5 Best MREs

An MRE is great for survival preparedness, camping, or anytime you need a full day's worth of food in a small package. Just like a military MRE, these MREs have a long shelf life, don't require any cooking, and can be eaten right out of the packaging. We put together a list of our best-tasting, most popular MREs for the next time you need an MRE.

When choosing MRE’s for your next adventure, there are several factors to keep in mind.

Calories & Nutrition

When you’re at home, fresh, tasty food may be a priority. While MRE’s can offer great flavor, their sole purpose is to keep you alive. The biggest factor when choosing the right MRE is determining how many calories and nutrients it possesses to keep you fueled longer. Most MRE Packets range from 500-1500 calories, while buckets from brands like Mountain House and ReadyWise offer hundreds of servings! It is important to determine how much you can pack and how much fuel your MRE will offer you.

Flavor

The days of MRE’s tasting like cardboard are long gone. Today’s MRE’s are loaded with a variety of flavors that will improve morale and give you an enjoyable outdoor experience. At MidwayUSA, we offer countless flavors and options, like grilled chicken, chilli mac, ground beef, chicken & dumplings, spaghetti, and much more! Brands like Peak Refuel provide top-quality flavors and meals that can be enjoyed anywhere.

Preparation

While some MRE’s can be eaten straight out of the package, others may require adding water for a more enjoyable eating experience. If you have access to clean water or have a water filter, nearly all of our options should work for you. We also carry several options that can be eaten straight out of the package for severe emergencies or dry climates where water may be limited. For a more detailed overview of what MRE's to choose for your survival kit, click here!

With so many options, choosing the best MRE can be a challenge. Certain MRE’s may work best for a weekend camping trip, while others may be best suited for emergency situations and shelters. Here is the list of our top 5 MRE’s!
1

XMRE 1300XT MRE (Meal, Ready to Eat) Pack of 12

The XMRE 1300XT provides 1,200-1,500 calories of US military grade, ready to eat meal components. All components are field tested and fully cooked so they can be eaten right out of the pouch. The 1300XT is always freshly packed with complete nutritional information printed on the back of each bag. The XMRE 1300XT is designed as a military MRE that can also meet the needs of the civilian market.

Each XMRE 1300XT contains: Entree, 3-4 side components, beverage, accessory kit and a flameless ration heater (FRH). All components are packed in high-density water and tamper proof XMRE XT Series outer bag and embossed with a lot number (pack date) on each bag and case. Full menu details and nutritional information for all food items printed on the back of each XMRE XT Series bag.

Component Details:

Entree: Variety of beef, chicken, turkey, pork, tuna, pizza or vegetarian options

Bread Item: Crackers, Breads, or tortillas

Spread: Peanut butter, cheese spread, fruit jellies, fruit jams

Snack: Nut raisin mix, dry fruit mix, corn nuggets, seeds, chickpeas, dried fruit

Side: Wet packed fruit, side dishes, or bars

Dessert: Puddings, pound cakes, brownies, dessert cookies

Beverage: Single or assorted fruit flavored drink mixes

Beverage Bag: Hot beverage bag

Accessory Kit Includes: Single serve instant coffee, heavy-duty military spoon, brown napkin, salt, pepper, non-dairy cream, sugar, and moist towelette.

Features

  • U.S. military grade components
  • Fully cooked meals, no water required to reconstitute food
  • No refrigeration required
  • Lightweight, durable and waterproof packaging
  • 3 yr Guaranteed Shelf Life*
  • Full meal nutritional information printed on each bag
  • Lot number (pack date) embossed on bag and printed on case

Note: XMRE meals offer a guaranteed shelf life of 3 years at 80°F (27°C), or for 6 months at 100°F (38°C), from date of XMRE assembly/pack date printed on or embossed in all bags and cases. Some components from time to time may have production dates prior to pack or assembly dates. Shelf life of XMRE product follows the same standards as set forth by the U.S Army Natick Soldier RD&E Center's study and evaluation of the military’s Meals Ready to Eat (MRE), which employs identical type of packaging and production technologies as XMRE Meals.



