Homemade MRE From Family Dollar: Is This Even Possible?

Continuing the journey to make homemade MREs from places anyone can find, let's build one from Family Dollar!
Gear List
Barocook Flameless Cooker: amzn.to/3vuygMi
RTic Coffee Mug: amzn.to/3vK3BKY
Amazon Wish List: www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls...

[@lindah6954]

I put together something similar. I found my stuff in bulk on Amazon. Star Kist tuna single serve packs. 20 packs for $10. Folgers instant coffee packs. Sugar and creamer. Tea bags. Everything has a 2 year shelf life or longer. I put together 3 bug out bags with micro sleeping bag. Tent. 4 ways of making a fire. rain poncho. 2 emergence blankets. Folding saw. 3 knives. 3 light sources. 500lb. 100' paracord. About $100 per bag. I put everything to the test on a 2 day camping trip.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That sounds like an amazing plan. Did you, by chance, film this outing? Sounds like it would be great to watch.

[@theotheralan5511]

Folgers is the worst instant coffee it tastes like swamp water 😂

[@lindah6954]

It's still better than MRE coffee.@@theotheralan5511

[@jaybeezy4124]

@@theotheralan5511but this is not about flavor..SURVIVAL is the game.

[@Bueller68]

Canned bread. B&m you can find it in bulk for a decent price. A slice of that and you're good for 6 hrs

[@TomStedham]

I moved to Miami 15 years ago, and that's where I first found Cafe Bustello. It's a massive brand among all the Cubans there. And even after I moved back to Alabama, it's still the only brand I drink.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

So good to hear people actually like it. I feel like I chose wisely.

[@Mrgreenjeans578]

I love that coffee

[@jackburton37211]

Nashville here...i grew up in Mississippi and developed a taste for Cafe Bustello. I have turned several people here on to it and still drink it 30 years later. I think what you are tasting is chicory. They add it to Bustello.

[@ourvanlives4736]

You can get it at Aldi

[@peterbailey6930]

Great choice in coffee, it's good stuff I buy it a lot.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Cool! Always good to hear people like specific choices like that. Not too bad for an instant coffee option.

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Cafe Bustelo is my go-to "cheap" coffee brand, and their instant coffee is definitely in the "not bad" category. I often see Cafe Bustelo being served as Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê đá) in restaurants around here.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

My wife found she likes to use the packets as an “extra shot” in her regular coffee.

[@DavidHuffTexas]

@@dadbudgetadventures LOL. That's pretty hardcore!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@DavidHuffTexas yeah that’s how she likes her coffee…hardcore 😂

[@kevinfields7500]

I made the mistake of drinking Cafe Bustelo at 9pm one night. I didn't get to sleep until the next morning. It's a good thing that I was off from work that day.

[@jlambert6084]

Last 4th of July in South Lake Tahoe people left over 8,500 pounds of garbage on the beach left for volunteers to pick up. Love the idea of home made mres. Going to have to start making some. I have a lot of mres and first strike rations too.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m glad you found this to be inspiring. Have fun creating your own survival!

[@virginiawestcot3111]

Congratulations finally getting the viewer's your channel deserves. Great practical info.❤

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. Hoping it continues to grow. Connecting with viewers like you is the reason I do this!

[@user-pb2vo4pt3t]

I've been doing this for years. Never thought to make a video. Keep up the good work! You ARE helping people!!! 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you for the kind words and support!

[@solomonlynn7456]

Ok, let's get this out onto a tray...nice. Oops! Wrong video! This menu option sure looks better than the other fellow trying to sample WWII potted meat. Civilian MRE is pretty easy to buy and/or assemble like you've shown. I usually break into the Cheezits first. That's a neat little stove too. Thanks for posting. Liked and subscribed.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you for your kind words and support. I hope Steve1989 would approve!

[@voraciousblackstn]

I put together full day meal packs for camping. These are some great ideas. The Hormel / Dinty Moore meals are pretty decent. My favorite is the spaghetti, but most of the others are good also.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks! I’m glad you like the suggestion. I’m definitely going to try more of those Hormel meals

[@displacedyankee7819]

I know you've done Walmart, but recently I found Starkist SmartBowls. A 4.5oz pouch. I got two kinds: Rice & Beans with tuna and Quinoa & Beans with tuna. Two year shelf life. No need for your "cooker", can just slip the pouch somewhere in your clothes to warm up while you do other things. Could be used as half of an entrée

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’ll be doing Walmart again soon. I did that back before this series caught on

[@mickidee6714]

New subscriber here. Very happy you “appeared” on my feed! Excellent ideas on here and from the viewers comments 😁

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you, so glad you found the channel. Viewer comments keep this whole thing going. I get ideas for where to go and what to look for.

