Homemade 24 Hour MRE from Dollar Tree

Enough ready-to-eat food to keep you going all day, all from Dollar Tree!
Gear List
Trucker's Lunchbox: amzn.to/4biJUt5
Bamboo Sporks: amzn.to/4eziZfm
Mylar Food Storage Bags: amzn.to/3ONV5Sd
My Camera-DJI Pocket 3: amzn.to/4ewAWuV

[@barbaramorris1677]

Dollars tree has regular shelf stable milk, that last a year before it expires, for your cereal.

[@laural9811]

it comes in whole, 1% and chocolate too! I took it on a road trip with two toddlers. The whole milk was toddler & adult approved!

[@latoyamatson6197]

yah but theyre a quart and thats pretty heavy on the go. once u open it, they have to be refrigerated

[@TheREALOC1972]

@@latoyamatson6197 It doesn;t have to be refrigirated, just keep it in a cool place.

[@CageyTroller]

​@latoyamatson6197 a quart isn't even heavy on the go. Plus, if you open it, it's not a lot of milk. 4 quarts equal a gallon. It's crazy how long a gallon can last me, but compared to a quart. A quart goes by quickly over here. Like same day quickly. It makes no sense at all

[@journeybrook9357]

The chocolate stable milk taste like soy more than chocolate. Figure it's in the chocolate. I buy the whole milk they have. Great in a pinch, for coffee and baking or a little in eggs and scabble.

[@jessicahaynie113]

Day 11 no power in WNC and i wish i would have gotten a truckers lunchbox already to run in my car. It would come in very handy for some of the pouch foods i have. An easy quick hot meal would be amazing. We are making do with charcoal and propane but its a lot more work to prepare anything than with my electric stove. It was good to watch a video of yours, escape for a minute and feel almost that life was normal again. Thank you

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You are so right and that is exactly my message with this channel. My family wishes you all the best and hopes for a speedy recovery for all those affected by this disaster. I love that part of the country and hope to get out there for some camping when y’all are back on your feet.

[@deeannbenson3096]

God bless you as you recover.

[@gigis5017]

Love & prayers 🙏 r w u my friend. When u r back prepping again buy a knock off jet boil, these r great little things heats things up in 2 -3 mins. U can even get 1 w a coffee french press. God bless

[@donnawheeler6283]

Boil a pot of water if you have enough, and warm food packets that way. Keep water for washing up or to warm again for next meal.

[@Jadeskorpion]

Tea lights and a cupcake tin. Put 4 candles in adjacent spots, set a pot above it that doesn't fully cover the 4 holes so you keep air flow to the flames. Probably won't boil water, but it'll heat up a can of food enough to fulfill a hot meal need.

[@donnawheeler6283]

Your tip about the difference of snack nuts and baking nuts was very important to me. When making an emergency meal kit or hiking meal, the prepackaged foods can be loaded with unnecessary sodium. Looking for foods that are healthier for the purpose of emergency or hiking, etc, is important for diabetics or other dietary purposes. Even though it's short-term, dietary needs are still important. I just came across your video today. Im glad I stuck around and watched the entire video!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for that. You are backing up my exact point!

[@BusDriverShirley]

Just found him also. I have meds for my blood pressure and hubby is type 2 diabetic controlled with diet. So short term I could work around his ideas. But, I usually prepackage the mixes I need.

[@dougbotimer8005]

You should try the chili over the spaghetti, Cincinnati style.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That thought occurred to me as well. That would be a great alternative.

[@dianebondhus9355]

I was thinking that too 😄

[@Jahalang82]

Now you’re talking

[@Slayer_Habit]

​@@es5696 My older brother showed me rice and chili years ago and it's my go to budget meal❤ super cheap

[@dougied3449]

That's called "Spaghetti Red". It originates from Joplin missouri. When the creator passed away his son took over the business. When he passed his kids sold a hundred different recipes of spaghetti red In the early 90s.

[@donnakohn1129]

Just discovered your channel. Subscribed. LOVE the concept of diy MRE done differently. Right on time for me as I am shifting a large part of my pantry towards shelf stable, home canned, dehydrated, some freeze dried, and diy meals in a jar ( or mylar ) just add water kits for everyday convenience items. I will now build these ready to go packages. The devastation from the flooding from hurricane is a real eye opener. I am ready to hunker down in place but not to evacuate in a moments notice. I think you'll get a lot of new subscribers after this disaster. Keep the videos coming !!! Thank you for the time you spend on this important subject matter.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m so glad you found the channel. Sounds like you’re already heading in the right direction. Solid plan you’ve got there.

