From Left to Right: Vince's Son-In-Law, Vince's Son, Vince himself. 

It All Started in Mom’s Kitchen

Every great adventure has a starting point, and ours began in Mom’s kitchen. From a young age, you could find our head chef and founder, Vince, in one of two places: playing outside or in the kitchen with his mother, a kind woman with an eclectic palate who loved to cook and bake for her family. Think freshly baked breads, homemade pies, and warm treats. Vince didn’t even experience store-bought cookies until the age of nine. It was in their home kitchen that he developed a taste for good eats and the skill set to match. Thanks, Mom.

Enter a Love of the Backcountry

Like many outdoor enthusiasts, Vince wanted to spend all his free time in the backcountry. From backpacking to biking, camping to kayaking, canoeing to climbing, or skiing to stargazing, if it meant having fun in the backcountry, Vince was there. He lived for the moments of awe and inspiration, completely at peace in those moments, feeling gigantic and microscopic all at the same time. Those moments are what we now define as “Trailtopia” moments. But there was one thing missing from Vince’s adventures. Amazing food. 

Filling a Lack of Satisfying Food

As a trained foodie, Vince wanted more out of the meals that were being offered. After long days and many miles of trails, rivers, and mountain passes, Vince would sit down to eat the sad excuse of a dinner while dreaming of being back in his mother’s kitchen to enjoy a hot comforting meal that would not only fill his stomach but warm his soul from the inside out. 

So he did what any great chef would do and started creating, testing, and tweaking his own recipes for all his upcoming adventures. It began with a few re-sealable bags, some oatmeal, and a variety of dried fruits for breakfast. Then, homemade desserts, tweaked from family recipes, started to make the menu. Add in lunches made with flavored noodles, doubled up with options made for gluten-free friends.

Starting to Fulfill Friends’ “Orders”

Over time, his friends started demanding that Vince make the food for every backpacking trip, even the ones he wasn’t able to attend! The more food he shared, the bigger the demand from his fellow Trailtopians grew. So in 2013, on an annual backpacking trip (this time to Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains), the idea to share Vince’s backpacking food beyond his friends and family happened as naturally as the ingredients themselves, and Trailtopia Adventure Food was officially born. 

A New Type of Adventure Food 

With more than 40 years of outdoor adventure experience, a taste for good food, and a vault of family recipes, Vince got to work creating recipes he could share with the world. Sourcing only the finest all-natural ingredients, creating a specialized cook-in-bag package that didn’t require any special utensils, and painstakingly testing and tweaking each recipe until it was perfect, Vince was ready to launch!

Trailtopia Today

Today, Trailtopia is a team of family, friends, and fellow adventurers dedicated to providing outstanding, nutritious, and convenient eats to fuel your outdoor adventures. Each meal is hand-packaged by Vince and his family in their 100% wind-powered scratch kitchen located in Rochester, Minnesota. The goal is to keep your body going, your taste buds happy, and your belly full. When you open a freshly cooked Trailtopia meal, you can feel the care that was put into each bite. 

But enough about us – let’s talk about you. Are you planning your next multi-day trek on the trail? Family camping trip? Afternoon out on the water? Whatever it is, you need more than simple calories. From hearty breakfasts to mouth-watering desserts, Trailtopia will help you refuel your body and soul for every mile. These moments are yours.

Happy Trails!

Planning a camping or backpacking trip when you have dietary restrictions can be a challenge, especially when you’re relying on lightweight, shelf-stable foods. But the good news? You don’t have to sacrifice nutrition, flavor, or convenience.

Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian or just prefer to go meatless now and then, there’s no reason to compromise on taste or trail fuel. Our vegetarian freeze-dried meals are hearty, satisfying, and packed with real ingredients to keep you energized for long days outdoors. Made with clean, natural ingredients, no fillers, no mystery sauces, our meals are designed to deliver real food and real flavor wherever your adventures take you. 

In this guide, we’re breaking down our best vegetarian options so you can spend less time stressing over ingredients and more time enjoying the trail.

Let’s dig in!

Vegetarian Freeze Dried Breakfasts 

You might skip breakfast at home, but when you are in the backcountry, you need to fuel your body right. Our vegetarian freeze dried breakfast options include a variety of oatmeals. Each is made with real fruit, clean ingredients, and just the right touch of sweetness, no artificial flavors, no fuss. Whether you’re gearing up for a big climb or a slow morning at camp, these meals deliver the energy you need with flavors you’ll actually look forward to.

• Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Wake up to the cozy taste of home with our Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. Real apple pieces, a hearty sprinkle of cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg bring that warm, spiced comfort that makes chilly mornings on the trail feel extra special.
• Blueberry Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Packed with plump, juicy blueberries, this oatmeal is as bright and energizing as a clear mountain morning. It’s lightly sweetened and loaded with natural superfood power to fuel every step of your adventure.
• Strawberry Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Fresh-picked flavor, no matter how far you are from the nearest field. Our Strawberry Oatmeal blends real fruit with a hint of sweetness for a cheerful, feel-good breakfast that tastes like summer in every spoonful.
• Banana Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Smooth, simple, and full of real banana slices, this one’s an instant classic. It’s a comforting breakfast that gives you the energy you need to hit the trail (and maybe even pick up the pace).
• Mango Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Bring tropical sunshine to your morning with juicy chunks of real mango. Known as the king of fruits for its sweet and luscious taste, mango lovers will rejoice over packing this breakfast. Naturally sweet and irresistibly vibrant, this oatmeal is like a mini getaway before the day’s adventure begins.
• Peach Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Golden, juicy peaches and just a touch of sugar make this oatmeal a bright, uplifting start to any morning. Sweet, smooth, and satisfying, it’s pure summer energy in every bite. This tasty oatmeal breakfast will brighten up your morning from your taste buds to your toes.
• Brown Sugar Raisin Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • A classic flavor done right. Sweet brown sugar and plump raisins blend perfectly for that timeless, comforting oatmeal taste, hearty, simple, and exactly what you crave on a crisp morning outdoors.
• Raspberry Chocolate Oatmeal (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free)
  • For mornings when you want something extra special. Tart raspberries and rich dark chocolate chunks melt together in a warm, creamy oatmeal that tastes just like dessert for breakfast. Pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee and a beautiful morning sunrise.

Browse all our vegetarian freeze dried breakfast options. 

Vegetarian Freeze Dried Lunches

When you need a quick, satisfying mid-day meal on the trail, our vegetarian ramen options are a go-to favorite. Lightweight, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor, they make the perfect lunch break. And while they’re meat-free, they don’t skimp on taste. Each variety is made with a savory, satisfying broth, and our seasoning blends contain no animal products, so you can fuel up with confidence. Just add hot water, take in the view, and enjoy. 

Each ramen flavor is available in a gluten-free option with brown rice noodles! 

• Stroganoff Beef Flavored Ramen Noodles (Vegetarian)
  • Our nod to a classic comfort food dish, made with a Ramen twist. Creamy stroganoff-flavored noodles blend perfectly with mushrooms, onions, and a hint of sour cream for a rich, hearty meal that feels homemade no matter how far you’ve hiked. It’s the ultimate cozy bowl after a long day outdoors.
• Beef Flavored with Vegetables and Mushrooms Ramen Noodles (Vegetarian, Dairy-Free)
  • A camp-ready classic that tastes like home. This savory ramen brings together beef-flavored noodles, crisp green beans, sweet corn, mushrooms, and our signature homemade seasoning blend for the perfect trail comfort meal. Warm, filling, and deeply satisfying, this one’s built to refuel you from the inside out.
• Chicken Flavored with Broccoli Ramen Noodles (Vegetarian, Dairy-Free)
  • Simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. Premium chicken-flavored noodles, broccoli, and onions come together in a rich broth that hits all the right notes of savory satisfaction. It’s the kind of warm, nourishing meal that makes you slow down and savor the moment.
• Curry Ramen Noodles (Vegetarian)
  • Perfectly creamy, mildly spiced, and very delicious. This Thai-inspired ramen pairs smooth noodles with red and green bell peppers, onions, and our bold and spicy homemade curry sauce. Each bite packs just the right amount of heat to satisfy your taste buds through long stretches of hiking. 

Browse all our vegetarian freeze dried lunch options. 

Vegetarian Freeze Dried Entrees 

Dinner on the trail should be something you look forward to, and our vegetarian freeze dried entrées deliver! These meals are hearty, comforting, and packed with real ingredients to help you refuel after a long day. Each dish is crafted to be satisfying and packed with protein without relying on any meat. Made with all-natural, vegetarian-friendly ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. 

