When you're putting together your bug-out bag, it's important to think about meals that are easy to carry, nutritious, and have a long shelf life. Here are three great options:
- MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat): These are complete meals that provide about 1,200 calories each. They are designed for military use, so they're built to keep you full and energized for a long time. Plus, they have a shelf life of three years, making them reliable for long-term storage.
- Dehydrated Meals: These meals are incredibly lightweight, typically weighing around 2.3 pounds. They are easy to customize with hot water and offer approximately 930 calories per pouch. This makes them a great choice if you need to keep your pack light while still having a nutritious meal.
- Emergency Ration Bars: These bars are incredibly compact and can last over five years. Each bar packs around 410 calories, making them a convenient and efficient way to get the energy you need. At about $8 each, they are also a cost-effective option.
Having these meals in your bug-out bag ensures you're prepared for any emergency. Whether you're on the move or stuck in one place, these options provide the nutrition and energy you need to keep going.
Key Takeaways
- MREs, or Meals Ready-to-Eat, provide about 1,200 calories per meal. They have a minimum shelf life of three years, making them a solid choice for emergencies and combat situations where reliable nutrition is crucial. For instance, the "MRE Star" brand offers a variety of meals that are both nutritious and tasty.
- Dehydrated meals are another great option. Each pouch weighs just 2.3 pounds and delivers around 930 calories. They typically last for about two years on the shelf. These meals are lightweight and easy to transport, perfect for outdoor adventures or emergency kits. The "Mountain House" brand, for example, offers a wide range of flavors that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- Emergency ration bars are incredibly convenient. Weighing only 1.12 pounds, each bar provides 410 calories and has an impressive shelf life of over five years. These bars are particularly useful for bug-out bags because they're lightweight and don't take up much space. Brands like "DATREX" and "SOS Food Labs" are popular choices due to their reliability and taste.
- Dehydrated meals are also budget-friendly, typically costing around $15 per pouch. This makes them accessible for anyone looking to prepare for emergencies without breaking the bank. Their long shelf life and ease of preparation add to their value, especially for those who are budget-conscious.
- Emergency ration bars are priced at about $8 each. Their portability and long shelf life make them ideal for bug-out bags. They're easy to stash in a bag, car, or emergency kit, ensuring you have quick access to nutrition when you need it most. Brands like "Mainstay" offer bars that are both affordable and nutritious.
MREs: Meal, Ready-to-Eat
MREs, or Meals, Ready-to-Eat, have been a reliable and essential food source for American service members since their introduction in 1963. Designed for combat situations, MREs provide a convenient and nutritious option when traditional food sources aren't available. Each MRE contains about 1,200 calories, ensuring you get the energy needed in emergency situations. With a minimum shelf life of three years, they're also great for long-term storage.
Typically, an MRE includes a main course, side dish, bread, dessert, and a flameless ration heater, allowing you to heat your meal without needing an external flame. This is particularly useful when carrying cooking equipment isn't practical. Over the years, MREs have been updated to offer a variety of menu options to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. This means that even in challenging situations, you can enjoy a meal that is both tasty and satisfying.
Whether you're preparing for an emergency or planning a long outdoor adventure, MREs offer a practical and reliable solution. Their self-contained design and extended shelf life make them easy to pack and store, ensuring you're always ready for the unexpected.
Dehydrated Meals
If you're looking for a reliable option for your bug-out bag, dehydrated meals are a great choice. They're lightweight, packed with nutrients, and have a shelf life of about two years, making them perfect for long-term emergency storage. Each pouch typically contains around 930 calories and 58 grams of protein, ensuring you get the necessary nutrients during an emergency.
- Lightweight: Dehydrated meals usually weigh around 2.3 pounds per pouch, so they're easy to carry and won't add too much weight to your bag.
- Cost-Effective: At about $15 per pouch, they're a budget-friendly option for your emergency kit.
- DIY Options: You can make your own dehydrated meals at home, which lets you control the ingredients and cater to specific dietary needs.
One of the best features of dehydrated meals is their versatility. By making your own, you can customize the meals to fit your taste and dietary restrictions, ensuring you get the nutrients you need when it matters most. Their lightweight nature makes them perfect for situations where you need to move quickly and can't afford to be weighed down by heavy supplies. Whether you're preparing for a short-term crisis or a long-term emergency, dehydrated meals offer a practical, customizable, and cost-effective solution.
