
How to Choose the Right Jerky for Your Camping or Hiking Trip
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Nothing kills a hike faster than running out of energy, or worse, biting into a bland, chewy snack halfway up a ridge. Nearly 70% of Aussie hikers say they packed snacks that didn’t hold up, were too bulky, messy, or just plain boring. And there's no servo in sight when you're deep in the bush!
That’s why Jerky’s a bushwalking legend. In this guide, we’ll help you pick the right jerky for your camping or hiking trip, flavour, function, and firepower all sorted. Let’s get you properly packed!
What Makes Jerky Ideal for the Outdoors?
Need fuel for the wild? Here’s why jerky is the ultimate no-fuss, high-protein snack for outdoor adventurers.
- It Doesn’t Need Refrigeration: Jerky is shelf-stable, meaning it can handle long hikes, hot tents, and rugged trails without spoiling. No esky, no stress. Just open, eat, and keep moving.
- Lightweight and Space-Saving: Every gram matters when packing for a trek. Jerky is compact and light and fits easily into any backpack pocket. You won’t even notice it’s there until you need it.
- High in Protein for Sustained Energy: Long walks and climbs demand lasting fuel. Jerky offers lean, slow-burning protein to keep you full and energised. There is no sugar crash, just steady power.
- Long Shelf Life: Unlike fresh snacks, jerky stays good for months. Perfect for multi-day hikes, emergency backup, or that last-minute camping trip. It’s always ready when you are.
- No Mess, No Prep: Jerky is grab-and-go, and no cutting, cooking, or clean-up is required. No greasy hands or sticky wrappers. It’s a clean, convenient trail snack.
- Packed with Flavour: Whether you’re into smoky BBQ or chilli heat, jerky delivers bold flavours outdoors. That flavour hit lifts morale after a long day hiking. It’s satisfying in ways that trail mix just can’t match.
- Easy to Ration: You can tear jerky into small pieces and pace it throughout the day. Perfect for portion control without overeating. It’s a smart way to snack when you're off the grid.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Jerky for a Trip

Choosing the right jerky matters. Here’s what to look for to fuel your adventure without sacrificing taste, texture, or nutrition.
1. Shelf Life
Refrigeration isn’t an option out in the bush. Always choose jerky with a long shelf life, ideally several months sealed. The longer it lasts, the better your backup snack plan.
Look for products that use natural preservation methods like salt and air drying instead of artificial additives. This ensures both flavour and safety, especially during extended hikes or multi-day camping trips.
2. Packaging
Choose jerky in resealable, durable packaging that can withstand being tossed around in a backpack. Thin plastic tears easily and risks spoiling or causing a mess.
Resealable pouches keep your jerky fresh and easy to portion throughout the day. Pick packs with clear serving sizes or tear strips for even more convenience. Smart packaging saves space and hassle and keeps your snack fresh longer.
3. Flavour Variety

When you're eating on the trail for days, flavour fatigue is real. Choosing a few different jerky flavours keeps things exciting and enjoyable.
Go for a mix, something mild, spicy, or even smoky. A changing flavour profile can help lift your mood during tough treks. You’ll thank yourself later when dinner doesn’t feel like déjà vu.
4. Nutritional Value
Jerky should energise you, not weigh you down. Look for high protein, low sugar, and minimal additives.
Avoid overly processed options with fillers or excessive sodium, they’ll just leave you thirsty or bloated. Grass-fed beef or all-natural options tend to offer cleaner fuel. Remember, the better the nutrition, the better you’ll feel and perform on your trip.
5. Texture and Chewability
Tough-as-leather jerky might seem fine at home, but on the trail? Not ideal. After long hikes, your jaw will thank you for softer, more tender strips.
Choose a soft and moist texture that suits your needs for snacking on the go, or firmer if you prefer a longer chew. A comfortable bite goes a long way in harsh conditions.
Best 3099 Jerky Picks for Outdoor Adventures

