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. 👇

1. What is freeze-dried food, and how is it made?

Freeze-dried food is created through a process that removes moisture from food while preserving its structure, flavor, and nutrients. The process works by first freezing the food, then placing it in a vacuum chamber where the frozen water transitions directly from solid to vapor. This allows the food to dry without being exposed to the high heat used in other drying methods, which helps retain its original taste and nutritional value.

Freeze-drying was first developed in the 1930s and gained prominence during World War II as a way to preserve blood plasma and medical supplies for transport. It later found its way into the food industry, famously used during the Apollo space missions in the 1960s, and today it’s a go-to method for making lightweight, shelf-stable meals perfect for backpackers, campers, and emergency prep.

2. Is freeze-dried food healthy?

Yes! When made with real, whole ingredients, freeze-dried food is a healthy option because it preserves much of a food’s original nutrients and retains more vitamins and minerals than other preservation methods like canning or traditional dehydration. There are no added preservatives required in the process either, which makes it a cleaner option for trail meals.

Of course, not all freeze-dried meals are created equal. The key is choosing meals made with recognizable ingredients and minimal additives. That’s exactly how we do it at Trailtopia. If you're curious about how we choose our ingredients and why they matter, we break it all down in our blog: Why Freeze-Dried Ingredients Matter.

3. How does freeze-dried food taste?

When made with quality ingredients, robust flavors, and a great recipe, freeze-dried food can taste surprisingly great, like a real, home-cooked meal (especially when you're a few miles deep on the trail). Since freeze-drying preserves the food’s original structure and flavor, meals tend to rehydrate with better texture and taste than traditional dehydrated options.

That said, not all freeze-dried meals are equal. At Trailtopia, we focus on real, flavorful recipes pulled from our family’s own kitchen. If you want to take your trail meals to the next level, check out our blog: 8 Great Additions to Any Trail Meal for easy ways to customize and elevate your backcountry dinners.

4. Are there any preservatives in freeze-dried foods?

One big advantage of freeze-dried food is that it typically doesn’t require added preservatives since the freeze-drying process itself acts as a natural preservation method by removing almost all moisture. Without moisture, bacteria and mold can’t grow, helping extend the shelf life safely.

5. Why is freeze-dried food popular among backpackers?

Freeze-dried meals have become a staple for backpackers for good reason! They’re incredibly lightweight due to nearly all of the water being removed during the freeze-drying process. They also hold the original flavors and textures of the ingredients for a more satisfying meal after a long day on the trail.

And the best part? They’re super convenient. Most freeze-dried meals are designed to cook right in the bag; just add boiling water, wait a few minutes, and enjoy. No pots, no cleanup, no stress. This combo of taste, simplicity, and packability is exactly why freeze-dried meals are a go-to for everyone from beginner hikers to seasoned thru-hikers.

6. How do I cook freeze-dried food?

One of the best things about freeze-dried meals is how quick and easy they are to prepare, especially when you're tired and hungry after a long day on the trail. Once you add boiling water, our meals cook in about 10 minutes. 

At Trailtopia, we’ve taken that convenience a step further. Our specially engineered packaging minimizes space in your pack and maximizes ease at camp. No need for an extra-long spork or additional dishes since our meals cook in the bag! Plus, because our meals are hearty and delicious, chances are you’ll be licking your spoon clean, which means absolutely zero clean-up.

7. Can I cold rehydrate freeze-dried foods?

Yes, freeze-dried meals can be cold rehydrated! Cold rehydration simply means using cold (or room temperature) water instead of boiling water to prepare your meal. While not all freeze-dried foods are ideal for this method, some are perfect candidates, like our pudding desserts, which are designed to be cold-rehydrated. Just add water, stir, and wait a few minutes for a sweet and simple trail treat.

For more info on how to go stoveless and what meals work best with cold rehydration, check out our blog: Cold Rehydration a.k.a. Going Stoveless. Whether you're skipping the stove for simplicity or saving fuel for longer treks, cold rehydration can be a smart (and tasty) option on the trail.

8. How does freeze-dried food differ from dehydrated food?

While both processes remove moisture to preserve food, freeze-dried meals retain more nutrients, rehydrate faster, and have a longer shelf life compared to dehydrated options. That means better taste, texture, and convenience, especially when you’re deep in the backcountry.

If you want to learn more about the differences (and why they matter on the trail), check out our full blog post: Freeze-Dried vs. Dehydrated: What’s the Difference & Why It Matters.

9. Is freeze-dried food suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

Yes! At Trailtopia, we offer a variety of freeze-dried meals that cater to different dietary needs, without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan, we've got trail-ready options for you:

• Gluten-Free Meals

• Vegetarian Meals

• Vegan Meals

We believe everyone should be able to enjoy hearty, delicious meals on the trail, no matter their dietary needs.