• Pesto Pasta with Hemp Seed Protein (Vegetarian)
  • Creamy, garlicky, and bursting with flavor, this vegetarian spin on our fan-favorite Chicken Pesto Pasta is pure trailside comfort. Made with a classic pesto blend of basil, garlic, dried tomatoes, onions, and spices, it’s tossed with hearty rotini noodles and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Instead of chicken, we’ve added hemp seed protein to keep it plant-based and power-packed. It’s the same bright, herbaceous flavor you love with an earthy twist that keeps vegetarians fueled and satisfied mile after mile.
• Sweet Potato Chili Mac with Hemp Seed Protein (Vegetarian, Vegan)
  • A bold twist on a classic comfort food that doesn’t hold back on flavor or nutrition. This hearty meal starts with tender macaroni noodles, kidney beans, and green bell peppers, then gets a protein boost from hulled hemp seeds and naturally sweet chunks of roasted-style sweet potato. Everything is simmered in our homemade spicy chili sauce that delivers the perfect balance of warmth and spice. Packed with plant power and fiber, it’s the ultimate cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meal for cold nights under the stars.
• Garden Vegetable Pasta (Vegetarian)
  • Eat the rainbow with this garden-fresh pasta that celebrates everything you love about a hearty veggie meal. Made with premium rotini noodles, parmesan, and a colorful mix of carrots, broccoli, red and green bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, onions, and spinach, every bite is full of flavor and texture. It’s tossed in our light homemade tomato sauce that’s equal parts savory and refreshing. Whether you’re deep in the woods or dining by the campfire, this pasta feels like a taste of summer any time of year.

Browse all our vegetarian freeze dried dinner options. 

Vegetarian Freeze Dried Desserts

After conquering miles of trail, you deserve a little celebration! Our vegetarian freeze-dried desserts are your reward for a job well done. Loaded with real fruit, baked-style goodness, and the perfect balance of comfort and convenience, each dessert is sweet, satisfying, and ready whenever your craving hits.

• Apple Crisp (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free)
  • Full of warmth and spice, this dessert is made with real apples and the perfect balance of cinnamon and nutmeg. We set you up with a side packet of our homemade crisp topping to sprinkle over the top right before eating for a nice, crunchy finish. Fans of this one say it tastes straight out of the oven!
• Peach Blueberry Crisp (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free)
  • One of our team’s favorites! Made with juicy peaches and bursting with blueberries, this crisp dessert truly satisfies the taste buds from all four corners of the mouth. Sprinkle on the side pack of homemade crisp topping right before eating, and voila! 
• Triple Berry Crisp (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free)
  • Berry lovers, this one’s for you! Our best seller year after year. A juicy trifecta of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries with a perfect balance of sugar and spice. We’ve included a side packet of our homemade crisp topping to add before devouring.
• Cheesecake Chocolate Strawberry (Vegetarian)
  • We make our cheesecake rich and creamy with bursts of real strawberries and mini chocolate chips. We’ve included a side packet of homemade Graham bits to mix in for a nice, crunchy finish. Enjoy a taste of one of our favorite family staples.

Browse all our vegetarian freeze dried dessert options. 

Final Thoughts on Vegetarian Freeze Dried Meals for Camping and Backpacking

Eating vegetarian on the trail has never been easier or more delicious. Whether you’re fueling up with a hearty oatmeal breakfast, savoring a cozy bowl of ramen at lunch, or winding down with a comforting pasta or dessert, Trailtopia’s vegetarian freeze-dried meals prove that plant-based eating and adventure go hand in hand. Each meal is crafted with real ingredients, balanced nutrition, and the kind of flavor that makes you forget you’re miles from a kitchen. So next time you pack your bag, know that you can travel light, eat well, and explore freely because good food belongs everywhere, especially on the trail.

Browse all our vegetarian freeze dried meal options. 

If you look closely at the back of each one of our meals, you’ll see the reminder: “Keep our environment clean and pack out all trash.” Like you, we care deeply about protecting and preserving the beautiful places we explore for generations to come.

Taking care of our environment isn’t always the easiest, prettiest, or most convenient thing to do, but with a little extra effort, you can make a big difference in protecting the natural landscape and the plants and wildlife that call it home.