[@LynbrookMutt]

I enjoyed this video! I'm a full-time RV'er that frequently boondocks so this is right up my alley. Never even considered Dollar Tree - so THANK YOU!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome! Glad to help!

[@sishowser848]

Planning on picking up stuff at $tree to be donated for hurricane victims tomorrow. I'll be in the lookout for some of these items

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s an honorable mission. Thank you.

[@jaronnaellis2726]

@@dadbudgetadventures😅😊😅😊😅😅😊😅😅😮😊😅😅😅😮😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😊😮😊😮😅😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😊😮😅😅😮😊😊😮😊😅😅😅😮😅😅😮😅😊😅😅😅😊😅😊😅😅😅😊😅😅😮😊😮😊😅😅😅😮😅😅😮😊😊😮😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😅😅😮😅😅😊😅😅😊😅😅😅😮 19:25 😅😊😅😮😊😅😊😮😅😮😅😅😊😮😅😊😮😮😅😅😅😊😮😊😮😮😊😮😊😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😊😅😊😅😅😅😊😅😊😮😮😊😮😅😊😅😅😅😅😊😅😅😮😅😮😮😅😮😊😅😮😅😮😊😅😊😮😅😊😅😅😅😮😊😅😊😅😊😅😊😅😊😮😊😮😊😮

[@jaronnaellis2726]

I’m 😮😮😮 20:07 😊😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😅😮😅😮

[@jaronnaellis2726]

@@dadbudgetadventures😮😅😮😮😮😊😮😊😮😊😮😮😅😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😊😮

[@jaronnaellis2726]

@@dadbudgetadventures😮😊😮😮😮😅😮😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😊😮😊😮 21:04 days 😮😅😮😮 21:06 😮days 😊😮😅😮😊😮😊😮😮😅😮😊😅😮😅😮😊😮to😊😮😅😮😅😮to😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😮😊😮😅😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😅😮😮😊😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😊😮😅😮 21:14 😮😊😮😅😮😊😮😮😊😮😊😮😅😮😮😅😮😮😅😮😅😮😅😮😮 22:34 😮 22:34 😮😮😅😮I😮I😮😊😮I😊😮 22:37 😮😮 22:37 😮😊😮😅😮

[@IzzyMarie-rm6vl]

When you’re without power for a week and just have some bottled water and a small cook stove, any of these foods would be appreciated. Expectation for survival overrides home cooked! Thanks for this video!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome. Thanks for totally getting it!

[@garlickebagg]

Homeless learned how to eat food, no cooking.

[@suebaxter301]

where i live (new england area) we get a lot of power outages for the past several years, yeah i bought 2 things of MRE that will last several years, i get many item can stuff, cereal, oatmeal and so on and make sure i have that on hand for emergencies outage, tons of water, yup i even invested in 2 different heating/cooking sources as well. when i had the house at the time heating and cooking wasn't a problem with pwr outage in fact my daughters and i survived the ice storm 1998 because of the heating system i had then, now that i am in mobile home not so easy, had to come up with ideas to survive pwr outage especially in the winter

[@leighanneboles6609]

​@@garlickebaggcan I help?

[@WarriorWisdom]

I love 24 hour MRE type of videos. And of course having them in general. Plus, dollar tree is always a great source of the items.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

There’s always something interesting to try, for sure. I didn’t expect to have this much luck building this one.

[@ritasmoot1823]

I would totally eat everything in this MRE !! Great video. Super excited about the Spaghetti. I hope our Dollar Tree has it. Thanks for showing me some things I hadn’t thought about! 😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’m gonna go back for more of those noodles for sure.

[@yoncbwl2738]

I am brand new to your channel (this is my first video), and I am so excited to see more of your content. I live in Florida, so I prep for hurricane season each year, and this video is perfect! Thank you so much!!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome! Hope you find lots more to enjoy here!

[@iamjamilyn]

I agree as a Florida girl too

[@flyrobin2544]

For us Florida girls it's a must to prep for hurricane season. The newbies down here wait for the last minute. Always start preparing in, June.

[@julierader5140]

I'd love to see a "greatest hits" MRE filled with your favorite items so far!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’d have such a hard time choosing!

[@bonniegarber9915]

​@dadbudgetadventures 😅😂😅😂

[@GrayZiazanne]

Right!, maybe top 10-15 choices or something.

