A year ago the folks at Backpantry’s Pantry were cool enough to let me order a bunch of their meals at a discount. I was heading to my alpine aspirant exam and needed quality, delicious food — but light and packable — for the long days hiking and climbing in the Cascades. I over-ordered and ended up with a good stash, enough to get me through my final alpine exam this fall. Lucky me!
The old rule used to be, the bigger you went, the easier it was to tolerate freeze-dried, backcountry meals. No longer, folks, because Backpacker’s Pantry has perfected the art of preparing and preserving good meals, ones you’ll actually look forward to eating. I swear. The Pad Thai, for example, is better than the same dish you’ll get in some restaurants. It’s one of my go-to faves.
You can also get organic meals, as well as gluten-free varieties (as well as no dairy, no soy, etc). Check out the Organic Spinach Puttanesca, Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce. All good, zero compromise, small and light, too!
Next time you’re bivying, take the easy, yummy option — Backpacker’s Pantry. Thanks, guys!
–Rob Coppolillo is an internationally certified mountain guide (IFMGA/AMGA) who lives in Boulder, Colorado. He’s co-founder of Vetta Mountain Guides and loves exploring the mountains with cool people. Drop him a line if you’re looking to climb rock, swing tools, or get some turns.
