Lyla Lindsey
Australia is a popular destination for backpackers, with its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and epic east coast backpacking scene. When it comes to food, there are a few things to consider when backpacking in Australia. Firstly, the type of food you pack can significantly impact your physical and mental state during your trip. Secondly, the food you bring should be lightweight and easy to prepare, as you don't want to be weighed down or worry about keeping it fresh. Lastly, the availability of eateries in Australia varies depending on whether you're in a big city or a remote area. In this article, we will discuss the best food options for backpacking in Australia, including meal planning, lightweight snacks, and local cuisine to try.
Where to eat when backpacking in Australia
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Eating out options | Limited outside big towns |
| Typical Australian food | Revitalized old Aborigine favorites such as kangaroo and crocodile |
| Eating out in cities | Not as inexpensive as in the UK or the US |
| Typical Australian diet | City dwellers vs. country dwellers |
| Food in countryside | Restricted to ‘home-grown’ fare |
| Eating in hostels | Yes |
| Eating while camping | Requires planning and logistics |
| Food weight | An important consideration for multi-day hikes |
| Food type | Lightweight, calorie-dense, and easy to prepare |
| Food examples | Bread, crackers, tuna, jerky, apples, granola bars, dried fruits, and nuts |
| Combo meals | Available for 5, 7, and 10-day durations |
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What You'll Learn
Eating out in Australia's cities
Australia's cities offer a diverse range of dining options that reflect the country's multicultural identity. Eating out is a beloved pastime for Australians, and this is evident in the abundance of cafes and restaurants found across urban areas. While it may not be as affordable as dining out in the UK or the US, there are still plenty of great eateries to explore.
The Aussie Pie
A true staple of Australian cuisine, the Aussie pie is a favourite among the working class. You'll find an incredible variety of pies to choose from, and they're especially handy for a quick, satisfying bite on the go.
International Cuisine
In the bigger cities, you'll find a wide array of international cuisines to tantalise your taste buds. Chinese restaurants, in particular, are starting to gain traction, although they may not be as prevalent in more remote areas.
Hotel Meals
Traditional hotels in Australia often offer meals at lunchtime and in the evenings. The options might be limited, but you can typically expect classic dishes like steak, salad, and chips, showcasing the British influence on Australian cuisine.
Aboriginal Foods
Australia has also witnessed a revival of traditional Aboriginal foods, especially in backpacker towns. You can join in on an Aussie BBQ night and sample meats like kangaroo, wallaby, emu, and crocodile. If you're feeling adventurous, you might even try the famous Witchetty grubs, which are larvae from Ghost Moths, traditionally eaten raw or barbecued.
Eating on a Budget
Backpacking and travelling on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing flavour or nutrition. Many hostels provide access to kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Stock up on spices to add a punch of flavour to your dishes, and don't forget to explore local farmers' markets for fresh produce at reasonable prices, such as Rusty's Market in Cairns.
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Traditional Australian food
One iconic Australian food is the Anzac biscuit, which is a crunchy biscuit made with rolled oats, flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, golden syrup, butter, bicarbonate of soda, and water. These biscuits were made by wives of soldiers and sent to the troops during World War I as the ingredients could be preserved for long periods.
Another Australian staple is fish 'n' chips, a classic working-class dish that can be found in pubs and waterfront shops by the beach. It is typically wrapped in paper and seasoned with salt and lemon.
Meat pies, often paired with a beer, are another Australian favourite. These pies are made with flaky pastry filled with minced meat and gravy, sometimes with vegetables, and can be enjoyed at a sporting event or as a snack on the go.
For those with a sweet tooth, the vanilla slice is a delicate dessert of puff pastry and custard or cream, glazed with powdered sugar or icing. While its origins are unknown, Australians consider it their own.
Finally, bush tucker, which includes indigenous foods like nutty-flavored grub, and fresh seafood are also considered traditional Australian fare.