[@Robinhood55]

Man a 24hr from Aldi would be cool they have some unique foods there

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I was barely able to do a single meal there. I love Aldi but they specialize in food without a bunch of preservatives so it’s hard to find shelf stable ready to eat items.

[@annettejones7777]

@@dadbudgetadventures I'm guessing Whole Foods and Trader Joe would be difficult too.

[@bonniegarber9915]

Lol... try Manards!

[@pantryonlyrecipes]

You could do some wraps! Cans organic beans, ready brown rice and canned chicken or tuna on some naan or tortilla?

[@JosieGrossie73]

Yessssss All at DT :) ​@@pantryonlyrecipes

[@lindabellamy1984]

The fruit cocktail would be good for breakfast too. The juice is just added hydration ( try adding it to your water even with the flavored pouches for extra flavor). The chili would be good to top the spaghetti, and would probably feed 2 people. I have been making my own mre's for camping and hiking for years. The combinations that you can put together are endless, even if you get it all from Dollar Tree. Also make sure to put in packets of ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, sugar, etc. And some pkts of instant coffee!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yep. That’s the idea! Get creative and build them to whatever specifications you like.

[@flyrobin2544]

I took a cocktail shaker poked a few holes in the lid, then turn the lid upside down. Put a filter/ napkin in the lid with some ground coffee and slowly poured hot water. I feel like a queen drinking fresh coffee even without lights.

[@AnnePuderbaugh]

New viewer here! Found you accidentally and stayed to watch~ Great Video! i look forward to more!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much!

[@smilingjacks83]

Same!

[@jimfoster150]

Ditto.

[@jayneubauer3401]

Jalapeno cheese is basically a currency in the military! As a 24 year Infantry veteran (Marines and Army) I am loving your MRE series.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much!

[@lukebull5343]

I absolutely love those lil cornbread muffins! I was shocked when i first bought them from DT!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

They were better than expected

[@debrafoster499]

They are super yummy!! That little bit of honey in the middle, 😋

[@michaelgutman4910]

I like the 24 hr MRE More please

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@dougbotimer8005]

Ok, too many comments on this video, but you had me chuckling at your reuse every container possible. I’m the same way. Can’t bear to toss any container that might possibly be reused.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Especially if you’re camping or hiking. Having things that serve dual purpose is a win!

[@terrysmith4465]

Man, I love your videos. I'm from the Tampa Bay area, and that would be a great thing to put in a hurricane box.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely! Glad you’re enjoying the content!

[@irenesprinkle6962]

The chili would also go good with the pasta.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely!

[@JamesHarris-yq3mu]

The chili and cheese sauce would go great with corn chips. Like frito pie.

[@roymcintyre579]

Great video today. I found a variety of Hereford Shelf Stable Pouches on Friday. I found at Wal-Mart Shredded Beef Brisket, Roast Beef With Gravy , Meatballs, and Beef Taco Filling. I also got a four pack of Idahoan Buttery Instant Mashed Potatoes, I also got a couple pouches of Barilla Ready Pasta, I also got a variety box of Fritos Corn Chips. I also bought Tostitos Nacho Cheese Dip. And a few other sides to go with my lunches for the week. So I have been taking a page from your book and packing my lunches the way you make your MRE'S. Thank you for so many Ideas.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds like some great finds! I need to hit up Walmart again soon.

[@annettejones7777]

Let us know how they taste. I tried the meatballs in spaghetti sauce, but was not impressed. Better than starving, but that's probably the only way I would eat it again.

[@BrendaPerez-bd9dz]

I like the Hereford beef in broth pouches the best so far. Made shredded beef tacos. I order on line from Walmart since they don't carry it in the store here. I added butter and Worcestershire sauce to the beef with gravy and served with mashed potatoes and green beans. I tried the meatballs but it's a pass for me. My friend loves the meatballs. Each to their own.

[@spaz231]

I was Army for 10 years... that said, I LOVED your MRE's... very creative..... and you're right, their serving sizes are unreal!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you

[@BusDriverShirley]

Thank you for your service.

[@williamowings6857]

My wife bought me a lil egg cooker. A bit off topic but loving it. Takes hardly any water at all to have one of my favorite snacks on the road.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds like a great solution.

[@votrolacres8526]

I’d add one of the rice packages to the chili. As always, a great video! Very enjoyable viewing and you always give us some good ideas.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a great idea and probably just what the chili needs!

