When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Freeze Dried Camping Food (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a convenient camping meal option, freeze dried camping food may be the answer. This lightweight and easy-to-carry food is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a quick and easy meal while on the trail. But before you decide to stock up on freeze dried meals, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, you'll want to think about the nutritional content of the meals you’re considering. Camping requires a lot of physical activity, so your food should provide sufficient calories and nutrients to keep you going. Additionally, you'll want to consider the taste and variety of options available.

Another important factor to consider is the ease and speed of preparation. When camping, you want to spend as much time as possible enjoying the outdoors, and less time fussing over your meals. Freeze dried food is known for its quick and easy preparation, but be sure to check the cooking instructions for each individual package.

Are you tired of the same old campfire meals? Are you looking for a lightweight and easy-to-carry meal option for your next outdoor adventure? Then freeze dried camping food may be the solution you’ve been searching for. But before you make a purchase, consider the nutritional content, ease of preparation, and taste options available. With so many choices available, you're sure to find the perfect camping meal for your next trip.

10 Best Freeze Dried Camping Food

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for backpacking and camping, providing freeze-dried food for 30 servings.
2
Ideal for backpacking and camping with easy-to-prepare, gluten-free rice and chicken freeze-dried meals for two servings.
3
This product is ideal for emergency situations, camping, prepping, and disaster preparedness, providing freeze-dried meat entrées with 60 servings.
4
The product is ideal for backpacking and camping.
5
The product is ideal for camping, backpacking, and outdoor activities as it offers easy-to-prepare freeze-dried food options.
6
Emergency survival situations with a need for long-term food storage and variety of meat options.
7
The product is ideal for emergency and disaster preparedness, camping trips, and supply of pre-packaged food for preppers.
8
This product is ideal for backpacking and camping as a gluten-free freeze-dried meal that serves two people.
9
The product is ideal for backpacking, camping, and outdoor activities due to its freeze-dried nature and easy preparation.
10
Long-term food storage for emergency situations or camping trips.
The product is ideal for backpacking and camping, providing freeze-dried food for 30 servings.
Ideal for backpacking and camping with easy-to-prepare, gluten-free rice and chicken freeze-dried meals for two servings.
This product is ideal for emergency situations, camping, prepping, and disaster preparedness, providing freeze-dried meat entrées with 60 servings.
The product is ideal for camping, backpacking, and outdoor activities as it offers easy-to-prepare freeze-dried food options.
Emergency survival situations with a need for long-term food storage and variety of meat options.
The product is ideal for emergency and disaster preparedness, camping trips, and supply of pre-packaged food for preppers.
This product is ideal for backpacking and camping as a gluten-free freeze-dried meal that serves two people.
The product is ideal for backpacking, camping, and outdoor activities due to its freeze-dried nature and easy preparation.
Long-term food storage for emergency situations or camping trips.

1. Mountain House Expedition Bucket | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 30 Servings

The Delicious Meal Assortment bucket is perfect for outdoor adventures, containing 15 pouches of freeze-dried meals that can last up to 5 days. With no artificial flavors or colors, the bucket includes (3) pouches of Breakfast Skillet, (2) Granola with Milk & Blueberries, (2) Beef Stroganoff, (3) Chicken Fajita Bowls, (3) Chicken Fried Rice, and (2) Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce. The pouches are designed for quick preparation, requiring only hot water and less than 10 minutes to eat, with no cleanup necessary. To prepare all the meals, 21 cups of water are needed. The pouches are shorter and wider, providing a bowl-like experience. The bucket is lightweight and compact, easy to carry and store, weighing 6.5 lbs and measuring 12"(L) x 10"(W) x 14.24"(H).

The bucket is a great addition to your emergency food storage as it has the longest proven shelf life in the industry and comes with a 30-Year Taste Guarantee. Additionally, the used pouches can be recycled with TerraCycle, reducing waste.

