Hikers lose up to 2,000 calories on a full-day trek, yet many still rely on sugar-heavy snacks that fizzle out fast. That handful of trail mix might taste alright, but it won’t keep your legs pumping when the incline hits. You need real fuel, not just filler.

This article breaks down the showdown between jerky and classic trail snacks. We’ll unpack what fuels your hike best, why protein-packed jerky pulls ahead, and how 3099 Jerky stacks up as your ultimate trail mate. Let’s gear up right!

What Makes a Good Trail Snack?

Choosing the right trail snack matters. Here’s what makes a snack truly hike-worthy, from energy and nutrition to weight and convenience.

• High in Protein: A good trail snack should offer sustained energy. Protein helps keep your muscles fuelled and hunger at bay during long hikes, unlike sugar-loaded snacks that crash quickly.
• Lightweight and Compact: You don’t want to lug around bulky food. Great trail snacks are light, easy to pack, and take up minimal space in your bag, leaving room for essentials.
• Long Shelf Life: Hiking snacks need to last without refrigeration. The best options stay fresh over days in your pack, with no melting, spoiling, or weird textures after a few hours.
• Low Mess Factor: No one wants sticky fingers or crumbs everywhere. Good trail snacks are neat and clean, easy to eat on the go, and don’t leave your gear smelling or attracting insects.
• Balanced Nutrition: Snacks with a mix of protein, healthy fats, and some carbs give you steady energy. They won’t spike your sugar and leave you tired halfway through the track.
• Easy to Eat While Moving: Convenience matters when you're mid-hike. Ideal snacks are easy to open and munch on without needing utensils, plates, or a place to sit and rest.

Why Jerky Stands Out Among Trail Snacks

When it comes to hiking fuel, jerky checks nearly every box, and then some. Packed with high-quality protein, jerky delivers slow-burning energy that helps you power through steep climbs and long distances without crashing. 

Unlike sugary snacks that spike and drop your blood sugar, jerky offers steady fuel that sustains you.

It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and doesn’t melt or spoil in your backpack. And unlike fruit, cheese, or sandwiches, jerky won’t spoil or leak in the Aussie sun; it stays fresh and ready, no fridge needed.

Then there’s the convenience. There's no mess, crumbs, sticky wrappers or squashed fruit to deal with, just open and eat. 

But not all jerky is made equal. 3099 Jerky is made in Australia using 100% grass-fed beef, with no added nasties. It’s clean, flavour-packed, and built for adventure. Whether hiking, bushwalking, or trail running, jerky gives you the edge without the sugar crash. That’s why so many hikers swear by it.

Common Trail Snacks: Pros and Cons

When hiking, most Aussies instinctively reach for familiar snacks, muesli bars, trail mix, or fruit. But are they truly the best fuel for the trail?

Flavour Matters: Jerky That Keeps You Going

Let’s face it, when you’re hiking for hours, taste matters just as much as nutrition. Bland snacks get boring fast, and that’s where 3099 Jerky shines. With bold, mouth-watering flavours like Smokey BBQ, Chilli, Garlic, Teriyaki, Salt and Vinegar, and Original,  it turns every break into something to look forward to.

Each bite delivers a smoky, savoury punch that keeps your taste buds engaged and your motivation high. Whether you’re tackling steep inclines or cruising along the trail, a flavour hit from 3099 Jerky is the perfect pick-me-up. It’s not just fuel, it’s something you’ll actually crave mid-hike.

Plus, there’s no need to worry about artificial nasties. Our jerky is made from 100% Australian grass-fed beef, naturally marinated and slow-dried for maximum flavour and quality. It’s real food with real taste.

When other snacks fall flat, jerky brings the flavour, and that could make all the difference between calling it early or reaching the summit.

3099 Jerky vs. Trail Snacks: Nutritional Showdown

Craving trail snacks that fuel your hike? Here’s how 3099 Jerky stacks up against the usual suspects.

Pro Tips for Packing Jerky on the Trail

Packing jerky right can make all the difference. Here’s how to always keep it fresh, handy, and trail-ready.

• Portion Before You Pack: Pre-portion your jerky into small, resealable bags to avoid overeating and make it easy to snack while walking. Smaller packs also fit better inside pockets or hip pouches. This saves time and keeps your main pack organised.
• Keep It Sealed: Always keep your jerky tightly sealed to maintain freshness and keep out moisture. Open packs can get soggy or attract bugs. A ziplock or vacuum-sealed pouch works best for multi-day hikes.
• Pair It with Other Snacks: Jerky works great with nuts, cheese, or electrolyte drinks for a balanced trail meal. Protein is powerful, but pairing adds variety and extra fuel. Pack combos in separate containers to keep textures fresh.
• Store It Accessible: Place your jerky where it’s easy to grab, think the top of your pack or front zipper pocket. You shouldn’t need to stop or unpack to refuel. Quick access means you stay energised without losing momentum.
• Label the Flavours: If you’re carrying multiple flavours, label the bags before heading out. This helps avoid digging around mid-hike for your favourites. Plus, it makes snack breaks more fun when you know what’s coming.
• Mind the Heat: If hiking in hot weather, keep your jerky away from direct sun to prevent excess oil or texture changes. Tuck it inside the pack, not strapped outside. Proper storage keeps every bite just as bold as the first.

Choose Fuel That Goes the Distance

When the trail gets tough, your snack shouldn’t let you down. While trail mix has its place, jerky delivers lasting energy, bold flavour, and real fuel. It’s lightweight, mess-free, and packed with protein, everything a hiker needs. 

So next time you’re gearing up, leave the sugar behind and reach for something stronger. Grab a pack of 3099 Jerky and fuel your hike the Aussie way, one bite at a time.