You can use a food dehydrator to make all sorts of long-lasting healthy snacks. Many people think of using a dehydrator to make jerky, but unlike a meat smoker, a dehydrator can be used for a variety of foods, including dried fruits, veggie chips, herbs and spices. Dried foods won’t spoil as quickly because they are more resistant to many types of bacteria. So, you can take them with you unrefrigerated whether you’re just out for the day or you are going hiking or camping.

And if you are using your dehydrator for jerky, remember to follow safe practices for handling meat, especially if you also use your machine for other foods and projects. And if your dehydrator is part of an investment in future camping adventures and road trips, help yourself prepare with this guide to great camping gear.

If you are dehydrating items that take a long time, it can be helpful to have a dehydrator with a timer. This way, you won’t lose track of how long your machine has been running. You can also get a programmable dehydrator that will help you prepare a variety of dried foods at precise times and temperatures. There are also dehydrators that double as other appliances, such as air fryers. So, you may want to consider a two-in-one purchase if you are choosing a dehydrator.

A dehydrator machine uses a light flow of hot air to remove moisture from foods or materials. Because of the low temperature, a food dehydrator can lock in delicious flavors and nutritional content, making it a great choice if you're looking for a veggie or fruit dryer. You can also use a dehydrator to make dried flowers or create certain arts and crafts projects. In fact, here are ten reasons to buy a food dehydrator.