Top 5 Backpacking Cheeses: Your Trail Food Guide

by

Imagine this: You’ve hiked all day, the sun is setting, and you’re ready for a delicious, hearty meal. But what’s better than a simple dinner? A dinner made even more special with a slice of your favorite cheese. But when you’re miles from civilization, choosing the perfect cheese for your backpack isn’t as easy as it sounds.

Many cheeses spoil quickly in the heat or turn into a greasy mess. You want something that travels well, tastes great, and gives you the energy you need for your adventures. It can be frustrating to end up with a crumbly, bland cheese that just doesn’t hit the spot after a long day on the trail.

In this post, we’ll explore the best cheeses for backpacking. You’ll learn what makes a cheese trail-ready, discover delicious options that won’t let you down, and get tips on how to store them. Get ready to upgrade your backcountry meals and make your next camping trip a cheesy success!

Our Top 5 Backpacking Cheese Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Backpacking Cheese Detailed Reviews

1. Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese

Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | Vegetarian | 2 Servings

Rating: 8.5/10

Craving comfort food on your next adventure? Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. This vegetarian freeze-dried meal packs a creamy, cheesy punch that’s perfect for refueling after a long day on the trail or by the campfire. It’s designed for ultimate convenience, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the hassle.

What We Like:

  • It’s incredibly delicious. The macaroni noodles swim in a smooth, very cheesy sauce.
  • Freeze-drying keeps the nutrients and freshness locked in.
  • You don’t need a refrigerator, making it super easy to pack.
  • It contains no artificial preservatives or flavors.
  • The pouch is lightweight and portable, ideal for backpacking and camping.
  • Preparation is quick and easy – just add hot water and wait less than 10 minutes.
  • You can eat it straight from the pouch, which means no dishes to wash!
  • The pouch is designed to be more bowl-like for easier eating.
  • It’s also great for emergency food storage.
  • Mountain House partners with TerraCycle to recycle used packaging, reducing waste.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While two servings are provided, it might be just enough for one very hungry person.
  • The taste, while good, might not perfectly replicate homemade mac and cheese for some.

This Mountain House Creamy Macaroni & Cheese delivers on its promise of a tasty, easy meal in the great outdoors. It’s a reliable option for anyone seeking a hearty and satisfying vegetarian meal on their adventures.

2. Moon Cheese Variety Pack

Moon Cheese Variety Pack, Cheddar, Gouda & Pepper Jack, Crunchy, Protein-Rich Cheese Snack, Gluten Free, Keto Friendly, 100% Real Cheese, 2 Ounce (Pack of 3)

Rating: 9.3/10

Get ready for an out-of-this-world snacking experience with the Moon Cheese Variety Pack! This pack includes three delicious flavors: Cheddar Believe It, Oh My Gouda, and Get Pepper Jacked. Each bag is packed with crunchy, protein-rich cheese bites that are perfect for any time of day. They are made with 100% real cheese and are gluten-free and keto-friendly, making them a great choice for many diets.

What We Like:

  • These cheese snacks are incredibly rich, savory, and delicious.
  • You get three fantastic flavors in one variety pack.
  • They are packed with protein and calcium, which is great for energy and strong bones.
  • The crunchy texture is super satisfying and different from regular cheese.
  • They are gluten-free and keto-friendly, fitting into many healthy eating plans.
  • Moon Cheese is a convenient, on-the-go snack that you can take anywhere.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 2-ounce bags might be a bit small for some snackers.
  • While tasty, the strong flavors might not be for everyone.

If you’re looking for a satisfying, protein-packed snack that tastes amazing, this Moon Cheese Variety Pack is definitely worth trying. It’s a cheesy adventure your taste buds will thank you for.

3. Mountain House Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac & Cheese

Mountain House Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac & Cheese | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 2 Servings

Rating: 9.4/10

Craving a taste of home on the trail? Mountain House Buffalo-Style Chicken Mac & Cheese delivers that familiar, comforting flavor in a convenient freeze-dried package. This meal is designed for adventurers who don’t want to sacrifice taste for portability. It’s packed with pasta, chicken, and veggies in a zesty cheese sauce, making it a satisfying option after a long day of exploring.

What We Like:

  • It tastes like real comfort food!
  • It’s super easy to make – just add hot water.
  • You can eat it right out of the pouch, so there’s no messy cleanup.
  • The meal is lightweight, which is great for carrying in your backpack.
  • It’s made with good ingredients, no fake stuff.
  • It has a really long shelf life, so it’s good for emergencies too.
  • You can recycle the pouches for free to help the environment.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While delicious, the “buffalo-style” spice level might be a bit mild for true spice lovers.
  • The pouch takes up a bit more space than some other ultralight backpacking meals.

This Mountain House meal is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a hearty and familiar meal while enjoying the outdoors. It offers a great balance of taste, convenience, and quality ingredients for your next adventure.

4. Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded

Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded | Amazing Taste & Quality | Perfect for Snacking, Backpacking, Camping, or Home Meals | Emergency Survival Food Storage | 25 Year Shelf-Life (1-Pack)

Rating: 8.5/10

Get ready for delicious and versatile cheese with Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded! This cheese is a fantastic option for anyone who loves cheddar, whether you’re heading out on an adventure or just want a quick and tasty addition to your meals. It’s made with great ingredients for a savory flavor that works perfectly in many dishes.

