7 Best Jerky for Hiking: High-Protein, On-the-Go Snacks

Energy and convenience are essential for hiking. High-protein, on-the-go snacks like jerky fit the bill perfectly. Lightweight, easy to carry, and packed with protein, jerky is an ideal trail companion for any adventure.

But not all jerky is created equal – some stand out for taste, texture, and nutrition. So, what are the best options to fuel your next adventure? 

This article highlights the 7 best jerky for hiking, focusing on flavour, protein content, and ease of packing. Ready to keep your energy up on the trail? Let’s dive in!

1. Original Beef Jerky

Original Beef Jerky is a classic choice for hikers looking for a reliable, high-protein snack. Its savoury flavour and chewy texture offer a satisfying bite when energy starts to dip on the trail. 

Made from lean cuts of beef, it is packed with protein to keep muscles fuelled and hunger at bay during long hikes.

Lightweight and easy to pack, it won’t take up much space in your bag, making it a perfect on-the-go snack. 

Each serving of beef jerky provides a high protein-to-weight ratio, ensuring you get the energy boost you need without feeling weighed down. Plus, its long shelf life means it stays fresh, no matter how rugged your adventure gets.

The flavour is as important as function, and original beef jerky delivers. Its simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and traditional spices hits the spot while avoiding unnecessary additives. Whether trekking through forests or climbing mountains, this jerky is practical and delicious.

2. Chilli Beef Jerky

Turn up the heat with Chilli Beef Jerky – a fiery favourite for hikers who love bold flavours. Packed with lean protein and a bold spice, it fuels your energy while keeping your taste buds excited. 

The chilli seasoning adds flavour and boosts metabolism, making it a smart choice for long trails where every bit of energy counts.

Lightweight and easy to carry, this jerky fits snugly in your pack without taking up space. Its high protein content helps repair muscles and keeps you full, while the spice adds a satisfying twist to every bite.

Chilli beef jerky delivers heat and nourishment for hikers who want something beyond the ordinary. It’s crafted for durability, with a long shelf life that won’t let you down during extended adventures. 

Savoury beef and fiery chilli balance ensures a functional and flavourful snack. Spicy, energising, and easy to carry – chilli beef jerky is a trail essential. 

Take a bite, feel the heat, and keep moving forward. This snack doesn’t just fuel your hike – it adds a little fire to your adventure.

3. Teriyaki Beef Jerky

Teriyaki Beef Jerky strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savoury, making it a popular choice for hikers. Packed with high-quality protein, it fuels your muscles and energises you during long treks. 

The subtle sweetness of teriyaki, balanced with a hint of soy, creates a flavour-packed snack that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Lightweight and easy to carry, this jerky is ideal for hikers who need quick, mess-free energy on the go. It won’t take up much space in your pack, and its long shelf life means it stays fresh for weeks, even in changing weather conditions.

Each bite delivers a tender, slightly chewy texture that keeps you returning for more. Whether tackling a short hike or a multi-day adventure, teriyaki beef jerky offers the protein boost you need to keep moving.

Teriyaki beef jerky is a must-have for hikers craving a snack with bold, balanced flavours. Sweet, savoury, and satisfying – it’s a trail companion that won’t disappoint you. Pack it, enjoy it, and let it fuel your next adventure.

4. Smokey BBQ Beef Jerky

Craving smoky satisfaction on your hike? Smokey BBQ Beef Jerky delivers. Its rich, smoky taste and tender texture bring the classic BBQ experience to the trail. 

Each bite combines sweet, smoky, and savoury notes, making it a snack that keeps your energy up and your taste buds happy.

This jerky is high in protein and low in fat, which is perfect for fuelling your hike. It provides the essential energy your muscles need, helping you push through long distances or steep climbs. Lightweight and durable, it fits easily into your backpack without adding unnecessary weight.

The smoky BBQ flavour stands out from other trail snacks, offering a satisfying treat without mess or fuss. Plus, its long shelf life means it’s ready whenever adventure calls.

For hikers who want a burst of BBQ goodness on the go, smokey BBQ beef jerky delivers. It’s more than just a snack – it’s your go-to fuel for the trail. Pack it, savour it, and let every bite power you forward.

5. Garlic Beef Jerky

Garlic lovers, rejoice! Garlic Beef Jerky is the ultimate snack for hikers who crave bold, savoury flavours. Packed with lean protein, it keeps your energy and hunger in check during long treks. 

