First Thoughts on the Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag
The Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag promises a convenient and compact solution for short outdoor excursions. Readywise aims to provide essential sustenance in an easily portable, weatherproof package. The inclusion of a dry bag instantly signals preparedness for unpredictable weather conditions.
My need stemmed from a desire for a lightweight, self-contained food supply for weekend backpacking trips. I often find myself struggling to balance calorie intake with pack weight. Pre-packaged meals seemed like an ideal solution, and the Readywise kit’s promise of 8 servings across a variety of meal options was appealing.
Upon unboxing, the kit felt surprisingly compact and lightweight. The dry bag felt durable and well-sealed. The individual meal pouches were clearly labeled and appeared to be of decent quality.
I considered similar offerings from Mountain House and Backpacker’s Pantry. However, the Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag stood out due to its lower price point and broader selection of meal types, including breakfast and dessert options. The dry bag inclusion was also a decisive factor.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the packaging looked promising, the true test would be the taste and practicality of the meals in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag during a two-day solo hike in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was mixed, with periods of sunshine and heavy rain. I consumed two pouches per meal, adhering to the recommended serving size.
The dry bag performed admirably, keeping the food pouches completely dry during downpours. Preparing the meals was straightforward, requiring only boiling water. The Treeline Teriyaki Chicken & Rice and Trailhead Noodles & Beef were my first choices. They were relatively palatable, though somewhat bland.
My initial concern was the sodium content, which felt high, leaving me quite thirsty. I also noted that the banana slices became mushy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several more weekend trips over three months, the Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag has proven to be a reliable source of emergency food. The dry bag shows no signs of wear and tear. It has consistently kept the contents dry despite being exposed to rain, snow, and accidental submersion in a stream.
Cleaning the dry bag is simple, requiring just a wipe-down with a damp cloth. The meal pouches, however, are single-use and non-recyclable. Compared to preparing my own dehydrated meals, the Readywise kit offers convenience at the expense of taste and environmental responsibility.
Breaking Down the Features of Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Readywise.
- Package Type: Bag. The bag itself is a dry bag designed to protect the food from the elements.
- Quantity: 1. This refers to one complete kit containing multiple food pouches.
- Number of Servings: 8 Servings. The kit is designed to provide enough food for one adult for two days, assuming four servings per day.
- Age Group: Adults. The meals are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of adults.
- Food Type: All Day. The kit includes a variety of meals suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Minimum Weight: 50 g. This likely refers to the weight of the individual banana pouches, though the total kit weight is considerably higher.
- Application: Cooking. The meals require hot water for reconstitution.
The specifications highlight the kit’s intended use as a convenient and portable food source for short outdoor adventures. The dry bag ensures food safety in wet conditions, while the variety of meal options aims to provide balanced nutrition.
Performance & Functionality
The Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag performs its primary function adequately: providing sustenance in a convenient package. The meals are easy to prepare, requiring only hot water. The dry bag effectively protects the food from water damage.
The taste of the meals is generally acceptable, but not exceptional. The sodium content is noticeable.
The kit meets expectations for emergency food, but falls short of gourmet dining.
Design & Ergonomics
The dry bag is constructed from a durable, waterproof material. It is lightweight and easy to carry.
The individual meal pouches are designed for single-use and are not easily resealable. This is a minor inconvenience if you don’t consume the entire pouch at once.
The design is functional and practical, prioritizing portability and weather resistance.
Durability & Maintenance
The dry bag is durable and should last for many trips with proper care. The meal pouches are single-use and disposable.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only cleaning the dry bag after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag includes no additional accessories beyond the food pouches and dry bag itself. There are no customization options available.
The kit is not designed to be integrated with other brands or systems. It is a self-contained unit.
Pros and Cons of Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag
Pros
- Convenient and easy to prepare. Simply add hot water.
- Lightweight and portable. Ideal for backpacking and hiking.
- Includes a dry bag for weather protection. Keeps food safe in wet conditions.
- Variety of meal options. Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner choices.
- Affordable price point. Offers good value for emergency food.
Cons
- Taste is average. Meals are palatable but not gourmet.
- High sodium content. May lead to increased thirst.
- Non-recyclable packaging. Single-use pouches contribute to waste.
Who Should Buy Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag?
Perfect for: Hikers, campers, backpackers, and anyone seeking a lightweight and convenient emergency food supply for short trips. Also ideal for survivalists who want a pre-packaged, weatherproof food source.
Who should skip this product? Foodies or those with dietary restrictions. Those concerned about environmental impact due to single-use packaging should also avoid.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None, as the kit is a self-contained unit. Consider bringing additional spices to enhance the flavor of the meals.
Conclusion on Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag
The Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag offers a practical and affordable solution for short-term food needs in the outdoors. Its convenience and portability make it a valuable addition to any hiking or camping pack. While the taste may not be exceptional, it provides adequate sustenance in emergency situations.
The price is justified by the convenience and the inclusion of the dry bag.
I would recommend this kit to anyone looking for a lightweight, weatherproof, and affordable emergency food supply.
The Readywise 2 Day Adventure Kit with Dry Bag provides peace of mind knowing you have a reliable food source, even when the weather turns sour. Consider adding it to your gear list for your next adventure.