Pros

  • Contains 15 pouches of freeze-dried meals that can last up to 5 days
  • No artificial flavors or colors added
  • Quick preparation, requiring only hot water and less than 10 minutes to eat, with no cleanup necessary
  • Pouches are designed to provide a bowl-like experience
  • Lightweight and compact, easy to carry and store
  • Longest proven shelf life in the industry
  • Comes with a 30-Year Taste Guarantee
  • Used pouches can be recycled with TerraCycle, reducing waste

2. Mountain House Rice & Chicken | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food |2-Servings | Gluten-Free

The freeze-dried rice and chicken meal is a delicious and easy-to-prepare dish, ideal for outdoor activities or emergency food storage. The dish is perfectly seasoned with a savory sauce and accented with peppers, carrots, and celery to provide a balanced nutritional value. The pouch contains two servings, making it perfect for either one hungry backpacker or to share with a camping buddy.

This rice and chicken meal is free of preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors, making it a healthy choice for everyone. The product is certified gluten-free by GFCO, ensuring that it is suitable for those with dietary restrictions. The pouch's shape is shorter and wider, providing an easier eating experience, and you can eat straight out of the pouch, saving you from the hassle of cleaning up.

Preparing the meal is quick and simple; just add hot water to the pouch and eat in less than 10 minutes. The pouch's lightweight and portable design make it easy to carry and consume anytime, anywhere. Moreover, the packaging is recyclable, and TerraCycle recycles used packaging to reduce waste.

This rice and chicken meal has the longest proven shelf life in the industry, backed by a 30-year taste guarantee. Whether you are camping or preparing for an emergency, this dish is an excellent addition to your food storage.

Pros

  • Freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and freshness
  • No preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors
  • Certified gluten-free by GFCO
  • Easy and quick preparation with no cleanup required
  • Lightweight and portable packaging
  • Longest proven shelf life in the industry
  • Recyclable packaging

3. Wisemeals: Emergency Food Bucket For Preppers

The Essential Survival Kit is a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor activities or wants to be prepared for emergencies. It contains 60 servings of meat that are freeze-dried, ensuring a 15-year shelf life. This makes it an ideal choice for long-term storage, as well as for emergency situations.

Each entrée in the bucket is easy to prepare and requires only water. This means that you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal even in the most challenging circumstances. The food is packed in durable, storable pouches that keep the rations fresh for up to 15 years.

The kit includes a variety of 6 different ready-to-eat freeze-dried meat meals. This variety pack ensures that you have a range of options to choose from, making meal times more enjoyable. Whether you're camping, hiking or just need a quick and easy meal, this kit will provide you with everything you need.

With the Essential Survival Kit, you can be ready for any situation. From emergency food rationing to outdoor activities, our shelf-stable food is there for you. It's a convenient and reliable solution for those who want to be prepared for any situation.

Pros

  • Long-lasting shelf life of 15 years
  • Variety pack includes 6 different freeze-dried meat meals
  • Easy to prepare with just water
  • Durable and storable pouches keep the rations fresh
  • Ideal for emergency situations or outdoor activities

4. Mountain House Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 1 Serving

Indulge in the delicious and convenient ice cream sandwich that doubles as a dessert or trail snack! This chocolate cookie sandwich is filled with tasty vanilla ice cream that has been freeze-dried to lock in its nutrients and freshness. The ice cream won't drip on your shirt or stick to your fingers, making it a no-mess treat.

The pouch contains one ice cream sandwich that is ready to eat right out of the bag, with no preparation needed. The packaging is also recyclable through TerraCycle, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. With a two-year shelf life from the date of manufacture, this ice cream sandwich is perfect for outdoor adventures or even for astronaut food. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this freeze-dried ice cream sandwich!

Pros

  • No refrigeration needed
  • Freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and freshness
  • No mess ice cream
  • Ready to eat with no preparation needed
  • Recyclable packaging through TerraCycle
  • Two-year shelf life from the date of manufacture

5. Campers' Perfect Meal Kit: 9 Freeze-Dried Favs

ReadyWise Adventure Meals camping favorites provide a delicious and nutritious solution for outdoor enthusiasts. The kit comes with a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options made with 100% real meat, fruits, grains, and vegetables to provide the optimal amount of protein and carbohydrates to keep you going. The meals are easy to prepare, either ready to eat out of the pouch or ready in minutes by adding hot water to the pouch. With our dehydrated foods, you can pack for your next adventure without extra weight or bulk, providing a high calorie-per-ounce ratio that is perfect for high-output activities. Additionally, our meals are shelf-stable and can last for years without losing their delicious taste or nutrients, making them a great option for emergency situations.

