Easy Camping Meals on a Budget: 7 Delicious Ideas

Camping meals remind me of my dad’s simple yet satisfying foil packet dinners—chicken, veggies, and seasoning cooked over a campfire. They were easy, versatile, and always hit the spot after a day outdoors.

What I love most is how these meals bring people together, whether it’s a quiet solo trip or a lively family outing. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ve got a hearty meal that feels like magic under the stars.

Now, with tools like portable stoves or pre-made kits, easy camping meals on a budget are more accessible than ever. Let’s make your next adventure delicious and stress-free!

Easy Camping Meals on a Budget: Chicken Fajitas

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: Lunch RecipesCuisine: American, Mexican-inspiredDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories per Serving

350

kcal

Total time

30

minutes

A simple, flavorful campfire dish made with chicken, peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning, all wrapped in foil and cooked over the fire. Perfect for feeding a group without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 packet fajita seasoning (or homemade blend: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper)

• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, tortillas

Directions

• Tear off 4 large sheets of aluminum foil. Divide the chicken evenly among the sheets.
• Top each portion of chicken with sliced peppers and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with fajita seasoning.
• Fold the foil into packets by bringing the edges together and sealing tightly to prevent leaks.
• Place the foil packets on hot coals or a grill grate over the campfire. Cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and veggies are tender.
• Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!) and serve with optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, salsa, or tortillas if desired.

Notes

• Prep ingredients at home to save time at the campsite.
• Use heavy-duty foil to avoid tears while cooking.
• Pair with corn chips or a side salad for a complete meal.

Essential Gear

When it comes to cooking easy camping meals on a budget, having the right gear can make all the difference. You don’t need fancy equipment to whip up delicious food while camping, but a few essentials will save time and money.

Portable Stove Options

If you’re not planning to rely solely on a campfire, a portable stove is a great investment. Look for compact models that are affordable and easy to carry. They’re perfect for preparing cheap camping dinner ideas even in areas where open fires aren’t allowed.

Reusable Utensils and Cookware

Bringing reusable plates, forks, and pots not only cuts down on waste but also saves money in the long run. A simple set of nesting cookware works wonders for making easy cheap camping recipes like stews or pasta dishes.

Cooler Hacks for Fresh Ingredients

A good cooler keeps perishable items fresh longer. Line your cooler with frozen water bottles to save space and keep your food cold. This trick is especially helpful when prepping camping food ideas that include fresh veggies or dairy.

• Pack items in waterproof containers to avoid spills.
• Store meats at the bottom to prevent cross-contamination.
• Use separate coolers for drinks and food to minimize opening and closing.

Top 7 Affordable Camping Food Ideas You’ll Love

Camping meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With these cheap camping meals for large groups and small families, you can enjoy delicious food without spending hours preparing it.

Below are the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for each idea, making it easy to recreate these dishes at your campsite.

Foil Packet Dinners

Foil packet dinners are a classic for a reason—they’re simple, customizable, and require minimal cleanup. Perfect for camping, these easy meals work well for both family get-togethers and solo outings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast or sausage slices
• 2 cups chopped vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onions, carrots)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste

Instructions:

1. For each serving, tear off a large piece of aluminum foil.
2. Place chicken or sausage in the center of the foil. Add veggies around the protein.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Fold the foil into a packet, sealing the edges tightly to prevent leaks.
5. Cook on a grill grate over the campfire or on a portable stove for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

One-Pot Pasta Magic

This dish is a lifesaver for easy camping meals for 2 or more. It’s hearty, filling, and requires only one pot—perfect for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 cup diced vegetables (like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms)
• Optional: cooked sausage or ground beef

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine pasta, water (or broth), and sauce. Stir well.
2. Add diced vegetables and optional meat. Mix everything together.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
4. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and tasty meal!

Breakfast Burritos

These burritos are a favorite for quick camping breakfast ideas on a budget. Prep them ahead of time or make them fresh at the campsite.

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 6 eggs, scrambled
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 4 slices precooked bacon or sausage (optional)
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scramble the eggs in a pan over the campfire or portable stove. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in foil and placing them near the heat source for a few minutes.
3. Assemble the burritos by layering scrambled eggs, cheese, and optional meat on each tortilla.
4. Roll them up tightly and serve with salsa or hot sauce if desired.

Veggie Skewers

Grilled veggie skewers are a healthy and colorful addition to any camping meal. They’re one of the best easy camping meals for kids because they’re fun to eat and easy to customize.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
• 8 oz halloumi cheese or tofu cubes (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste

Instructions:

1. Pre-soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread zucchini, onion, bell pepper, and optional cheese or tofu onto the skewers.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Grill over the campfire or portable stove for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until veggies are tender and slightly charred.

