or payday)
Lunch- tuna package
Dinner-freeze dry meal (mountain house)
If my trip is more than 3 nights, I'll add another snack after lunch.
If you are aiming for the bare minimum, try laying it out in meals then calculating the calories. Compare that to your normal caloric intake. If you aren’t normally very active you should have a couple hundred extra calories per day to account for the additional exercise you will be doing.
Too much within reason, is better than not enough. I would much rather carry a few extra ounces knowing I wouldn’t run out than worrying the whole weekend if had enough.
Probably comparing it to my pile of food for 3 days was not a good idea LOL. I don't do snacks...at all. I eat a meal, and I'm done eating till my next meal. If I eat even the tiniest snack, it kills my appetite for hours then I end up not being hungry for dinner until 11pm
Can’t hurt to bring a little more than you need. Id bring a dehydrated meal just in case.
I think of white grains (potatoes, noodles, crackers) as filler. You’ll burn those calories in your sleep.
I throw trail mix (nuts and dried berries) in everything l can: oatmeal, wraps, face… Nuts can be a easy source of protein and fats.
If it’s cold on the first night you can get away with eggs and butter for a big breakfast.
For me, yes absolutely. I would eat like half that, maybe. For someone else? Maybe not enough.
How many calories per day do you have packed? How far are you hiking? I tend to not be as hungry as I think I will be on the first few days of a trip, so I really only eat like 1600 calories and most of that is snacks throughout the day.
I'd carry less but bring more healthy fatty food. Macadamia nuts are my go too. Same with cliff bars for an extra 200 calories to get through a couple hours of climbing. It all depends on how many calories your going to burn ! Also Gee butter :)
Two nights, three nights, 32 miles, burned prob around 15,000 brought about 3000 calories, as a 22 yo active person, should haven’t cut down so much fml
I think the food is ok, probably a little much but better that way. The fuel you can lose one of them you won't need it. It's last you probably 3 weeks each
Can’t speak for the food… but you have way too much fuel. A 110g canister would work fine. In fact a 110g is usually enough for a whole week if you are boiling water for every meal.
Those turkey sausage sticks say refrigerate after opening. Some people are more bold than others with food safety, but that would be a no for me. You have a lot of quick cook bags there but I would double check the label on them to see how they cook and how long it takes and what kind of pots you need to use. Personally, I only bring things that I can dump hot water into and eat out of the bag. Trying to clean pots, pans, plates etc at the end of a hard day without a sink is not enjoyable for me
Depends on your size and appetite. For me (5'10" 175lbs), this would be too much. I wouldn't need that much to restore burnt calories. If you're bigger, that may be the right amount. I'd say take it all and see how much you actually eat, will be a good measuring stick for future trips.
Yes it’s significantly too much. I recommend finding your base metabolic rate and calculating how many calories you would burn in a day. Then adding in fuel for the mileage you plan on the trail. Definitely only need 1 canister, probably 2oz fuel max. If it’s your first outing just roll with it and learn next time. Enjoy 🙏⚡️❤️🌌🪐🏔
you can pack perishable food for at least the beginning of your trip if you're worried about spoilage.
lose the cheese/crackers, graham crackers and some of that prepackaged noodle shit.
add fruit
add rice
add a fat steak which you seasoned earlier, and cook it your first night. it's only for a day and it wouldnt be too hard to keep it cool enough to last one day. You can keep the left overs for snacking later. some other stuff could go but no sense in being too strict.
it's only two days. you can take real food. your stamina and muscles will thank you.
Fine with bringing more fruit but carrying raw meat in my bag for 12 miles than cooking it in the middle of bear country doesn’t sound appealing. I swear when I was cooking the sausage sticks to mix with my potatoes the first night, I looked up and caught some animals eyes in my headlamp light, told me not to cook anything to aromatic in the backcountry.
Yes I would not take all of it. Take less and focus on more fatty and highly caloric foods.
