7 Make-Ahead Camping Breakfasts to Keep You Energized on the Trail

When you’re out in nature, the last thing you want to do at dawn is spend time cooking a complicated breakfast. Whether you’re gearing up for an early morning hike or just want to get on the trail quickly, make-ahead camping breakfasts are the answer! These breakfast ideas can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious, energy-boosting meal without the hassle of cooking at camp.

We’ve compiled 7 make-ahead breakfasts that are perfect for fueling your day on the trail. These recipes are easy to prepare, packed with protein and fiber, and most importantly, they’ll keep you feeling energized and satisfied until lunchtime.

1. Overnight Oats: The Ultimate No-Cook Breakfast

Overnight oats are a classic for a reason. They’re simple to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and are fully customizable. With ingredients like oats, chia seeds, and your favorite toppings, this breakfast gives you long-lasting energy that will keep you fueled for your adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• Fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. In a mason jar or container, combine the oats, milk, chia seeds, and sweetener.
2. Stir well, seal the jar, and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, give it a good stir and top with fresh fruit, nuts, or granola.

Tip: For an added protein boost, mix in some nut butter or Greek yogurt.

2. Chia Pudding: A Power-Packed Breakfast

Chia pudding is another great make-ahead breakfast that’s high in protein, omega-3s, and fiber. Like overnight oats, chia seeds absorb liquid overnight to form a creamy, pudding-like consistency. You can easily prepare these the night before and store them in small jars or containers for an on-the-go breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or your choice of milk)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit, granola, or nuts for topping

Instructions:

1. Combine chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla in a jar or container.
2. Stir well and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
3. In the morning, top with fruit, granola, or a sprinkle of nuts.

Tip: For a chocolate version, add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mix!

3. Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos: Hearty and Filling

Breakfast burritos are ideal for campers who need something more substantial to get through the morning. You can prepare these burritos ahead of time, load them up with protein-rich eggs, cheese, and your favorite fillings, then wrap them in foil. In the morning, just heat them over the fire or in a skillet for a hearty, filling breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 8 scrambled eggs
• 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage (or plant-based alternatives)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salsa, avocado, or hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scramble the eggs in a skillet.
2. Lay the tortillas flat and distribute the scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheese evenly.
3. Roll up the tortillas, folding in the sides to seal them.
4. Wrap each burrito in foil and store in the fridge or freeze for longer storage.
5. To heat, place over the campfire or cook in a skillet until warmed through.

Tip: Add sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients.

4. Granola and Trail Mix Parfaits: Crunchy and Delicious

Granola parfaits are a fantastic, no-cook breakfast option. Simply layer Greek yogurt with granola, dried fruits, and nuts for a satisfying and balanced breakfast that will give you a quick burst of energy. These parfaits can be prepped in mason jars, making them portable and easy to grab on your way out the door.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (or your favorite yogurt)
• 1/2 cup granola
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
• 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Layer yogurt, granola, dried fruit, and nuts in mason jars or containers.
2. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
3. Seal the jars and refrigerate overnight.

Tip: For an added protein boost, you can mix some protein powder into the yogurt before layering.

5. Muffin Tin Omelets: Mini Breakfasts for the Whole Family

If you have a bit more time before your camping trip, muffin tin omelets are a great make-ahead option. These mini omelets are perfect for individual servings, and you can load them up with veggies, cheese, and meats. After baking, just store them in an airtight container and reheat them at the campsite.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Divide the vegetables, bacon/sausage, and cheese into muffin tins.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until set. Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container.

Tip: These omelets freeze well, so you can make a large batch in advance and take them on multiple trips.

6. Homemade Energy Bars: Grab-and-Go Fuel

When you need a quick breakfast or a snack for the trail, homemade energy bars are perfect. These bars are packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for sustained energy. They’re easy to make in advance and store in a resealable bag or container.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
• 1/4 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, dried fruit, and nuts.
2. Press the mixture into a greased baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
3. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container or resealable bag.

Tip: For a chocolaty twist, add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the mix.

7. Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps: Quick and Nutritious

When you’re really pressed for time, peanut butter and banana wraps are a simple yet satisfying breakfast option. They’re easy to make, packed with protein, and will give you the energy to power through the morning. These wraps are ideal for eating on the go or as a quick snack during a break on the trail.

Ingredients:

• 4 whole wheat tortillas
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 2 bananas, sliced
• A drizzle of honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Spread peanut butter on each tortilla.
2. Place sliced banana down the center of each wrap.
3. Roll up the tortillas and store them in a resealable bag or wrap in foil.