Emergency Ration Bars
Emergency ration bars are a must-have for any emergency kit, offering a compact and reliable source of energy that lasts over five years. In a crisis, having food that doesn't spoil is crucial. Each bar provides 410 calories and 6 grams of protein, ensuring you stay energized when you need it most.
These bars are incredibly portable, weighing only 1.12 pounds. This makes them easy to carry in your bug-out bag or emergency kit. Despite their light weight, they pack a lot of calories, giving you the fuel you need when other food isn't available.
Another big plus is their affordability. At around $8 per bar, they offer a cost-effective way to store emergency food. And because they last so long, you don't have to replace them often, helping you stay prepared without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Canned Food Is Good for Bug Out Bags?
Imagine packing emergency rations like canned tuna or beans. These items provide reliable meals during a crisis, thanks to their long shelf life. Canned goods are great survival food options and can even serve as alternatives to MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat). They offer non-perishable nutrition and are easy to carry, making them perfect for situations when dehydrated meals aren't an option.
For example, brands like Bumble Bee offer canned tuna that is high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining energy levels. Similarly, Bush's Best canned beans are a good source of fiber and protein, helping to keep you full and energized. Including these in your bug out bag ensures you have nutritious, ready-to-eat meals whenever you need them.
What to Put in a 72 Hour Bug Out Bag?
When packing your 72-hour bug out bag, focus on including easy-to-carry foods that will keep you energized and satisfied. Start with emergency snacks like granola bars or dried fruit. Lightweight meals, such as dehydrated soups or instant noodles, are also a good addition. Meal replacement bars can be very handy for quick nutrition. Opt for non-perishable items with a long shelf life, like canned beans or tuna. Make sure to include foods that offer good nutritional value and even some comfort foods like chocolate or trail mix to boost morale.
Hydration is crucial, so pack water and portable water purification tools, like LifeStraw or water purification tablets. Don't forget portable cooking gear if you plan to prepare hot meals.
Consider any dietary restrictions you or your family members might have. Planning meals effectively will ensure you have enough energy to handle any situation. For example, if you're gluten-free, pack gluten-free bars and snacks. An organized meal plan can make a big difference in how well you fare in an emergency situation.
What Kind of Bag Do You Use for a Bug Out Bag?
When choosing a bag for your bug out bag, it's important to think about durability and practicality. Tactical backpacks or military-style bags are great because they are built to last and can handle tough conditions. For shorter trips, lightweight options like daypacks or sling bags are convenient and easy to carry.
Duffle bags and messenger bags can be useful if you need something versatile. If you expect to encounter wet conditions, waterproof bags are essential to keep your gear dry. Rolling suitcases can also be a good choice if you need to move a lot of items and want to avoid carrying heavy loads on your back.
For example, the 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack is a solid option for a durable tactical backpack. For a waterproof solution, you might consider the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag. If you prefer the convenience of wheels, the Samsonite Andante Wheeled Duffel is worth a look. Each of these options provides specific benefits tailored to different needs and situations.
What Food Is Best in a Go Bag?
When you're putting together a go bag, it's important to choose foods that are nutritious, easy to carry, and have a long shelf life. Here are some great options:
- Dehydrated Meals: These are lightweight and just need water to prepare. Brands like Mountain House offer a variety of flavors that can be ready in minutes.
- Protein Bars: These are compact and packed with energy. Look for brands like Clif Bar or RXBAR for a good balance of protein and carbs.
- Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits can provide a quick energy boost. It's easy to make your own or buy pre-made options from brands like Kar's or Planters.
- MRE Alternatives: Meals Ready-to-Eat are designed for the military but can be a bit heavy. Consider lighter, civilian alternatives like those from ReadyWise.
- Freeze-Dried Fruits: These retain most of the nutrients and are great for snacking. Brands like Crispy Green offer tasty options.
- Energy Gels: Used by athletes, these gels provide a quick burst of energy. GU Energy Labs offers a variety of flavors.
- Nut Butter Packets: Single-serving packets of almond or peanut butter are great for a protein boost. Justin's and RX Nut Butter are popular choices.
- Instant Oatmeal: Just add hot water for a quick meal. Quaker Oats offers convenient packets in various flavors.
- Beef Jerky: This is a high-protein snack that lasts a long time. Look for brands like Jack Link's or Krave.
- Instant Soup Mix: These are easy to prepare and comforting. Brands like Lipton offer diverse flavors that can be ready in minutes.
These foods will keep you nourished and energized, whether you're in an emergency or just on the go.
