Best Camping Freeze-Dried Food of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2026

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Camping freeze-dried food has become a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts due to its convenience and long shelf life. These meals are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great option for backpackers and campers. They are also quick and easy to prepare, requiring only hot water to rehydrate. Freeze-drying preserves the nutritional value and flavor of the food, ensuring that it tastes just as good as fresh. With a variety of options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there is something for everyone to enjoy while exploring the great outdoors.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries Cover #TOP 1
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack Cover #TOP 2
BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles Cover #TOP 3
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Camping Freeze-Dried Food

#TOP 1

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries

5-11109
Original Version
6.04 OZ
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries Cover
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries Can - Gluten Free Snack for Baking, Smoothies, and Emergency Storage - Healthy Individual Fruit Snacks – 6.5 Ounces (18 Servings)

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Sliced Strawberries is an 18-serving snack with 630 calories, perfect for food storage, emergencies, survival, camping, and everyday use. The product has a shelf life of up to 30 years and is ready to eat. It is an excellent source of nutrition for those who love strawberries and want a long-lasting snack.

What We Like
USA-sourced strawberries
No added sugar
Versatile for recipes
Long shelf life
Great value pricing
What We Don't Like
Can goes stale after opening
Not full can by volume
#TOP 2

BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack

BetterBundle
12 meals
BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack Cover
BetterBundle MRE, U.S. MRE Meals, Emergency Food Supply, Freeze Dried Survival Food Supplies w/ Flameless Heater, Ready Meals, Variety Pack of 12, A or B Case Selected at Random Inspection 2025, 2026

The BetterBundle MRE Meals offer 12 individually packed, military-grade meals that meet U.S. standards, giving you reliable and nutritious options in emergencies or outdoor activities. These meals are packaged with a long shelf life, so you can store them safely for years without worrying about spoilage. Each meal is designed to provide high-calorie content, ranging from 1000 to 1300 calories, helping you stay energized during demanding situations. Plus, the meals include a variety of items like entrees, sides, desserts, and sometimes a flameless heater, making them convenient and easy to prepare when you need a quick, satisfying meal without cooking or refrigeration.

What We Like
Good meal variety
Long shelf life
Effective heating packs
Fast shipping
Great for emergencies
What We Don't Like
Occasional cheese spread missing
Some meals need extra seasoning
#TOP 3

Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles

55149
Pouch
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles Cover
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 2 Servings

Mountain House Stroganoff is a delicious freeze-dried camping and backpacking food that comes with two servings. It features tender beef, noodles, and mushrooms smothered in a rich sour cream sauce. The freeze-drying process locks in the nutrients and freshness, making it a nutritious and tasty meal for any outdoor activity. There are no artificial colors or flavors, and the pouch is lightweight and portable, making it easy to prepare and eat anywhere. The pouch has a shorter, wider, more bowl-like shape for an easier eating experience, and you can eat straight from the pouch to save on cleanup. The longest proven shelf life in the industry, backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee, makes it a great option for emergency food storage and survival situations.

What We Like
Great flavor and taste
Convenience and portability
Long shelf life
Easy preparation
Good portion size
What We Don't Like
Some flavors less robust
May need extra for big eaters
#TOP 4

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Blueberries

5-11106
12 oz
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Blueberries Cover
Augason Farms Dried Whole Blueberries Can – Dried Fruit for Baking & Emergency Food Supply – Dehydrated Camping Food with Long Shelf Life for Everyday Meal – 26 Servings

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Blueberries are a convenient and versatile food option for a variety of uses. With 26 servings and 1,040 calories, these certified gluten-free and all-natural blueberries are perfect for food storage, emergencies, survival, camping, and everyday use. Whether you're preparing for a camping trip or stocking up for an emergency situation, these freeze dried blueberries provide a long shelf life of up to 30 years, ensuring you have a reliable food source when you need it most. Their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor make them a delicious addition to your breakfast cereal, yogurt, or baked goods, while their lightweight and compact packaging make them easy to carry and store. With Augason Farms Blueberries, you can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind knowing you have a nutritious and tasty food option readily available.

