My backpack diet is primarily vegetarian, even though I am not an vegetarian. If they will eat dairy products, then they can just use the Knorr sides, and throw in olive oil, nuts and seeds, and cheese. If they are vegans, it is a bit more challenging. Dried beans and rice are a staple. Get the dried black bean soup and instant rice. Cook rice, add beans. FD tomatoes or dried tomatoes and corn can be added too. Trail food - dried fruit and nuts. Breakfast - oatmeal, nuts and dried fruit, brown sugar or honey, with a bit of margarine. There really is little need for expensive freeze dried meals that probably have lots of hidden ingredients. I also use textured vegetable protein (TVP) - I get it in the natural food bins at Safeway.