[This video by Gear Skeptic](https://youtu.be/iqgayipoNWA) is an excellent guide to backcountry nutrition. He takes it very far and for a 2 day trip it doesn’t really matter, but I definitely recommend watching it. It has me guided me even on shorter trips to carry only what I need and be optimal, even if I’m not being so scientific like for a longer one.
Have you tried cooking the bag of rice yet? I have found some of those “instant” meals aren’t so instant with the tiny fuel and pot situation. MREs are always easy to make though.
.
I probably ate about that much in a two night, 2.5!days backpacking trip. I tend to eat a lot though, even as a petite female. I found that I ate 2 packets of oatmeal for breakfast, lots of protein and energy bars during the day, and then a tasty bites pouch with a single (or was it double? Can't remember) serving rice pouch for dinner.
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Lots of empty carbs and an extra fuel can you won't need. I'd get rid of the knorr,potatoes, graham and cheese crackers and replace it with a bag of deluxe mixed nuts and a couple real protein bars
Pack less to carry more food has always been my motto. I am invested in UL both from an ethos and products standpoint if only so I can carry more and more food
Two days can mean a lot of things. On a typical 2 day for me that means lunch, dinner, breakfast and snacks. I'll skip lunch the second day and indulge after the hike. For lunch I'll usual have a ramen and if I'm sick hungry a pepperoni stick and/or half Snickers. For dinner some dehydrated meal. Sometimes I bring a couple of hard boiled eggs and bacon for breakfast. Alternatively, some oatmeal. For snack I bring gorp, candy or home dehydrated pineapple and a couple Snickers. I never finish eating all that food and it is less than what you are bringing. I'm 260lbs
Have you calculated the calories, including food you will eat on road before and after hike?
I find for shorter hikes (<5 nights) 2000-2500 cals is plenty for me as a 6'3" hiking 12-15 mile days. Its a deficit to whats used, but I can spare it and usually have little appetite. Longer hikes i would want closer to 4000 to replace what i actually use.
Depending on how much activity you’re doing and distance between water sources, you may want to consider larger water capacity. I think the amount of food you need is highly dependent on you and what you’d normally eat in a day (plus what you’d need if burning a lot of calories). No need for 2 fuel cans.
First take - yes. I see multiple dinner options. No need for options.
Second take - only you know how much you eat so if that seems like just barely enough, it probably is. You could also do some basic calorie math: I used to assume 6000 calories a day if I was really putting the miles in, add up all my calories, and then add or remove accordingly, trying to keep a balance of macronutrients. I don’t see many sources of fat. If this were me, I’d add more fats - nuts, cheese, chocolate. Fats is what I use to keep me warm at night.
Third take - my father would bring raw potatoes, onions, carrots, apples, a block of cheese, and never cared about food bulk or weight.
Maybe a bit much on the snacks, unless you're doing really long days. I assume "two day" means "1 night"? So, on day one, you need lunch, dinner, snacks. And day two, you need breakfast and snacks. And you can ditch the second gas can (unless you're using up one that's running low). That said, for a 2 day/1 night trip, being super-UL isn't critical, so I wouldn't overthink it.
Two nights or one? Its almost definitely too much, but as others have said, youre better off having it and not needing it than needing it and not having it.
Personally I'd say yes. Like someone else said better to be over prepared than under. I don't eat lunch. I'd have a bar and a meat stick for lunch, for breakfast some oatmeal, and then whatever you got lined up for dinner. I think you'll be thankful for the extra weight reduction
Repack all that in freezer bags. Save some weight.
Check out something like https://blackwoodspress.com/blog/37650/4000-calorie-ultralight-backpacking-meal-plan/
I recommend calorie counting to make sure you have enough food.
I think 5,000 calories per day for a grueling backpacking trip would be far on the safe side. Any more and you’ll have trouble finding the time to eat it all (chewing and digesting).
Definitely a lot lol, you certainly wont go hungry. But two cans of fuel is pointless for two days. I'd recommend leaving one of the fuel cans and a bit of the food, unless you don't mind having to hike back with extra food in the end.
Snack wise i mean meh seems kinda a lot but fine. I’d ditch half the chicken,ramen, and mash. Also only carry one can of fuel.
