Sodium
Look for MREs that are lower in sodium content. MREs are intended for soldiers who are in stressful situations that demand high levels of physical activity, and are burning around 4,200 calories per day. Sodium content in MREs can be higher than an average meal, so looking for lower sodium amounts are much better for a desert situation.
Water
Some MREs include water. These are one of the better choices for desert survival. Humans can go much longer without food than without water.
Heating Tabs
Look for MREs that contain heating tabs. This will be one less item that you need to worry about in a survival situation.
Packing
When you are getting ready for a trip, estimate what you are going to need for a survival situation. Due to their fairly light weight it would be no problem to carry a couple for a day hike. For camping trips consider keeping 10 to 12 in your camper. Be sure to rotate them out after they expire.
Where to Buy
There is a large number of online retailers who carry MRE's. Make sure when you research them and check out the expiration dates. Try ordering from a few different purveyors and trying them out before a major expenditure or trip. Besides checking out the purveyors try some different meals and see which ones you like.
Article Written By Andy McVeigh
Andy McVeigh lives in Scottsdale, Arizona. He is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys paddling, biking, hiking, backpacking, camping, scuba diving and photography. McVeigh is a graduate of Northern Arizona University and is currently working on his MBA.