In this article, we’ll give you a quick refresher on the 7 Leave No Trace principles, share what to do if you see someone not following them, and share the 5 most common trail food mistakes and how to avoid them.

Quick Refresher on the Leave No Trace Principles

No conversation about responsible outdoor adventures would be complete without mentioning the Leave No Trace principles. These seven guidelines serve as a roadmap for exploring the outdoors with care. At the heart of LNT is a simple idea: respect. Respect for the land, the wildlife that calls it home, the people sharing the trail, and those who will walk it after us. When we follow these practices, we’re not just visitors, we’re stewards of the wild.

The 7 Leave No Trace Principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare – Know the regulations, weather, and terrain. Travel in small groups to reduce impact.
   
   

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces – Stick to trails, rock, gravel, dry grasses, or snow. Camp at existing sites where possible.
   
   

3. Dispose of Waste Properly – Pack it in, pack it out. This includes food scraps, wrappers, and even biodegradable waste like fruit peels.
   
   

4. Leave What You Find – Don’t pick wildflowers or take “souvenirs.” Let others experience the wilderness as it is.
   
   

5. Minimize Campfire Impact – Use a lightweight stove instead of building fires, or only use established fire rings if allowed.
   
   

6. Respect Wildlife – Observe from a distance, don’t feed animals, and store food securely.
   
   

7. Be Considerate of Others  – Yield to others on the trail, keep noise levels down, and respect solitude.

Lead by Example, Not Judgment

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to protect the outdoors is to set a positive example. When people see you practicing Leave No Trace, it leaves an impression and often inspires them to follow suit. The flip side? Poor habits are just as contagious. A single careless act can give others permission to think, “If they did it, it must be fine.”

You can also spread good habits by sharing your own sustainability wins, whether that’s swapping tips with friends, posting your eco-friendly hacks online, or just talking about what’s been challenging and what’s worked for you. Keep your approach encouraging and friendly. A little positivity can go a long way in motivating others to make changes that, over time, really add up.

Quick note: If you see someone not following the LNT principles or doing one of these 5 common trail food mistakes, don’t become aggressive or put yourself in a spot where an altercation might occur. The forest service would much rather you report it to them than put yourself in a situation. 

5 Common Trail Food Mistakes and How to Avoid Them to Keep Nature Pristine

1. Not packing out biodegradable items

This is the most common trail food mistake we see! Yes, your apple core will decompose, but it will take about 2 months. In that time, it will attract wildlife closer to the trail and where human activity occurs, allowing them to seek out food in that area. If predators find your scraps, you’re endangering future hikers. If it is prey animals that discover it, you’re putting that animal and its future offspring at risk. If you have something particularly messy like “wet” leftovers, we suggest using a used Trailtopia pouch, as they tightly seal shut and stay closed under pressure.  Remember, it is your responsibility to pack out all uneaten food items to protect wildlife and future hikers. 

2. Putting trash in stuff pockets vs. zippered pockets

We’ve all been there, reaching into a shallow shorts pocket for our phone or a snack, only to have something else tumble out. If you’re lucky, you or a sharp-eyed hiking buddy, catch it before it gets left behind. But in the backcountry, a forgotten candy wrapper or snack bag doesn’t just disappear.

To avoid this trail food mistake and other accidental litter, always stash your smaller food trash in a secure, zippered pocket, hip belt pouch, or a designated trash bag that seals shut. This way, nothing slips out when you’re on the move, and you can be confident you’re packing out everything you brought in. It’s a simple step that keeps trails cleaner for everyone who comes after you.

3. Forgetting to de-trashify your food before your hike

Most of the food we bring into the backcountry, whether it’s store-bought snacks or delicious Trailtopia meals, comes in some form of packaging. While that packaging is great for keeping food fresh, it can quickly turn into extra bulk and trash you’ll have to carry out.

Before you hit the trail, take a few minutes to “de-trashify” your meals. This could mean removing excess cardboard, trimming down resealable pouches, or even combining multiple small items into a single reusable bag. For example, you can remove the tear-off top and remove the oxygen absorber of your Trailtopia meal at home, so you have less trash that could accidentally get left behind. 

Not only will this lighten your load and save space in your pack, but it also reduces the amount of micro-trash that could get lost on the trail. A little prep at home goes a long way toward keeping our wild spaces truly wild.