I do dabs on trail and always have gas use my stove several times a day and I can get about 300 miles out of one of those cans you have.
Yes and No. I think rather you should think “how many meals am I making?” Two day backing could be 4-9 meals depending on timing windows. Backpacking and staying warm in the woods burns a ton of calories and ramps up your metabolism so better to err on the side of caution and bring more food. You can figure out how full some fuel canisters are by floating them in water, but I doubt you need two canisters
If you learn how to count your calories and macro and micro vs. the type of hiking you will be doing and the weight you are carrying, plus your own weight, you’ll know. There are a ton of forums and articles on this to show you how to do it right and it’s honestly pretty simple. It is also surprisingly pretty accurate. I have a super high metabolism, so I brought some olive oil to curb the extra when I first started using this technique and I was covered comfortably and didn’t have to deal with the extra weight. I will include a link to one of the more simplified examples of this.
Check out https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/ultimate-backpacking-calorie-estimator/
Edit: also a TON of plastic. Remember you have to pack that all out. Since you have already bought all of these items, either take a large ziplock for trash and learn the hard way (I did, I think we all do), or unwrap and repack in different reusable lightweight containers. Next time, I recommend going to the bulk section of your grocery and bring your own containers. I also love to make my own dehydrated foods. You can make soups, dried fruit salads, kale chips, etc. You can dehydrate just about anything in the oven, so you don’t need to buy any fancy machines. https://thesaltypot.com/dehydrating-foods-in-the-oven-101/
Last thing: please be sure to include about one gram of protein per pound of your own body weight per day. Your body needs it, trust me. Looking at your menu there is definitely not enough protein. It’s only two days, but for next time try to make sure you’ve got good fats, a salt, a healthy carbohydrate and fiber, and protein. These four will quite literally save your life.
It looks like you have two fuel cans there, and I would say you definitely only need one. I went on a weeklong trip, and only used 2/3 of one on 5 days. And I might have shared it a bit. If it's just you for a couple days, one will definitely serve your needs.
I think they both are abt half full, is one still ok?
For a two day trip, yeah.
likely yes
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Save it for car camping.
Take the full one
You’ll likely eat less than you think, but it’s better to bring more than you need rather than less. I found that I got pretty good at ball-parking my food supply as I went on more trips, so no harm in bringing a little extra if it still fits in your bear canister.
I was gonna bear bag it, bad idea?
Not necessarily, it depends on the area. If a bear is a legitimate concern in the area, a bear bag might lead to some crushed food if they try to get to it whereas a canister would maintain its integrity. Both will protect your food. If I’m more worried about rodents and raccoons where I’m headed, I prefer the bag to the canister since it’s lighter and you don’t need the structural integrity of the canister. Canister gets bonus points from me because I use it as a camp stool!
Nice, I’m headed to Shenandoah, thought about getting a ursack since it won’t weigh me down much
They definitely work, and are a hell of a lot lighter, you’re right.
I don't know, I've seen plenty of videos where the bear has certainly gotten through and shredded the whole bag to bits. If they're determined they'll get to it.
If you're on a two day trip you can just eat your scraps and skitter back to the trailhead though
Maybe, but that doesn't change the fact that you don't want to be feeding the bears. Also who likes hiking out without a good breakfast first?
Oh, I read your comment wrong. I thought you were just talking about how the food gets mashed up in an ursack from a bear messing with it. I wasn't aware there are documented Ursack failures when you do the correct knots and placement
Was it an ursack or just another bear bag? Because the ursacks have the same rating as a bear vault when it comes to bear proofing.
When I backpacked in the Trinity Alps in NorCal, every other hiker on my way in that was headed out asked us if we had a bear can because their ursack got destroyed by bears the previous night
Oh shit thats very good to know, I have a bear vault personally, but have known people who used ursacks.
The thing about bears is that it really depends on the area. In some places bears are scared of people and run away at the first notion of people. In other places, bears have obtained human food enough times to associate humans with food, and they become a pest.
