#165 Becoming a Backcountry Foodie with Aaron Owens

Text the show!Aaron Owens runs “Backcountry Foodie,” a one-stop shop for backpackers and long-distance hikers who want to level up their food game in the backcountry.  From ultra-light food recipes and meal planners to a robust calorie calculator and resupply service, Aaron has you covered.  She loves backcountry food so much that she’ll even pack your food bag for you and ship it to your home so all you need to do is toss it in your pack and head out the door! Key Takeaways:Food plays a crucial role in backpacking and can impact performance and enjoyment on the trailCreating a diverse menu with foods that you enjoy from home can help maintain energy levels and prevent boredomUnderstanding your caloric needs and eating regularly throughout the day is essential for sustained energy and avoiding bonkingWhile junk food can provide quick energy, it's important to balance it with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats for optimal performanceTransitioning to a new diet on the trail should be done gradually to avoid digestive issues and other negative effects on the body.Customize your meal plans based on your hiking strategy and preferences.Maximize the nutritional value of each bite by incorporating combination foodsEat every hour to hour and a half to maintain energy levels throughout the dayConsider freeze-drying your own meals for a lightweight and personalized backpacking experienceKeep a hiking food journal to track what works and what doesn't for future tripsShow Notes and Links:Aaron's BackstoryThe Importance of Food in BackpackingCreating a Diverse MenuUnderstanding Caloric IntakeThe Importance of Eating RegularlyThe Pros and Cons of a Junk Food DietTransitioning to a New Diet and Its EffectsEmergency Food and SnacksCustomized Meal Plans Based on Hiking StrategyMaximizing Caloric IntakeCombination FoodsEating for Warmth in Cold WeatherEating on the GoPalette ChangesFreeze DryingFoodie Serviceshttps://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/53/https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodiehttps://www.youtube.com/c/BackcountryFoodiehttps://www.facebook.com/backcountryfoodieSupport the showThanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show emory@byland.co