Have you ever been miles away from civilization, stomach rumbling, and wishing for a delicious, easy-to-eat treat? Backpacking is an amazing adventure, but finding good food that’s lightweight and won’t spoil can be tricky. Choosing the right backpacking bars is super important for your trip!
There are so many different bars out there! You might feel confused about which ones are healthy, tasty, and won’t crumble into a million pieces in your backpack. Some bars are packed with sugar, while others taste like cardboard. Figuring out the best ones can be a real headache. It’s tough to know what to choose before you’re already on the trail and hungry!
Don’t worry! This post will help you become a backpacking bar expert. We’ll explore the best options, explaining what to look for, and sharing tips to make your next hiking trip even better. Get ready to discover the perfect bars to keep you fueled and happy on your next outdoor adventure. Now, let’s dive into the best backpacking bars!
Our Top 5 Backpacking Bars Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpacking Bars Detailed Reviews
1. Greenbelly Backpacking Meals
Rating: 9.1/10
Greenbelly Backpacking Meals are the perfect solution for hungry hikers! These all-natural hiking meal bars are designed to give you a full meal on the go. Each pouch has two big, fluffy bars. They are ready to eat, so you don’t need to cook or clean. With 650 calories and lots of protein, they will keep you going on the trail. These bars are made with real, healthy ingredients. They taste great, too! A chef made them, so they taste yummy.
What We Like:
- These meals are ready to eat. No cooking is needed!
- Each pouch gives you 650 calories. You get a lot of energy.
- The ingredients are all-natural and gluten-free.
- They taste great! They are like a cereal bar, but better.
- The company offers a Trail Guarantee. They want you to be happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product’s cons are not mentioned in the given features.
Greenbelly Backpacking Meals are a great choice for hikers. They are easy, tasty, and packed with energy. You will love them on your next adventure!
2. CLIF BAR – Variety Pack – 6 Flavors – Made with Organic Oats – Energy Bars – Non-GMO – Plant Based Protein Bars (16 Pack)
Rating: 9.5/10
Need a tasty energy boost? The CLIF BAR Variety Pack has you covered! This pack includes 16 energy bars in six yummy flavors. You’ll find classic favorites like Chocolate Chip and Crunchy Peanut Butter. These bars are made with good stuff like organic oats. They give you energy for your adventures!
What We Like:
- The variety pack has many flavors. You won’t get bored!
- The bars use plant-based ingredients.
- They give you energy for a long time. Great for hiking and biking.
- The bars are made in eco-friendly bakeries.
- They are easy to grab and go. Perfect for busy days!
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might not like all the flavors in the pack.
- The packaging may vary.
These CLIF BARs are a good choice for active people. They give you energy and taste great. Try them out for your next adventure!
3. Range Meal Bar – High Calorie Meal Replacement Bars – Gluten Free Bars – Backpacking Meals – 6 Pack (Chocolate
Rating: 8.5/10
Need a quick and easy meal on the go? The Range Meal Bar is a high-calorie meal replacement bar designed for adventure! This 6-pack offers delicious flavors like Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Coffee. These gluten-free bars are perfect for backpackers, hikers, or anyone needing a convenient energy boost. Each bar is packed with high-quality ingredients and offers a long shelf life. They are a great alternative to other meal replacement options.
What We Like:
- HIGH CALORIE: Each bar gives you a whopping 700 calories to fuel your body.
- GLUTEN FREE: The bars are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- ULTRALIGHT & CONVENIENT: They are small and easy to carry in your pocket or backpack. No water needed!
- HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS & VEGETARIAN: They use natural sweeteners and protein sources. The bars are vegetarian, and one flavor is vegan.
- LONG SHELF LIFE: The bars have a 15-month shelf life.
What Could Be Improved:
- Shelf life may not be ideal for very long-term storage.
The Range Meal Bar is a fantastic option for anyone who needs a quick, tasty, and filling meal replacement. These bars are a smart choice for your next adventure!
4. PROBAR – Meal Bar 12 Flavor Variety Pack – Natural Energy
Rating: 9.2/10
Need a quick and healthy meal? The PROBAR Meal Bar Variety Pack is a great choice. These bars give you energy from plant-based ingredients. They are perfect for busy days or outdoor adventures. This pack includes 12 bars, and the flavors might change. Each bar is packed with natural ingredients to keep you going.
What We Like:
- The bars are gluten-free and soy-free. This is good for people with allergies or dietary needs.
- They are Non-GMO Project Verified. You can be sure the ingredients are safe.
- Each bar has 360-410 calories. This is enough to keep you full.
- The bars use real ingredients. This gives your body wholesome nutrients.