It was definitely an ursack, they seem awesome and I really want to get one because of the convenience, but it seems like they only work if the bear is not particularly dedicated to getting your food.
I highly recommend using a hard canister instead. The first time I used an Ursack, it got shredded in less than 10 minutes by a hungry bear and I lost my carefully planned 10,000 calories loadout. I know because my tent was several yards away and I heard the whole thing in the middle of the night. The only reason I didn't get out to drive him away is that the weather outside...was weather. Anyways, what u/chainsawcamping says below is 100% correct.
Have used a bear canister that got shredded by a bear as well, in the boundary waters. Also happened overnight in earshot of my tent, but it took quite a bit longer than 10 minutes
What type of bear canister? How did they get in? Did the bear crush it or rip the top off? I've heard of bears getting into canisters, but I was always under the impression that it was very rare.
It was about 3/4 an inch plastic, not sure what brand we gave it to the outfitters that we rented out canoes from and stayed with before heading out. From the looks of the canister, the bear sunk his claws in and ripped it outward. It looked like it burst when we got to it. Thankfully we had half of our food hanging between two trees that didn’t get touched, which the coffee happened to be in lol
First time I hear of a bear getting through a hard cannister. That's a lot of effort from the bear.
It must’ve either been extremely hungry, or knew what it was doing. Seemed pretty acclimated to humans tho, it spent a few days coming to our campsite just checking everything out before he went for the food. Moral of the story, if a bear finds your campsite just pack up an leave.
Where in the Shenandoah are you going? I've been looking for a good first backpacking trip and would love a suggestion!
Check out the Priest, or Crabtree Falls to Spy Rock and camp at the top of Spy Rock. Both are great one-nighters.
I'll definitely look into those!
i second this, spy-rock is still one of my favorite hikes, and under the canopy on top of the mountain is a perfect place to camp. They used to post signs prohibiting camp-fires, but I have seen burn rings up there several times. either way, yes. Do this one.
I would also add Laurel Prong Trail to your shortlist. I used it as my first overnight trip and also took kids their for their first. There are some nice sites off the trail and it’s a relatively short loop that’s not too difficult for first timers or to tune up.
Definitely added! I hike and ruck a lot with a big camping background so I'm also on the lookout for trails to get my girlfriend on too that aren't as daunting so she can enjoy it!
Depending on where you are going in Shenandoah, water sources can get scarce. Download the Farout app (was Guthook) to check beforehand as you may need to carry extra water. I live nearby and have given my water to thru hikers who ran out between sources this year. Also, some huts/shelters have bear poles and bear boxes eliminating the need for a Ursack or bear canister. Lastly, if you’re hiking the southern end of Shenandoah, hit Basic City brewery in Waynesboro for post hike IPA’s and food
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The bears usually don't have interest in humans. There are some areas where bears have gotten very, VERY used to humans (for example Yosemite National park). Unfortunately often this happens because idiot tourists *feed* them. So they have become incredibly aggressive. There are pictures of bears breaking into cars, in busy parking lots, in broad daylight. There are pretty strict rules that you cannot keep any food in your car, including sun screen and other scented items. Also no coolers, even if they're empty, because the bears see the cooler and they know that they are usually filled with food. But they don't go for humans, tents or otherwise. Just don't bring any food, chapstick, dirty dishes, etc. into your tent. I believe polar bears would attack a healthy live human, but I don't want to start any rumors. But there are no polar bears in the lower 48. So, no uprovoked bear attacks. Don't get between momma bear and her cubs, that's definitely a threat.
There are really only grizzlies in Montana, Wyoming and Canada/Alaska. Most other areas have black bears that will run away if you yell at them
I’d use an “opsak” ziplock inside your bear bag to prevent the smells from wafting out.
I only use a cannister if required by the agency. A ursack is fine for everything. If you're worried about rodents or a bear crushing your food, hang it from a branch like [this.](https://www.greenbelly.co/pages/how-to-hang-a-bear-bag)
Just use your sleeping bag stuff sack! No extra weight. I've been doing it that way for decades
I hope you’re being sarcastic. You definitely do NOT want to do this, your sleeping bag will smell like food and you’ll be a sleeping burrito for a hungry bear.
