Oatmeal packets
A box of instant oatmeal packets is always an easy go-to as most accommodations have a microwave or a kettle, even hotel rooms. Toppings such as fresh/dried fruit, nuts, and milk or mixing in a nut butter are easy add-ons for extra nutrition. It’s affordable and will give you long-lasting energy for a day full of touring.
Yogurt and Granola
Individual Greek yogurt cups with some fruit and granola are a super easy breakfast to prepare with very little equipment. Some stores even sell the fruit with granola separated on top.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Wraps
The name pretty much says it all. Grab some whole wheat wraps, spread on some PB, and sprinkle on chocolate chips to taste, and roll it up. Add in a banana or berries for extra vitamins and minerals. This meal has a nice mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Not to mention it’s shelf stable so is perfect to take on a road trip and easy to prepare anywhere.
Burrata Salad
Okay, this may seem fancy but stay with me. A lot of countries, especially in Europe, have easily accessible burrata which makes for the most decadent salad. Combine some cherry tomatoes, nectarines, cherries, and basil top it with the burrata, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I like having some sort of local bread on the side for a rounded-out and incredibly satiating meal.
Tuna Melt
Mix a can of tuna with mayonnaise and pepper. Spread on a slice of bread, and top with grated cheese. Place under the broiler in the oven until the cheese melts and the bread starts to toast. Keep a close eye because if you burn this in a shared kitchen you will surely be embarrassed. Serve with salad or raw veg of choice on the side (carrot sticks, cucumber, pepper, etc.) for the perfect balanced meal
Charcuterie
If you’re travelling with a partner, or friends, or have cool hostel mates this is an essential meal, especially for picnics, hiking, etc. Place a variety of nice deli meats (prosciutto, salami), cheese (brie, goat, cheddar), a sliced baguette, some grapes, olives, and dried fruit on a board or big plate. Jams or honey add some extra flare. This can be pricier but if you have a group each person can bring an item or two and it becomes very affordable. Serve with wine!!
Mediterranean Linguine
Boil a long pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, etc. Mix in a decent jarred tomato sauce (I like one flavoured with herbs and garlic), and whatever antipasto you like – think chopped artichokes, olives, feta, spinach, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, etc.
Tortellini with Pesto
A package of fresh tortellini from the refrigeration section of the store is the easiest way to start a meal. Especially in hostels when the kitchens can get busy and crammed, you’ll appreciate being able to boil these noodles in only a few minutes. Drain the water and mix in some basil pesto and whatever veg or mix-ins you prefer (eg. arugula, cooked broccoli, sundried or cherry tomatoes, or cooked chicken).
Ramen
This classic backpacker meal may not be the healthiest on its own but with some added ingredients I think it’s perfectly acceptable. You can make it as the soup or fry the noodles with oil and the seasoning. Top with tofu or an egg for protein and veg such as sautéed bell peppers, corn, broccoli. Bonus points if you use less of the seasoning packet or make your sauce instead to reduce the sodium.