How to Make Seasoning Packets From Drinking Straws

As a backpacker, you know that carrying very small amounts of things like tooth powder, salt, or chili powder can be tricky. Here's a method for packing individual servings using plain old drinking straws. If you can find paper straws, you won't even have to carry out the packaging.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Plastic or paper straws
• Scissors
• Assorted spices
• Ruler
• Sharpie

1. Cut two half-inch pieces off the end of a straw.
2. Fold and cap one end of the straw, sliding one of the 1/2" sections over the end to "lock" the fold as shown.
3. Dip the open end of the straw repeatedly into the substance you want to package, forcing it up into the tube to the desired depth.
4. Turn the straw upside down and tap until the filling is all down at the sealed end.
5. Trim, fold and cap remaining open end.
6. Label with a fine Sharpie or other waterproof pen. An optional way to label is to fold a short piece of tape (e.g. freezer or masking tape) around the straw, and onto itself, creating a small flag that you can write on.

Tips & Warnings

• If desired, use a ruler to calibrate the volume per inch for your straw. A common 1/4" straw filled to 2 1/4" inches gives approximately 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning.
• If you're collecting straws from fast food joints, be discriminating. Some are more flimsy than others -- flimsy is good! If you're interested in trying this with paper straws, try looking for ArtStraws(r) craft straws at your local school or craft supply.