If you think camping could be an awesome experience and storage is something secondary, then you should think about it again. Why? Because all kinds of animals can get into your food, and also having free space is valuable. So, knowing a little about camping food storage could be helpful.
All camper should be responsible in to prevent wild animals from accessing human food. This kind of food is not good for animals and makes them dependent. And obviously, there is a danger for you in case big animals get to your food. This could provoke these animals to be removed from the area by the local authorities.
Therefore proper camping food storage can help you to keep yourself and wildlife safe and happy.
Also, some others tips about camping food storage can help you optimize space and to avoid unwanted situations caused by bad food handling.
Let’s go for it!
Camping Food Storage in the Daytime
Although you can think is fine to leave the food and the cooler out while you are hanging in the campsite, the best practice is to keep these stored away while you are not using them.
Camping Food Storage in the Nighttime
Usually, the best option to store camping food in the nighttime is inside a vehicle.
However, you will need to check if the place you are camping in allows this. Check with the authorities if this practice is allowed because in certain areas animals have learned to break into vehicles, so you must follow all food storage rules.
If this is the case then you will need a special place to store the food like a metal food locker (usually provided where you are camping).
Remember to store and protect not just the food, but also any other scented items like pet food and trash.
Camping Food Storage Options
There are different recipients to store your food but beyond that, there are other suggestions you can implement to optimize the space and make your camping a better experience.
First, try to freeze as much as possible the night before you pack. The frozen food can serve as ice packs so the non-freezable food will keep cold by the frozen ones, meaning a lot more space free.
Second, check if there is food that doesn’t need to stay in its original package. If it can be removed from its packing it can help to free the space.
Third, you should pack your cold and dry food separately. Why? Because cold food can create condensation and that can make your dry food get wet.
Camping Food Handling Tips
There are some food-handling basics to avoid becoming sick from bad food manipulation.
First, always wash your hands after going to the bathroom and before preparing a meal. Also, remember to dry your hands with a towel not used for drying dishes.
Second, make sure you keep your cooler at a temperature cold enough to maintain fresh food like meat, cheese, and milk. Frozen meat should be put on the bottom where is coldest.
Third, is recommended to cut up your raw meat at home and put the pieces in zip-top bags before putting them into your cooler. If you cut raw meat at camp, don’t cut other foods on a cutting board with meat residue. Be extremely cautious in the cleanup because raw meat could attract animals.
And last, never wash dishes and dump water in your campsite. Always do it away from it.
Other Tips for Camping Food Storage
There are some general tips for camping food storage whether you are in a campground or backcountry. These tips could sound obvious but it is worth mentioning.
First, never leave food or anything strong-smelling inside your tent.
Second, always keep an eye on your food and never leave it unattended.
Third, prepare meals in advance at home if possible. It’s a lot easier to prepare food and clean up.
These are some basic additional camping tips. Don’t let this overwhelm you and enjoy your camping trip! Always keep in mind to do things in a way simpler and easier for you.