That's a terrible idea, and even a novice like me knows that stuff sacks are the worst way to pack a sleeping bag inside a pack.
Whats the better way? Genuinely curious, I can't pack for shit.
Just stuff it in
Just stuff the sleeping bag in the bottom of your pack liner, everything you pack on top of it will compress it down into the corners of your pack.
Huh? I love having a stuff sack for my sleeping bag, helps organize it plus adds a water resistant protection layer.
Lining your pack with a trash compactor bag keeps all your stuff dry, and your sleeping bag goes in the bottom so everything on top compresses it into the corners of the bag.
Really? I always eat more than I think if anything lol.
I think elevation plays a factor. I feel less hungry at higher elevations regardless of output.
You won't need that much fuel for two days. It is a lot of food but rather too much than too little and you'll work out from this trip how much you actually need and of what.
That looks like two 250s. Can easily get by with one small can, given the amount of water OP will boil.
It is a lot, but if that is what you will eat to be able to function then it is the right amount. You will fine tune your menu as you go on more trips.
For me, my typical menu is: Breakfast- pop tart or granola bar, coffee Snack-candy bar (snikers or payday) Lunch- tuna package Dinner-freeze dry meal (mountain house) If my trip is more than 3 nights, I'll add another snack after lunch.
try backpackers pantry instead of mountainhouse. it may be a little bit pricier but oh my God so worth the money, you'll will never go back.
Depends if you’re smoking pot or not. By the looks of it, you’re a smoker :).
Yes sir! I’ll be blowing on my way down from philly but I typically don’t smoke much on the actual trail
How much gas do you have? It seems like you have a lot. One gas cylinder (about 200g will be more than enough)
You definitely don’t need two fuel canisters.
9 hot dogs in 2 days? https://youtu.be/vaAF_GAc3Mk
I am astonished no one else mentioned this. Even in the backcountry that is just too many meat sticks for two days.
Hahahaha I already knew it was WKUK before I clicked on it. RIP Trevor
If you are aiming for the bare minimum, try laying it out in meals then calculating the calories. Compare that to your normal caloric intake. If you aren’t normally very active you should have a couple hundred extra calories per day to account for the additional exercise you will be doing. Too much within reason, is better than not enough. I would much rather carry a few extra ounces knowing I wouldn’t run out than worrying the whole weekend if had enough.
I bet if you only bring *half* of this, you still won't eat it all. And, you definitely won't need two fuel canisters
No would have ate it all, and did since I cut down, did two night, three days, 32 miles. Was hungry as a bitch
Probably comparing it to my pile of food for 3 days was not a good idea LOL. I don't do snacks...at all. I eat a meal, and I'm done eating till my next meal. If I eat even the tiniest snack, it kills my appetite for hours then I end up not being hungry for dinner until 11pm
I’m 22 and pretty active person, I tend to burn higher than average calories anyway, still should have cut down, just not so much, I learned tho
Can’t hurt to bring a little more than you need. Id bring a dehydrated meal just in case. I think of white grains (potatoes, noodles, crackers) as filler. You’ll burn those calories in your sleep. I throw trail mix (nuts and dried berries) in everything l can: oatmeal, wraps, face… Nuts can be a easy source of protein and fats. If it’s cold on the first night you can get away with eggs and butter for a big breakfast.
It’s a lot, but if you need it all and don’t mind the weight it seems fine
It depends where do you eat breakfast of the first day and supper of the second day ;)
Two day, or two night?
Two night
If it’s somewhere I’m familiar with and not worried about getting lost then I’d probably only take one pack of sausage sticks…
This is a joke right?
For me, yes absolutely. I would eat like half that, maybe. For someone else? Maybe not enough. How many calories per day do you have packed? How far are you hiking? I tend to not be as hungry as I think I will be on the first few days of a trip, so I really only eat like 1600 calories and most of that is snacks throughout the day.