Campfire Chili

This hearty chili is one of the most satisfying cheap camping dinner ideas. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and tastes even better reheated the next day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional for vegetarians)
• Kidney beans, drained and rinsed, in a 15 oz can
• Black beans, drained and rinsed, from a 15 oz can
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef or turkey in a large pot over the campfire or portable stove. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and water to the pot. Stir well.
3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
4. Serve hot with crackers or bread for an extra treat.

Taco Bar

A taco bar is a fun and interactive way to serve family-friendly camping meal ideas. Everyone can customize their tacos to their liking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey
• 8 small taco shells or tortillas
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground meat in a pan over the campfire or portable stove. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, then simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Warm the taco shells by wrapping them in foil and placing them near the heat source.
3. Arrange a toppings station with all the ingredients, allowing everyone to build their own tacos.

S’mores Nachos

For dessert, try this creative twist on s’mores. These easy camping meals on a budget for a week will satisfy your sweet tooth without much effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 sleeve graham crackers
• Optional: sliced bananas or strawberries

Instructions:

1. Spread graham cracker pieces on a foil-lined tray.
2. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly over the crackers.
3. Place the tray over indirect heat on the grill or campfire until the marshmallows are golden and the chocolate melts.
4. Add optional fruit slices before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Budget-Friendly Camping Recipes for Beginners

If you’re new to camping or cooking outdoors, don’t worry—these recipes are designed with simplicity in mind. These easy camping meals on a budget for family and solo campers are perfect for beginners who want to enjoy delicious food without the stress.

Campfire Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser and one of the easiest lazy camping food ideas. They’re quick to make and require minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), 1 cup, works well
• Optional fillings: cooked chicken, black beans, or sautéed veggies

Instructions:

1. Place a tortilla on a flat piece of foil or a skillet over the campfire.
2. Sprinkle half of the tortilla with shredded cheese and optional fillings. Cover the toppings by folding the tortilla in half.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, flipping carefully, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown.
4. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry

Transform instant ramen into a hearty meal with just a few extra ingredients. This dish is one of the best cheap camping meals for large groups because it’s filling and affordable.

Ingredients:

• 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets or set aside)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 egg per person (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions in a pot over the campfire or portable stove. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, stir-fry the vegetables until tender. Push them to one side of the pot.
3. Crack an egg into the empty side of the pot and scramble it until cooked.
4. Add the noodles back into the pot, along with soy sauce and optional seasoning packets. Toss everything together and serve.

Campfire Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are a versatile and easy camping meal for kids. You can top them with anything from butter and cheese to chili or sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes
• Aluminum foil
• Toppings: butter, shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, or cooked bacon bits

Instructions:

1. Preheat your campfire or grill to medium heat.
2. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pat them dry. Poke holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil.
4. Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the campfire coals or grill grate. Cook for 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until soft.
5. Unwrap carefully, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Trail Mix Pancakes

Start your morning with these creative pancakes made with trail mix. They’re a fun twist on traditional pancakes and a great quick camping breakfast idea on a budget.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix (or homemade batter)
• 1/2 cup trail mix (nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips)
• Water or milk (as needed for batter consistency)
• Maple syrup or honey for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pancake batter according to package instructions or your recipe. Stir in the trail mix.
2. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over the campfire or portable stove.
3. Add small scoops of batter to the skillet to make pancakes. When bubbles form on the surface after 2–3 minutes, flip and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes on the other side.
4. Serve hot with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

This classic combo is comforting and easy to prepare at the campsite. It’s one of the most satisfying cheap camping dinner ideas for beginners.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread
• Cheese slices (American, cheddar, or your preferred choice), 4 total
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed tomato soup
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Make the tomato soup by combining the condensed soup and water in a pot. Heat over the campfire or portable stove, stirring occasionally, until warm.
2. Assemble the grilled cheese sandwiches by placing cheese between two slices of bread.
3. Cook the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve the sandwiches alongside the warm tomato soup for dipping.

How to Make Camping Meals Without a Stove

Cooking without a stove is easier than you might think. With a little creativity and some basic tools, you can whip up easy camping meals for family or solo adventures using just a campfire, grill, or even no heat at all. Here are some ideas to inspire your next outdoor meal.

Campfire Baked Apples

This simple dessert is a crowd-pleaser and requires minimal prep. It’s perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your camping trip without needing a stove.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium apples
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Optional toppings: nuts, raisins, or honey

Instructions:

1. Core the apples and fill them with brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Wrap each apple in foil and place them directly on campfire coals or grill grate.
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized.

No-Cook Overnight Oats

For a hassle-free breakfast, try overnight oats. This is one of the best quick camping breakfast ideas on a budget that requires zero cooking.

• Combine rolled oats, milk (or a non-dairy alternative), and your favorite toppings like fruit, nuts, or honey in a jar.
• Let it sit for the night, and relish a hassle-free, ready-to-eat breakfast when you wake up.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic camping side dish that cooks easily over a campfire. It’s one of the simplest cheap camping dinner ideas and pairs well with almost any main course.