[@joltjolt5060]

​@@dadbudgetadventurestry it with tortillas and nacho cheese in a can.

[@KarlaMalone-u9k]

Loved this! It seems like my Dollar Tree has a lot less selection of the things I am looking for since they added the plus section. I’m sure they are trying to up their sales by adding the more expensive stuff, but to me it just makes it seem like every other store around. When the Dollar Tree stores first opened in my area they were the only real dollar stores we had. I loved that I could tell my grandkids they could pick out any 2 or 3 things and know that I wouldn’t have to tell them I couldn’t afford to get that for them. When you have lots of grandkids you have to limit how much you can spend on each one.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m super happy that none of this stuff came from the plus selections. At least not this time. Times are hard for Dollar Tree apparently.

[@cherylgriffin9438]

I know exactly what you mean! I have 12 grandchildren.😊

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

Knowing me, I would put the fruit cocktail cup in a zip top baggie, just for security. That way if I burst the plastic cups seal it would leak into the baggie and not in my mylar bag. I know me😂

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I mean, that’s a solid plan! Then you’d have the baggie to use for other things. It’s kinda brilliant!

[@timc333]

Are you really gonna worry about your Gucci bag on the Disaster Day ? What about the new electric stove ??

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

@timc333 you missed the point. If it burst into my gucci bag the contents would be all over everything else. If iT is in another sealed bag then it is contained. Get off your high horse and get real. I'm talking about saving a mess no matter what it is stored in. I just was saying that I'm a little rough and that it stood a good chance of getting burst open. Quit being a smart a.., yes I own a Gucci bag. You couldn't afford to be my husband. I have worked my entire adult life to afford to nice things I own and If want to carry a Walmart purse or a Gucci bag it's none of your cheap a.. business.

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

@dadbudgetadventures sorry DBA...I can't stand a smart a..

[@timc333]

@@craftsbeautyandlife5163 Hahahaha , you got me I could barely respond . You silly fake rich people always gonna be grabbing for the treasure even when the ship is sinking you worry more about your precious precious more than your very life . I can't wait , and By the way no worries on being your husband not interested , you smell funny like old dirty money . Still your rang did amuse me , so thanks for the kind laugh and big smile you put on my face . Ohh did you see I found no need to call you names , i was busy with the im0portant stuff . LOL. I love what you did with your head , fine place to rent so cheaply .

[@annemchurchwell]

I love to make homemade mac n cheese with the non-spicy Veletta packet. It tastes so good and is a great side dish to a meat main meal.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It’s pretty handy having those little packs

[@nancywolf3786]

same here. i add a pouch to kraft mac and cheese (use no butter but xtra milk). i didn't care for the jalepeno type

[@annemchurchwell]

@nancywolf3786 I don't add butter to mine either my husband loves Tuesday spicey but my tummy doesn't. Lol

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

I like shopping at Dollar Tree. The pasta tuna lunch looked pretty good. I may try it.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Do it!

[@craftsbeautyandlife5163]

@dadbudgetadventures well I do love pasta and tuna. Next trip out..I'm gettin' The fixins' . Lol

[@craigr6186]

I love dollar tree! Great school snacks. I always look forward to Sunday morning with DAD BUDGET ADVENTURES!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

And I look forward to starting my day visiting with y’all!

[@jlambert6084]

Great work snacks too. I always have First strike rations in my car. For emergencies and some mres I keep in my patrol bag.

[@judithrichardson8213]

Hi DBA. I really enjoyed todays video. I had to smile to myself when you were trying the pecans, because I was just thinking, the apple sauce would probably work well with the nuts, and there you were trying them together. Great minds thinking alike. 😄 I hope you and the family are all safe and well. Much love and respect from the South East of England. xxxx

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. We are good. We were on the edge of the storm path but it’s hard to look at the footage of those in the middle of it.

[@Diana_Marr]

Awesome idea. Never thought of making homemade MRE’s. ❤❤🎉

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Glad you found it interesting!

[@kiaellis7613]

Great video, well detailed and full of information! I will be incorporating some MREs just because. Thank you!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re quite welcome!

[@alexandriajohnson6656]

Nice video ! I'm part Italian and I'd like to suggest a small tin of canned anchovies in olive oil to flavor the pasta. Anchovies when heated break down and melt providing a savory saltiness that even those who hate anchovies can appreciate. I also have used New England clam 29:31 chowder, sardines, creamed corn and canned diced potatoes and made a poor man's fish chowder that tastes delicious. 😋

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That sounds pretty awesome!