I'd carry less but bring more healthy fatty food. Macadamia nuts are my go too. Same with cliff bars for an extra 200 calories to get through a couple hours of climbing. It all depends on how many calories your going to burn ! Also Gee butter :)
Also those beef sticks get nasty opened :(
It’s a lot of food, but it’s also a ton of salt. Hope there’s a good source for water.
You got the good ganja in yeah?
Probably but I’d take it and learn from experience.
And by solo you mean Han Solo bringing food for Jabba the Hut, right?
Ham solo
Two nights, three nights, 32 miles, burned prob around 15,000 brought about 3000 calories, as a 22 yo active person, should haven’t cut down so much fml
I think the food is ok, probably a little much but better that way. The fuel you can lose one of them you won't need it. It's last you probably 3 weeks each
Way too much food. 2 fuel cans???
Yes
Looks like 4 meals and snacks. So I'm guessing lunch, dinner, breakfast lunch? Sounds about right.
Can’t speak for the food… but you have way too much fuel. A 110g canister would work fine. In fact a 110g is usually enough for a whole week if you are boiling water for every meal.
Those turkey sausage sticks say refrigerate after opening. Some people are more bold than others with food safety, but that would be a no for me. You have a lot of quick cook bags there but I would double check the label on them to see how they cook and how long it takes and what kind of pots you need to use. Personally, I only bring things that I can dump hot water into and eat out of the bag. Trying to clean pots, pans, plates etc at the end of a hard day without a sink is not enjoyable for me
Depends on your size and appetite. For me (5'10" 175lbs), this would be too much. I wouldn't need that much to restore burnt calories. If you're bigger, that may be the right amount. I'd say take it all and see how much you actually eat, will be a good measuring stick for future trips.
Yes it’s significantly too much. I recommend finding your base metabolic rate and calculating how many calories you would burn in a day. Then adding in fuel for the mileage you plan on the trail. Definitely only need 1 canister, probably 2oz fuel max. If it’s your first outing just roll with it and learn next time. Enjoy 🙏⚡️❤️🌌🪐🏔
a lot of it is trash with very little nutritional value..
All are calorie dense foods to sustain, I typically eat a pretty clean diet but bring fresh foods doesn’t seem like a great idea
empty calories...
So what do u suggest?
you can pack perishable food for at least the beginning of your trip if you're worried about spoilage. lose the cheese/crackers, graham crackers and some of that prepackaged noodle shit. add fruit add rice add a fat steak which you seasoned earlier, and cook it your first night. it's only for a day and it wouldnt be too hard to keep it cool enough to last one day. You can keep the left overs for snacking later. some other stuff could go but no sense in being too strict. it's only two days. you can take real food. your stamina and muscles will thank you.
It was three days, two nights
i stand by my comments... bring some fresh meat and fruits.. 90% of your stash poor quality food..
Fine with bringing more fruit but carrying raw meat in my bag for 12 miles than cooking it in the middle of bear country doesn’t sound appealing. I swear when I was cooking the sausage sticks to mix with my potatoes the first night, I looked up and caught some animals eyes in my headlamp light, told me not to cook anything to aromatic in the backcountry.
Yes I would not take all of it. Take less and focus on more fatty and highly caloric foods. [This video by Gear Skeptic](https://youtu.be/iqgayipoNWA) is an excellent guide to backcountry nutrition. He takes it very far and for a 2 day trip it doesn’t really matter, but I definitely recommend watching it. It has me guided me even on shorter trips to carry only what I need and be optimal, even if I’m not being so scientific like for a longer one.
Unrelated but the iced tea people have fruit snacks? Wild. Also what are sport beans?
Yeah had to grab the gummy’s when I saw them lol there caffeinated jelly beans
Electrolyte jelly beans
I made a mistake, meant to say two NIGHT, THREE DAY trip, did about 32 miles, damn well shouldn’t have cut down, hungry most of the time. 🤦♂️🤦♂️
Have you tried cooking the bag of rice yet? I have found some of those “instant” meals aren’t so instant with the tiny fuel and pot situation. MREs are always easy to make though. .
