5 mistakes every experienced and non experienced hiker/rucker and camper makes regularly
Reject The Modern World Co.
Cooking at camp is usually straightforward, right? Ingredients go in the pot or pan—don't burn it and you're done. For new hikers or ruckers, something often overlooked can ruin your meal or lead to injury. Let's discuss what we can do to mitigate some potential disasters on our adventure.
Mistake 1: You Brought Too Much Food
Overpacking is easy to do, especially when it comes to the nutrients we need. Most people often aim for taste in tandem with function. We easily get excited about our trip but do not put much thought into the dangers of overpacking or underpacking high-caloric meals for our adventures. Consider sacrificing taste with more caloric and protein-dense substitutes that take up less room and weigh less.
Mistake 2: Handling Hot Pots Incorrectly
Avoid leaving pot handles folded in while cooking. Many pots conduct and maintain heat very well for long periods of time, even after we finish cooking. Keep pot handles extended to avoid burns, and always use a rag or heat-rated gloves for handling pot handles.
Mistake 3: Pouring Boiling Water Unsafely
Prepacked meals you get from places like REI or your local outdoor store are great for hiking, rucking, and camping trips. But their containers are very thin. It's important to be careful how we pour the water into containers that might burn us if we are handling them. Instead, consider placing the container between a couple of rocks and letting the food sit for a short period before handling.
Mistake 4: Using Inadequate Utensils
Small spoons or sporks can be difficult to use in our prepacked meals because of their depth. As you eat the meal from the top, occasionally squeeze the bottom and roll the empty portion up, kind of like you do with your toothpaste container at home when it runs low.
Mistake 5: Hygiene Neglect
Most importantly, not sanitizing or washing hands whenever the situation allows. Always pack soap or sanitizer and ensure hands are cleaned before handling food.