The rich garlic seasoning adds flavour to every bite, making it tasty and satisfying on the trail.
High-protein snacks like garlic beef jerky are essential for endurance. 

They repair tired muscles, keep you full, and fuel your body through challenging climbs and long distances. Lightweight and easy to pack, this jerky won’t weigh down your backpack and has a long shelf life, ready for any adventure.

The bold garlic flavour makes this jerky stand out, offering a tasty alternative to bland trail snacks. Its chewy texture and savoury seasoning balance flavour and nutrition, helping you stay strong and satisfied.

Garlic beef jerky is more than just a snack – it’s a trail companion that won’t disappoint you. Whether on a short hike or a multi-day trek, this protein-rich, flavour-packed jerky keeps you going. Take a bite, savour the garlic goodness, and power through your next adventure.

6. Salt & Vinegar Beef Jerky

Tangy and refreshing, Salt & Vinegar Beef Jerky add a unique twist to your hiking snack game. The sharp kick of vinegar combined with a savoury hint of salt creates a bold flavour that wakes your taste buds and keeps you returning for more. 

This jerky balances taste and function on every trek, perfect for hikers who want something different.

High in protein and low in fat, it’s a smart choice for lasting energy. Whether tackling steep climbs or enjoying a leisurely trail, this snack fuels your muscles and keeps hunger away. 

Its lightweight design and long shelf life make it an ideal pack companion for short or multi-day hikes.

The crisp saltiness and tangy vinegar flavour are refreshing from the usual trail snacks, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite. Its lean beef content also gives you the protein boost your body needs to power through.

Salt & Vinegar Beef Jerky isn’t just a snack – it’s a burst of energy with a flavour-packed punch. Pack it, savour it, and let the zing of salt and vinegar keep you moving mile after mile.

7. Chicken Jerky

For a lighter trail option, Chicken Jerky steps up. Made from premium chicken breast, it’s packed with protein while staying low in fat. This makes it perfect for those who want clean energy without feeling weighed down on the trail.

Its tender texture and subtle flavour set it apart from traditional beef jerky. Often seasoned with mild spices, chicken jerky offers a tasty and satisfying bite for long hikes or quick breaks. It’s easy to chew, making it ideal when you’re on the move and need a quick energy boost.

Lightweight and compact, chicken jerky is a hiker’s dream. It takes up little space in your pack and has a long shelf life, so it’s ready for any adventure. Whether tackling challenging climbs or enjoying a casual trail walk, it delivers the protein you need to keep going.

For hikers who prefer a lighter, leaner alternative, chicken jerky ticks all the boxes. Delicious, easy to carry, and packed with protein, it’s a smart choice for fuelling your next outdoor journey. Take a bite and enjoy clean, energising nutrition with every step.

Benefits of Jerky on Long Hikes

Jerky is the perfect snack for long hikes, offering energy, nutrition, and convenience. Here are the key benefits, explained further:

• High in Protein: Jerky provides a concentrated source of protein that helps repair tired muscles and supports recovery during long hikes. Protein is essential for keeping your strength up, mainly when covering challenging trails or carrying a heavy pack.
  
• Long-Lasting Fullness: Protein takes longer to digest than carbs, meaning jerky keeps you fuller for longer. This helps reduce cravings and the need for constant snacking so you can focus on enjoying the hike without frequent food stops.
  
• Lightweight and Portable: Jerky is compact and easy to carry, making it a convenient snack for hikers. It won’t take up much space in your bag or add unnecessary weight, which is essential for long-distance treks.
  
• Long Shelf Life: Unlike fresh food, jerky has a long shelf life, so it won’t spoil during multi-day hikes. It stays fresh even in hot or humid conditions, ensuring you always have a reliable energy source.
  
• Nutrient-Rich: Along with protein, jerky delivers essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. These help boost energy production, prevent fatigue, and keep your body performing well on challenging trails.
  
• Quick and Convenient: Jerky requires no preparation or clean-up, making it the perfect grab-and-go snack. You can quickly refuel without stopping, helping you maintain a steady hiking pace.

Conclusion

Jerky is the ultimate high-protein snack for hiking adventures. Lightweight, nutritious, and packed with energy, it fuels every trail. These top 7 options have you covered, from savoury classics to bold flavours. 

Pack your favourite jerky from 3099 jerky, fuel your journey, and confidently conquer every challenge. Start exploring these delicious choices today!