- They use plant-based protein and fiber. This comes from nuts and flax seeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- The flavors may vary. You might not always get your favorite.
- The nutritional information is on the packaging. You need to check it to see the fat content.
Overall, the PROBAR Meal Bar Variety Pack is a convenient and healthy snack option. They are a good way to get energy on the go.
5. RXBAR Protein Bars
Rating: 9.3/10
Need a quick and tasty protein boost? The RXBAR Protein Bars Variety Pack is a great option! This pack gives you three delicious flavors: Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and Chocolate Sea Salt. These bars are made with simple ingredients. They are perfect for a quick snack at the office, before a workout, or when you’re on the go. Each box has 10 bars, so you’ll have plenty to share or enjoy yourself.
What We Like:
- Delicious flavors like Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and Chocolate Sea Salt.
- Made with simple, recognizable ingredients.
- High in protein – each bar has 12g!
- Gluten-free and Kosher Pareve.
- Great for a quick snack anytime, anywhere.
What Could Be Improved:
- Contains nuts and eggs, so not for everyone.
- Some people may find the texture a bit chewy.
Overall, the RXBAR Variety Pack is a convenient and tasty way to get your protein fix. These bars offer a good balance of flavor and nutrition, making them a good choice for a healthy snack.
Backpacking Bars: Your On-the-Go Fuel Guide
Going on a backpacking trip? You will need food that is easy to carry. Backpacking bars are a great choice! This guide will help you pick the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
- Calories: You need energy! Look for bars with at least 200 calories. If you are doing a lot of hiking, you might need more.
- Protein: Protein helps your muscles. Find bars with 5-10 grams of protein.
- Fiber: Fiber keeps you feeling full. Choose bars with 3-5 grams of fiber.
- Size and Shape: Bars should fit easily in your backpack. Think about if they are easy to eat on the go.
- Taste: You should enjoy eating your bars. Try different flavors!
Important Materials
- Nuts and Seeds: These add protein and healthy fats. They also give the bars texture.
- Dried Fruits: Dried fruits give sweetness and fiber. Examples are raisins, cranberries, and apricots.
- Oats: Oats provide carbohydrates for energy. They also help hold the bar together.
- Protein Powders: Many bars use protein powder. This helps boost the protein content.
- Binders: Ingredients like honey or syrups help the bar stick together.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Ingredient List: Shorter is usually better. Fewer ingredients often mean the bar is less processed.
- Sugar Content: Too much sugar is not good. Look for bars with less added sugar.
- Artificial Ingredients: Try to avoid artificial flavors and colors.
- Packaging: The packaging should protect the bar. It should also be easy to open and reseal.
- Expiration Date: Always check the expiration date! You don’t want to eat a stale bar.
- Price: Compare the price of different bars. Consider the cost per bar.
User Experience and Use Cases
Backpacking bars are very useful. You can eat them for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
- Breakfast: A bar can be a quick breakfast before you start hiking.
- Lunch: Eat a bar for lunch on the trail. It is easy to eat while walking.
- Snacks: Use bars as a snack between meals. This will keep your energy up.
- Emergency Food: Keep a bar in your pack as emergency food.
- Post-Workout: A bar can help your body recover after a long day of hiking.
Backpacking bars are convenient. They are easy to carry and eat. They also give you the energy you need to enjoy your trip.
Backpacking Bar FAQs
Q: What are the best backpacking bars for energy?
A: Look for bars with lots of calories and carbohydrates. Some bars use oats for energy.
Q: How many backpacking bars should I bring on a trip?
A: Plan for about 1-3 bars per day. The number depends on how long you hike and how much energy you need.
Q: Are backpacking bars healthy?
A: Some bars are healthy. They contain nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Read the ingredients list to find the best ones.
Q: Can I make my own backpacking bars?
A: Yes! You can find many recipes online. This lets you control the ingredients.
Q: How do I store backpacking bars in my backpack?
A: Keep them in a dry place. Avoid crushing them by putting them near the top of your pack.
Q: What if I have allergies?
A: Read the ingredients carefully! Look for bars without ingredients you are allergic to.
Q: What are the best backpacking bars for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Many bars are vegetarian or vegan. Check the label for any animal products.
Q: Do backpacking bars melt in the heat?
A: Some bars melt easier than others. Choose bars that hold their shape well in warm weather.
Q: What are some good backpacking bar brands?
A: There are many brands! Some popular ones include RXBAR, Clif Bar, and KIND bars. Try different ones to find your favorite.
Q: Can I give backpacking bars to kids?
A: Yes, but choose bars with less sugar. They are good for kids during outdoor activities.
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.

Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.