[@FifiJustice-pd8tf]

​@@dadbudgetadventures New subs as well!!! You are a great discovery! 😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@FifiJustice-pd8tf thank you so much!

[@mplsatty]

These videos are great -- thanks for putting them together & posting them for our information & entertainment.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for the kind words. I’m having fun with the project and hope to keep bringing more like it.

[@CMarie404]

Thanks! DIY MRE kits are oddly satisfying to watch people create. I really like the Hormel Compleats. I order online and look for sales. The turkey & dressing is my fave but Im not too picky. One is not enough to fill my gut (who gets full off of 230 cals?), so I have to pair it with something else. They really dont have many calories or provide volume, but they are tasty. As an "MRE", so long as overall calories and nutrients line up, the lack of volume only affects my comfort level. I often buy Humanitarian Rations for cheap. Usually $3-4 for a days worth of calories. No meat, but very filling. Better protein amounts and usable protein over the classic MREs I used to buy. Then I add in a couple of goodies for personal preference. In day to day life I drink my coffee black, unsweetened. I started adding sugar and creamer packets in with my supplies because of the extra energy it can provide. I dont mind instant coffee at all. I keep some on hand for use at home even though I have other options available to me. Oddly hits the spot sometimes.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m all for using prepared MREs and breaking them open and redistributing the contents to your liking. For some that may be the only way to achieve specific needs. Great comment, thank you!

[@MiddleEastMilli]

Excellent video! You know, one work around the flavoring of your meals could be creating your own mini seasoning kit. I am using this when I take a short trip and it is so helpful. Not talking about salt and pepper. Dollar Tree has a CareUS brand 5 pack of contact lens cases. This provides up to 10 chambers to put spices in; two spices per case and all together, about as big as a fat bar of soap. Since the bottom of each case is white, you can use a sharpie to label what you have inside. I think this could take the items more into the "happy zone" when flavor is lacking. You can flavor popcorn, snacks, jerkies, entrees side items and so forth. Certainly not an mre queen but let me know if you think this could be helpful in any way. I realize it may not fit into your rules.Thanks for all your hard work! :)

[@dadbudgetadventures]

This is a brilliant idea! It stands to reason one might have something like that on hand to accent their food. I need to hit up Dollar Tree and find one of those.

[@matthewbrown6163]

It's a shame all of you in the USA do nor get to enjoy our CHICKEN SALT. This started on the top of Rotisserie Chickens & later Chips (Fries in USA). These are a mixture of Garlic Salt, Pepper & Praprika. Makes boring food better - been using it 30+ years on ALL meals & it makes boring food better. Also don't forget to re-use those sauce packets you got from the Take Away shops too.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Never heard of chicken salt but it sounds amazing!

[@TUKByV]

I got some Mylar bags about the size of ketchup packets for this purpose. You can also buy tiny single servings of just about any spice or condiment as well.

[@TUKByV]

I never heard it called such, but we use those on food in my house regularly. Smoked paprika is a favorite. @@matthewbrown6163

[@TheSerpentsEye]

Littering in our great wilderness is detestable. Thank you for your message. 🌲

[@davidbutcher7946]

Just came across your videos , great idea and love the thought of making my own MRE, for camping and emergencies. Thanks allot!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@j.j.savalle4714]

Another great MRE video. Thanks for taking the time to search out and put these together. Around us we have Big Lots and Sav-a-Lot stores which might be a couple of great places also to try for other maker MREs.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I have done Big Lots but it was a couple years back and my format for the video was different. Might revisit that soon. We also have a Sav-a-Lot I might hit up but it’s in a rough part of town so we’ll see how that goes.

[@oxxnarrdflame8865]

Enjoyed the video, I like the concept. This is the second video of yours I’ve come across. Yes I’m going to subscribe 😊

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. So glad you found the channel!

[@Gumby1978]

Congratulations on your channel growth. Been missing you

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m so excited to see where it goes. Thanks goes out to viewers like you who have hung in there!

[@shirleymorgan9254]

New to your channel, I came across your channel today. I find your channel very educational, now I know how to make MRE’s. Thank you for sharing.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m glad you found it and I’m glad you enjoyed the video!

[@GrayZiazanne]

Thank you for posting & also specifically pointing out the difference between Dollar Tree, General & Family Dollar. Always good to know about more budget friendly options. When you said those banana chips weren't your favorite, i would be curious to maybe see in the future a favorites video. I personally love how you explain why or how you choose everything you do. Also just a thought, but maybe how you like to use freeze dried or reconstituted coffee, perhaps try reconstituted/re-hydrated fruit or crumble up the freeze dried fruit into bits to give the water some pop of fruit flavor?