[@rollinronin8125]

It seems at fast food and chain restaraunts you can order appetizers with prepackaged marinara. Also with the pasta and pouch meat you coild convert that to a pasta salad using some type of packet of salad dressing. Maybe some veg chips.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great ideas! That’s what I needed with this, some dressing or mayo.

[@rollinronin8125]

@@dadbudgetadventures it'd be nice to be able to get single serve sandwich and salad condiment packets at the grocery store as they are shelf stable individually and not so much in the repeated use bottle or jar after being opened. And restaraunts are getting tight fisted with them and starting to charge extra.

[@oni_goroshi]

The spaghetti with tuna and Italian dressing would be really good!

[@Falcodrin]

I'm not a big fan of marinara on my moz sticks so I stack up quite a few pouches in my freezer from farm rich family boxes. Might be an interesting buy to add to your normal grocery shopping if your family likes mozzarella sticks they are the best freezer section brand.

[@BusDriverShirley]

@@rollinronin8125I get shelf stable mayo packs at local take out restaurantss.

[@angelaboyd5357]

This is my first time seeing you. I love the MRE idea's, and you have such a great personality. Looking forward to seeing more videos from you!😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much! I’m glad you found the channel!

[@joaomarreiros4906]

Tuna and pasta are a great and quick meal, and one of my favourites when camping, and those instant powder juices are great for some sugar and hydration. Excellent ideas.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@KathyPorter-j5b]

I make flavor packet " ice cubes" to keep my beverage cool instead of letting ice water down my drink when I go on walks.

[@nitrotmann]

I like the long video format. Good job

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@jeanniel.holder3310]

I've never seen a video like this thank you.🎉

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re so welcome!

[@marydonahue3834]

I recently tried the freeze dried fruit, and it is really good I want to get more of it

[@dadbudgetadventures]

😎

[@nancywolf3786]

i grind it up to a powder and flavor frosting with it. the bomb

[@RonaldDaub-v9y]

Everything freeze dried is good

[@Greyapas]

Considering the weather lately. this is very usefull info. Thank you.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

For sure!

[@timothyjohnson5758]

HOPEFULLY YOU and Friends and Family in surrounding areas are safe

[@dadbudgetadventures]

We were on the edge of the storm path so we are just really wet but we have lots of friends who were right in the middle. Thanks for thinking of us.

[@janita7014]

The Hereford chili reminds me of the canned Kelly’s chili I ate as a child. I made a few MREs for an upcoming car camping trip, and since I’m not a fan of tuna in general, I got the chili and the cheese to go over the spaghetti you bought! I was planning on buying bbq corn chips to dip in the leftover cheese as a snack later.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That sounds perfect! Safe travels.

[@lisalewis3891]

3 servings of chili for hotdogs.

[@votrolacres8526]

Or three servings of chili dip? 🤷‍♂️

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s gotta be the idea

[@kennycraven2648]

@@lisalewis3891 I thought the same thing.

[@jamesvatter5729]

That's what I was thinking.

[@dennism6664]

Gotta be for hot dogs yeah

[@paulableman2663]

I'm glad to see the cornbread worked out. I bought that brand's coffee cakes on a lark not too long ago, and they had an overwhelmingly unpalatable chemical flavor. They weren't rancid, just indescribably inedible.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I bet it was the shortening they use. The one negative was that I could taste it.

[@BangkokJohn]

Good job. A box of hydrated milk that can store well on a shelf is also nice.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely!

[@reneerupert5830]

Oh how i wish my dollar tree was like yours. Went to DT and Wally World yesterday. The DT closest to me is woefully lacking. I can't find any of the good stuff you've had in your videos. Pairing the package of spaghetti and the Hereford meatballs would be a home run!! Oh, I will be buying the fire blankets (soon). Great video!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I’ve seen the meatballs at DT but usually with a super short shelf life, but on this trip the chili was the only one of their products on the shelf. Apparently their stuff sells out regularly at DT.

[@TheJkilla11]

Your videos are like a warm hug on a cold day.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much!

[@billmacfarlane8864]

Intresting observation, I was in GA recently and found the expiration dates are longer ( a year or longer) than the options in my town in the northeast (9 months on average)

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Might have to do with the location of the distributors. What I’ve noticed is that since the economy has taken a hit more stores are continuing to sell items well after their best by date.

