13 Best Sandwiches for Hiking That Are Better Than the Average PBJ

Are you tired of the same old peanut butter and jelly sandwich on your hiking trips? Ready to up your trailside dining game? Look no further.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to 13 delectable sandwiches that will take your outdoor eating experience to the next level. From classic favorites like the BLT and ham and cheese to more innovative options like Nutella and banana, we’ve got something to satisfy every hiker’s cravings.

Discover the convenience, nutritional value, and easy portability of these sandwiches, whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian. Get ready to pack your backpack with these mouthwatering options and elevate your hiking lunches beyond the average PBJ.

Key Takeaways

Tuna Salad Sandwich, Nutella and Banana, Classic Ham and Cheese, BLT, and Club sandwiches are all great options for hiking lunches.
Vegetarian options include Hummus and Veggies Pita, Chickpea Salad, and Avocado Club sandwiches.
Sides for hiking lunches can include trail mix, carrots, clementines, kettle chips, and crackers.
Sandwiches are a convenient and portable meal option for hiking, packed with protein, carbs, and nutrients, and can be customized to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.

Tuna Salad Sandwich

If you’re looking for a satisfying and protein-packed hiking lunch option, the tuna salad sandwich is a reliable choice. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make and carry.

To ensure the perfect tuna salad for your hiking lunches, consider these tips.

First, get creative with variations by adding ingredients like chopped apples, dried cranberries, or nuts to your tuna salad for extra flavor and texture.

Second, for optimal portability, pack the tuna salad in a leak-proof container and assemble the sandwich just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Lastly, to enhance the nutritional value, consider using whole grain bread or wraps for your sandwiches.

Nutella and Banana

You can easily prepare a delicious Nutella and banana sandwich for your hiking lunch by spreading Nutella on bread and layering thinly sliced banana on top. This sweet and satisfying combination provides a burst of energy and is a delightful treat on the trail. Here are creative variations of the Nutella and banana sandwich:

Add a Crunch: Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.
Go Savory: Consider using a savory bread like brioche for an interesting twist.
Fruit Fusion: Add strawberries or raspberries for a fruity burst.
Spice it Up: A dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavors.

When packing sandwiches for hiking trips, remember these tips:

Use airtight containers: Keep sandwiches fresh and prevent sogginess.
Separate wet ingredients: Avoid soggy bread by packing wet ingredients separately.
Cooler or insulated bag: Keep perishable ingredients fresh.
Eco-friendly storage: Consider using reusable sandwich wraps or silicone bags.

Classic Ham and Cheese

When preparing a classic ham and cheese sandwich for your hiking trip, be sure to layer deli ham and cheese on your preferred bread. Opt for a sturdy bread that can withstand being packed for a hike.

Consider variations of the classic ham and cheese sandwich, such as adding fresh tomato slices, crisp lettuce, or a tangy spread like Dijon mustard or a zesty aioli.

To make the perfect ham and cheese sandwich for hiking, pack the condiments separately to prevent sogginess, and use airtight containers to keep the sandwich fresh. Remember to keep the sandwich well-chilled in a cooler or insulated bag to maintain its quality.

For a satisfying hiking lunch, pair your classic ham and cheese sandwich with sides like trail mix, carrots, or clementines.

Club

The club sandwich combines layers of deli meat, cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion between toasted bread. This classic sandwich can be taken to a new level with unique twists, such as adding avocado or swapping out traditional deli meats for turkey or roast beef.

Elevate your hiking experience with the perfect side dishes to pair with a club sandwich:

Crispy kettle chips for a satisfying crunch.
Fresh apple slices or oranges for a burst of natural sweetness.
A handful of crackers to add a bit of variety to your meal.
A refreshing side salad with your favorite dressing for a balanced and fulfilling meal.

With these additions, your club sandwich becomes a hearty and delicious option for fueling your outdoor adventures.

Hummus and Veggies Pita

If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy vegetarian option for hiking, a Hummus and Veggies Pita is a satisfying choice. This versatile sandwich offers endless creative variations, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.

Try adding roasted red peppers, cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra kick. When packing for your hiking trip, assemble the pita with a thick layer of hummus to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Consider using airtight containers or reusable sandwich wraps to keep it fresh. To avoid a mess, pack the vegetables separately and assemble the sandwich just before eating.

With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious Hummus and Veggies Pita on your next outdoor adventure.

Chickpea Salad

Looking for a satisfying and protein-packed vegetarian option for your hiking trip? Chickpea salad could be your go-to choice. Here’s why it’s a great option and some creative variations to make your outdoor adventure even more enjoyable:

Benefits of chickpea salad for hiking:

High protein content for sustained energy
Lightweight and easy to pack
Versatile and customizable with various flavors
Packed with fiber for a filling meal

Creative variations of chickpea salad for outdoor adventures:

Mediterranean-style with olives, feta, and a lemon vinaigrette
Spicy chickpea salad with jalapenos and a tangy lime dressing
Curry chickpea salad with raisins and a hint of curry powder
Greek-inspired chickpea salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki dressing

Chickpea salad isn’t only nutritious but also allows for endless creativity, making it a perfect hiking companion.

Avocado Club

When choosing a satisfying and nutritious vegetarian option for your hiking trip, consider the Avocado Club sandwich as a flavorful and energizing choice. The Avocado Club is a delicious and filling sandwich that provides essential nutrients for your outdoor adventure. Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal ingredient for hikers. Here are some creative variations of the Avocado Club sandwich to add variety to your hiking meals:

Creative Variations
Avocado and Sprouts
Avocado and Hummus
Avocado and Egg

Incorporating avocado into your hiking meals brings numerous health benefits. Avocado provides sustained energy, supports heart health, and helps with muscle recovery after strenuous activity. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to your hiking menu.

