Australia’s home to over 500 national parks, but for many hikers, the real challenge isn’t the trail. It’s packing the right snacks.

Hit the bush unprepared and you’ll run out of steam fast. Sugary bites melt. Bananas bruise. And no one wants a backpack full of crumbs.

That’s why we’ve compiled the top hiking trails and the best fuel to power you through, including the high-protein legend 3099 Jerky. Let’s lace up and snack smart!

What Makes a Great Hiking Snack?

Planning a big hike? Before you hit the trail, here’s what every great hiking snack needs to keep you going strong.

• High in Protein: Protein fuels your muscles and keeps hunger away on long hikes. It delivers slow-burning energy, helping you stay sharp and strong with every step, with no crashes or cravings.
• Lightweight & Packable: Heavy snacks weigh you down. The best ones are compact and easy to pack, fitting snugly in your daypack without bulk, leaving room for essentials like water and gear.
• Shelf-Stable: Great hiking snacks handle all conditions, no fridge, no worries. They stay fresh in the heat or cold, perfect for multi-day adventures or spontaneous weekend treks.
• Mess-Free: There should be no crumbs, sauces, or greasy fingers. Hiking snacks should be clean enough to eat on the go, so you can fuel up without pausing or making a mess of your pack.
• Nutrient-Dense: Every gram counts on the trail. Choose snacks packed with iron, zinc, healthy fats, and nutrients your body needs when burning energy through rugged Aussie terrain.
• Tastes Bloody Good: Flavour isn’t optional. If your snack doesn’t hit the spot, you won’t eat it. On the trail, bold taste greatly affects morale and satisfaction.
• Easy to Portion and Share: Good snacks are simple to ration or split with your hiking crew. Resealable packs or bite-sized portions are convenient, especially on group hikes or family bushwalks.

Australia’s Top Hiking Trails

From coastlines to outback, these Aussie trails offer epic views, and you’ll need the right fuel to conquer every step.

1. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

Stretching over 223 km through the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges, the Larapinta Trail is iconic outback hiking. Think red earth, epic ridgelines, and starlit campsites. 

This multi-day hike demands stamina, planning, and solid nutrition; jerky is a no-brainer. It’s lightweight, energy-packed, and doesn’t need refrigeration. 

Perfect when there’s no servo in sight! If you’re looking for solitude, challenge, and unforgettable views, Larapinta delivers the goods like no other. Just be ready, it’s as tough as it is beautiful.

2. Overland Track, Tasmania

Tasmania’s alpine gem, the Overland Track, is a 65 km journey through Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. You’ll pass glacial valleys, ancient forests, and snow-dusted peaks. 

With unpredictable weather and steep climbs, it’s no walk in the park, especially when carrying a heavy pack. That’s why snacks like 3099 Jerky shine here. It’s light, high in protein, and perfect for cold climates where energy burns fast. This trail is a must for serious hikers craving wilderness and wonder.

3. Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

Running 104 km along the coastline from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, this trail delivers dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and shipwreck history. It’s a feast for the eyes and a solid leg workout. 

While there are spots to restock, it pays to bring reliable snacks. Humidity and wind can quickly spoil soft foods. Jerky, on the other hand, holds up like a champ. Plus, it adds a flavour to every break with a view.

4. Blue Mountains Grand Traverse, New South Wales

Less touristy than the lookout circuit, the Grand Traverse links some of the Blue Mountains’ best trails into one breathtaking experience. Expect waterfalls, dramatic escarpments, and a lot of stairs. It’s the hike that’ll burn your calves, but it’s worth every step. 

Between climbs, you’ll want fast, fuss-free energy. Jerky’s perfect: no crumbs, no prep, just pure fuel. It fits easily in your pocket and keeps you powered through steep ascents and winding trails.

5. Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia

At over 1000 km long, the Bibbulmun Track stretches from Perth to Albany through forests, coastline, and charming country towns. Most hikers tackle sections of it across weekends or holidays. Whether you're out for a day or a week, smart snacking is essential. 