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I do plan on doing a video on my favorites or an ultimate MRE gathered from various sources. I had someone else mention the idea of putting freeze dried fruit in a drink and I love the concept. I’m going to try that.

[@lindabonomi7274]

New subbed...I am loving your videos, can't believe haven't seen before...great ideas, GREAT video, thank you!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m so glad you’re here! Your high praise is much appreciated.

[@bravotwozero535]

It’s so challenging finding shelf stable foods that are cheap and readily usable. I’m not a fan of the hormel entrees but have enjoyed the tasty bite pouches. Beef jerky is always my go to snack to keep the protein up.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Tasty Bite is great and a little exotic. Always a good choice.

[@bluesquidny]

wow this is fresh content. really great idea. That heater was new to me and i watch all the prepper channels. Kudos man, this channel is super intersting and original.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m honored by such high praise!

[@josephnicholson3956]

I would describe a cup of cafe bustello almost EXACTLY as you did, i literally said "ha rsher" as you said "sharper" 😂😂

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Always good to hear I’m getting something right 😂. I know it’s all subjective but it’s good that I’m picking up on the same things others do.

[@kekwkekw5117]

I love the chicken Alfredo one! I always have these in my cabinet for when I’m lazy. I think they taste great. Love the ideas people come up with these homemade MREs.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

They are great to have on hand when you just don’t want to have to cook. Easy to keep and use.

[@UmpTSquat]

This is the first of your videos I have watched. I like your approach. I'm going to have to try the Cafe Bustelo instant coffee for camping and backpacking trips.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m glad you’re here!

[@Ofdoom5159]

I don't make home made MRE's but I do use you ideas for lunches for work, thank you for all your ideas!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It’s kinda the same thing. It’s still lunch or dinner no matter what you call it 😎

[@raykiii]

This house are huge Cheese-It fans. Speaker for myself, I like the variety and the big Cheese-Its are good with hard salami. I enjoy these videos. Cheers!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for checking in. So glad you are liking the videos!

[@Mrgreenjeans578]

Subscribed! First video of yours I’ve seen ❤

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you, glad to have you! Hope you find lots more to enjoy!

[@redbeard7094]

First video from your channel I have seen. I used to work as a security guard on a military installation years and years back. I used to always have a couple MREs or freeze dried meals in my bag in case we got stuck there. I think i would have picked anything other than those Dinty Moore meals. I cant stand them. And Reeses pieces are not chocolate candy, they are peanut butter candies. They have no chocolate in them...and are my favorite candies. Besides entree, good choices. 👍

[@dadbudgetadventures]

The great thing about these is because you built it, you get what you want! Stock it with what you love!

[@betsyross468]

I just found you! What a great series! My dh is always wanting to buy gov MRE s but then looks at the ingredients and thankfully has always passed. But your system is going to be a hit with us both. Keep up the good work! Any vid s on MRE s fir 2?

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you, I’m so glad you’re here! I have not done a two person menu yet but that will be coming soon!

[@nichevo1]

​@@dadbudgetadventures You passed on those cans of roast beef, I think they were 12 or 14 oz, you seem to think they would be too much for a single MRE. Considering how you often mention that. A big eater might be disappointed by your usual selections, maybe more is better. Chief issue with that can of meat is that it would be just meat with no contrast, but certainly it must be better than any canned chicken product. Have you considered a spam or corned beef or corned beef hash? But I would certainly consider that one you showed us. I wonder if you could do some research and find it in a smaller size if you thought that necessary.

[@shimaganmartin597]

This is a cool idea man. Great thinking.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. Comments like his keep me motivated to do more.

[@dangerdoberman]

This is really great.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@perfectweather]

Great video, thanks 👍

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You are welcome. Thank you for watching and supporting the channel!

[@coreyjones3443]

I hope your channel continues to grow, good quality content.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m hoping so too, this is a lot of fun when it’s connecting.

[@echoesofthedead]

Love the compleats meals ..spaghetti with meat sauce us my favorite...also love the videos...luck to you with your channel (just found it). Cheers.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I need to try the spaghetti. Lots of you viewers are recommending it. Thanks for the well wishes. It’s much appreciated.

[@gagelanderyou9076]

this is such a cool idea!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! I’m having fun with it.

