If you’re bringing a portable stove, then oatmeal is definitely the way to go. It’s quick and easy to make, it’s super filling, and its calorie-to-weight ratio is just great. You can choose between different flavor varieties or add nuts, honey, and herbs to spice things up.

The best part is that neither of those things requires much space, and they allow you to experiment with different plant-based food ideas with oatmeal.

In case oatmeal isn’t your thing, the next best thing is granola or protein bars.

Find several varieties that you like and rotate them throughout the trip. Be sure to choose options that are high in protein and fiber so that you have enough energy throughout the day while on the trail.

Although not quite filling, they’re always a great option to lift the spirits and offer an inexpensive and quick meal on the trail.

Add veggies and herbs for extra flavor!

Again, if you’re bringing a portable stove, you can also bring a Moka pot for a strong black coffee. Of course, it’s best to do that when you’re traveling in a larger group so you can spread the supplies evenly. If you’re not a fan of black coffee, you can always go with instant varieties. Don’t forget to pack coffee creamer (powdered is better) if that’s how you prefer your daily dose of caffeine. Otherwise, you run the risk of being cranky all day long. The good news is that most creamers fall under the plant-based food category, but don’t forget to check the label anyway.

For those who need their daily cup of tea, or if you’re going to be camping high up in the mountains, you need to pack some tea. Choose green or black tea if you need your caffeine but don’t like coffee, and opt for herbal teas if you drink coffee anyway so you don’t get over-caffeinated.

Due to current circumstances, the majority of flights have been grounded for months. It means fewer planes are in the sky but is flying less likely to help the environment?

A Vast Drop In Air Pollution

Since the outbreak, many countries have seen a reduction in their levels of air pollution. This is attributed mainly to the lack of planes in the sky. As we become more aware of our carbon footprints, many people have decided that flying is not necessarily the best way to travel.

However, there aren’t many alternatives. Per passenger, flight emits more carbon emissions than any other mode of transport, so while most planes have been out of operation, our planet has been recovering.

The majority of us are not frequent flyers, so would an average person cutting out flying really make a difference? Perhaps it’s those who regularly fly for business who ought to reduce their carbon footprints. After all, business class takes up more room on planes, meaning fewer economy class seats can fit in the plane.

Is Flying All Bad?

Aviation is understood to account for around 3 percent of the world’s carbon emissions. That’s small compared to the world’s carbon emissions output for electricity and heat production, which is 25%, and agriculture and forestry, which accounts for 24%. People can also offset their carbon emissions and contribute to tree-planting projects.

An Economic Impact

Some communities may find themselves being hit by a reduction in flights, particularly those working in the travel industry. Smaller communities that attract travelers from all over the world would be much less accessible if flying wasn’t so common. A reduction in tourists to those areas can result in workers losing their jobs and small businesses collapsing without the presence of tourist money.

While reducing the number of planes in the sky will reduce carbon emissions, perhaps we ought to be looking at reducing them from other industries before flying less.