In this article, we will discuss my top ten bikepacking foods. Years ago, I was at a bikepacking event, and a rider told me, “The winners of events are not just the ones that cycle well but the people that can eat the most.” At this point, I didn’t understand nutrition like I do today, but since learning and studying, this couldn’t be more right. 

Knowing the right foods to eat goes such a long way to making your bikepacking trip a success and more enjoyable. Over many years I have been bikepacking. I have found my favorite foods and understand what works when getting energy and recovering for the right situation. 

Everyone’s Different

The first thing to mention is that everyone is different. The food I like works well for me, but that doesn’t mean it works great for everyone else. You should enjoy your food and understand why you might need to eat it at the correct times. 

Macros And Understanding Food Types

Before I tell you my top favorite foods, we have to understand that foods come in different types. Depending on the type, you get different results regarding what it does to the body and how it can help you cycle. Here’s what you need to know.

Carbohydrates

Also known as carbs, these are what your body will generally use to convert to energy for the muscles. Carbohydrates digest quickly and are perfect for riding all day and exercising. Per gram, carbs give you 4 calories. 

They come in many different forms, such as bread, potatoes, sugary goods, etc. Some will release energy quicker than others, and others will release energy slowly. Quick release is great for the tough sections and slow for pacing big-mile days in lower zones.

Protein

Many riders, when it comes to bikepacking foods, don’t understand the importance of protein. Protein can be used as riding fuel and is the prime source for the body when it comes to recovery fuel and getting those muscles back from fatigue.

Protein comes in many forms, such as eggs, meat, and fish. You could even have it in a shake form. It provides 4 calories per gram, and your body can actually turn it into energy when required to help you push forward. It just takes longer to process into fuel.

Fat

For many people in fitness, fat is seen as a negative, when in fact, it’s vital when it comes to bikepacking foods. Fat has 9 calories per gram and is what the body stores in reserves when it needs slow-release energy. 

The body typically takes much longer to process fat into energy that we use for cycling, and if you are doing lots of high-intensity riding, it isn’t the best way to fuel unless on Keto. For bikepacking and long-distance riding, providing the effort level is low. It is worth getting fat into the diet. 

My Top Ten Bikepacking Foods

Now for the exciting part! I will tell you my favorite bikepacking foods to keep me going! I have split these down into carbohydrates, protein, and fat options!

Carbohydrates Based Foods

Cereal Bars

• kcal: ~380 kcal
• Carbs: ~60g (slow release)
• Protein: ~6g
• Fat: ~12g
• Why?: These bars give steady energy and are easy to carry, perfect for long rides.

Dried Fruit (Raisins, Cranberries, etc.)

• kcal: ~300 kcal
• Carbs: ~75g (slow release)
• Protein: ~2g
• Fat: ~0.5g
• Why?: These are easy to pack and provide a mix of quick and slow-release sugars.

Peanut Butter Sandwich (whole grain bread)

• kcal: ~350 kcal (per sandwich)
• Carbs: ~35g (slow release)
• Protein: ~12g
• Fat: ~16g
• Why?: A classic staple often available pre-made or easy to throw together.

Crisps/Potato Chips

• kcal: ~530 kcal (per 100g)
• Carbs: ~50g (fast release)
• Protein: ~7g
• Fat: ~35g
• Why?: Readily available and salty, crisps give you quick carbs and help replenish sodium after long rides.

Candy Bars (Snickers, Mars, etc.)

• kcal: ~250 kcal
• Carbs: ~35g (fast release)
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~12g
• Why?: Candy bars are easy to find everywhere and are great for a quick burst of energy.

Packaged Pastries (Danishes, Donuts)

• kcal: ~400 kcal (per 100g)
• Carbs: ~50g (fast release)
• Protein: ~5g
• Fat: ~20g
• Why?: Widely available, pastries provide quick-digesting carbs and are convenient to grab and go.

Protein Based Foods

Canned Tuna (in water or oil)

• kcal: ~150 kcal
• Carbs: 0g
• Protein: ~25g
• Fat: ~3g (in water) / ~10g (in oil)
• Why?: High protein, often available in easy-pull cans. Eat with bread for added carbs.

Beef Jerky or Meat Sticks

• kcal: ~240 kcal (per 100g)
• Carbs: ~10g
• Protein: ~30g
• Fat: ~5g
• Why?: Jerky is high in protein and easy to store in your bag without refrigeration. The fat and protein make it perfect for post-ride recovery.

Fat Based Foods

Cheese (Individual Packets or Cheese Strings)

• kcal: ~100 kcal (per 30g serving)
• Carbs: ~1g
• Protein: ~7g
• Fat: ~8g
• Why?: Portable and rich in fat and protein, cheese is easy to snack on while riding or during breaks.

Nuts (Peanuts, Almonds, Cashews)

• kcal: ~570 kcal (per 100g)
• Carbs: ~18g
• Protein: ~20g
• Fat: ~50g
• Why?: A concentrated source of energy, healthy fats, and protein. Nuts are perfect for on-the-go snacking and don’t spoil easily.

What Should You Look For In A Bikepacking Food?

Knowing what to look for when it comes to food for bikepacking can be challenging. I am a big fan of food that doesn’t often need refrigeration, is high in calories, is easy to pack, and has a mixed ability regarding fast-release and slow-release energy. 

What Bikepacking Foods To Eat And When?

We often get asked what to eat and when. Well, for the best results, here’s what I recommend. It’s worth planning the food for your route sometimes.

Carbohydrates (Fast Release) – Before tough sections or on big climbs. 

Carbohydrates (Slow Release) – Throughout the day, especially in the mornings.

Protein – Throughout the day and lots at the end before rest.

Fat – In a small amount throughout the day; try to focus more in the evening.

A Final Note On Bikepacking Foods

The food you eat when bikepacking is unique to who you are and what you enjoy. The key to proper fuelling comes down to eating the right types of food. We also have another article on What To Eat While Bikepacking and Hydration Bladder Vs Bottles if you want to continue learning.