Each pouch of ReadyWise Adventure Meals camping favorites pack contains two or more servings, making them perfect for outdoor activities with friends and family. The meals are lightweight and packable, making it easy to bring them on your next adventure. They are also incredibly delicious and nutritious, providing you with the energy you need to keep going while being active outdoors. With ReadyWise Adventure Meals, there's no need to worry about messy camp cleanups that might attract unwanted animals. Simply eat right from the pouch and enjoy your meal without any hassle.

Overall, ReadyWise Adventure Meals camping favorites pack is a great option for anyone who loves outdoor activities. They are quick and convenient to prepare, delicious, nutritious, and shelf-stable, making them an ideal choice for camping, hiking, or emergency situations.

Pros

  • Made with 100% real meat, fruits, grains, and vegetables
  • Contains 2 or more servings per pouch
  • Easy to prepare and ready to eat out of the pouch
  • Lightweight and packable
  • Provides a high calorie-per-ounce ratio
  • Shelf-stable and can last for years without losing taste or nutrients

6. Survival Bucket: 60 Meat Servings – Nutristore Usa

The Nutristore Meat Survival Kit is an all-in-one package that provides premium quality and value. This kit includes USDA inspected beef, chicken, and sausage that is pre-cooked and freeze-dried to retain its delicious taste and quality. The meat is packed in bulk to keep you prepared for any emergency or survival situation. It is also perfect for long term food storage, lightweight camping/backpacking meals, MRE's, and easy everyday use.

The freeze-dried meat is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes such as tacos, burritos, casseroles, stir-fry's, ramen, stews, and soups. Simply add water to create an instant healthy meal that is fresh and tender after dehydration. The meat bucket has a 25-year shelf life and is properly sealed to last the tests of time. It is also packaged to be easily handled and stored, keeping your food safe and secure for up to 25 years.

The meat bucket includes diced chicken (2 pouches, 22.86 total oz), diced beef 10.16 oz (1 pouch), ground beef 16.51 oz (1 pouch), and pork sausage crumbles 16.93 oz (1 pouch). Nutristore maintains the highest level of customer service and satisfaction, and offers a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase or received a damaged product, contact them directly and they will make it right. Overall, the Nutristore Meat Survival Kit is a wise choice for emergency storage to help you be ready for any circumstance.

Pros

  • Premium quality and value
  • Delicious taste and quality
  • Freeze-dried meat is versatile and easy to use in a variety of recipes
  • 25-year shelf life
  • Properly sealed and packaged for safe and secure storage
  • 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

7. Survival Food Bucket: 120 Servings.

Be ready for any emergency with this essential survival kit that contains 120 servings of 13 different meal options. Each entrée is easy to prepare in any emergency circumstance using just water, making it a convenient and hassle-free option. The durable, storable food pouches keep rations fresh for up to 25 years, ensuring that you will always have a reliable source of food when you need it most. The variety packs of ready-to-eat freeze-dried meals in each bucket provide a diverse range of options for your taste buds. Whether you're going on a hiking or camping trip, or stocking up on emergency food rationing, our shelf-stable food is there for you.

