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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. We also offer cold water lunch options, so you don’t need to unpack your stove. Look for the 💧 cold water icon!


📅 What’s the difference between a 'use-by' date and a 'best before' date?

  • Use-By Date: The date after which food should not be consumed for safety reasons. It’s illegal to sell food past this date.
  • Best Before Date: Food is still safe to eat after this date, but it may lose some freshness in taste or texture.

All Campers Pantry meals are labeled with a 'Best Before' date, meaning they remain safe for consumption beyond this date when stored correctly.


🥩 Where does Campers Pantry source its ingredients, including meat?

We are proud to source all our lamb, beef, chicken, and pork 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 flavor and nutrients, and rehydrates faster using less fuel.
  • Dehydration removes 80-90% of moisture, often using heat, which can reduce nutrients and flavor.

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.


🛍️ 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.

 🎉 A Free Treat for Your Next Adventure!
For a limited time, every order includes a FREE sample of our freeze-dried ice cream—a delicious, lightweight treat perfect for the trail.

Simply add a pack of Banana Ice Cream 🍌 to your cart. +$50 spend

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