[@jesseduncan9612]

Another great video! The Dollar Trees in my area don't have the same selection as the ones you shop at. Next time I'm out in a more rural area I'll have to check one out. Now that fall and hiking season are here I'm sure I'll pass a few on the way to my favorite trailheads.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Stay safe out there and happy hunting!

[@BarbaraPalmer-m5i]

Love your presentation. I am so going to put some MREs together for our outings.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! Glad to have made an impression!

[@hallard069]

This was a interesting one for sure. I’m glad I found your channel, it’s different than the others and your honest opinion of the items you selected are refreshing to hear. Many of your items have been added to my camp box and preparedness inventory.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you for the great feedback. I’m glad you’re here!

[@pattiejune]

Not bad when your hungry anything tastes good

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You are correct. But I’d rather be able to choose things I’d want to eat over whatever happens to be lying around.

[@janapinson8665]

This was fun to watch! Great ideas!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@phxjaguar5207]

I always have those UHT milk cartons on hand in those breakfast and quart versions. Strawberry flavor and fruit loops is another option. Such items can be used as special treats for younger persons and to get familiar with before times of need to enhance comfort and reduce stress when there is that time. I’ve found sometimes small positive things can have results magnified. I agree design and build for your consumer. That could include “Cracker Jack” versions that contain more child friendly items that can keep their focus, and maybe hands busy. Even a small toy or a few crayons and paper (if you don’t want it on walls lol) included and why I tend to label like that

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a great idea. Bored kids are a formula for misery for everyone.

[@phxjaguar5207]

And loading kids up with excessive sugar can’t go wrong 😆

[@dylanjames8792]

Where did you purchase the UHT milk?

[@phxjaguar5207]

@@dylanjames8792 I used to be able to purchase in quantity from some of the larger food distributors but now I actually purchase for self use from dollar tree in quart size for white and chocolate milk, almond and oat milk also available here. I find it decent and drink several a week as it’s handy not to need refrig and can replace something like a sports drink or soda while out and also replacing the higher priced protein drinks that I had been using. Best Buy date on the one I drank tonight was almost ten months away. Shaking before use with at least the flavored is advisable and if enough cool storage space is available I do like using this over dry powdered and easier to rotate into daily use to keep current dates in the supplies

[@brittanylivey]

First time seeing your videos. Definitely gained a new subscriber. I love getting creative with foods not really intended for prepping. We just got our power back after 10 days of it being knocked out by Helene and MRE style foods absolutely kept us from getting bored with the same old same old. The microwave rice packs were a great base for a few of our meals. They are super easy to heat up in some boiling water or put under a flipped over cast iron pot in the Georgia sun. Mix in a canned protein source and *yum*

[@dadbudgetadventures]

These are the stories I love to hear because they back up everything this channel is about. I’m glad you made it through ok!

[@niesjapavelka9979]

Thank You for another Great Video. I agree that the portion size is to keep the numbers down on the nutrition list. Also Ready Rice would have worked well with this meal. 😺

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely would be a perfect accompaniment.

[@JenniferMacDougall-m1z]

That was an awesome MRE it would be a wonderful to see that again

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I may do a round 2 soon.

[@susanchoja6800]

I don’t really eat cereal anymore but I love orange juice on cornflakes. We saw a guy on a train who couldn’t have dairy so he put his oj on his cornflakes. We gave it a try and loved it. I couldn’t go back to eating cornflakes with milk. It really only works with cornflakes so might be an option if you find single size cornflakes and don’t have a milk option. I know it sounds weird!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a cool idea. Might have to try it!

[@Slayer_Habit]

My go to us oj and Trix cereal or froot loops ❤ learned that in jail 😂

[@smilingjacks83]

I learned the cornflakes and OJ trick from my grandma

[@libertyg4402]

I was allergic to dairy when I was little, so I'd put apple juice on my Cheerios. :) It made them just a little bit sweeter too.

[@danaterry4975]

That's funny did the oj and cornflakes as a kid

[@EvilDarkAngel6669]

Dollar tree is a staple in my house and my prep 😅 I actually legit love their food. My DT has an amazing selection of food and even frozen food. 🎉 When I started prepping a year ago DT was so helpful.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I was really surprised by how much I found. Gotta be there at the right time for the best stuff.

[@tupperwhere0]

I just came back from vacation to a 24 hour MRE video, DBA is taking the edge off of my transition back to reality!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Glad to help soften the blow

[@lilrosebush]

Those festival apple sauce packs are INSANELY good. Mango and apple is my favorite. At 2 servings for 160 calories each, they’re super filling and a nice healthy dessert

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Exactly! I was really surprised by how good it was.