Trail Mix

Trail mix provides a convenient and energizing snack option for your hiking excursions. Including trail mix in your hiking lunch offers numerous benefits such as sustained energy, essential nutrients, and minimal preparation.

Here are some creative ways to use trail mix in sandwiches:

Crunchy Texture: Sprinkle trail mix on top of your favorite sandwich for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Mix trail mix with cream cheese or peanut butter and spread it on bread for a unique twist on the classic sandwich.
Protein Boost: Incorporate trail mix into chicken or turkey sandwiches for an extra protein punch.
Trail Mix Spread: Blend trail mix with Greek yogurt and use it as a spread for a healthy and flavorful sandwich option.

Trail mix adds a delightful combination of flavors and textures to your sandwiches, making it an ideal choice for your next hiking adventure.

Carrots

Incorporating carrots into your hiking lunches provides essential nutrients and a satisfying crunch, adding a refreshing and nutritious element to your trail meals.

Carrots are a fantastic addition to your hiking menu, offering a rich source of beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants that support your overall health and provide sustained energy for long hikes.

To creatively incorporate carrots into your sandwiches, consider adding thin carrot slices to your classic ham and cheese or club sandwiches. Alternatively, you can grate carrots to mix into a tangy coleslaw as a flavorful sandwich topping.

The natural sweetness and texture of carrots complement various sandwich fillings, enhancing both the taste and nutritional value of your hiking meals.

Embrace the versatility of carrots to elevate your hiking sandwich experience.

Clementines

To enhance your hiking lunches with an energizing burst of citrus, clementines are a refreshing and nutrient-packed addition to your trail meals. Here are the benefits of including clementines in hiking lunches:

Nutrient Powerhouse: Clementines are rich in vitamin C, which supports your immune system and helps your body absorb iron.
Hydration: With high water content, clementines can help keep you hydrated during your hike.
Easy to Pack: Their small size and protective peel make clementines a convenient and mess-free snack for hiking.
Natural Energy: Clementines provide natural sugars for a quick energy boost without the crash.

Properly store clementines for hiking trips by placing them in a breathable container or mesh bag to prevent moisture buildup. Keep them in a cool, dark place and separate them from other items to avoid bruising.

Kettle Chips

When hiking, you can enhance your lunch with the satisfying crunch of kettle chips. They provide a delicious and portable source of energy. Kettle chips come in various flavors, offering an array of options to complement your hiking sandwich. Opt for classic sea salt, spicy jalapeno, tangy barbecue, or zesty sour cream and onion for a flavorful addition to your meal.

To incorporate kettle chips into your hiking sandwiches creatively, consider adding them directly to the sandwich for an extra crunch. Alternatively, enjoy them on the side to complement the flavors of your chosen sandwich. The combination of savory chips and a hearty sandwich will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout your outdoor adventure.

Crackers

Adding crackers to your hiking lunch provides a convenient and satisfying option for a crunchy accompaniment to your sandwiches. When it comes to hiking lunch ideas, crackers offer several benefits:

Lightweight: Crackers are lightweight and won’t weigh down your backpack, making them an ideal choice for a hiking snack.
Durable: Their sturdy texture makes them resistant to crushing, ensuring they remain intact during your outdoor adventures.
Energy Boost: Packed with carbs, crackers provide a quick energy boost to keep you going on the trail.
Versatile Pairing: Whether you prefer classic saltines or whole grain varieties, crackers pair well with a variety of toppings, from cheese and deli meats to spreads like peanut butter or hummus.

Including crackers in your hiking meals not only adds a satisfying crunch but also offers a convenient and energy-boosting snack for your outdoor excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Alternative Sandwich Options for Vegetarian Hikers?

Looking for alternative sandwich options for vegetarian hikers? Try delicious fillings like hummus and veggies pita, chickpea salad, or avocado club. These portable snacks are packed with nutrients and perfect for your outdoor adventures.

How Can I Ensure That My Sandwiches Stay Fresh During a Long Hike?

To keep your sandwiches fresh on a long hike, use airtight containers, separate wet ingredients from the bread, and consider using reusable sandwich wraps. Pack perishables in a cooler, and label and organize for easy access.

Are There Any Tips for Packing Sandwiches to Prevent Them From Getting Soggy?

To prevent sogginess in your hiking sandwiches, pack wet ingredients separately, use airtight containers, and consider using reusable sandwich wraps or silicone bags. These techniques will help keep your sandwiches fresh and enjoyable on the trail.

What Are Some Good Side Options to Pair With Hiking Sandwiches?

When you’re hiking, pair your sandwiches with trail mix for a quick energy boost and fresh fruit for a refreshing burst. Don’t forget to pack some nut butter for protein and carrots for a crunchy, nutritious side.

How Can I Pack My Lunch for a Long Hike in an Eco-Friendly Way?

To pack your lunch for a long hike in an eco-friendly way, use reusable containers like silicone bags or beeswax wraps. This zero waste packing reduces single-use plastic and keeps your food fresh on the trail.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the ultimate hiking sandwich guide to elevate your outdoor dining experience.

Just like a well-packed backpack, these sandwiches are filled with all the goodness and flavor you need to fuel your adventures.

Whether you’re craving the classic taste of ham and cheese or the sweet indulgence of Nutella and banana, there’s a sandwich for every hiker’s appetite.

So pack your backpack and get ready to savor every bite on your next hiking trip!