• Soak the corn in its husk in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Place directly on the campfire coals or grill grate and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally. Peel back the husk and enjoy with butter or seasoning.

Cold Sandwich Wraps

If you’re looking for a no-cook lunch option, cold wraps are a lifesaver. These are perfect lazy camping food ideas for hot days when you don’t want to build a fire.

• Spread hummus, cream cheese, or mustard on a tortilla.
• Add sliced veggies, deli meat, or cheese, then roll it up tightly.
• Wrap in foil to keep it fresh until you’re ready to eat.

Best Non-Perishable Foods for Camping

When you’re planning easy camping meals on a budget, non-perishable foods are your secret weapon. These items are not only affordable but also easy to store and transport, making them perfect for any camping trip. Plus, they can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast to dinner.

Canned Goods

Canned foods are versatile and last a long time, making them ideal for camping. Stock up on canned beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tuna or chicken.

• Use canned beans for chili or burritos
• Mix canned tuna with mayo for sandwiches
• Add canned veggies to foil packets or pasta dishes

These options are great for creating cheap camping meals for large groups without worrying about spoilage.

Instant Rice and Pasta

Instant rice and pasta cook quickly and pair well with almost anything. They’re lightweight and take up little space in your bag. Combine them with canned goods or pre-cooked proteins for a filling meal. These staples are perfect for easy camping meals for 2 or more.

Shelf-Stable Snacks

Don’t forget snacks that won’t spoil! Granola bars, crackers, peanut butter, and dried fruit are excellent choices. They’re perfect for quick energy boosts or late-night munchies. These are some of the best lazy camping food options when you don’t feel like cooking.

Family-Friendly Camping Meal Ideas

Planning meals for the whole family can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With these easy camping meals for family ideas, you’ll keep everyone happy and well-fed without spending too much money. The key is choosing recipes that are simple, fun, and satisfying for all ages.

Build-Your-Own Hot Dog Bar

Kids love choices, and a hot dog bar is a fun way to let them customize their meals. Bring along hot dogs, buns, and toppings like cheese, onions, relish, and sauerkraut. Grill the hot dogs over the fire and let everyone assemble their own creations. It’s one of the most popular camping food ideas for families.

Campfire Nachos

Nachos are always a hit with both kids and adults. Layer tortilla chips, shredded cheese, beans, and salsa in a cast-iron skillet and heat over the fire until the cheese melts. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños for extra flavor. This is an excellent option for easy camping meals for kids who love finger foods.

Pancake Breakfast Packs

Pancakes are a classic camping breakfast, and pre-made pancake batter makes it even easier. Pour the batter into resealable bags at home, then snip the corner and squeeze onto a hot skillet at the campsite.

Serve with syrup or fresh fruit for a sweet start to the day. This is one of the best quick camping breakfast ideas on a budget that everyone will enjoy.

Healthy Camping Meals Under $10

Eating healthy while camping doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little planning, you can prepare nutritious meals that are both budget-friendly and delicious. These easy camping meals on a budget will keep you energized for all your outdoor adventures without breaking the bank.

Veggie-Packed Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a great way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your camping meals. Use pre-chopped veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots along with instant rice or noodles.

Add a protein like tofu or canned chicken, and season with soy sauce or spices. This is one of the best cheap camping dinner ideas that’s both filling and nutritious.

• Prep veggies at home for faster cooking
• Use a portable skillet or foil packets for easy preparation
• Customize with your favorite sauces

Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers

Skewers are a fun and healthy option for campfire cooking. Thread chunks of chicken, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onions onto skewers and grill over the fire. They’re perfect for easy camping meals for family because they’re simple to make and easy to share.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

For a light and refreshing meal or snack, layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.

This no-cook option is ideal for breakfast or dessert and provides a good balance of protein and carbs. It’s one of the easiest healthy camping meals under $10 that requires minimal prep.

Camping Breakfast Ideas on a Budget

Starting your day with a satisfying breakfast sets the tone for the rest of your camping trip. These quick camping breakfast ideas on a budget are designed to be simple, tasty, and ready in no time.

Whether you’re feeding just yourself or a group, these options will keep everyone fueled for adventure.

Pre-Made Breakfast Burritos

Prepare breakfast burritos at home with scrambled eggs, cheese, sausage, and veggies. Wrap them in foil and reheat them over the campfire or on a skillet. They’re a convenient option for easy camping meals for 2 or more and can be customized to suit different tastes.

Instant Oatmeal with Toppings

Instant oatmeal is a lifesaver for busy mornings. Bring along packets of plain or flavored oatmeal and add toppings like nuts, dried fruit, or honey for extra flavor. It’s one of the simplest lazy camping food ideas that’s both filling and affordable.