[@outdoordauber]

Always enjoy your vids, but I especially respect your stance on not wasting the food!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@shirleyclarke4867]

Love your videos! I have not seen the pasta packs in the (2) Dollar Tree's I frequent but i will look at a third one this next week when i go into town. I'm 20-40 mins from 3 dif towns (3 dif directions) that i shop in. Thx for taking time to share these with us 😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Hope you find them. I will be going back for more!

[@patvance6205]

Our DT had those cornbread muffins with jalapeño. Yum

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m gonna need to find those!

[@j.j.savalle4714]

Great video and thanks for finding/trying some new items. Need to get back to DT and see some of these things!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I was quite surprised and pleased just finding these things. Made it even better when they turned out to be pretty good too!

[@GraceOfGuadalupe]

For one person to be able to eat for $15 / day - that's outstanding!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yeah it works out pretty well for what it is!

[@CGsYTChannel]

Great video! I love when you get excited when it works out!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s the fun of trying new things. We all get to find out together if it’s gonna work!

[@jamescook2041]

Next time mix the chili with the spaghetti. Put the parmigiana on top. Should be very filling. You could also put the Velveeta over the spaghetti and the parm. Yum.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great idea. That would be a filling meal for sure

[@jlambert6084]

I make chili mac. Elbow macaroni noodles then throw in a can of chili. Then dehydrate it. Put it in smaller mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. I will be buying a freeze dryer soon.

[@dorgan96]

I would put the chili over the bag of white rice and crumble up corn bread over the top.

[@ramonamoore62]

This is the very first time I've seen any of your videos. Thank you for another idea for prepping. Had not thought of making my own MRE's.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re very welcome. I’m glad you found inspiration here!

[@MinuteMan1999]

Missed out on a great combo. Chili on spaghetti is actually a thing. Think it's kind of a regional thing but you should try it some time. ✌️🇺🇸

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Oh I love me some chili Mac, just needed to do a different combo to best use what I had in this.

[@sheilabrennan5543]

Chili on rice, mashed potatoes,

[@judyluthy9724]

I'm flying across country Friday, and these are wonderful ideas to pack in my carry-on! I'll have to pack them in ziplock, as mylar won't 'fly' Also, you could use the chili on the spaghetti instead of the tuna

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Safe travels!

[@Legohaiden]

better would have been Cheerio's with the Carnation instant breakfast. The carnation is your milk for the whole grain cheerios. Still sweet, but far better nutritional value.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Probably so

[@jinx724]

I just got that pasta recently haven't tried it yet so I'm happy you showed ur results. I thought it was so cool!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! I’m gonna be getting more of that spaghetti.

[@acrosstheboard3207]

Looked pretty good. You always remind me of a cross between Jeff Bridges and Wolfman Jack.

[@mikedendooven6484]

I think you nailed it with Wolfman Jack. I knew he looks like a famous guy, but I couldn’t remember his name.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I get that occasionally. I don’t object, Jack was a cool dude.

[@jamesmiller6834]

Enjoyed the show. Its fun to see what can be done with a little effort.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@kennycraven2648]

🥇

[@dadbudgetadventures]

😎

[@pcdoctor48]

Great ideas for survival food. I appreciate the knowledge you share. I'm just a beginner prepper and enjoy this kind of content. I could see stacks of these MREs in my pantry.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m so glad you find inspiration here. Glad to be part of your journey.

[@pauln6917]

If we are creating condiments in our own mylar bags to supplement, might I suggest Pesto? Small jars of Pesto should be available at Dollar Tree are tubes of tomato paste. Make up some 2 oz packets of Pesto, maybe with 2 oz of grated parmesan. Barrilla is making wet pack noodles of various types without sauce, so the lunch/dinner options are there if you can eat pasta.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Great ideas!

[@patriot4095]

Something I discovered just for everyday that I like is a can of chili mixed with a box of velveeta Mac n cheese. So to make that dinner more filling we could add a package of cooked noodles. Great video. I’ve never made an mre but you gave me great ideas if I try one

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Always happy to spawn inspiration

[@dougbotimer8005]

Great looking options to keep in the pantry for an easy lunch and for bug in. And considering our age, mobility issues, and events we are most likely to experience, bug in without electricity is the most like scenario we might encounter.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You are absolutely correct. That is the most likely application you’ll need for disaster foods.