[@donaldgsweeney]

Holy cow, this is a great idea!!!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@jdargonaut]

I decided to try Cafe Bustelo when I noticed it was on Two and a Half Men. Nice and strong! Great job!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. It’s definitely the boldest I’ve tried in the instant coffee category.

[@c9rm3n]

I've tried a bunch of those meals, they're fine. I think your description is reasonablely good.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks!

[@xMrBlack]

I love the hormel meals. Hottest say if I had to pick one, the chicken and rice is a top contender. The spaghetti although not great is surprisingly acceptable with a touch of salt. Most of the ones I've tried have been pretty good. Nothing I'd turn my nose up at.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I have not seen the chicken and rice. I’ll need to look for that. Sometimes the simplest dishes are the best.

[@xMrBlack]

@dadbudgetadventures it's really simple but it's awesome. Sometimes during hunting season that's what I'll have when I get home late when I want to get something warm in me quick.

[@nichevo1]

I'll say this. A couple of years ago. I tried a couple of different ones and was relatively pleased, but they made one that I think might have been a breakfast, that had egg in it, to me the egg was not acceptable. I don't know if it's still made. I'm sure egg is challenging to make shelf stable. I don't say don't try it, but I certainly would not buy a bulk pack without trying one first.

[@abbuassin21]

Good choice on the cafe, I use all the time.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It seems to be pretty popular. Glad I found it.

[@user-yc6fz7ut1f]

Great stuff

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you!

[@lindah6954]

A military MRE has extra salt, fat, calories, and protein. Eat if you have been pushed to your limit. But on a camping trip or survival. You're better off eating regular foods or freeze dried foods.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Precisely. Different environments require different foods. Maybe down the road I will dive into specific items for such environments. That’s a whole lot more work and research though. We will have to see where this goes 😅

[@wakcedout]

Eat one a day and you’ll have enough calories for your daily intake. Keep that in mind for stocking up on some for emergencies. I think that’s something many don’t know, is that each more when fully consumed gives about 2000 calories. The reason we eat multiple while in the field is we are burning that rapidly.

[@nichevo1]

One MRE has about 1300 calories. I think, the entrees only going to be about 250 to 300. The rest seems to me to be mostly junk food with tons of sugar, even that protein shake. Seem very carb heavy in particular.

[@robertgregory5260]

very nice effort, you overcame the limitations of the store

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. I’m so glad you get the point. This is a thought exercise more than anything else.

[@20fenza]

I like the chicken Alfredo and the dumplings but a recommendation would be to add a small seasoning packet to the minute microwave meal because the ones with potato are kinda metal tasting i usually go with pepper, garlic salt, and maybe some onion power but thats about it

[@dadbudgetadventures]

If I were preparing a full MRE that included stuff from various sources I would definitely include that. A lot of the meals could benefit from some hot sauce or additional seasoning. Heading out on a camping trip or stocking my personal stash I always add in little bonus items.

[@Valosia]

My Daughter likes the Swedish Meatballs, I like the "Thanksgiving Dinner" (meaning: Turkey w/Dressing. I also like to a little mashed potato to it, boiling water and mixing potato to side them adding to the meal and mixing together. Have done this for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve.) I also like the Salisbury-Steak w/mashed potatoes & Gravy. I like to add part of a "small" can of GreatValue Peas & Carrots, to it.. just putting a little on it..stirring and adding more..mixing 1/3-1/2 the veggies from the can into it. This really, does make a difference! But, on says that I don't do that. I will at the very least mix in Basil, Italian seasoning,(and/or) Oregano there is also, some Black Pepper. Trust me, these things make a huge difference. But, don't get spoiled with using them all the time. Either, though I personally love these Homel Completes. It may be a little more than I want to spend on one meal but as MREs they are Great, you can Eat them Cold or Warm (depending on the circumstances, though they may not be as good cold and all it at least is safe to eat and all). This is something I eat a couple times a month, because it is a ready meal and we like them. I may put a couple of these into a pack for both of us, great idea. Love it.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thanks for the reviews. This makes me want to try some of the others and see if I can kick them up a notch.

[@carlymanson]

Those Barocook folks should be sponsoring you!! Your videos are such a good testament for their product. I plan on buying one because you featured it.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That would be cool but I’ll settle for helping people find a great solution to cooking without fire. Hope you pick one up and love it as much as I have.

[@davidmeeker7481]

I have found in my location that dollar general is cheaper than family dollar. Also...i have been practing this method for years. As i am a hiker / backpacker i have chosen to forego expensive specialized trail foods a d have named my rations " sustainment pouches" ( a name that has caught on with coworkers and froends)which include ready to eat foods. Meatballs , tuna, snacks and drink powders. Even dog foods and treats. Not everything is sourced from the same supplier, but gathered on trips to WM, DG and amazon.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds like you have this mastered! The single source idea is mostly for the thought exercise it creates. That and it gives people a reference to consider when they are shopping.