4. Rinsing your dishes in streams or lakes

We at Trailtopia hate dishes. We prefer to let our food cook in the bag and simply lick our utensils clean, but obviously, this isn’t always feasible. Another common trail food mistake is rinsing dishes in water sources. The problem is that dirty dishwater and food scraps can pollute our rivers, lakes, and streams. If you do need to do dishes in the backcountry, simply follow these steps. 

1. Get at least 200 feet, 70 big steps, away from any water sources, campsite, and trails.

2. Scrape or wipe your dishes free of all food scraps to be packed out in a trash receptacle.

3. Dig a cathole, 6-8 inches deep.

4. Wash your dishes and dispose of the dirty dishwater into the cathole.

5. Cover it up and feel great about taking care of your waste responsibly. 

Note: The LNT website suggests using some sort of straining method for dishwater if you are unable to adequately scrape food scraps from containers.  

5. Forgetting to do a ground sweep after meals

The last common trail food mistake is leaving food pieces and trash on the ground after a meal. As big foodies, we often are very excited when it's meal time and forget pieces of packaging on the ground or eat a little crazily and drop pieces of food on the ground, which can cause issues for wildlife. Harmless-seeming pieces of food are a tempting invitation that can lead to unhealthy eating habits and dangerous animal encounters. Just like you do a sweep for forgotten gear before leaving camp, take a minute after each meal to scan the ground for any fallen food and trash. Scoop it up, pack it out, and you’ll help keep your campsite safe for you, future hikers, and the animals who call it home.

Final Thoughts on Trail Food Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Although many Leave No Trace guidelines seem like common sense, many aren’t. We are incredibly grateful to our community that continues to learn and grow with us. Every time we put out a new article sharing how to care for our environment better when hiking and backpacking, we always have someone who says that they didn’t previously know about a certain way of doing things or simply didn’t think of it.

The goal of our work is to make your adventures as enjoyable as possible, while protecting natural areas for future generations. Although taking care of the environment isn’t always the easiest, it’s the right thing to do. So next time you are out exploring nature, remember these common food trail mistakes and how you can do your best to preserve natural places for future generations.

Did you know about each of these common trail food mistakes? Share your story in the comments 👇

Planning a camping or backpacking trip when you have dietary restrictions can be a challenge, especially when you’re relying on lightweight, shelf-stable foods. But the good news? You don’t have to sacrifice nutrition, flavor, or convenience when you go into nature. 

Freeze-dried meals for camping and backpacking have come a long way, and there are more options than ever for folks with food sensitivities, allergies, or specific eating preferences. Whether you're gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or somewhere in between, there’s a meal that can fuel your adventure and fit your needs.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the best freeze dried meal options for a wide variety of dietary restrictions, so you can spend less time stressing over ingredients and more time enjoying the trail.

Let’s dig in!

Vegetarian Freeze Dried Meals for Camping and Backpacking

Whether you're a full-time vegetarian or just prefer to go meatless sometimes, there's no reason to compromise on flavor or fuel. Today’s vegetarian freeze dried meals for camping and backpacking are more than just a simple pasta; they’re hearty, satisfying, and packed with real ingredients to keep you energized for long days outside.

At Trailtopia, we offer a variety of vegetarian-friendly meals made with clean, natural ingredients, no weird fillers, and no mystery sauces. Just real food, real flavor, and real trail fuel. 

Explore our favorite vegetarian freeze dried meals for camping and backpacking.

Browse all our vegetarian freeze-dried meal options!

Vegan Freeze Dried Meals for Camping and Backpacking

Eating plant-based on the trail has never been easier. Our vegan freeze dried meals for camping and backpacking are thoughtfully crafted to provide the fuel, flavor, and convenience you need, without any animal products. From energizing breakfasts to satisfying dinners, each meal is made with real ingredients, clean seasoning blends, and absolutely no dairy, eggs, or meat. Whether you're a full-time vegan or just prefer plant-based meals every once in a while, these options deliver the nourishment you need with the taste you’ll love. Just add hot water and enjoy food that aligns with your values and your appetite.

Browse all our vegan freeze dried meal options!

Gluten Free Freeze Dried Meals for Camping and Backpacking

Finding gluten-free meals that are both safe and satisfying can be tough, especially when looking for convenience and lightweight options. That’s why our gluten-free freeze dried meals for camping and backpacking are made with real ingredients and zero gluten-containing grains, so you can fuel your adventure without worry. From hearty oatmeals to savory entrées and sweet trail desserts, every gluten-free option is clearly labeled and packed in our dedicated facility. No second-guessing, just delicious, energizing meals that keep you going strong from first step to final summit.