What Customers Are Saying

Great storable food / MRE, will buy again!

I ordered two cases of these for emergency preparedness. I've tested a few of them and have to say I'm very impressed. They are very easy to use, everything you need is included in the pouch, and the food actually tastes good. The cases I ordered from Midway were new production, I checked the dates, so I should get a full five years shelf life from them. I've ordered other brands of MRE type meals before and these are the best I've seen yet. Great for emergencies or for camping / hunting trips.
- William, 3/2/2020

About XMRE Meals

XMRE (Meals, Ready to Eat) is a renowned brand in the field of ready-to-eat meals designed for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency preparedness, and military applications. The company's history dates back to the early 1990s when it began producing military-grade meals for troops in the field. Today, XMRE offers a diverse range of ready-to-eat meal options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. These meals are packaged in durable pouches and feature long shelf lives, making them ideal for outdoor adventures, survival situations, and emergency provisions. XMRE meals are known for their delicious taste, nutritional content, and the inclusion of necessary accessories such as utensils, heating elements, and condiments. The 1300XT, 3000XT, Lite MRE, and Blue Line MRE are all excellent MRE choices. With their commitment to quality, convenience, and providing sustenance in demanding environments, XMRE continues to be a trusted choice.

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2

XMRE Blue Line MRE (Meal, Ready to Eat) Pack of 12

The XMRE Blue Line provides 800 to 1,200 calories of high quality shelf stable components. All components are fully cooked so they can be eaten right out of the pouch. The XMRE Blue line has been specifically engineered to meet the critical requirements of government institutions, medical facilities, educational institutions, municipal entities, Law Enforcement, public service entities, and emergency preparedness programs.

Each XMRE Blue Line contains: Entree, 2-3 side components, beverage, accessory kit and a flameless ration heater (FRH). All components are packed in high-density water and tamper proof XMRE Blue Line outer bag and embossed with a lot number (pack date) on each bag and case.

Component Details:

Entree: Variety of beef, tuna, chicken, pork, pizza or vegetarian options

Bread Item: Crackers, Breads, or tortillas

Spread: Peanut butter, cheese spread, fruit jellies, fruit jams

Snack: Nut raisin mix, dry fruit mix, corn nuggets

Side: Wet packed fruit, side dishes, or bars

Dessert: Puddings, pound cakes, brownies, dessert cookies

Beverage: Single or assorted fruit flavored drink mixes

Beverage Bag: Hot beverage bag

Accessory Kit Includes: Spoon, napkin, salt, pepper, and moist towelette.

Features

  • Fully cooked meals, no water required to reconstitute food
  • No refrigeration required
  • Lightweight, durable and waterproof packaging
  • 3 yr Guaranteed Shelf life*
  • Lot number (pack date) embossed on bag and printed on case

Note: XMRE meals offer a guaranteed shelf life of 3 years at 80°F (27°C), or for 6 months at 100°F (38°C), from date of XMRE assembly/pack date printed on or embossed in all bags and cases. Some components from time to time may have production dates prior to pack or assembly dates. Shelf life of XMRE product follows the same standards as set forth by the U.S Army Natick Soldier RD&E Center's study and evaluation of the military’s Meals Ready to Eat (MRE), which employs identical type of packaging and production technologies as XMRE Meals.



What Customers Are Saying

Better than nothing at the time.

The package arrived quickly and in perfect shape from midway. They are not equivalent to true mre meals though. They are smaller portions and overpriced.
- jim, 4/23/2020

About XMRE Meals

XMRE (Meals, Ready to Eat) is a renowned brand in the field of ready-to-eat meals designed for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency preparedness, and military applications. The company's history dates back to the early 1990s when it began producing military-grade meals for troops in the field. Today, XMRE offers a diverse range of ready-to-eat meal options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. These meals are packaged in durable pouches and feature long shelf lives, making them ideal for outdoor adventures, survival situations, and emergency provisions. XMRE meals are known for their delicious taste, nutritional content, and the inclusion of necessary accessories such as utensils, heating elements, and condiments. The 1300XT, 3000XT, Lite MRE, and Blue Line MRE are all excellent MRE choices. With their commitment to quality, convenience, and providing sustenance in demanding environments, XMRE continues to be a trusted choice.