[@jelkel25]

I dehydrate my hiking/camping meals in the summer, you can cold soak them which would make them almost MREs but I like a hot meal at the end of the day, good for morale. In winter I generally do something similar to what you are doing as I don't carry on for days so having lightweight dehydrated meals isn't an issue. In this country my favourite coffee sachets are the Maxwell House ones and the banana chips are great. You get plantain chips here too or they're pretty easy to do yourself.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I love plantain chips. We get them all the time at our local international market. I encourage everyone to build their stuff to their own liking and hope that I can inspire some thought in the process.

[@jerseydevil7895]

I've found it difficult to buy Anything at Family Dollar or Dollar General that is actually a dollar. Dollar Tree is absolutely the best bargain shop, even though they bumped the price up to $ 1.25 since Covid. They also get name brand overstock and close out items. Additionally, they now have a " 5 dollar isle", where larger items ( plastic storage bins, small rugs,etc.)are 3-5 dollars.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Dollar Tree is a good resource as long as you are observant of what you’re getting. Some items sell cheaper at other stores but if you’re looking to spend a set amount it’s a great place to pick up enough to get you by.

[@matthewbrown6163]

Brilliant Idea - we don't have Dollar General stores down under but be we have similar stores & I think we could scratch up some similar items & always suggest a cup of soup added as the additional nutrients can help sustain you as the added taste on some bland food items. Not everyone can afford the name brand products. When I worked shift work in various locations - I looked for value, taste, nutrition % lastly availability. Some sites were fully kitted out offices & others were in remote location with NO resources but what you carried with you.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s a great idea about the soup. Creative thinking for sure!

[@matthewbrown6163]

@@dadbudgetadventures You never know what you feel like here we have these Nescafe Coffee Sachets - like a cappuccino with coffee & powdered milk - just add water & sugar. If I was aworking shifts these would be ideal to go in my work bag or was making my MRE. Don't forget to score the FREE salt, pepper & sugar when you visit the cafes to use in your MRE packs too.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@matthewbrown6163 I love when I find things like the 2 or 3-in 1 coffees. Makes things a lot easier. I always grab up those accessory packs when I stay at a hotel and that’s what I’m using in this video but I try not to do much with things like sauce packs and such just because it’s overdone by others making videos like this. Trying to stay as pure to the concept as I can. But if I’m making them for me to just have something on hand you can bet I’ll stock it with all the filched goodies I can 😀

[@cocacolafiesta]

Great videos. Because of your Ollie (I have never heard of that store as I live in Nevada) MRE video I purchased the Barocook too! I have a lot of food stored but will be making MREs with new products to get all items on the same page age wise. It will be fun for me to go to each of these stores to follow your suggestions (my favorite store is Dollar Tree and I don’t shop at Familly Dollar). I have warned my husband that I will be buying more foodstuff as he’ll say "but you have this stuff in the pantry room already!" But I also tell him that prepping is my hobby and like any type of insurance we hope that there will not be a need to use any of them but it’s great that we have it! And I remind him that I’m not the type to go shopping at malls or to possess expensive jewelry cause it’s not my thing but buying foodstuff, cooking utensils and multiple types of stoves…Now that’s my things and a lot cheaper, lol! Congratulations on your channel’s growth too! BTW, I bought 2 Compleat meals for my husband and I to try out before buying larger quantities but they were stored in the closet and we tried them yesterday (as I want to know which items to buy for my MREs) both packages had best buy dates of 2022. Chicken with the dressing/gravy was good and I was surprised with the thick cut of chicken slice. I will be adding instant mashed potatoes with that meal. The 2nd one was the beef with potatoes, carrots and gravy and I was very surprised of how well it looked. Tasted good too. I will definitely be buying more of those 2 types. Coupled with some freshly baked bread they were both winners. I have the Vesta Instafire oven that uses sterno type canisters to bake with so that will provide our fresh bread in any scenario be it camping, grid down or SHTF.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you for that amazing comment. It sounds like you are taking a great approach to this and it thrills me to feel like I’m part of the inspiration. Keep trying out new things to see what works!

[@robertwilliams450]

Have you baked bread in your sterno over and if so how did it turn out?

[@cocacolafiesta]

@@robertwilliams450 I have different ways to bake, Coleman collapsible oven, dutch oven and the Instafire Ember oven which uses sterno type cans. I also make extra bread dough and put in the freezer. It can be baked in a Roadpro (lunchbox shape cooker used by semi truck drivers) that uses the cigarette lighter during driving also.