Campfire Toasted Bagels

Toast bagels over the fire and top them with cream cheese, peanut butter, or jam. You can also add sliced bananas or strawberries for a sweet twist. This is one of the most versatile camping food ideas that works for breakfast or even a quick snack.

Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips

Cooking outdoors can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety.

Whether you’re using a campfire, portable stove, or grill, these tips will help ensure your easy camping meals on a budget are prepared safely and responsibly. Accidents can be avoided with just a bit of thoughtful preparation beforehand.

Fire Safety Basics

Campfires are a staple of outdoor cooking, but they require careful handling. Always keep a bucket of water or sand nearby to extinguish flames if needed. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it’s completely out before leaving the site.

• Remove leaves and debris from the area surrounding the fire pit.
• Use long sticks or skewers for cooking over flames
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance

These precautions are especially important when preparing cheap camping dinner ideas over an open flame.

Stove and Grill Precautions

If you’re using a portable stove or grill, place it on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials like tents or dry grass.

Check for gas leaks before use, and always turn off the fuel supply when you’re done cooking. These steps are key to enjoying easy camping meals for family without any mishaps.

Food Hygiene Practices

Proper food hygiene is essential to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses. Keep raw meats separate from other foods, and wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling ingredients.

Use hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap if water isn’t readily available. These habits are crucial for easy camping meals for large groups, where cross-contamination risks are higher.

Camping Meal Planning Checklist

Planning ahead is the secret to stress-free camping meals. A checklist ensures you don’t forget essential items and helps you stay within your budget. Use this guide to create your own camping meal planning checklist and enjoy delicious, hassle-free meals on your next trip.

Essential Ingredients to Pack

Start by listing all the ingredients you’ll need for each meal. Focus on versatile items like canned goods, pasta, rice, and spices that can be used in multiple recipes. Don’t forget snacks like trail mix or granola bars for those moments when hunger strikes between meals.

• Canned beans, veggies, and proteins
• Instant grains like rice or quinoa
• Non-perishable snacks like nuts and dried fruit

This approach works perfectly for easy camping meals for kids and adults alike.

Gear and Tools to Bring

Make sure you have all the necessary gear for cooking and eating. Include items like a portable stove, reusable utensils, pots, pans, and a cooler with ice packs. For lazy camping food, pre-cutting veggies or pre-measuring ingredients at home can save time and effort.

Meal Prep Timeline

Plan when you’ll prepare each meal to avoid last-minute stress. For example, prep breakfast the night before or cook dinner ingredients ahead of time. This strategy is ideal for easy camping meals on a budget for a week, ensuring you stay organized throughout your trip.

Conclusion

Camping meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy easy camping meals on a budget that are both delicious and satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for two, feeding a large group, or keeping things simple with lazy camping food, there’s something for everyone in this guide.

FAQ

What Are Some Easy Camping Meals for Kids?

Kids love meals that are fun and easy to eat. Try options like foil packet dinners, hot dogs, or pancakes. These easy camping meals for kids are simple to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

How Can I Cook Without a Stove?

You don’t need a stove to make great food! Use a campfire, portable grill, or even no-cook recipes like overnight oats or pre-made sandwiches. These methods are perfect for easy camping meals for 2 or more.

What Are the Best Non-Perishable Foods for Camping?

Non-perishables like canned goods, instant rice, pasta, and shelf-stable snacks are ideal for camping. They’re affordable, lightweight, and versatile for creating cheap camping dinner ideas.

What Are Some Easy Camping Dinners?

When it comes to easy camping dinners, simplicity is key. Try meals like foil packet chicken fajitas, one-pot pasta, or veggie-packed stir-fries. These dishes require minimal prep and cleanup, making them perfect for a relaxing evening outdoors.

What Food Is Good for Camping Without a Fridge?

If you’re camping without a fridge, focus on non-perishable and long-lasting foods. Items like peanut butter, granola bars, dried fruit, jerky, canned beans, and crackers are excellent choices. These foods work well for both lazy camping food and hearty meals.

How Do You Store Food for a 3-Day Camping Trip?

For a 3-day trip, use a combination of coolers with ice packs and sealed containers to keep food fresh. Pack perishable items like meat in resealable bags and store them at the bottom of the cooler to prevent leaks. For easy camping meals on a budget, prioritize non-perishables and plan meals that use up perishables early in the trip.

What to Cook On When Camping?

The best tools for cooking while camping depend on your setup. A portable stove is convenient for quick meals, while a cast-iron skillet or grill grate works well over a campfire. If you’re looking for cheap camping dinner ideas, foil packets can be cooked directly on hot coals, eliminating the need for extra gear.

Share Your Experience

We’d love to hear about your favorite easy camping meals on a budget! Did you try any of the recipes or tips from this article? Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with photos of your campfire creations. Your ideas might inspire others to plan their own delicious outdoor meals.