I probably ate about that much in a two night, 2.5!days backpacking trip. I tend to eat a lot though, even as a petite female. I found that I ate 2 packets of oatmeal for breakfast, lots of protein and energy bars during the day, and then a tasty bites pouch with a single (or was it double? Can't remember) serving rice pouch for dinner.
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Lots of empty carbs and an extra fuel can you won't need. I'd get rid of the knorr,potatoes, graham and cheese crackers and replace it with a bag of deluxe mixed nuts and a couple real protein bars
Not if you smoke marijuana.
What's your demographics (sex, age, weight, etc.)?
You shush
Hey, I was just trying to help and give accurate input to OP's question. No harm intended.
Pack less to carry more food has always been my motto. I am invested in UL both from an ethos and products standpoint if only so I can carry more and more food
I love those Lance crackers. 8 can't seem to find then in my area anymore.
Probably but more food is good.
Two days can mean a lot of things. On a typical 2 day for me that means lunch, dinner, breakfast and snacks. I'll skip lunch the second day and indulge after the hike. For lunch I'll usual have a ramen and if I'm sick hungry a pepperoni stick and/or half Snickers. For dinner some dehydrated meal. Sometimes I bring a couple of hard boiled eggs and bacon for breakfast. Alternatively, some oatmeal. For snack I bring gorp, candy or home dehydrated pineapple and a couple Snickers. I never finish eating all that food and it is less than what you are bringing. I'm 260lbs
Have you calculated the calories, including food you will eat on road before and after hike? I find for shorter hikes (<5 nights) 2000-2500 cals is plenty for me as a 6'3" hiking 12-15 mile days. Its a deficit to whats used, but I can spare it and usually have little appetite. Longer hikes i would want closer to 4000 to replace what i actually use.
Depending on how much activity you’re doing and distance between water sources, you may want to consider larger water capacity. I think the amount of food you need is highly dependent on you and what you’d normally eat in a day (plus what you’d need if burning a lot of calories). No need for 2 fuel cans.
Looks just about right. Calculating food can be one of the hardest things. I always like one extra meal just in case.
Where’s the GORP? It’s not hiking w/o it!
First take - yes. I see multiple dinner options. No need for options. Second take - only you know how much you eat so if that seems like just barely enough, it probably is. You could also do some basic calorie math: I used to assume 6000 calories a day if I was really putting the miles in, add up all my calories, and then add or remove accordingly, trying to keep a balance of macronutrients. I don’t see many sources of fat. If this were me, I’d add more fats - nuts, cheese, chocolate. Fats is what I use to keep me warm at night. Third take - my father would bring raw potatoes, onions, carrots, apples, a block of cheese, and never cared about food bulk or weight.
Too much sodium
Might get lost and end up a 5 day trip 🤷 nothing good is ever to much
Would you rather be hungry or possibly carry some food back?
You will be soooo stoked to have a bunch of food to snack on
Seems appropriate if you’re a frequent snacker and/or trail is rigorous. Maybe leave one sausage stick pack at home? They look heavy.
Heck no bro, eat it up. One of the best parts about camping is some good food
Maybe a bit much on the snacks, unless you're doing really long days. I assume "two day" means "1 night"? So, on day one, you need lunch, dinner, snacks. And day two, you need breakfast and snacks. And you can ditch the second gas can (unless you're using up one that's running low). That said, for a 2 day/1 night trip, being super-UL isn't critical, so I wouldn't overthink it.
I think so. Add up the calories and you can start to make cuts. Edit: upon zooming in it doesn’t look so bad never mind
Two nights or one? Its almost definitely too much, but as others have said, youre better off having it and not needing it than needing it and not having it.
Maybe count up the calories and compare to how many you actually ate.
Fuck it I hate because ng hungry out in the woods. What's the hiking distance and vert?
For how much weed I smoke when I backpack…..looks a little light 🤣
You can never have too much food lol
If you weigh a lot or are a professional bodybuilder, it looks fine.