Jerky is ideal here, not just for energy, but because it’s easy to store and ration. The track’s variety demands versatility, and 3099 Jerky’s bold flavours mean you’ll never get bored mid-hike.

Why 3099 Jerky Belongs in Every Hiker’s Pack

When hiking Australia’s wildest trails, you need a snack that pulls its weight, and 3099 Jerky does just that. It’s not just a treat, it’s trail fuel. Packed with high-quality protein from 100% Aussie grass-fed beef, our jerky helps keep your energy and hunger down, no matter how rugged the terrain.

Forget sugary snacks that spike and crash. 3099 Jerky gives you sustained energy, perfect for long treks, steep climbs, and everything. Plus, it’s lightweight, compact, and requires zero refrigeration, meaning you can throw it in your pack and forget about it till your stomach growls.

Each batch is marinated for 24 hours, air-dried the old-school way, and sealed fresh without preservatives, MSG, or fillers. It’s clean fuel, Aussie-made, and ready to go.

With bold flavours like Smokey BBQ, Chilli, Garlic, Teriyaki, Salt and Vinegar, and Original, there’s something for every hiker’s taste buds. The resealable packs make it perfect for sharing or snacking across multiple days.

Whether conquering cliffs or strolling through the bush, 3099 Jerky is the snack that truly goes the distance.

Other Must-Pack Snacks to Pair with Jerky

Jerky’s the MVP, no doubt, but pairing it with a few other smart snacks can turn your hiking fuel into a proper trail feast. You want variety, balance, and energy that lasts.

• Nuts and Seeds: High in healthy fats, protein, and fibre. Almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds are easy to carry and pair perfectly with jerky’s savoury bite.
• Dried Fruit: Dried fruit adds natural sweetness and a hit of quick energy. Try apricots, mangoes, or sultanas to balance the jerky’s saltiness without weighing down your pack.
• Trail Mix: Make your own or grab a pre-made mix. Combine jerky with nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chunks for a trail-ready protein bomb.
• Energy Bars: Great backup snacks. Look for bars with real ingredients and at least 8g of protein. They’re handy when you need to eat on the move.
• Electrolyte Tablets or Hydration Packs: These are not exactly snacks, but they are a must. Replenishing salt and minerals matters, especially on hot or long hikes. Pair them with jerky to stay sharp and hydrated.

Final Tips for Snacking on the Trail

Snacking on the trail isn’t just about eating, it’s about fuelling smart so you stay strong, focused, and ready for anything. Here are a few final tips to get it right.

• Pack Smart, Not Heavy: Choose snacks that are light but dense in nutrients. Jerky, nuts, and dried fruit keep your pack light while fueling your body across long trails.
• Portion Before You Go: Avoid overpacking by pre-portioning your snacks into small, resealable bags. It saves space, keeps things fresh, and helps you ration properly over multi-day hikes.
• Keep Snacks Accessible: Store your go-to snacks in easy-to-reach pockets or hip pouches. You’ll snack more often, stay energised, and avoid constantly digging through your pack whenever you’re hungry.
• Mix Up Your Flavours: Variety kills boredom. Pack a mix of savoury, sweet, and spicy snacks to keep your taste buds engaged, especially on longer hikes when food fatigue can hit hard.
• Stay Hydrated with Every Bite: High-protein snacks like jerky are efficient, but they increase your need for water. Sip often and balance salty snacks with regular hydration to stay sharp and safe.

Fuel the Adventure Right

From rugged ridges to coastal tracks, Australia’s hikes demand fuel that works as hard as your boots. 3099 Jerky is lightweight, protein-packed, and built for the trail. 

Don’t leave your energy to chance; stock up before your next adventure. Whether tackling Tassie’s peaks or chasing ocean views, great snacks make all the difference. Grab your jerky packs now at 3099Jerky.com and hike like a legend!