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Easy meals for backpackers
When backpacking in Australia, it's important to consider the weight and perishability of your food, as well as its nutritional value. Here are some easy meals and tips to help you fuel your adventures:
Breakfast
- Dried fruit and granola with powdered milk or yoghurt are a great way to start your day. They are lightweight, easy to eat on the go, and packed with nutrients and fibre.
- If you don't mind cooking in the morning, OvaEasy's powdered egg crystals can be made into scrambled eggs or a veggie scramble.
- Instant oatmeal can be made right in the packet for easy cleanup.
- Quinoa porridge is another option if you have access to a food dehydrator.
Lunch
- For longer hikes, consider eating the heaviest lunches first. You can even buy lunch from a town or village on your route.
- Tuna sachets are heavy but nutrient-dense and worth including. One 75-80g sachet is enough for two when combined with high-protein crackers.
- Dips and crackers are a tasty, lightweight option.
- Salami and cheese are non-perishable and can be enjoyed for the first few days of your trip.
- Pulses, oatmeal, and wholegrain flour are great sources of slow-release carbs.
Dinner
- Dehydrated meals that only require adding hot water are a convenient option for backpackers. Examples include dehydrated risotto, pasta with pesto and parmesan, and ramen noodles with dehydrated vegetables.
- If you're craving comfort food, macaroni and cheese with bacon bits or tuna is a tasty option.
- Instant rice, couscous, noodles, and pasta are easy choices that can be paired with a variety of proteins and vegetables.
- Mountain bread is a healthier alternative to traditional bread as it's less doughy, made with wholewheat flour, and doesn't spoil easily.
Snacks
- Granola bars are a favourite among hikers as they're easy to carry, quick to eat, and full of energy-boosting ingredients.
- Apples are durable, lightweight, and full of nutrients.
- Nuts, such as macadamias, pistachios, and cashews, are a great source of energy.
- High-protein snacks, such as jerky, are important to keep your energy up throughout the day.
General Tips
- Bring foods that you enjoy eating and that will satisfy your cravings after a long day of hiking.
- Include a variety of flavours and textures to keep your palate interested.
- Ensure you have access to enough water, as this will influence your food choices.
- Consider the cooking time and fuel required for your meals. Quick-cooking meals that are easy to prepare are usually the best option.
- Pack your food in resealable and reusable pouches or containers to minimise bulk and garbage.
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Healthy eating for backpackers
Backpacking and hiking are great ways to explore Australia's landscapes, but they can also be demanding activities that require proper nutrition to fuel your body and mind. Here are some tips for healthy eating while backpacking in Australia:
Plan and Prepare Meals
Planning and preparing your meals is essential when backpacking. Making your own meals is usually healthier and more economical than relying on pre-packaged or takeaway food. Create a meal plan and shopping list, and try to stick to it when shopping. This helps you make healthier choices and avoid unnecessary purchases.
Choose Nutritious Foods
Select foods that are nutrient-dense and provide sustained energy. Include complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, oats, and pulses, for slow-release energy. Ensure you consume enough protein, which is essential for muscle repair and recovery. Good sources of protein include tuna, salmon, jerky, eggs, and cheese. Don't forget healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Pack Smart
When backpacking, choose foods that are lightweight, non-perishable, and easy to prepare. Dried fruits, nuts, and granola bars are excellent choices for snacks. Mountain bread is a healthy alternative to traditional bread, as it's made with wholewheat flour and doesn't spoil easily. If you're hiking, consider the weight of your food and prioritise calorie-dense options.
Stay Disciplined
Maintaining a healthy diet while travelling can be challenging, especially on a budget. It's important to stay disciplined and incorporate good habits into your daily routine. Avoid the temptation of cheap, unhealthy convenience foods, and opt for healthier alternatives like fresh produce from local markets or supermarkets.
Know the Local Options
Research local options for healthy and affordable food. In Australia, you can find pockets of cities, like Chinatown, where you can enjoy cheap, authentic Asian cuisine. Brown rice sushi rolls or Vietnamese food in Melbourne are great examples of tasty and nutritious meals that won't break the bank.