Tough terrain needs tougher snacks. These top 3099 Jerky picks are made to fuel your adventures without slowing you down.
1. Chilli Beef Jerky
This jerky packs heat and protein in equal measure, making it a favourite among hikers who want bold flavour without the bulk.
It’s spicy enough to satisfy but not overpowering, and the lean Aussie beef keeps you fuelled during long walks. The resealable pack makes it a practical choice for trail snacking. It’s light, flavourful, and delivers reliable energy with every bite.
2. Garlic Beef Jerky
For campers who love bold, savoury flavours, this jerky delivers a knockout punch of roasted garlic and red chilli.
It’s got that “just one more piece” vibe that makes it hard to stop munching. The heat builds slowly, perfect for keeping you alert on the trail. It’s high in protein, low in sugar, and comes in a handy pouch that fits any backpack.
3. Smoky BBQ Jerky
Smoky, sweet, and crowd-pleasing, this is your go-to jerky for group hikes or fireside snacking. The BBQ glaze adds flavour depth without being too messy or sticky.
It’s mild on heat, making it perfect for sharing with non-chilli-head mates. With tender strips and a rich marinade, it satisfies those hunger pangs and keeps energy levels steady throughout the day.
4. Salt & Vinegar Jerky

Tangy and bold, this jerky is unlike anything else in your trail mix. The salt and vinegar flavour gives a zesty edge that wakes up the palate mid-hike.
It’s a refreshing alternative to the usual smoky or sweet varieties, ideal for balancing out other camp snacks. Lightweight, protein-rich, and packed in resealable bags, it’s a smart, tasty choice for long treks.
5. Teriyaki Beef Jerky
This one’s for flavour lovers who want balance on the trail. 3099’s Teriyaki Jerky combines sweet and savoury in a bold umami blend that’s never too sticky or overpowering.
It’s low in sugar and high in protein, ideal for all-day hiking. Its tender texture makes it easy to eat on the move, with no prep or fuss, just flavour-packed fuel.
6. Original Beef Jerky
Simple, clean, and full of classic beef flavour, the Original is a reliable hiking or camping kit staple.
It’s minimally seasoned to let the natural richness of Aussie beef shine through, with no extra sugars or artificial flavours. Perfect for those who prefer straight-up, no-nonsense snacks on the go. It delivers lasting energy and keeps hunger at bay without weighing you down.
Pro Tips for Packing Jerky on Your Trip

Packing jerky right makes all the difference. Use these pro tips to keep it fresh, tasty, and trail-ready every time.
- Use Resealable Bags: Always pack jerky in resealable bags to keep it fresh and prevent spills. Resealing also helps portion your snack over multiple days, and it stops odours from escaping into your gear.
- Store it in an Easy-Access Pocket: Keep your jerky where you can grab it fast, such as the top of your pack or a hip pocket. You don’t want to unpack everything mid-hike, and quick energy should always be within reach.
- Don’t Overpack More Than You’ll Eat: Jerky is lightweight, but too much can take up valuable space. Plan your portions; a couple of strips per hour of activity is plenty. Stick to what you’ll eat.
- Keep It Dry and Cool: Moisture and heat can ruin jerky’s texture and taste. If you're going remote, pack it in a dry sack or with silica packets. This helps avoid spoilage on multi-day trips.
- Rotate Flavours to Avoid Fatigue: Bringing just one flavour is a big mistake. Pack 2–3 varieties so you don’t get bored. Choose spicy for the trail and sweet for campfire evenings.
- Combine with Other Trail Snacks: Pair jerky with nuts, dried fruit, or hard cheese for a complete mini-meal. It boosts both nutrition and satisfaction. Your taste buds will thank you after a long hike.
Why Hikers and Campers Choose 3099 Jerky

When you’re out in the wild, you want light fuel to carry, that lasts for days, and tastes good. That’s where 3099 Jerky comes in, crafted for Aussie adventurers who won’t settle for soggy sandwiches or sugar-filled muesli bars.
Our jerky is made from 100% grass-fed Aussie beef, marinated for 24 hours and air-dried to lock in serious flavour and nutrients.
Whether scaling peaks or setting up camp under the stars, 3099 Jerky delivers long-lasting energy without the crash. Each bite packs a high-protein punch to keep you going and comes in resealable packs, with no refrigeration and no hassle.
Choose from bold flavours like Chilli, Garlic & Chilli, and smokey BBQ, all low in sugar, gluten-free, and free from preservatives or MSG. It’s clean, real food you can trust on any trail.
Every gram counts when carrying everything on your back, and 3099 Jerky makes every bite worth it. Adventure-ready, Aussie-made.
Make Every Bite Count on the Trail
Choosing the right jerky can make or break your outdoor adventure. It’s about smart fuel, bold flavour, long shelf life, and zero hassle. Whether tackling a tough trail or chilling by the fire, 3099
Jerky has your back with Aussie-made, protein-packed options. Ready to gear up with the ultimate snack for the wild? Grab your trail-ready jerky now from 3099 Jerky and hike smarter.