Campfire Cooking, Picnics and Trail-Ready Meals
From weekends at the lake to spontaneous trips to the park, summer is all about getting outside — and beans are the perfect food to take along for the ride. Whether you’re camping under the stars, hiking your favorite trail or setting up a picnic, beans offer a delicious combination of nutrition, convenience and versatility that’s hard to beat.
Built for Adventure
There’s a reason beans have long been a camping staple. They’re shelf-stable, packed with protein and fiber, and work in everything from foil packet meals to refreshing salads. You don’t need a fridge, fancy equipment or a long list of ingredients to make beans the star of your outdoor menu.
Looking for sustained energy for a day hike or paddling trip? Beans provide slow-digesting carbohydrates and plant-based protein to help you feel full and fueled for hours. They’re also rich in iron, magnesium and other nutrients that support muscle function and recovery, which is helpful when you’re on the move.
Campfire Favorites and No-Cook Staples
The beauty of cooking outdoors lies in keeping things simple, and beans deliver on that promise beautifully. For those planning to cook at a campsite or over a fire pit, one-pot wonders like Dave’s Chili — featuring pinto beans, hot Italian sausage and ground beef — are perfect for feeding a crowd. The robust flavors actually improve when cooked slowly over coals, and you can prep the entire dish at home, then simply reheat it in a Dutch oven for mess-free mealtime.
Vegetarian campers aren’t left out either. The Vegetarian Chili with Black, Kidney, and Pinto Beans transforms into a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes even better when shared around a campfire. Both recipes scale easily for larger groups and reheat beautifully.
No campfire available? No problem whatsoever. Chilled Pinto Bean Hummus makes an outstanding on-the-go snack, especially when paired with sturdy crackers or cut vegetables that travel well. Canned beans can last several days without refrigeration when stored in airtight containers, making them perfect for mason jar layered salads or wraps that don’t require refrigeration. For a complete meal that travels like a dream, try the New Orleans Black Beans and Rice with Chicken — just portion it out into containers and bring along your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor.
Smart Packing Tips
Canned beans are convenient for most outings, but if you’re traveling light, cook your dry beans ahead of time and pack them in resealable containers or silicone pouches. Bring a few staple seasonings in small jars — cumin, chili powder and garlic powder go a long way — and don’t forget your favorite add-ins like salsa, shredded cheese or greens. A few simple ingredients can turn basic beans into something that feels fresh and satisfying.
For those trying to reduce their environmental footprint, beans are an eco-friendly protein choice with a much lower environmental impact than many animal proteins. They can be part of a low-waste meal plan using reusable containers and minimal packaging — perfect for Leave No Trace camping principles.
Consider the bigger picture: when you choose beans for outdoor meals, you’re supporting sustainable food choices while enjoying nutritious, satisfying meals that fuel your adventures without weighing down your pack or conscience.
Take Beans on Your Next Adventure
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a challenging multi-day trek, beans make it easy to enjoy nutritious, satisfying meals wherever summer takes you. They’re the ultimate outdoor companion — reliable, versatile and always ready to fuel your next adventure.
Ready to start planning? Try preparing one of these bean-based meals at home first, then pack it for your next outdoor excursion. You’ll quickly discover why beans have been the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Find more outdoor-ready recipes and meal planning tips at BeanInstitute.com/recipes.