Sean and I love to unplug and have an adventure in the outdoors. If it’s a quick trip over the weekend, typically we will go car camping. I will not lie I love staying in a fancy hotel, but there is just something rejuvenating, and peaceful staying in a place with views like this:

 Even though it’s a struggle to run and hike, let alone walk at higher altitude, it’s amazing how light and energized you feel coming back down. Those first few workouts back at Sea Level are gggggggggrrrrrrrrrrreeeeat!  You can sabotage your hard work however, with some unhealthy campfire cookouts and snacks.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit I don’t eat clean 100% of the time, and if camping is the splurge you’ve been working for then go for it. That being said, eating clean the majority of the time while you are camping will only enhance how you feel when you are back home.

Here are some ideas Sean and I have evolved through the years for car camping.

1. Plan ahead. Make lists, get some coolers and head to the store for food, water and ice.

2. Know your storage. What needs to be cooled at all times, what can sustain heat, and what will melt.

3. The grill is your friend. Charcoal takes longer, but there is something about grilled veggies. 

4. Or, Invest in a table top cooking burner. We use one by Coleman. It’s like having a portable stove. You can boil water for coffee, whip up some scrambled eggs in the morning….. FYI, if you are at higher altitude things heat up very quickly!

5. Since you have a car to haul items, bring two more gallons of water then you think you would need. You will use them.

6. Hike safely. Maps, water, sunscreen, snacks, bug repellent

7. Be creative. Each time we camp with friends, I always learn a new meal, or way to make a task easier.

8. Breakfast ideas: eggs (can add left over veggies) and toast/bagel, oatmeal, PB and toast

9. Lunch/snack ideas: PB &J, or PB & bananas, trail mix, Luna bars (or some other variety), veggie hummus wraps, guacamole with pitas (can add black beans) 

10. Dinner ideas: Salads, grilled veggies with  protein (chicken, tofu), grilled cheese with veggies

For more ideas and tips check out Oatmeal in My Bowl’s post on camping.

Hope you are enjoying the Olympics!