List of Foods to Take on a Desert Hike

Trails.com warns that hiking in the desert sun causes your body to sweat, which uses extra energy to keep you cool. Your electrolytes flow away in the stream of sweat as well. You will need to replace the electrolytes through food and water or "you can develop hyponatremia, a dangerous condition that can lead to seizures or even death," Trails adds. Therefore, the choice of foods to take on a desert hike can literally be a matter of life and death.

  1. Salty Foods

    • Get Outdoors counsels, "Salts are rapidly depleted through sweating. Eating salty foods will help your body retain water and replenish lost electrolytes." Eat salty nuts, trail mixes and pretzels frequently during your desert trek.

    Non-Perishables

    • Choose non-perishable foods that do not take a lot of water for preparation. Dried raisins, currants, cranberries, flaked coconut, diced almonds, dried apples and cinnamon add flavor to instant oatmeal and granola for breakfast. Instant rice, pasta, cous cous and ramen combine well with dry soup mixes and dehydrated vegetables such as green peppers, red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, green beans, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, corn, mushrooms and green peas for lunch and dinner. Dried beans and lentils provide protein as well. Pre-package the meals in a plastic zipper bag with powdered broths and spices such as cumin, garlic, curry, paprika, oregano, basil, turmeric, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper, and rehydrate with a little water at mealtime. Leave perishables, chocolates, candy and other foods that will easily melt in the heat at home.

    Hydrating Fruits

    • Durable fruits, such as apples and oranges are best able to survive in a backpack. Trails.com advises that fresh fruits provide a good source of fructose and natural hydration--a key concern on any desert trek.

    Complex Carbs

    • Grand Canyon National Park advises hikers to eat high-carb snacks like grains, crackers, fruits and non-fat energy bars every 20 to 30 minutes to give your body energy without overtaxing your system. Trails.com cautions that high-protein or fatty foods digest slowly and can upset your stomach in the heat. Low-sugar, protein-rich energy bars replace the lost electrolytes that have sweated away.