Listen to Your Body
Understand your body's needs and preferences. While it's important to make healthy choices, don't restrict yourself too much. Allow yourself the occasional treat or "cheat day" to satisfy cravings and maintain a balanced approach to eating.
By following these tips, you can enjoy healthy and nourishing meals while backpacking in Australia, ensuring you have the energy and vitality to explore this beautiful country.
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Vegetarian and vegan options
Australia has plenty of locally grown fresh produce and many vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Here are some tips and recommendations for vegetarian and vegan options while backpacking in Australia.
If you're in Sydney, head to the Entertainment Quarter at Moore Park on the third Sunday of the month to enjoy vegan delights at the Sydney Vegan Market. You can also visit Shift Eatery, Sydney's first vegan deli, which offers a large range of vegan food and beverages, including sandwiches, specialty coffee, chocolate, ice-cream, pies, cheese, milk, and "mock" meats. After a swim at Bondi Beach, grab a vegan pie at Funky Pies on Glenayr Avenue. Audley Dancehall & Café offers a vegan big breakfast, including smashed avocado, hash browns, a vegan burger, and 5-grain porridge. For modern Thai vegan food, try the Kindness Café.
In the Gold Coast hinterland of Coolangatta and Currumbin, Lillipad Café (72 Grafton St) offers vegetarian dishes that can be made vegan with vegan cheese, such as the tofu or tempeh burrito and veggie burger. I Like Ramen in Nobby's Beach serves Australia's first and only 100% plant-based ramen. Goodness Gracias in Palm Beach serves excellent Mexican food.
In Darwin, near Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, Lazy Susan's Eating House on Cavenagh St offers vegan options like DIY pancakes, Szechuan Salt & Pepper Tofu, crispy eggplant, vegetable dishes, rice, and noodles.
In New South Wales, slightly off the beaten track from Newcastle, you'll find Bonta Vera, a renovated farmhouse that's been converted into the area's most popular vegan destination, offering scrumptious burgers with a view.
In Melbourne, try Smith and Daughters and Smith and Deli, and in Western Australia, visit Loving Hut in Victoria Park and Fremantle, which is one of the most recognized global vegan chains. Yo Donuts in Western Australia is also a plant-based bakery.
For fast-food options, PETA Australia recommends the McPlant, available in 270 locations across Victoria without cheese and mayo, and Papa Schnitz's vegan schnitzel. You can also try the Veggie Patty or Veggie Delight at Subway, without cheese, and with vegan sauces like BBQ, Sweet Chilli, Sweet Onion, and Tomato.
If you're unable to find vegan options at restaurants, remember that many chefs may be willing to omit or swap ingredients or even make you a special meal. It's always a good idea to research local restaurants and check their online menus before heading out for dinner. HappyCow.net lists vegetarian and vegan restaurants worldwide. You can also stock up on fresh produce at local markets, which are especially common in Australia.
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Frequently asked questions
It's important to plan your meals when backpacking in Australia, as food can be the biggest individual weight impost on multi-day hikes. Food should be lightweight, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients and calories. Dried fruits, granola bars, crackers, tuna sachets, and soups are all good options. If you're staying in hostels, make use of the kitchen facilities to prepare cheap, easy meals.
Backpackers on a budget can take advantage of Australia's diverse food scene, which offers everything from Aboriginal cuisine to modern city fare. Sample a traditional Aussie pie, or seek out local markets for fresh produce at reasonable prices. If you're cooking in a hostel, simple pasta dishes or tuna salads are quick and affordable options.
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options available for backpackers in Australia. Outdoor Herbivore offers vegetarian and vegan combo meals for multi-day hikes, and you can also find easy vegetarian recipes online that require minimal ingredients and kitchen equipment. Couscous, for example, is a great option that only needs boiled water and can be easily flavoured with spices.
