Signups for this class is limited to paid participants of the Backpacking Building Blocks course only until two weeks before the course; after that, course signups will open to all members, with a charge for those not enrolled in B3. Want tips for planning your backpacking menu to ensure you have the energy you need to feel great on your trip, while still keeping your pack weight light? Want to learn a system for backpack food prep that involves minimal extra gear, prep time, fuel, cleanup and trash to pack out? Want to be able to adapt your favorite tasty and healthy 'comfort foods' you eat at home to bring on the trail? This class will include some tried-and-true ideas for planning and prep before your trip, food for the trail and food prep at camp. You will also get some resources for ordering inexpensive dehydrated staples and preparing your own, from your favorite recipes. This class is for new backpackers and experienced ones who would like to update their skills and amp up the taste and energy content of their trail diet. We'll also speak to vegetarian and vegan considerations and other special diets. This will be a hands on class - we'll evaluate the calorie density of your favorite trail menu items, demonstrate some lightweight food prep methods, and have some samples for participants to taste. We encourage participants to bring their own recipes, experiences and questions.