Elk Prep: A Guide to Backcountry Meal Planning
Today, we're diving into the meticulous process of prepping for an Elk season adventure, specifically focusing on meal planning for a six to seven-day backcountry trip. Join me as I walk you through how I prepare, pack, and calculate my nutritional needs for the journey ahead.
Understanding the Scope of the Situation
Let's start with the essentials. For this trip, I'll be relying on a compact propane stove, like a jet boil, for cooking. This choice influences what I'll be packing—mainly dehydrated meals that only require boiled water to prepare. Convenience, efficiency, and lightweight gear are key when you're deep in the backcountry.
Jordan Enjoying his Peak Refuel Homestyle Chicken & Rice in Elk Camp 23’
Calculating Caloric Needs
The foundation of my meal planning begins with calculating my daily caloric requirements. Through research and past experiences, I've estimated needing between 2700 to 3000 calories per day. Knowing I'll be at a calorie deficit by trip's end, I've set a target to lose a maximum of two and a half pounds. This guides my meal planning to ensure I'm adequately fueled without carrying unnecessary weight. If you are struggling with estimating your daily requirements see my free spreadsheet to make quick work of it.
Pack List + Daily Calorie Calculator - ELK 23 gear.xlsx
Meal Breakdown
Now, let's break down how I structure each day's meals:
Breakfast: I opt for quick and easy options like Velveeta breakfast biscuits—high in carbs and no boiling of water in the early morning hours is necessary. These are a great way to kickstart my day. Occasionally, I'll warm up some water and indulge in an instant coffee for a morning boost and just a way to warm up.
Lunch: Keeping it light and simple with protein-packed tuna packets. These are not only affordable ($0.99), easy to throw in your daypack, but also provide essential protein to help curb hunger until the night time feast.
Dinner: The main event of the day, featuring dehydrated meals that pack a punch with 600 to 1000 calories each. To enhance these meals, I've added mashed potatoes to boost calorie content and improve taste.
Snacks and Supplements: Throughout the day, I supplement my main meals with snacks rich in protein, carbs, and necessary nutrients. This includes protein bars, fruit snacks, and protein granola—perfect for maintaining energy levels during long days of hiking and hunting.
Packing Strategy
Organization is crucial. I pack each day's meals separately to avoid overeating or under-eating, ensuring I stay on track with my nutritional goals. While it adds bulk, I prefer keeping dehydrated meals in their original packaging to simplify cooking and minimize cleanup.
Practical Tips
To streamline my packing process, I vacuum-seal each day's meals into compact bundles, ensuring they fit snugly into my backpack without wasting space. This method not only reduces the bulk but also keeps everything organized and readily accessible.
Pack a sponge and a ziplock bag with some dish soap to scrub out your stove. You don’t want a nasty mix up of foods while trying to enjoy dinner late in the trip.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for an Elk season isn't just about gearing up; it's about fueling up effectively. By carefully calculating caloric needs and strategically packing meals, I'm able to optimize my energy levels while minimizing the weight I carry. If you're planning a similar adventure, take the time to calculate your own caloric needs and pack efficiently—your body will thank you!
For a detailed breakdown of how I calculate my caloric intake and plan my meals, check out the link in the description of the Youtube video posted at the top. It includes a useful spreadsheet to help you customize your own backcountry meal plan based on your unique needs.
Are you gearing up for a backcountry adventure soon? Let me know your tips and tricks for meal planning in the comments below! Until next time, stay prepared, stay fueled, and enjoy your trip into God’s beautiful backcountry!