[@benjaminfugate4031]

ideas like this are great. I am a trucker and there is no easy place for Me to stop for food, and having a day cab, I also dont have much storage. There is a dollar tree next to where I live

[@truckerbrat7005]

Dollar Tree is so great for things like this. I think you did pretty good, there's even some fruit. I do wish there were more options for adding some veggies too.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I could add some small packs of peas and carrots. There are options there, I just didn’t go with them for this one.

[@thisistheway7878]

I buy those same Dole Fruit Drinks For my kids in Scouts we added a "on the go" half and half cup. Found it battled the fake flavors nicely. Great Video!

[@pamhutzell8268]

I think you did great! It made me think.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@sineriafrankenstein7316]

Dollar Tree is an excellent place to get ready to eat foods. Love the rices and beans in pouches.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yep. Plenty of options.

[@billmacfarlane8864]

Forgot to mention, great video!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@Olyphoto7]

Great job. I’m so glad you did the 24-hour MRE. I think weight-wise, these MRE’s would be much too heavy for a backpacking trip. I do think they are very well suited for emergency situations. It would make for an interesting project to prepare one 24-hour MRE (following your rules) for a family of four, with each person assembling their own personal rations. The choices could be very interesting.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That would be interesting but man it would be a long video 😳

[@Olyphoto7]

@@dadbudgetadventures four part miniseries

[@patriciadunaway3894]

Just found you, liked the meals, good imagination, putting all the ideas together. You also made a laugh a couple of times. Thanks.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m so glad you found the channel. Welcome!

[@libertyg4402]

What a fantastic idea!! Im definitely going to put together some Dollar Tree MREs. Thank you for sharing great content! New subscriber!😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I’m glad you’re here!

[@tksjewelry]

Those hereford meats are great and i can always find them in small packaging. The pulled pork and roast beef are my favorites, keep them around for fast dinners too. Stores around here know there is an abundance of prepared people so they stock accordingly.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Always good to have a like-minded demographic in your area!

[@nancychastanet3040]

Very fun to watch!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@scenicdriveways6708]

My wife and I don't like the taste of milk, so every time we buy cereal, we use Silk Chocolate instead of milk. Another great video DBA, thanks for sharing it with us. JT Kentucky

[@dadbudgetadventures]

There are so many options these days. I think you can buy Silk in those little boxes as well but I’m not sure how long it stays good.

[@Fido-vm9zi]

Silk is inexpensive & has decent shelf life too.

[@Fido-vm9zi]

I bought Almond Breeze Milk for just over $2 in October 2024, and it's good until July 2025.

[@Fido-vm9zi]

Bought Modern Pantry shelf-stable milk Dollar Tree & it's good for at least six months from purchase date.

[@juliepoppe6294]

Great mri put together!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@daiseyleightide7370]

You could get those packets of spaghetti sauce that they put in lunchables. Or add ketchup packets and seasonings to make it taste like spaghetti. 😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yep. Lots of possibilities for that.

[@mindymilton8585]

Great job! And, so helpful!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@davidcreager1945]

Thanks for the heads up on the Hereford chiliconcarn ! Didn't know that it existed . I've tried the meatballs , taco , shredded beef and beef ribs and roast beef. Great video ! 😂😂😂 Will definitely look for this stuff when next i go to Dollar Tree .

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! Happy hunting!

[@MalibuSignshop]

Fun video. I have been setting up an emergency kit and have visited Dollar Tree a few times after watching this. I ended up mixing the Chili Con Carne with the Pasta Zing Spaghetti and it was very tasty. I had also bought the truckers lunch box and heated them both in that for an hour in their packages with water and opened them and mixed together on a plate. It was just warm, not hot. So I need to dial that in a bit. But overall it was a great experiment and Ill keep them all in my car for emergencies. Thanks for the videos.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds like an issue with your lunch box. I can go twenty minutes and it’s too hot to touch. I also have not been able to find the spaghetti again so that sucks.

[@MalibuSignshop]

@ I’ll give the lunch box a try again. I did have both pouches and filled with water. I can find the spaghetti, but having trouble finding the chili. I went to 6 Dollar Trees here in So Cal and only 1 had two packets

[@displacedyankee7819]

Nice. Going to need to check the several Dollar Trees in my area to see which is the best for these items.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I think I timed it just right picking these up at one location but some folks will definitely have to check around. I was there on stock day so I was lucky.

[@pantryonlyrecipes]

I shared this for the applesauce joke and the prepper community! Good stuff!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!