When you’re lacing up your boots and heading out to conquer the trails of Namadgi National Park, Mount Ainslie, or the Brindabellas, your choice of snack is more than a matter of taste—it’s a matter of endurance, nutrition, and convenience.

Enter beef jerky—the ultimate hiker’s companion and, arguably, the smartest snack choice for Canberra’s outdoor adventurers.

From its compact, no-mess packaging to its high protein content and long shelf life, jerky ticks all the boxes for those who love exploring the great outdoors. But not all jerky is created equal, and Canberrans are increasingly leaning toward locally made, Aussie-sourced options that deliver on flavour, quality, and sustainability.

In this guide, we’ll explore why beef jerky is the perfect hiking snack for the ACT region, where to find the best locally made options, and what to look for when choosing jerky for your next trail trek.

Why Canberra Hikers Love Jerky: 6 Smart Reasons

Canberra might be known for politics and roundabouts, but it’s also surrounded by world-class bushwalking destinations. And when it comes to sustaining energy and fuelling your body on the trail, jerky is proving to be an MVP for outdoor lovers.

Here’s why:

1. High in Protein, Low in Sugar

Protein helps maintain energy levels, curb hunger, and promote muscle repair after a long hike. Most high-quality beef jerky offers:

• 10–15g of protein per serving
  
• Minimal carbohydrates
• No added sugar or fillers
  

This makes it ideal for low-carb, keto, and paleo hikers—especially those tackling longer tracks like Square Rock or the Centenary Trail.

2. Portable and Lightweight

Whether you’re packing for a quick morning walk up Black Mountain or a full-day hike through Namadgi, jerky’s lightweight and compact form means you can bring plenty without adding bulk to your bag.

Plus, with resealable packs, you can portion it out throughout the day without spoilage.

3. No Refrigeration Required

Hot day? No problem. Jerky is naturally preserved and doesn’t require refrigeration, making it the perfect shelf-stable snack for warm-weather hikes or overnight bush camping trips in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

4. Mess-Free and Convenient

No crumbs. No sticky fingers. No melting. Just open, snack, reseal, and keep moving. Jerky’s clean eating appeal is a huge bonus on narrow trails or summit stops.

5. Long Shelf Life

Unlike granola bars or fruit, jerky keeps for months, meaning you can stock up for the entire hiking season without worry.

6. Flavour That Satisfies

Let’s be honest—trail mix gets old fast. Jerky offers a savoury hit of umami, often in creative flavour combos like chilli lime, smoky BBQ, or teriyaki. It satisfies your taste buds while fuelling your body.

Where to Get the Best Jerky in Canberra

Not all jerky is created equal. Supermarket options are often full of preservatives, high in sugar, or imported from overseas. Savvy Canberra hikers are turning to local, Aussie-made brands for jerky that’s fresher, cleaner, and more sustainable.

Bigwig Jerky Co. – Your Trail Buddy in a Bag

Website: www.bigwigjerky.com.au

While based in Queensland, Bigwig Jerky Co. has become a favourite among Canberra locals, thanks to its fast delivery, variety of flavours, and commitment to 100% Australian beef.

Why hikers love it:

• Made weekly in small batches for ultimate freshness
  
• Contains no preservatives, no MSG, no nasties
  
• Available in bold flavours like Original, Garlic, Chilli, and Smoky BBQ
  
• Lightweight, resealable packs perfect for daypacks

Bonus: Bigwig ships quickly to the ACT, meaning you can stock up for a weekend hike without leaving your home.

Canberra’s Best Hiking Spots (And the Jerky to Match)

Let’s pair the region’s most iconic hikes with the perfect jerky flavours:

Jerky Nutrition vs Other Hiking Snacks

Conclusion: Jerky is the clear winner for protein-to-weight ratio, shelf stability, and trail-readiness.

What to Look for in Trail-Ready Jerky

Before grabbing any old packet, make sure your jerky of choice checks these boxes:

✅ 100% Australian beef – Know your source
✅ No artificial preservatives – Clean ingredient lists only
✅ Low sugar, high protein – Ideal for endurance activities
✅ Vacuum-sealed or resealable packaging – Keeps it trail-ready
✅ Flavour variety – Because no one wants the same thing every day

Final Thoughts: Jerky is the Canberra Hiker’s Super Snack

From the alpine peaks of Namadgi to the eucalyptus-scented trails around Cotter Dam, Canberra’s hiking scene is second to none. But to truly enjoy it, you need to fuel your body smartly—and that’s where jerky shines.

It’s lightweight, nutritious, non-perishable, and seriously satisfying. And when sourced from top Aussie brands like Bigwig Jerky, you’re not just snacking—you’re supporting ethical farming, local businesses, and sustainable snacking.

So before your next hike, ask yourself:

Is jerky the smartest snack for Canberra hikers? We think so.
And after one bite of Bigwig’s perfectly seasoned strips—you’ll think so too.