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If you’re planning a camping trip and following a vegan diet, you might wonder what vegan camping food you can bring.
Fortunately, plenty of delicious and satisfying vegan options for camping meals and snacks exist.
Vegan camping food can be just as tasty and nourishing as non-vegan options, and it’s also a sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice.
Plant-based ingredients require less water and land and produce fewer greenhouse gases than animal-based products. So by choosing simple vegan camping food recipes, you’re not only nourishing yourself, but you’re also making a positive impact on the environment.
This blog post will share some ideas for vegan camping meals and snacks that are easy to pack and prepare while on the go. There are many options, from breakfast burritos and veggie skewers to s’mores and pasta salad.
We’ll also provide tips for planning and packing your vegan camping food to make your trip successful.
Whether an experienced camper or a beginner, these healthy vegan camping food ideas will help you enjoy delicious and satisfying meals while exploring the great outdoors.
If you want to spend less time meal planning and more time enjoying your adventures, keep these easy vegan camping food ideas and helpful tips bookmarked.
So let’s get started and see what vegan camping food options are!
Table of Contents
Valuable Tips You Should Keep in Mind When Planning Your Camping Trip
Nutrient intake
It’s essential to ensure you get all the necessary nutrients on a vegan diet. It includes protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. You can get these nutrients from various plant-based sources such as beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, seeds, and fortified plant-based milk and cereals.
Meal planning
Planning your meals ahead of time can help you to ensure that you are getting a balanced diet. It’s a good idea to include a variety of plant-based protein sources, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats in your meals.
Reading labels
Food labels are essential for vegans to avoid consuming animal products. It’s also important to look for hidden animal ingredients, such as honey, lanolin, and collagen, which may be found in some processed foods.
Stocking up on vegan pantry staples
A well-stocked pantry with vegan staples such as beans, grains, nuts, seeds, and plant-based milk can make preparing vegan meals at home easier.
Being mindful of social situations
Being vegan in a non-vegan world requires extra thought and effort. It’s essential to be aware of social situations and to communicate your dietary needs to others. It’s also helpful to have some ideas for vegan options to suggest when dining out or attending events.
Bring a cooler
A cooler is essential for keeping your perishable items fresh, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, tofu, and plant-based milk.
Pack a stove or grill
A portable stove or grill is handy for cooking camping meals. You can also use a campfire if it’s allowed in your camping area.
Consider packing some convenience items
If you want to save time cooking while camping, consider packing some items such as vegan protein bars, instant oats, and pre-made soups.
Pack a water filter
A water filter can help purify the water you gather from natural sources. It will give you a reliable source of clean water for cooking and drinking.
Vegan Protein Sources
We know that people on a vegan diet usually worry if they will have enough protein.
There are many plant-based sources of protein that vegans can include in their diet.
Beans and legumes
These include lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, and soybeans.
Tofu
It is made from soybeans and is a good protein source. It can be grilled, stir-fried, or used in soups and stews.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and sunflower seeds are good protein sources. They can be eaten as a snack or added to salads, cereals, and baked goods.
Grains
Grains such as quinoa, oats, and wheat are good protein sources. You can use them in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Plant-based milk
Many plant-based kinds of milk, such as soy, almond, and oat, are fortified with protein. They can be used in smoothies and cereals and as a substitute for dairy milk in cooking and baking.
Vegan-Friendly Grocery List
| Rice | Pasta | Quinoa | Dried beans or lentils | Nuts and seeds | Dried fruit | Energy bars |
| Plant-based milk | Tofu | Vegan cheese | Vegan protein powder (optional) | Fresh fruit and vegetables | Vegan sour cream | Vegan mayonnaise |
| Soy sauce | Olive oil | Hot sauce | Garlic powder | Paprika | Spices and herbs | Peanut butter |
| Nut butter | Hummus | Chips | Salsa | Tortillas | Bread | Crackers |
| Popcorn | Marshmallows | Graham Crackers | Chocolate | Peanut butter cups (optional) | Instant oats | Pre-made soups (optional) |
Kitchen Essentials To Consider Packing For Your Trip
- Stove: A camp stove is essential for cooking while camping. Choose a stove appropriate for your needs, such as a propane stove for car camping or a compact, lightweight stove for backpacking.
- Pots and pans: Pack pots and pans suitable for your cooking needs. If you plan on cooking over a fire, consider packing a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven.
- Utensils: Pack a variety of utensils such as spoons, forks, knives, spatulas, and tongs to help with meal prep and cooking.
- Cooler: A cooler is essential for storing perishable items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, and vegan yogurt. Make sure to pack your cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs to keep the food at a safe temperature.
- Water bottles or hydration system: Pack plenty of water bottles or a hydration system to stay hydrated while camping.
- Dishwashing supplies: Pack dishwashing supplies such as dish soap, scrub brushes, and a towel to help clean up after meals.
Vegan Camping Food Recipes – Breakfast
1. Vegan Breakfast Burritos
Ingredients:
- 4 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
Directions:
- Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface.