[@wakcedout]

To make it a more traditional mre I would have gotten a bag of m&ms or skittles. There are some items you would have had difficulty finding, like the bread or muffins that are squished down. You also could have bought generic pop tarts and that would be something you’d find. I’ve had the compleats, they ain’t filling but when scraping by they do in a pinch. And if memory serves me right I do think there’s a coffee pouch in an mre. Or a powdered juice/energy drink.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Finding shelf stable bread or cakes is not easy. I wish there were more options for that. The problem with M&Ms that I’ve encountered is they have a short shelf life but for some reason Reese’s Pieces have a longer one. I had hoped for peanut M&Ms for the extra kick but it wasn’t meant to be.

[@nichevo1]

​@@dadbudgetadventuresHow long do things like Twinkies last?

[@Dutch1951x]

Great video...... I'm subscribing!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you! Glad to have you!

[@soldiersgirl9195]

New subscriber!!! I will be making a homemade MRE with my bff at some point. I will be trying to do other things as well. Also, we will do a mini-collab next month with Kaylynn Strain. I will mail it to her late next month!!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Very cool. Send a link!

[@terrybrooks917]

I just found your video, and it's great. Where do you heat pad? Can you please post a link. I have the Barocook on my Amazon wish already. I just need to find the heating pads.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

The pads should show up on Amazon when you open the Barocook listing. It’s one of their products. I’ll try to add a link next time I’m on a platform where I can do that.

[@graciel3725]

Cafe Bustelo is my favorite!! The ground coffee for a coffee pot are really good too. Kinda higher in acid tho.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

There is that but I’ll put up with it for a good cup of coffee.

[@graciel3725]

@dadbudgetadventures I would drink it exclusively (instant), but my stomach doesn't let me. So every so often I can get by with it, and wow, it's so good! I "converted" my husband, who only drank Starbucks when he drank instant.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@graciel3725 wish I could find something to make my wife give up Starbucks! I’d have a lot more money for MREs!

[@wadedog4280]

I like your mre packages from dollar tree ! I would love to see you actually eat them straight without cooking. When i served in the army in 78 we ate c rations from ww2, still edible! And the cigarettes were decent, lol

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I grew up on C Rations since my dad was in the Navy at the time. Loved the spaghetti. I’m not big on eating this stuff cold but I’ll do it if the demand to see it is there 😳

[@CoyoteRidge]

Those meals are my go to for quick meals and many of my MRE's. The Chicken Alfredo is probably my favorite.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’ve had a couple now and I do not hate them. Not bad at all for what they are.

[@user-xb7fe6ic2z]

hey Mel Gibson lol ... i for one love your m.r.e. videos ... i lived on m.r.e.'s for a while when i was in the army and love to make my own but its always nice to see other ppl's meal packs and see what they put in theirs ! great job .... keep em coming .... have you tried going to a truck stop or a convenience store ? that might be interesting .......

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I have not done a truck stop yet but I’m looking into it. You’re not the first with the Mel reference, I just wish I could have looked like him when he was something to look at 😂

[@user-xb7fe6ic2z]

@@dadbudgetadventures just keep up the great videos and we the faithful will keep watching

[@jamessullivan9906]

Love the home made MREs.... and the flameless Ration cooker.....but, that heat packs are dam expensive!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

They aren’t super cheap but at about $2 each they aren’t bad if you’re not relying on them for every meal. I’ll spend that for the chance to cook without having to build a fire.

[@franksmith6810]

The Cafe Bustelo is very popular in Florida, I really enjoy the cappuccino!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It’s definitely a great option for this, especially given the limited selection I had to choose from. Could have done a lot worse.

[@ericdietz2605]

Cheeseits!! Grandpa always kept them! Makes me remember him each time i eat them

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Looks like we have a winner by a landslide! Always good to have things like this that bring memories along.

[@ottopartz1]

Thank you for taking the time to remind people to pack out their garbage, it's getting really out of hand at some of my local nature areas. Personally I go out of my way to double the amount of garbage I pack back out with.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

You’re quite welcome. It’s something I’m passionate about because I hate having a beautiful location destroyed by people too lazy to clean up after themselves

[@lindah6954]

Have you ever tried MRE coffee? It tastes like you made coffee using a sweaty sock for a filter. I have used my own sock to filter water, then boiled it to make it safe to drink. It was a clean sock from my ruck sack. Trained in many survival areas. The freezing cold is the hardest. I Subscribed and gave you a thumbs up.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you for the support! I do have some MRE coffee but have not tried it. Sock coffee does not sound like a positive start to the day 🤣

[@michealkolnik1331]

The Salisbury steak is really good as well, I use the meals for hunting season!!!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’ve had that one. It was pretty good. I’d definitely get it again.