Browse all our gluten free freeze dried meal options!

Final Thoughts on the Best Freeze Dried Meals for Camping and Backpacking on Any Diet

Navigating the world of camping meals with dietary restrictions doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan, there are delicious, trail-tested options out there that won’t weigh you down or compromise your diet.

At Trailtopia, we’re proud to offer meals that help make outdoor adventure more accessible, nutritious, and delicious for everyone. So next time you’re planning your pack, you can stress less about food and focus more on the views, the memories, and the journey ahead.

P.S. Got a favorite Trailtopia meal that fits your diet? Let us know in the comments, we’d love to hear what fuels your adventures!

The other day we were scrolling on Trailtopia’s official Instagram page when we saw a reel that said, “What’s one thing that immediately lets you know someone has no idea what they are doing on the trail?”. This intrigued us because we thought the comment section would be full of stories sharing times people saw others disrespecting nature. Although there was some of that, there was a lot more gear-shaming and making fun of others, and not in a teasing way. 

Instead of scrolling on or getting into a commenting battle, we decided to reflect on this topic and realized that this topic needed a dedicated blog post! We hope that after reading this, you will be inspired to think about your judgments and how you can create a more welcoming community on and off the trail. 

What Is Gear Shaming?

Gear shaming is when someone belittles another based on the gear they’re using or not using. This can include making comments about gear that is outdated, budget-friendly, or not the latest trend. It can sound like a sarcastic comment about someone’s old backpack, a side-eye at a bulky tent, or even an unsolicited opinion on what someone should be using instead. While it might not always be intentional, these moments can leave people feeling embarrassed, excluded, or like they don’t belong on the trail, and that’s the exact opposite of what the outdoor community should be about.

Everyone’s Setup Looks Different (And That’s Okay)

No two hikers pack exactly the same, and that’s a good thing! Some people love dialing in every ounce for an ultralight setup, while others prefer a little extra comfort, even if it adds weight. Your gear choices are shaped by your experience level, budget, trip goals, body type, and even what you already have lying around. 

One hiker might carry a brand-new cottage-industry quilt, while another makes do with a hand-me-down sleeping bag and still has the best night’s sleep of their life. What matters most is that people are out there, learning, exploring, and enjoying the experience. The goal is to make the outdoors more welcoming, more fun, and less intimidating for everyone.

Encouragement over Comparison

There’s a big difference between offering helpful advice and making someone feel small. Sharing your experience and expertise can be a great way to connect and open further conversation into a topic. Encouragement helps people grow and feel welcome in the outdoors. Comparison can make them question if they belong at all. And the truth is, none of us started with a dialed-in gear list. We learned through trial and error, just like everyone else.

For example: Instead of saying, “You should really upgrade your tent,” try: “This worked well for me on a similar trip. Let me know if you want to check it out or know more!”

As long as someone is not putting themselves or others in danger, we need to welcome questions, mistakes, and others’ choices. Let’s choose support over superiority every time. 

Focus on your Own Journey, Not the Gear List

Part of the reason we started creating our adventure meals was that we wanted the outdoors to be easier to explore. Our mission has always been to fuel great adventures, not perfect ones. We’re here for the folks figuring it out as they go. For the hikers using borrowed gear. For the weekend campers bringing their dog, their kid, or their best friend who’s never pitched a tent. Because what really matters isn’t how much your gear costs, it’s the memories you make and the moments you share on the trail.

So, however you are able to get out there, we’re glad you’re enjoying nature! Let’s keep the trail open, welcoming, and filled with good food and good company.

Final Thoughts on Gear Shaming

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Gear shaming has no place in the outdoors. The trail doesn’t care what pack you carry, what brand your boots are, or how dialed your gear list is. What matters is showing up, respecting nature, and supporting each other out there.

We all started somewhere, and most of us are still learning. So let’s build a trail culture rooted in curiosity, kindness, and encouragement because the more people we have enjoying the outdoors, the more people we have wanting to protect the lands we love. 

Have you ever experienced or witnessed gear shaming? Share your story in the comments; your perspective might be exactly what someone else needs to hear. 👇