Campers Pantry FAQ

Got questions about our freeze-dried hiking meals, camping food, or how to use our freeze-dried vegetables and meats? We’ve got you covered! If your question isn’t answered below, get in touch—we’re happy to help.

What is freeze-drying?

Freeze-drying removes 98% of moisture from food while preserving its taste, nutrients, and texture. This makes our meals lightweight, long-lasting, and easy to prepare—just add hot (or cold) water!

Do Campers Pantry meals have added preservatives?

No! Our meals are 100% real food with no added preservatives. The freeze-drying process naturally preserves food for up to 2 years when stored properly. Some ingredients may contain naturally occurring sulphates, which are listed on our nutritional panels.

Do I need to cook the meals?

Nope! Our chef has already done the hard work for you. Just boil water, pour it into the bag, wait 10 minutes, and enjoy—right from the bag!

Can I use cold water instead of hot?

Yes! You can rehydrate our meals with cold water, but it will take a little longer.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A 'USE-BY' DATE AND A 'BEST BEFORE' DATE?

• Use-By Date: A food safety date. Food should not be eaten after its Use-By date and cannot legally be sold after this date.
• Best Before Date: A food quality date – not an expiry date. Food may still be perfectly suitable to eat after its Best Before date, although its quality, taste or texture may gradually change over time.

Campers Pantry freeze-dried meals are shelf-stable and should be stored unopened in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some products are also sealed with an oxygen absorber to help protect the food from oxygen and maintain quality during storage.

Under Australian food standards, foods with a shelf life of two years or longer are not required to display a Best Before date.

If your Campers Pantry meal has passed its Best Before date, check that the pouch is completely sealed and undamaged and that the product has been stored correctly. A Best Before date does not mean the food automatically becomes unsafe on that date.

For more information, see Food Standards Australia New Zealand's guidance on food date marking.

Where does Campers Pantry source its ingredients, including meat?

We are proud to source all our lamb, beef and chicken from Tasmanian and Australian suppliers. We also use local ingredients wherever possible to support Australian farmers.

What’s the difference between freeze-dried and dehydrated food?

• Freeze-drying removes 98% of moisture, locks in flavour and nutrients, and rehydrates faster using less fuel.
• Dehydration removes 80-90% of moisture, often using heat, which can reduce nutrients and flavour.

Freeze-dried meals are lighter, tastier, and quicker to prepare—perfect for adventure!

How big is a Campers Pantry single-serve meal?

We call ours a "True Single" serve—400g when rehydrated with a high protein content to keep you full. Our XL meals are 500g when cooked.

Does Campers Pantry offer larger packets?

Yes! We have bulk-sized freeze-dried meat and vegetable packs, perfect for:
Expeditions & group trips
Emergency food storage & disaster preparedness
DIY hiking meal recipes

Check out our bulk range here.

Does Campers Pantry have hiking food recipes?

Yes! Our freeze-dried vegetables are perfect for cooking while camping. Check out our recipes here!

Where is Campers Pantry food made & packed?

We are proudly Australian-made!
Cooked at: Loaves & Fishes Tasmania, supporting local communities.
Packed by: Endeavour Foundation, creating jobs for people with disabilities.

Shipping Info for Trail Tees 👕

Our Trail Tees ship for free when you order them solo – no minimum spend required.
If you're adding meals to your order, your tee will count towards the $150 total for free shipping across the whole order. So go ahead and mix & match!

Can I buy Campers Pantry meals from my local camping store?

You bet! We have partnered with outdoor retailers across Australia. Find a store near you here.