10. Can freeze-dried foods go bad?

Freeze-dried foods are known for their impressive shelf life, many can last up to 25 years when stored properly!. At Trailtopia, our meals currently have a 5-year shelf life, and we’re in the process of extending that to 10 years soon. This makes freeze-dried meals perfect for long-term storage, emergency kits, and spontaneous adventures. Just store them in a cool, dry place, and they’ll be ready when you are!

If you have any additional questions about freeze-dried food, leave them in the comments!

Backpacking and hiking teach us a lot about ourselves and the world around us: how to live simply, embrace the unexpected, appreciate nature, and recognize that we are a part of nature, not just visitors. Backpackers and hikers are one of the groups that are most dedicated to protecting nature because they see firsthand how beautiful, yet fragile, nature is. That’s where sustainable adventuring comes in. It isn’t about having no impact, but reducing it as much as possible. It’s about making small, intentional choices that help preserve the landscapes and ecosystems we love and enjoy.

In this article, we have outlined easy, trail-tested ways you can reduce your impact while hiking and backpacking to respect and protect the natural environment. 

Quick Refresher on the Leave No Trace Principles

No sustainable adventuring article would be complete without the Leave No Trace Principles. These seven simple principles offer a framework for enjoying the outdoors responsibly. At its core, LNT is about respect: for nature, wildlife, other hikers, and future generations. By practicing these principles, backpackers and hikers become 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 to Reduce Your Impact While Hiking and Backpacking, Not Judgement

One of the most powerful things you can do for the environment is to lead by example. When others see you follow LNT principles, it sticks. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. If someone sees you do something “wrong,” they are more likely to say, “Well, they did it,” or “I’m not the only one”. 

You can also share your sustainability tips with friends, post about your efforts, or just talk about what’s working and what’s been difficult for you. Encouragement goes a lot further than judgment, so keep it positive and approachable. You never know who you might inspire to make a small change that adds up over time.

Quick note: If you see someone not following the LNT principles, 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 any situation. 

5 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Impact While Hiking and Backpacking

1. Pack out your toilet paper.

Now we’ve all heard that toilet paper is biodegradable, but just because something can break down, doesn’t mean we should leave it to nature to figure it out. Animals may dig it up, water sources may get contaminated, and the visual impact can ruin the wilderness experience for others. Packing out toilet paper might feel awkward at first, but once it becomes routine, it’s one of the simplest and most respectful things you can do for the environment and your fellow hikers. We love using empty Trailtopia food pouches for ours as they seal up tightly, are durable, and don’t allow any smells to escape. 

2. Yes, you need to burry your poop and sometimes pack it out. 

Talking about using the bathroom, some hikers think simply adding a rock, stick, or some dirt on top will do the trick. Unfortunately, this can cause issues for wildlife and potentially contaminate water sources. LNT states to, “burry your poop in a 6-8″ deep hole at least 200 feet, 70 big steps, away from any water sources”. In more fragile areas, regulations may require you to pack out your waste, a detail you’ll find when researching or applying for a permit in that region.

3. Pick up others’ trash you see on the trail.

A lot of people think, “If it’s not my trash, why should I pick it up?” And while we can understand that mindset, it’s important to remember that no one’s perfect, not even you. Even if you’re super careful, a wrapper might blow away, lint could fall from your pocket, or you might still be learning how to better follow Leave No Trace principles. That’s why we always pick up litter when we see it. If we accidentally dropped something without realizing it, we’d hope someone else would do the same for us. It’s our way of paying it forward.

Quick tip: Always stash your trash in a zippered pocket so it can’t fall out. Again, we love using empty Trailtopia pouches as trash collectors. 

4. If the trail is muddy, still walk through it. 

Many of us know we should stay on the trail while hiking, but what if the trail is muddy or full of water? There are two key guidelines when it comes to muddy trails: either avoid them altogether to prevent causing damage, or if it’s a well-maintained trail, walk straight through the mud to avoid widening the path. The best way to stick to this is by wearing proper footwear, even on easier hikes, so you’re not tempted to sidestep puddles or soft spots.

5. Good tent spots are found, not made. 

Instead of moving rocks, clearing plants, or digging to make a spot more “comfortable,” keep looking until you find a durable surface like gravel, sand, or established dirt. Setting up camp where you don't have to move anything helps protect fragile vegetation and keeps wild places wild. If it takes a few extra minutes to find the right spot, it’s worth it for the long-term health of the trail.

Final Thoughts on 5 Ways to Reduce Your Impact While Hiking and Backpacking

Sustainability, especially in the backcountry, isn’t about being perfect. It’s a journey of awareness, small shifts, and progress over time. Every hiker and backpacker has room to grow, and each trip offers a chance to notice more, learn more, and do a little better. Reducing our impact isn’t about strictly following rules, it’s about respecting the ecosystems that support life, the trails we love, and future adventurers who will walk them after us. Whether it’s packing out your trash, picking up a stray wrapper, or simply sharing your knowledge, your actions matter. Together, we can protect the places that bring us peace, challenge, and joy, one step at a time.

If you have any other tips, please drop them in the comments below, and if you found this article useful, share it with your adventurous friends and family!