Pros

  • Contains 120 servings of 13 different meal options
  • Easy to prepare in any emergency circumstance using just water
  • Durable, storable food pouches keep rations fresh for up to 25 years
  • Variety packs of 13 different ready-to-eat freeze-dried meals
  • Perfect for emergency food rationing, hiking, and camping trips

8. Gluten-Free Chicken Teriyaki For Outdoor Adventures

The Chicken Rice Mushrooms Bamboo Shoots and Vegetables with Sweet and Tangy Oriental Sauce is an excellent meal for backpackers and campers. It is made with no preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors and is certified gluten-free by GFCO. The meal is freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and freshness, and the pouch contains two total servings. The meal is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for camping and backpacking trips. It is also great for emergency food storage and survival. The pouch has a shorter, wider, and more bowl-like shape for an easier eating experience. It can be eaten straight from the pouch, and there is no need for cleanup. Just add hot water to the pouch, and the meal can be eaten in less than 10 minutes. The packaging is recyclable and can be recycled with TerraCycle to reduce waste. Additionally, the meal has the longest proven shelf life in the industry and is backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee.

Pros

  • Certified gluten-free by GFCO
  • Freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and freshness
  • Made with no preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Shorter, wider, and more bowl-like shape for an easier eating experience
  • No need for cleanup
  • Can be eaten straight from the pouch
  • Recyclable packaging
  • Longest proven shelf life in the industry
  • Backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee

9. Buffalo Mac & Cheese: Backcountry Fuel For 2

Savor the taste of delicious Mac & Cheese combined with chicken and a spicy buffalo sauce with this freeze-dried meal. The signature creamy Mac & Cheese is prepared to retain its nutrients and freshness. The pouch contains two servings and requires no refrigeration. The meal is perfect for solo backpacking or sharing with your camping buddy.

This hot new meal contains no artificial preservatives or flavors, making it a healthy and nutritious option. The pouch has a shorter, wider, and more bowl-like shape, making it easier to eat from. Simply add hot water to the pouch and enjoy your meal in less than 10 minutes without worrying about any cleanup.

The pouch is lightweight and portable, making it an ideal meal for camping, backpacking, or even as a quick meal at home or on-the-go. It has the longest proven shelf life in the industry, making it perfect for emergency food storage or survival situations. Backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, you can enjoy this meal anytime, anywhere.

Pros

  • Delicious Mac & Cheese combined with chicken and a spicy buffalo sauce
  • Freeze-dried to lock in nutrients and freshness
  • No artificial preservatives or flavors
  • Quick and convenient to prepare
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Longest proven shelf life in the industry
  • Perfect for emergency food storage or survival situations
  • Backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee

10. 25-Year Fruit Pail: Emergency & Camping Food

The Fruit Variety Pail is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious and healthy snack. This pail includes five types of fruits: strawberries, apples, bananas, raspberries, and blueberries. Each fruit is individually packaged in a heavy-duty, air-tight pouch to ensure their freshness and flavor are preserved. Moreover, the fruits come with a Spiff-e-Whip Dessert Topping that is perfect for dipping and desserts. The pail also includes a recipe booklet that provides you with ideas on how to use the fruits in different recipes.

The Fruit Variety Pail is versatile and can be used for different purposes. It is an excellent choice for emergency food storage, outdoor survival food, camping food, and everyday snacking. The fruits have a long shelf life ranging from 10 to 30 years based on the food type, which makes them perfect for long-term storage. The pail is packaged in a rodent-resistant, 4-gallon pail with a handle, which makes it easy to carry and store. Please note that the pail size may vary based on availability.

Overall, the Fruit Variety Pail is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy and delicious snack. The fruits are of high quality, and the Spiff-e-Whip Dessert Topping adds an extra layer of flavor to the fruits. The pail is also versatile and can be used for different purposes, making it an excellent investment for anyone who wants to be prepared for any situation.

Pros

  • Includes five types of fruits: strawberries, apples, bananas, raspberries, and blueberries
  • Fruits are individually packaged in heavy-duty, air-tight pouches to ensure their freshness and flavor are preserved
  • Comes with a Spiff-e-Whip Dessert Topping that is perfect for dipping and desserts
  • Includes a recipe booklet that provides you with ideas on how to use the fruits in different recipes
  • Has a long shelf life ranging from 10 to 30 years based on food type, making it perfect for long-term storage
  • Packaged in a rodent-resistant, 4-gallon pail with a handle, making it easy to carry and store

Best Freeze Dried Camping Food FAQs

Can freeze-dried camping food be rehydrated with cold water?