[@electraglideclyde]

Great video, could you provide a link for extra flameless heater elements? Thanls

[@dadbudgetadventures]

There’s one in the description box

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sorry I just notice you were asking about the fuel. Right now Amazon is out of them but check the Barocook company website.

[@aaronfk9240]

I dunno if anyone has explained the Bustelo to you, but it is an high octane coffee. It is a Spanish Espresso. It is a great tasting, great charge for the day. As for the stews, I have always enjoyed them regardless of the brand. I don't know if all of them make a lunch pack, but I will check them out.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Someone mentioned recently that it’s an espresso which is probably why my wife kicks up her coffee with a pack of it now. That’s good info

[@pondplantgirl]

🤠 Howdy from Texas. I have the Hormel and Dinty Moore meals in my stash. I actually like them. I also plan to dehydrate food, so if you have any tips on dehydration, it would be greatly appreciated

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’ve don’t a little with dehydration but will probably revisit that.

[@Serenity_Dee]

I'm too much of a Weird Coffee Person to want to pack instant coffee, so instead I have this clever little thing that's a combination manual grinder and brewer which fits nicely in my bag, the Mongdio C1366. Twenty bucks and you can make some nice, strong coffee with it. Now I just need a portable kettle to go with it 😁. But you can't go wrong with Cafe Bustelo. It's in my rotation as an everyday ground coffee, as opposed to stuff I like to get in whole bean form, and I can only imagine their instant is decent for instant coffee.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I definitely prefer to brew my own and normally would be set up for that. The instant coffees for these videos are strictly offered as a possibility and for entertainment purposes. The small form factor makes for easy transportation though so they aren’t a terrible option.

[@user-dh3yc1fg5i]

I Just found and subed to your channel Were did. Do you get the foil bag you put the MRE in?

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Glad to have you! Those are Mylar bags made for packaging storable food. I got them from Amazon.

[@MyName-kd4du]

That one is actually better cold and the best of all that I've tried.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That one way to eat it I guess. Although I definitely would prefer it warm.

[@jB-uw8fi]

Post for the algorithm. You deserve it.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. Much appreciated!

[@kennycraven2648]

Algorithms working in your favor right now. Hope things keep growing for you.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Seems that way. Thank you for the support.

[@kennycraven2648]

@@dadbudgetadventures after watching some older videos, I think it’s the grown out beard that’s increasing your viewership 😁

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Might be. That and some weight loss. I’m a little easier to look at now 😎

[@MrKim-kv2vv]

Watching this one month later…. 8.33k subscribers Well done!

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you. It’s been crazy and this was not what I thought would make that happen 🤔

[@AboveAverageMan97]

Oyster Crackers Your favorite popcorn flavoring cannister type. 1/2 cup of olive oil 1. Pre heat your oven 350F 2. Pour 1/2 cup of olive oil into mixing cup or bowl 3. Add half of the popcorn flavoring stir into the Olive Oil 4. Spread out the 1/2 bag the oyster crackers on baking pan 5. Drizzle the mixture of on the crackers and ensure a good coating, 6. Put the mixture on the baking pan into the heateted oven for 10 minutes. 7. Remove from oven let stand to cool 8. Put the end product into your favorite bowl kick back and enjoy.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Sounds delicious!

[@AboveAverageMan97]

@@dadbudgetadventures With Nacho Cheddar seasonings and squiting your eyes you would swear they are cheez its.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@AboveAverageMan97 I won’t have to squint too much

[@guadalupeskitchen3734]

You are the Anthony Bourdain of MREs

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Wow, that’s high praise…unless you don’t like Tony, then maybe not so much. But I’ll take it!

[@bloodria7455]

This is a genius idea

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you so much. I’m not sure it rises to the level of that praise but it is truly appreciated.

[@Pam_NV_Miller]

I especially like the Hormel Beef Stew. Actually have eaten the stew several times without heating it while on road trips -- not totally bad, but better heated.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Everything is better served hot. At least stuff that’s meant to be hot, that is.

[@HummerGirl88]

New subscriber 🎉 I have Celiac Disease, so it's harder for me to find the main meal for my MRE's. A person can only eat so many grabola bars 😂

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Absolutely. Gotta really spend time searching for those items

[@Zwicken1776]

The spaghetti is very good. Nice rich flavor.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Good to know. Might try it soon!