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3

AlpineAire Trek N Eat NRG-5 Emergency Food Ration

A pack of the AlpineAire Trek N Eat NRG-5 Emergency Food Ration covers the daily energy requirement of an adult. Ready-to-eat, no heating or boiling required. It can even be given to children as young as 6 months old. You can even crush the compressed bars and add water to prepare a nutrition mash or an energy drink depending on the amount of water added.

Features

  • Lactose Free
  • 20 shelf life
  • 2300 calories

What Customers Are Saying

Good for what you get

I bought this as a supplement to my freeze dried food, it tastes somewhere between cream of wheat and Ritz crackers. Little dry but that is to be expected
- Nate, 6/26/2024 Shop Now
4

UST Emergency Food Rations

UST’s Emergency Food Ration Bars are an excellent source of energy for when you need it most. Emergencies, natural disasters, extreme weather, and disorientation can create situations where quick energy and emergency nutrition is vital for survival. Unique non-thirst-provoking formula that provides the perfect blend of required calories and nutrients to survive emergencies

 

Features

  • Pleasant apple-cinnamon flavor
  • Optimal balance of nutrients and cholesterol free
  • Easy to store
  • A basic supply of food providing energy and valuable nutrients
  • 2400 calories per package, in six 400-calorie bars.


What Customers Are Saying

Its pretty good

I bought one of these to try out for my emergency preparedness bag. Taste is alright but it was filling and I wasn't hungry for a while. It is really nice having an emergency food supply that you do not have to heat or prepare. Just unwrap and chow down. It is pretty crumbly and made a mess though. Would not eat in bed.
- Jake, 9/21/2018

About UST

UST is a popular choice among outdoor and survival gear enthusiasts. Founded in 1936, UST has evolved over time to become a trusted name in survival equipment and outdoor essentials. The brand's core product offering includes a variety of camping gear, survival tools, lighting solutions, fire starters, shelters, and more. UST's products are designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and those focused on emergency preparedness. UST offers a variety of products like the Emergency Food Ration, MagBar Flint Fire Starter, Hi-Vis Waypoint Map Compass, and ParaTinder Paracord. They are known for their durability, functionality, and performance-driven features that ensure safety and convenience in challenging situations. With a strong emphasis on quality, innovation, and practicality, UST is a trusted choice for individuals seeking reliable and effective outdoor and survival gear to enhance their experiences and be prepared for unexpected circumstances.

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5

Mountain House Classic Breakfast Skillet Freeze Dried Food

Bring back the 80s with the Mountain House Classic Breakfast Skillet. This breakfast will wake you up and fuel you before you go. It features all the classic ingredients like hash browns and scrambled eggs mixed with pork sausage patty, peppers, and onions.

Features

  • Just needs water
  • Ready in minutes
  • 30 year shelf life

What Customers Are Saying

A really great breakfast!~

The classic Breakfast Skillet is a great delicious meal. It really is of great quality and also quanity. It is enough to feed two people with one pouch. The only problem is the company has been shorting my orders lately, requiring you to open and count to make sure the correct amount of pouches were sent. Mountain House will send you the amount shorted but it requires calling them to complain and then waiting on another delivery.
- Bobknows, 3/6/2023

About Mountain House

For over 50 years, Mountain House has consistently been the premier choice of campers, backpackers, and survival experts. With just-add-water preparation and no-mess cleanup, Mountain House is the perfect solution for camping, backpacking, or a quick meal at home without the long prep. Plus, Mountain House also has the longest proven shelf life in the industry making their meals the perfect emergency preparedness or survival food to keep on hand. Backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, you can have peace of mind knowing Mountain House has you covered for decades. MidwayUSA has an extensive offering of Mountain House including Just In Case Kits, Essential Buckets, #10 cans, Emergency Kits and single packs. With options such as Milk & Blueberries, Biscuits & Gravy, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Beef Stroganoff, MidwayUSA has your Mountain House needs covered! Adventure awaits.

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