Counting While Camping

“Make time for the great outdoors.”

— Unknown

When I first moved to Colorado my main residence was a tent. Three years later I have a legit wood-framed roof (and plumbing #blessed), but I still love to break out my tent, grab my husband and Chiweenie, and go camping for the weekend whenever I can! Getting a mental recharge from the beautiful Mother Nature can be just what the doctor ordered. But is it even camping without s’mores and campsite brews?!

Believe it or not, sticking to your macros/nutrition plan while camping IS possible and can be nearly flawless with a little preparation.

Planning ahead is key!

Create a meal plan ahead of time and make a grocery list. Pre-log your days so you can fit in your campsite beverage of choice after tagging that mountain summit. ;)

Meal prepping before you head out can also be a huge help. Do you tend to be a little low on protein during the week? Be sure to cook up some chicken breast before you go. You can freeze your prepped meals to make them last longer or invest in a high-quality cooler and fill it to the brim.

To weigh or not to weigh? Go ahead and bring your scale if you’re new to the macro-counting lifestyle. Better yet, weigh and portion out your meals before you head to camp so all you have to do is reach in the cooler and chow down.

Your day might not be perfect when you’re out and about adventuring and that’s OK. Stick to the basics → Reach for lean protein and veggies first, stay hydrated, move your body & go on that long hike, and if you want to have a s’more later try to dial back your carbs earlier in the day. Remember, you’re out in the wilderness to have fun so don’t forget to enjoy yourself and acknowledge the beauty around you.

My favorite foods I packed on my last camping trip included shredded chicken (I could add it to anything or eat it plain), chicken salad wraps, apples, hard boiled eggs, sliced veggies, and bison jerky. Here’s my food packing list from my most recent three-day camping weekend:

Carbs:

Cucumber
Salsa
Tortilla chips
Oatmeal
Apples
Bananas (careful packing these)
Salad mix
Tortillas
Coleslaw

Fats:

Cheese
Avocado
Hummus
Nuts
Nut butter
Coconut oil

Proteins:

All natural beef/turkey/bison jerky
Tuna
Sausages/brats
Pre-cooked chicken breast
Deli meats (choose organic/all natural meats whenever possible)
Chicken salad
Whey protein powder
Hard-boiled eggs

It is possible to eat healthy during a camping weekend. Trust us!

Now go grab your tent and cooler and enjoy the great outdoors! Just don't forget to pack your meals and count your macros before you go! And don't forget to comment down below and let us know what you think of the blog!

Caroline Ofenstein, CFL1, Pn1

@carolineofenstein