- Divide the tortillas among the black beans, rice, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and vegan shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle the cilantro over the top of the filling.
- Roll the tortillas into burritos and secure them with toothpicks.
- Wrap the burritos in foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to eat them.
- To reheat the burritos, place them in a pan over medium heat or on the grill or campfire until heated.
- Serve the burritos with vegan sour cream and your favorite toppings.
2. Vegan Breakfast Tacos
Ingredients:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
- 2 tablespoons salsa
Directions:
- Heat a pan over medium heat.
- Add in the tofu and vegetables and cook until they are tender about 5-7 minutes.
- Divide the tofu and vegetable mixture among the corn tortillas.
- Top the tacos with vegan shredded cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and salsa.
- Serve the tacos hot, and enjoy.
3. Vegan Breakfast Hash
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add in the potatoes and vegetables and cook until they are tender about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the tofu and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the vegan shredded cheese over the top of the hash and cook until melted.
- Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the top of the hash before serving.
4. Vegan Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 sliced banana
- 1/2 cup fresh berries
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Directions:
- Mix the rolled oats, plant-based milk, chia seeds, and sliced banana in a jar or container.
- Cover the jar and refrigerate it overnight.
- In the morning, top the oats with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Enjoy the cold oats or heat them in a pan, on the grill, or at camp.
Vegan Camping Food Recipes – Lunch
1. Vegan Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bread
- 4 slices of vegan cheese
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
Directions:
- Heat a pan or grill over medium heat.
- Place the vegan cheese between the slices of bread.
- Spread the vegan butter on the outside of the sandwiches.
- Place the sandwiches in the pan or grill and cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve the sandwiches hot, and enjoy.
2. Vegan Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
- 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Mix the cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, tofu, and fresh herbs in a large bowl.
- Stir in the vegan mayonnaise and vegan sour cream.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
3. Vegan Peanut Noodles
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of rice noodles
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots)
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
- Whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable broth in a small bowl.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced vegetables. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice noodles and peanut sauce to the pan with the vegetables and toss until the noodles are coated in the sauce.
- Serve the peanut noodles hot, garnished with chopped peanuts.
4. Vegan Chickpea Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
- 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Mix the cooked chickpeas, diced vegetables, cucumber, avocado, and fresh herbs in a large bowl.
- Stir in the vegan mayonnaise and vegan sour cream.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
5. Vegan Wrap Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- 4 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
Directions:
- Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface.
- Divide the tortillas among the black beans, rice, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and vegan shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle the cilantro over the top of the filling.
- Roll the tortillas into wraps and secure them with toothpicks.
- Serve the wraps with vegan sour cream and your favorite toppings.
Vegan Camping Food Recipes – Dinner
1. Vegan Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked kidney beans
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, lentils, and tofu.
- Pour the vegetable broth and stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the chili to a simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, about 20-25 minutes.
- Serve the chili hot, and enjoy.
2. Vegan Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped peanut
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the tofu and vegetables and cook until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce.
- Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top of the stir-fry before serving.
3. Vegan Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
- 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix pasta, diced vegetables, chickpeas, vegan shredded cheese, and fresh herbs in a large bowl.
- Stir in the vegan mayonnaise and vegan sour cream.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad cold or at room temperature.
4. Vegan Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Brush the portobello mushrooms with the marinade on both sides.
- Place the mushrooms on the grill or pan and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve the grilled mushrooms hot, and enjoy.
5. Vegan BBQ Tempeh Skewers
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces tempeh
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
- 2 tablespoons vegan BBQ sauce
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Cut the tempeh into small cubes and thread them onto skewers with the diced vegetables.
- Brush the skewers with vegan BBQ sauce on all sides.
- Grill the skewers until the tempeh and vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve the skewers hot, and enjoy.
Vegan Camping Food Recipes – Snack
1. Vegan Energy Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseeds
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts)
- 1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (such as apricots or raisins)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Mix the rolled oats, ground flaxseeds, chopped nuts, dried fruit, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
- Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate them until they are firm.
- Serve the energy bites as a snack or pack them for the go.
2. Vegan Trail Mix
Ingredients:
- 1 cup nuts (such as almonds or peanuts)
- 1 cup dried fruit (such as apricots or raisins)
- 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
- 1 cup coconut flakes
Directions:
- Mix the nuts, dried fruit, vegan chocolate chips, and coconut flakes in a large bowl.
- Serve the trail mix as a snack or pack it for the go.
3. Vegan S’mores
Ingredients:
- 4 vegan graham crackers
- 4 vegan marshmallows
- 4 squares of vegan chocolate
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Place a vegan marshmallow and a square of vegan chocolate on top of one of the graham crackers.
- Top the marshmallow and chocolate with another vegan graham cracker.
- Grill the s’more until the marshmallow is gooey and the chocolate has melted, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Serve the s’mores hot, and enjoy.