What We Like
Long shelf life
Delicious flavor
Versatile uses
Generous serving size
Crisp texture
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Preference for other brands
#TOP 5

BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack 24 Meals

BetterBundle
24 Count
BetterBundle U.S. Military MRE Variety Pack 24 Meals Cover
MRE, U.S. MRE Meals, Emergency Supplies, Emergency Food Supply, Survival Food, Freeze Dried Food w/Flameless Heater, Ready Meals (Variety Pack of 24) – (A & B Case 2026 Inspection Date New Stock)

The BetterBundle MRE Meal Pack offers 24 individually packaged meals that meet U.S. military standards, making them reliable for tough situations. These meals were packaged in 2023 and have a long shelf life, staying good for 5 to 7 years, so you can store them without worry. Each meal is packed with 1000 to 1300 calories, providing the energy you need during outdoor activities or emergencies. You’ll also find a full meal set in each package, including an entrée, side, dessert, and sometimes a flameless heater for easy warming. This makes the pack perfect for quick, nutritious meals when you’re on the go or facing unexpected events.

What We Like
Great value per meal
Variety of snacks and entrees
Easy preparation and portability
Long shelf life
Sturdy, well-sealed packaging
What We Don't Like
Occasional crushed candy
Instant coffee average quality
#TOP 6

Mountain House Breakfast Skillet

55451
Breakfast Skillet
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet Cover
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet | Freeze Dried Backpacking & Camping Food | 2 Servings | Gluten-Free

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare breakfast while camping or backpacking? Mountain House Skillet has got you covered! This gluten-free freeze-dried food contains hash browns, scrambled eggs, crumbled pork patty, peppers, and onions. It is made with no artificial flavors or colors and certified gluten-free by GFCO. With just hot water, you can have a tasty meal in less than 10 minutes and skip the dishes too! The pouch is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for outdoor activities or emergency food storage. Mountain House Skillet has the longest proven shelf life in the industry, backed by a 30-Year Taste Guarantee.

What We Like
Easy preparation
Great flavor and aroma
Filling and satisfying
Convenient packaging
Good for camping/emergencies
What We Don't Like
Slightly salty
Occasional underhydrated pieces
#TOP 7

ReadyWise Freeze-Dried Whole Blueberries 28 Servings

RWSKCN03-004
28 Serving Can
ReadyWise Freeze-Dried Whole Blueberries 28 Servings Cover
READYWISE - Simple Kitchen Freeze Dried Whole Blueberries, 28 Servings, Vegan, Gluten Free, Fruit Snacks, Emergency Supplies, Dehydrated Fruit, Blueberries

ReadyWise Freeze-Dried Blueberries offer a fresh and natural blueberry flavor that makes for a delicious and healthy snack. With 28 servings per can, you’ll have plenty on hand for outdoor trips or daily snacking. These blueberries are easy to grab and enjoy, making them perfect for busy days, school lunches, or camping meals. They are also gluten-free, so you can feel good about eating them without worrying about allergens. Plus, their long shelf life ensures you’ll have a reliable supply of tasty fruit whenever you need it, whether for everyday use or emergency preparedness.

What We Like
Excellent taste and flavor
Convenient resealable packaging
Ideal for baking and snacking
Long shelf life
Good value for bulk size
What We Don't Like
Can not completely filled
Some berries may arrive crushed
#TOP 8

Augason Farms Freeze Dried Whole Raspberries Can

5-11105
8 oz
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Whole Raspberries Can Cover
Augason Farms Freeze Dried Whole Raspberries Can, Emergency Food Supply, Everyday Meals, 23 Servings

The Augason Farms Freeze Dried Raspberries offer 22 servings, making it easy to plan your meals for emergencies or everyday use. Each serving provides 770 calories, giving you a valuable energy boost when you need it most. These raspberries are naturally gluten-free and made without artificial ingredients, so you can enjoy a wholesome and healthy snack. Whether you’re preparing for a survival situation, going camping, or simply want a convenient food option, this product is designed to last up to 30 years, ensuring you have reliable nutrition whenever you need it.