Yes, freeze-dried camping food can be rehydrated with cold water, but it may take longer to fully rehydrate than with warm water. The process of freeze-drying removes all moisture from the food, making it lightweight and easy to carry on outdoor adventures. To rehydrate the food, you need to add water, either cold or warm, to the package or container and let it sit for some time. For cold water, it is recommended to let the food sit for at least 30 minutes to fully rehydrate. However, if you are in a hurry or want to speed up the process, using warm water can significantly reduce the rehydration time. It is important to follow the instructions provided on the packaging to ensure proper rehydration and avoid any potential health risks. Additionally, it is advisable to store the food in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and quality for longer periods.

How does the taste and texture of freeze-dried camping food compare to fresh food?

Freeze-dried camping food is a popular option for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy a hot meal on the go. While it's not exactly fresh food, it does retain much of its nutritional value and taste. The texture of freeze-dried camping food is typically crunchy and dry, which can take some getting used to for those accustomed to fresh food. However, many people find that the convenience and ease of preparation more than make up for any differences in taste or texture.

One of the advantages of freeze-dried camping food is that it's lightweight and easy to pack, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and hikers. It also has a longer shelf life than fresh food, which means you can stock up on supplies and not have to worry about spoilage. Additionally, many companies that produce freeze-dried camping food offer a wide range of choices, from classic favorites like beef stroganoff and chicken teriyaki to more exotic options like Pad Thai and Moroccan stew.

Overall, while freeze-dried camping food may not compare to fresh food in terms of taste and texture, it's a practical and convenient choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy a hot meal on the go.

How long does freeze-dried camping food typically last?

Freeze-dried camping food is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts due to its convenience and long shelf life. The shelf life of freeze-dried camping food varies depending on multiple factors such as storage conditions, the type of food, and the brand. Generally, freeze-dried camping food can last anywhere from 2 to 30 years if stored correctly in a cool and dry place. However, it is important to note that the quality and taste of freeze-dried food may deteriorate over time. It is recommended to consume the food within 2-3 years of purchase for optimal taste and nutrition. Additionally, once the package is opened, the food should be consumed within a few days and not stored for an extended period. Overall, freeze-dried camping food can last a long time, but it is important to store and consume it properly to ensure its quality and safety.

What are the benefits of using freeze-dried camping food?

Freeze-dried camping food has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts due to its numerous benefits. One of the significant benefits of freeze-dried camping food is its long shelf life. Since the water content has been removed, the food can last for years without spoiling. This makes it an excellent option for long camping trips, emergency preparedness, or even daily use.

Another benefit of freeze-dried camping food is its lightweight and compact nature. It is easy to pack and doesn't take up much space, making it the perfect option for backpackers, hikers, and campers who need to carry their food with them.

Freeze-dried camping food is also easy to prepare. With just a little bit of hot water, the food can be rehydrated and ready to eat in a matter of minutes. This makes it a great option for those who want a quick and easy meal while on the go.

Lastly, freeze-dried camping food is often packed with nutrients and can provide a balanced meal. Many brands offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it easy for everyone to find something that fits their dietary needs.

Overall, the benefits of using freeze-dried camping food make it a great option for those who prioritize convenience, nutrition, and long shelf life.

What are the most popular types of freeze-dried camping food?

Freeze-dried camping foods are convenient and easy to carry which makes them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The most popular types of freeze-dried camping food are instant noodles, dehydrated fruits, beef jerky, energy bars, and freeze-dried meals. Instant noodles are a quick and easy meal option that can be prepared in minutes, while dehydrated fruits provide a healthy snack that can be eaten on the go. Beef jerky is a protein-rich snack that is easy to pack and has a long shelf life. Energy bars are a great source of energy and can keep you going during long hikes or outdoor activities. Freeze-dried meals are a more substantial meal option, and they come in a variety of flavors and types, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. They are easy to prepare and can be rehydrated with hot water. Overall, these popular types of freeze-dried camping food are lightweight, easy to store, and provide a convenient and tasty meal option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Leave a Comment