4. Vegan Banana Boats
Ingredients:
- 4 bananas
- 4 squares of vegan chocolate
- 4 tablespoons chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts)
- 4 tablespoons shredded coconut
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Slice the bananas lengthwise and stuff them with vegan chocolate and chopped nuts.
- Place the bananas on the grill or pan and cook until the chocolate has melted and the bananas are tender about 5-7 minutes.
- Top the bananas with shredded coconut before serving.
5. Vegan Fruit Kebabs
Ingredients:
- 4 skewers
- 1 cup diced fruit (such as pineapple, apples, and pears)
- 2 tablespoons melted vegan chocolate
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts)
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Thread the diced fruit onto the skewers.
- Grill the kebabs until the fruit is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brush the kebabs with melted vegan chocolate and sprinkle them with chopped nuts before serving.
FAQ
What vegan camping food to pack for the next adventure?
Nutritious and filling foods: Pack foods high in protein and fiber to keep you full and energized during your trip. Some good options include nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, and tofu.
Non-perishable foods: Pack non-perishable foods that have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration, such as dried fruits, nuts, and seeds.
Quick and easy-to-prepare meals: Pack meals that are easy to prepare and don’t require much time or cooking equipment. Some good options include energy bars, trail mix, granola, and pre-made sandwiches.
Pack a cooler: If you can access a cooler, pack perishable items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, and vegan yogurt.
Remember snacks: Pack plenty of snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day, such as energy bars, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
How do you eat a whole food plant-based while camping?
Pack a variety of whole, plant-based foods: Pack a variety of whole, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. These foods are highly nutrient-rich and can be easily integrated into your meals.
Plan your meals ahead of time: Planning your meals can help ensure you have all the ingredients you need and make meal prep easier. Consider packing components for simple, easy-to-prepare meals such as stir-fries, salads, and wraps.
Use a cooler: If you can access a cooler, pack perishable items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, and vegan yogurt.
Pack cooking equipment: Pack the cooking equipment you’ll need to prepare your meals, such as a stove, pots, pans, and utensils.
Use a campfire or grill: Campfires and grills are a great way to cook whole food and plant-based meals while camping. Consider grilling vegetables, tofu, and fruit skewers or making a vegan stew or chili over the campfire.
What are good camping snacks for vegans?
Energy bars: Convenient and portable snack that is easy to pack and can provide a quick energy boost. Look for bars with whole, plant-based ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Nuts and seeds: High in protein and healthy fats and can be a satisfying snack while camping. Pack a variety of nuts and seeds, such as almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
Dried fruit: Tasty and portable snack that can provide a burst of natural sweetness. Pack various dried fruit, such as apricots, raisins, and cranberries.
Granola: Tasty and nutritious snack you can easily pack for a camping trip. Look for granola with whole, plant-based ingredients such as oats, nuts, and seeds.
Vegan jerky: Tasty and satisfying snack you can easily pack for a camping trip. Look for jerky with plant-based ingredients such as tofu, seitan, or tempeh.
How to store vegan camping food?
Use a cooler: A cooler is an essential piece of equipment for storing camping food, especially perishable items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, and vegan yogurt. Make sure to pack your cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs to keep the food at a safe temperature.
Keep non-perishable foods in a dry, cool place: Non-perishable foods such as nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and granola can store in a dry, cool place such as a pantry or cupboard.
Use airtight containers: Pack your food to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting damaged.
Store food properly in the campsite: Store your food correctly to prevent contamination. Keep food in a cool, dry place, away from animals and insects. If you’re using a cooler, keep it in a shaded area to keep it from getting too warm.
Label and date your food: Label and date your food to help keep track of what you have and when you should use it. It can help prevent food waste and ensure that you eat fresh food.
What are the best cheap, quick vegan camping meals?
Pasta with marinara sauce and vegetables: You can easily prepare this simple and affordable meal on a camping stove. Boil some pasta according to the package instructions, then toss it with marinara sauce and diced vegetables.
Vegan wraps: Wraps are a convenient and portable meal you can prepare on a camping stove or over a fire. Fill a wrap with various vegan fillings such as beans, tofu, vegetables, and hummus.
Vegan grain bowls: Grain bowls are a tasty and filling meal you can prepare on a camping stove. Cook some grains such as quinoa or rice, then top them with vegan toppings such as beans, tofu, vegetables, and avocado.
Vegan burritos: Burritos are a convenient meal you can prepare on a camping stove or over a fire. Fill a tortilla with various vegan fillings such as beans, tofu, vegetables, and guacamole.
Vegan sandwiches: Sandwiches are a quick and easy meal you can prepare for a camping trip. Fill a sandwich with various vegan fillings such as hummus, tofu, vegetables, and avocado.
What To Do Next?
Now, take your favorite recipes and head for a nature escape! We hope you found helpful vegan camping food ideas and tips for your next plant-based adventure by reading this article.
Also, we’ve put together our valuable lists of best camping breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas, so make sure to check them.
What do you think about this article? Feel free to write your thoughts, experience, and some fun stories in the comments. We would like to hear from you! Thank you