What We Like
22 servings
770 calories per serving
Gluten-free and all natural
Long 30-year shelf life
What We Don't Like
Somewhat fragile texture
Higher price than fresh
#TOP 9

Kate Naturals Organic Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder

4869
Pink
4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Kate Naturals Organic Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder Cover
Kate Naturals Organic Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder for Baking & Drinks. Natural Strawberry Flavoring for Cakes, Icing & Smoothies (4oz, No Added Sugar)

Kate Naturals Strawberry Powder offers a natural and unsweetened strawberry flavor that is perfect for your cooking and baking needs. You can easily add this powder to smoothies, yogurt, or drinks to enjoy a fresh and fruity taste. Made from real organic strawberries, it retains the nutrients found in whole strawberries, giving your recipes a healthy boost. Its fine texture blends smoothly into batters, doughs, and frostings, enhancing cakes, cookies, and muffins with a vibrant berry flavor. This powder is a convenient way to add authentic strawberry taste to both drinks and baked goods.

What We Like
Fresh, natural strawberry flavor
Vivid color and aroma
Blends smoothly in recipes
Versatile for baking and drinks
Organic, no artificial additives
What We Don't Like
Occasional clumping
Mild sourness for some
#TOP 10

Peak Refuel Biscuits and Gravy

1-Pack
Peak Refuel Biscuits and Gravy Cover
Peak Refuel Biscuits & Sausage Gravy | Freeze Dried Backpacking, Camping & Emergency Prep Food | 2 Servings Pouches

Peak Refuel Biscuits & Gravy is a premium freeze-dried camping food that offers an amazing taste and high-quality ingredients for a nutritious meal while on the trail. This meal is loaded with 34 grams of protein and 100% real meat, sourced from trusted suppliers and inspected by the USDA. The freeze-drying process locks in important nutrients, offering a meal with a natural taste and texture just like it came straight from your house. The 6.77 oz net weight pouch is easy to prepare with 10.5 oz boiling water, and can be eaten directly from the pouch. Made in the USA, this meal is perfect for backpacking and hiking trips. Pro Tip: Before adding water, break apart biscuits into smaller pieces for a better texture.

What We Like
Comforting, hearty flavor
Generous sausage and gravy ratio
Easy to prepare
High protein content
Great for camping/travel
What We Don't Like
Biscuits sometimes stay crunchy
Instructions hard to read
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Camping Freeze-Dried Food That Are Right for You

Introduction

When it comes to camping, packing light is key. One way to achieve this is by bringing freeze-dried food. Freeze-dried food is lightweight, compact, and has a long shelf life, making it a great option for camping trips. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right freeze-dried food for your camping trip.

Consider Your Needs

The first step in choosing freeze-dried food is to consider your own needs and preferences. Are you looking for a meal that is high in protein? Do you have any dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegetarian options? Are you looking for a specific type of cuisine, such as Italian or Mexican? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the freeze-dried food that is right for you.

Read the Ingredients and Nutritional Information

Once you have a general idea of what you are looking for, it is important to read the ingredients and nutritional information on the packaging. This will help you ensure that the freeze-dried food you choose is not only delicious, but also provides the nutrients and energy you need during your camping trip.

Choose a Reputable Brand

When it comes to freeze-dried food, not all brands are created equal. It is important to choose a reputable brand that is known for producing high-quality freeze-dried food. This will help ensure that the food you choose is safe to eat and tastes great.

Try Before You Buy

If possible, try the freeze-dried food before you buy it. Many outdoor stores and camping supply stores offer samples of freeze-dried food, so you can try before you commit to a full package. This will give you a better idea of the taste and texture of the food, and help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the right freeze-dried food for your camping trip is an important decision. By considering your needs, reading the ingredients and nutritional information, choosing a reputable brand, and trying the food before you buy it, you can ensure that you choose the best freeze-dried food for your next camping trip. Happy trails!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does freeze-dried camping food last?

