Author Topic: Kosher Backpacking  (Read 723 times)

Offline MountainWest

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Kosher Backpacking
« on: May 27, 2025, 03:17:55 PM »
Anyone have experience with backpacking kosher (backpacking referring specifically to camping multiple days with only a backpack and no access to other supplies)?

Specifically, in the non-kosher world it is common is to buy dehydrated meals that come in a bag, to be able to fit meal for multiple days in a backpack with limited space. Filled up with water, these bags become entire meals.

Does anything like this exist kosher? The necessary components are space efficient, easy to cook, and complete nutrition for days.

In general, I’d love to hear some experience/TR’s of backpacking in the frum world, kosher, running into shabbos etc. searched the forums but couldn’t find anything that would be considered real backpacking. Bikepacking would also be fascinating  if anyone has experience, please share!

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #2 on: May 27, 2025, 03:36:19 PM »

Offline SSLPhD

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #3 on: May 27, 2025, 05:06:01 PM »
https://www.harmonyhousefoods.com/Q-A_ep_29.html?srsltid=AfmBOorpYKuI4IC6cAFaVBCWyrPjLFoq0fVOx3jLBDqomoMKFg6EYtIV

https://oukosher.org/companies/harmony-house-foods-inc/
I have tried some of the Harmony House meals, and they were little packets, not the kind that you would pour boiling water into.  You'd have to pour it into another container or the pot, which means washing. Not ideal for backpacking.  Also, they were only OK.  I believe I bought a variety pack, and there was maybe one flavor that I would've been OK to have multiple times on a trip.  I have also bought powdered eggs from REI, but have not yet convinced myself to try it.  Another option is to prepare your own dehydrated food; there is plenty info online about this.
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Offline Alexsei

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #4 on: May 27, 2025, 05:08:24 PM »
vemeredenuchyontif

Offline MountainWest

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #5 on: May 27, 2025, 05:12:55 PM »
Thanks for the input!
Harmony House looks like it could be a decent option, albeit with concern that @SSLPhD brought up.
XMRE looks to be a bit different than a classic backpacking meal, more of a focus on military style long lasting meals. Labriut link is also as efficient as what I’m referring to, that a backpacker would recognize. Something like this https://a.co/d/gTXZd8I


If anyone has personal experience with kosher backpacking trips I look forward to reading a TR :)

Offline Alexsei

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #6 on: May 27, 2025, 06:25:29 PM »
What do you do for multi day trips?

My BIL wants to do the Appalachian Trail but can't figure out a solution for Kosher food
vemeredenuchyontif

Offline justmeha

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #7 on: May 28, 2025, 05:37:15 PM »
Most serious backpackers are not eating freeze dried pre-packaged meals (the ones that you just need to pour in water) mostly due to the cost.

Instead they will either prepare homemade meals and dry them out or stick to simple meals, think romen, powdered mashed potatoes, oatmeal etc.

You can also choose to go without cooked meals. For example wraps and cold cuts (or wraps and cheese (not together ofc)) can work well (should stay good for a few days outside a fridge)

Washing dishes is very common on the trail as you will usually camp near a water source. So many people will cook in their trail pots or bowls
« Last Edit: May 28, 2025, 05:43:10 PM by justmeha »

Offline justmeha

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Re: Kosher Backpacking
« Reply #8 on: May 28, 2025, 05:39:21 PM »
What do you do for multi day trips?

My BIL wants to do the Appalachian Trail but can't figure out a solution for Kosher food
you carry food for a few days on your back ;D
When it comes to multi week trips like the AT you resupply every few days. Either in a grocery store or by pre-mailing yourself packages with homemade backpacking meals