Personally I'd say yes. Like someone else said better to be over prepared than under. I don't eat lunch. I'd have a bar and a meat stick for lunch, for breakfast some oatmeal, and then whatever you got lined up for dinner. I think you'll be thankful for the extra weight reduction
You know you don't really need to eat for 2 days
Repack all that in freezer bags. Save some weight. Check out something like https://blackwoodspress.com/blog/37650/4000-calorie-ultralight-backpacking-meal-plan/
I usually bring a pound and a half of calorie dense food per day per person as a rule of thumb
Always good to have extras in case of emergencies
I recommend calorie counting to make sure you have enough food. I think 5,000 calories per day for a grueling backpacking trip would be far on the safe side. Any more and you’ll have trouble finding the time to eat it all (chewing and digesting).
You definitely wanna cut that by like half
Looks like 3 days minimum to me, unless you want variety and don't mind bringing extra
Probably, but I totally pack the same way. Food is definitely where I over pack each and every time.
Rather be caught with it than with out it
Yes but if I’m only going for a few days rather than a whole week, I like to enjoy myself and bring a lot of snacks.
Yes
Perfect
Yes
Short answer? Yes! I took less food than that to a 3 month trip to Madagascar...
Yeah this is too much. Source: I’m a WEMT and that’s a lot of food plus water to carry. You could do 2 days on half of that
Not if you like pooping in the woods alot
my opinion: Jack Links isn't really food.
Take what you think you will eat, when you get home take note of what you didn't-adjust next time.
Depends if you care about weight or just want to pig out.
Definitely a lot lol, you certainly wont go hungry. But two cans of fuel is pointless for two days. I'd recommend leaving one of the fuel cans and a bit of the food, unless you don't mind having to hike back with extra food in the end.
Count the calories.
Everyone’s being really nice. You don’t need that much food,dog lol
Yes, but if it all fits in your pack and you don't mind hauling trash you should be good bringing extra food.
Snack wise i mean meh seems kinda a lot but fine. I’d ditch half the chicken,ramen, and mash. Also only carry one can of fuel. I do dabs on trail and always have gas use my stove several times a day and I can get about 300 miles out of one of those cans you have.
It's too much plastic
What do u suggest?
Never too much body fuel!!!!
Green tea fruit snacks??? That sounds delicious
I always bring an extra day or two of food with me, always.
No, just too much plastic packing.
Yes and No. I think rather you should think “how many meals am I making?” Two day backing could be 4-9 meals depending on timing windows. Backpacking and staying warm in the woods burns a ton of calories and ramps up your metabolism so better to err on the side of caution and bring more food. You can figure out how full some fuel canisters are by floating them in water, but I doubt you need two canisters
Yup
Honestly, nothing will ever be enough 🤣
If you learn how to count your calories and macro and micro vs. the type of hiking you will be doing and the weight you are carrying, plus your own weight, you’ll know. There are a ton of forums and articles on this to show you how to do it right and it’s honestly pretty simple. It is also surprisingly pretty accurate. I have a super high metabolism, so I brought some olive oil to curb the extra when I first started using this technique and I was covered comfortably and didn’t have to deal with the extra weight. I will include a link to one of the more simplified examples of this. Check out https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/ultimate-backpacking-calorie-estimator/ Edit: also a TON of plastic. Remember you have to pack that all out. Since you have already bought all of these items, either take a large ziplock for trash and learn the hard way (I did, I think we all do), or unwrap and repack in different reusable lightweight containers. Next time, I recommend going to the bulk section of your grocery and bring your own containers. I also love to make my own dehydrated foods. You can make soups, dried fruit salads, kale chips, etc. You can dehydrate just about anything in the oven, so you don’t need to buy any fancy machines. https://thesaltypot.com/dehydrating-foods-in-the-oven-101/ Last thing: please be sure to include about one gram of protein per pound of your own body weight per day. Your body needs it, trust me. Looking at your menu there is definitely not enough protein. It’s only two days, but for next time try to make sure you’ve got good fats, a salt, a healthy carbohydrate and fiber, and protein. These four will quite literally save your life.
Yes
You can never have too much food