Hi all! I'm a freelance writer for The Takeout, and I'm writing about the differences between M.R.E.s and backpacking meals. I am aware of some of the obvious distinctions, e.g. that backpacking meals generally require water to prepare and thus add less weight to your load, and it seems like the actual experience of eating backpacking meals is more -- well, pleasant than that of eating M.R.E.s. However, I'd love to speak to some frequent backpackers who have brought one or both of these types of meals on trips, and find out which you prefer (and why).  Please let me know!   -Rachel  ... View more