When planning a menu for a hiking trip, many backpackers choose foods that do not require refrigeration. Canned meat, poultry and fish, although heavy, are good choices. Concentrated juice boxes are also handy but heavy. Check with an outdoor supply store for foods packaged especially for backpacking. If you pack carefully, it is possible to use fresh foods for meals the first day.
Many campers drive to their campsites with coolers, and have access to grills.
Foods can be prepared in advance, refrigerated or frozen, and packed with a cold source. This way the food will be kept cold while you hike. If you are camping or backpacking with an infant, carry pre-measured packets of powdered infant formula as well as bottled water and prepare one bottle at a time. If you carry prepared bottles, keep them cold. If you use bottled water, it is not necessary to boil it before mixing with formula.