Doing my research and planning for a 2011 NOBO has brought me to all sorts of websites that sell pre-packaged "backpacker" meals. I've tried a few of them and they were pretty decent. The only problem...expensive!
Then I had a thought about buying in bulk and repackaging the bulk items in single serving containers to be put into mail drops to avoid having to resupply as often in towns. I have a very solid support structure in place who are more than willing to spend the time, energy, and responsibility of doing weekly mail drops, so let's not get into that arguement.
The way it broke down was a single package of Mountain House foods was around $6. A can of the same stuff was $30 but had 8 servings in it. Net savings was around $20 a can vs. buying prepackaged. The only thing that would add to the cost is the price of a vacuum sealer and packaging. Since family members already have a vacuum unit, I would only be looking at the price of packaging. The best offer I saw was a 160-day supply of 3 meals/day for around $2k.
Simply, is buying/repacking bulk freeze-dried foods a feasible idea or should I spend the time to learn more about dehydrating my own foods? Has anyone tried it? How much does it inflate or reduce your budget?