[@scotts.2624]

I got the original escaped Chinese biowarfare virus the nasty one just before Thanksgiving 2020. Thanksgiving morning. I woke up and knew it was gone. Thanks to Family Dollar being open on Thanksgiving I was able to pull off a meal for my wife and I. We did have some little chickens (cornish hens) already. But other than that they had all the other stuff.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s awesome! You never know where salvation will come from!

[@briantadlock4356]

I did the same entries but I did my own trail mix Folgers single Gatorade or Kool aid singles and bite size bars granola bars

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s the fun of something like this, everyone can build it the way they like it!

[@bonekollektor1659]

I really like the turkey with stuffing dinner

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I’m definitely going to have to try that.

[@FrankMuchnok]

The "Completes" are generally edible but not a home cooked meal. I think that they're good enough for an MRE requiring no extra water or other prep. And if they aren't heated long enough you don't have crunchy bits or dry powder in the bottom of a bag. They're also fairly small, light and easy to pack. First time I've seen them mentioned for MREs.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I think they are a great product for this application. So many different varieties you could really set up a varied menu just using their stuff.

[@DonaldChapman]

I like your videos, and subscribed as well. I like the stew myself, but they are really loaded with sodium.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Thank you, the support is very much appreciated. These things definitely can’t be for everyone. Folks with high blood pressure better keep these for special occasions only.

[@DogSpeak]

Curious if you put a compatible mre against your homemade mre, what the comparison would be as far as cost, quality... You see a lot of survival food kits that are really just over priced oatmeal, rice, and just things you can put together yourself much cheaper.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

That’s exactly why I started doing this. Got tired of the premade stuff that was expensive just to be expensive and the military stuff that was full of things I would end up throwing away. Since I’m not marketing anything for sale I can just show people how to think and do for themselves.

[@Gator-357]

That Cafè Bustello is an espresso type of coffee so if you don't like that, you can also get a 5 pack of Foldger's or Nescafè there also. They usually have 2 or 3 kinds of freeze dried coffee in 5 pack boxes for under $2. Reese's Pieces aren't chocolate. They are all Peanut Butter.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Good to know!

[@justyntheoutdoorsman6995]

just curious where did u get the bags from and what are they called

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Those are Mylar storage bags and I get them from Amazon

[@Spike-qt7tx]

SPAM is infamous. The Navy gave it to the locals in the South Pacific . Now it is their cuisine.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Trues but I’m not a huge fan. I have made some great fried rice with it but I’m not sure I’m up for just eating it by itself. It’s definitely a love it or hate it thing.

[@u.s.militia7682]

Bustelo instant coffee is great. They’re perfect.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

It certainly seems to be popular with viewers. I’m glad I found it and got to try it.

[@dkhillerud]

The best instant coffee I’ve ever tried is Kopiko brown coffee. I buy it from Amazon. 30 individual packs for $14.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I need to look for that

[@sarahdresler9776]

The Hormel meals have one that is Dinty Moore beef stew. That’s my favorite.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Yep. That one shows up in another video!

[@eddiejenkins9902]

The chicken Alfredo is my favorite. 😂 Cheeze It's are the best.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

Noted. The Cheez-Its are dominating this!

[@nickhinman6429]

Great Video. Do you strive for a certain calorie for the meal and or the day? Or is the intent to fill a hole and make a turd. Just wondering.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

The latter 😂. I haven’t started diving deep enough to evaluate caloric intake but it’s been brought up enough I might have to consider it.

[@nickhinman6429]

Ok sounds good Just wondering. Have thought about the idea of caloric intake on longer durations and wondered if others were doing it. @@dadbudgetadventures

[@waynenunn5290]

You are the Bob Ross of mres.

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I will take that compliment. Thank you 🙏

[@JohnSmith-un9fy]

Are the vapors from that cooker dangerous permeating in your food?

[@dadbudgetadventures]

The food is completely sealed off from the heating chamber but the fumes are non toxic.

[@tonykennedy8592]

Im not sure if you do this, but to make more space be could you transfer meals in plastic containers into large sandwich bags and vacuum the pack. Just to flatten the contents and give more space

[@dadbudgetadventures]

I do vacuum seal the bag the products go in but I’m hesitant to remove anything from its original packaging. If I were packing it for use right away I might consider that though.

[@tonykennedy8592]

@@dadbudgetadventures as soon as I typed that I was thinking that even if it's exposed momentarily for the transfer, bacteria could still get in

[@dadbudgetadventures]

@@tonykennedy8592 that is a consideration for sure.