Due to the expansion of fast-food outlets and general 24/7 culture of most European cities, Freeze Dried Backpacking Food is something that not all backpackers need concern themselves with. However, for those who are of the more adventurous disposition, freeze dried food is an absolute necessity and will allow you to venture far and wide without having to worry about where the next town or village might be.

What is Freeze Dried Backpacking Food?

In essence, it’s food that is frozen, and then dried, enabling it to be stored in varying conditions and for long periods. Freeze drying works by freezing the food substance and then reducing the pressure surrounding it and adding enough heat so that the frozen water in the material goes directly from the solid phase to gas. After this is complete, there is no more moisture in the food, and as it is moisture that micro-organisms and bacteria thrive on, the food is able to stay intact for a lot longer.

Advantages of Freeze Dried Backpacking Food

As mentioned previously, this type of food is not suitable for all backpackers, but if for instance, your travelling through Bulgarian hills, or Icelandic fords, then here are some reasons it’s a must have item:

Light – As it doesn’t contain water, freeze dried food is significantly lighter than foods of equivalent nutritional values. If you’re going on a long trip which involves plenty of hiking, you’ll understand the need for a lightweight rucksack.

Nutritional – Unlike other drying methods, freeze drying does not cause damage to the nutritional value of the food. The food itself quickly returns to its original form when water is added, and is not tough or rubbery like you may expect. It also keeps it’s flavour.

Storage – Most freeze dried food can be stored at room temperature for over ten years and not suffer from any loss of quality. It’s a little known fact that it can also be eaten long after its best before date.

Disadvantages of Freeze Dried Backpacking Food

Cost – Compared to a granola bar, or a piece of fruit, freeze dried backpacking food is expensive, but if you trip warrants it, it will be a false economy not to have it for this reason. It would be similar to refusing backpacking holiday insurance because of the premium.

As you can see, the advantages of freeze dried backpacking food far outweigh the negatives. I’ve used it on a number of trips and found it a really useful travel companion. It’s also used by Nasa when they are sending astronauts into space, and if it’s good enough for them, I’m sure it’s good enough for us!

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