Freeze-dried camping food can last for up to 25 years when processed and packaged properly. However, most meal pouches typically have a shelf life of up to 7 years.

2. How do you freeze dry meals for camping?

To freeze dry meals for camping, pack the food in freezer-safe bags and place them in a cooler. Cover the bags with dry ice and leave them for about 24 hours. Once the food has completely freeze-dried, remove the bags and store them for later use.

3. Why is freeze-dried food good for camping?

Freeze-dried food is popular for camping because it is lightweight and easy to carry. The freeze-drying process removes about 80% of the water content, significantly reducing the weight of the food items. Despite its lightweight, quality freeze-dried meal pouches can provide between 500 and 900 calories, making them a convenient and nourishing option for camping trips.

4. What dried food can you take camping?

When camping, you can take a variety of dried foods, including dried fruit, fruit leather, ground beef, chicken, and turkey, pasta, rice, pasta sauce, chili, shepherd's pie, and veggie curry. These dried food options are lightweight, easy to pack, and can be rehydrated when needed for a satisfying camping meal.

5. What food cannot be freeze-dried?

Foods with a high fat content, such as whole nuts, peanut butter, nut butters, and seed butters, do not freeze dry well. Once out of their shells, nuts have a shorter shelf life and are best stored tightly sealed in the refrigerator or vacuum sealed for quick consumption.

6. Does freeze-dried food go bad?

Freeze-dried food, like Mountain House meals, has a guaranteed shelf life and taste guarantee of 30 years from the date of manufacture. This makes it a reliable option for long-term storage and emergency preparedness.

7. Do you need boiling water for freeze-dried meals?

While freeze-dried meals can be rehydrated with cold water, using boiling water significantly reduces the rehydration time. Boiling water has more stored energy, allowing the water molecules to penetrate the freeze-dried food more quickly. Rehydrating with boiling water takes about 10-15 minutes, while cold water may take 30-45 minutes.

8. What are the disadvantages of freeze-dried food?

Some disadvantages of freeze-dried food include the need for water for reconstitution (except for simple snacks), the slow process of freeze-drying (average cycle is 24+ hours), the dry, styrofoam texture that some people dislike, limitations on the types of foods that can be freeze-dried, the requirement for airtight containers for long-term storage, and the lack of space savings as the food's cellular structure is mostly retained.

9. Are dehydrated camping meals healthy?

Yes, dehydrated and freeze-dried camping meals are healthy options. They retain a high level of nutrients, making them a valuable addition to your outdoor culinary experience. These meals are easy to use and provide nourishment during camping trips.

Editor's Notes

During our camping freeze-dried food research, we found 24 camping freeze-dried food products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 226,571 customer reviews through our big data system to write the camping freeze-dried food list. We found that most customers choose camping freeze-dried food with an average price of $17.15.

The camping freeze-dried food are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of camping freeze-dried food, including Augason Farms, BetterBundle, Mountain House, ReadyWise, Kate Naturals. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Camping Freeze-Dried Food Comparison Table

#TOP1
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Brand Augason Farms BetterBundle Mountain House Augason Farms BetterBundle Mountain House ReadyWise Augason Farms Kate Naturals Peak Refuel
Units 6.4 Ounce 12 Count 4.3 Ounce 12.0 Ounce 24 Count 3.7 Ounce 12.0 Ounce 8.0 Ounce - 1 Count
Item Weight 6.4 Ounces - 4.3 Ounces 0.8 Pounds 11.99 Pounds 3.7 Ounces 1.4 Pounds 0.5 Pounds - 6.77 Ounces
Flavor - Mixed Beef Stroganoff with Noodles - Mixed Breakfast Skillet Whole Blueberries - Strawberry Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
Package Information - Packet Pouch - Pouch Pouch - - Bag Pouch
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
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