What We Like:

  • Amazing Taste & Quality: This shredded cheese tastes really good! It stays fresh and savory even after being freeze-dried.
  • Super Versatile: You can use it for camping, backpacking, everyday cooking, or keeping it for emergencies. It’s great for pizza, mac and cheese, nachos, and more.
  • Long Shelf-Life: It can last for an impressive 25 years, making it a smart choice for your emergency food supply.
  • Easy to Prepare: Just add water to rehydrate it for cooking, or enjoy it as a healthy snack right out of the can.
  • Great Value: Each can has 40 servings, which is a lot of cheese for your money.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Nutristore backs their product with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Can Size: While convenient, a #10 can might be bulky for very small backpacks.
  • Rehydration Texture: Some people might notice a slight difference in texture compared to fresh shredded cheese after rehydration.

Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded offers convenience and great taste for any occasion. It’s a reliable choice for both your pantry and your adventure kit.

5. Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles

Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 2 Servings

Rating: 9.0/10

When you’re out exploring the great outdoors, you need food that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. The Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 2 Servings offers a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any adventure. Since 1969, Mountain House has been creating tasty comfort food, and this freeze-dried version is no exception. It packs tender beef, savory mushrooms, and onions into a creamy sauce, all ready to eat in minutes.

What We Like:

  • This meal tastes really good. It’s like a warm hug in a pouch.
  • It’s super light and easy to carry in your backpack.
  • You just add hot water, and it’s ready to eat in under 10 minutes.
  • There are no extra fillers, just good quality ingredients.
  • It doesn’t have any artificial flavors or colors.
  • It lasts a very long time, so it’s great for emergencies too.
  • Mountain House offers a 30-Year Taste Guarantee.
  • You can recycle the pouches for free through TerraCycle.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some might find the sodium content a bit high.
  • The creamy sauce might be too rich for some palates.

Overall, Mountain House Beef Stroganoff is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a tasty and convenient meal on the go. It’s a reliable option that delivers on flavor and ease.

Your Trail Companion: A Guide to Backpacking Cheese

Heading into the wild? Don’t forget your cheese! Backpacking cheese is a game-changer for any outdoor adventure. It’s a tasty, protein-packed fuel that makes your meals way more exciting. But not all cheeses are created equal for the trail. This guide will help you pick the best cheese for your next trip.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing backpacking cheese, think about what makes it trail-ready.

Shelf Stability:

The best cheeses don’t need refrigeration. They can sit in your pack for days without spoiling. This is super important when you don’t have a cooler.

Durability:

You want cheese that can handle being bumped around. Harder cheeses are less likely to get mushy or break apart.

Flavor:

Of course, it has to taste good! Cheese adds a burst of flavor to simple trail meals like pasta or crackers.

Nutritional Value:

Cheese is a great source of protein and fat. This gives you the energy you need for long hikes.

Important Materials (Types of Cheese)

The “materials” of cheese are really the types of cheese themselves. Some are better for backpacking than others.

  • Hard Cheeses: Think cheddar, gouda, or Gruyère. These cheeses are aged and have less moisture. This makes them naturally more resistant to spoiling and crushing.
  • Semi-Hard Cheeses: Cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack can also work. They are a bit softer but still hold up pretty well.
  • Processed Cheese: Some processed cheeses can be good because they are designed for longer shelf life. Just check the ingredients if you’re picky.
  • Soft Cheeses to Avoid: Cheeses like brie, camembert, or fresh mozzarella are usually a no-go for backpacking. They spoil quickly and can become a gooey mess.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes a cheese a winner or a loser on the trail?

Improves Quality:
  • Aging: Longer-aged cheeses have less water. This makes them last longer and taste sharper.
  • Fat Content: A good amount of fat helps cheese stay firm and adds flavor.
  • Packaging: Vacuum-sealed cheese lasts longer and stays fresher.
Reduces Quality:
  • High Moisture Content: Cheeses with lots of water spoil faster and can get moldy.
  • Soft Texture: Soft cheeses can melt, get squished, and become unappetizing.
  • Exposure to Heat: Even durable cheeses can suffer if left in direct sun for too long.

User Experience and Use Cases

How do people actually use backpacking cheese? The experience is usually great because it elevates simple meals.

  • Trailside Snacks: Slice some cheddar onto crackers for an instant, satisfying snack.
  • Meal Enhancer: Stir grated Parmesan into your dehydrated pasta or rice for a creamy, cheesy boost.
  • Breakfast Boost: Add some cheese to your morning eggs or breakfast burritos.
  • Sandwich Star: Layer slices of Swiss or provolone onto your lunchtime sandwiches.

When you find the right cheese, your trail food goes from basic to brilliant. It’s a simple way to add comfort and deliciousness to your adventure.

Backpacking Cheese FAQs

Q: What is the best type of cheese for backpacking?

A: Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan are usually the best. They don’t spoil easily and hold their shape.

Q: Do I need to keep backpacking cheese cold?

A: No, good backpacking cheese is shelf-stable. It’s made to last without refrigeration.

Q: How long can I keep cheese on a backpacking trip?

A: Most hard cheeses can last for several days to a week, depending on the weather and how it’s stored.

Q: What makes a cheese spoil quickly?

A: Cheeses with high moisture content and soft textures spoil faster. They are more likely to grow mold.

Q: Can I bring string cheese backpacking?

A: Yes, string cheese is a good option. It’s individually wrapped and pretty durable.

Q: How should I store cheese in my backpack?

A: Keep it in its original packaging or a resealable bag. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat.

Q: Will cheese melt in my backpack?

A: Hard cheeses are less likely to melt. Soft cheeses might get gooey if it’s very hot.

Q: What are some good cheese pairings for trail snacks?

A: Cheese goes well with crackers, jerky, dried fruit, and nuts.

Q: Is aged cheese better for backpacking?

A: Yes, aged cheeses have less water and are more durable, making them ideal for the trail.

Q: Can I eat cheese that has a little bit of condensation on it?

A: A little condensation is usually okay, especially if it’s a hard cheese. Wipe it off and eat it soon.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.