In talking with many preparedness-minded folks across the country the complexity which people view preparing for some unknown catastrophic apocalypse is often with a high level of complexity. Read that sentence again. What I’m continuously seeing is people that get swept up in the details rather than realizing that for most situations and to make major strides in preparedness the old saying, “Beans, Bullets, and Band-Aids” makes a ton of sense.
With that in mind let’s review 25 simple preps that everyone should put back and stock up on now. Oh – this is not a Top 25 and they are not in any order, so, feel free to add a few that you know should be added to the list down below in the comments.
1. Matches – Matches are fantastic for starting fires and are super cheap. Literally, thousands can be put back for around $20. Important: Keep them dry – unless they are waterproof.
2. Peanut Butter – Peanut butter is one of the most calorie-dense foods in existence and it tastes fantastic. High in protein and fat, this popular spread can be used in a variety of recipes as well as simply eaten by the spoonful. Shelf life is not fantastic, but not terrible either. Throw 5 jars in the freezer(ok, make that 12) and smile.
3. Trash Bags – Try going a week without trash bags and you’ll see just how important they are. Put back a few hundred 13-gallon and larger varieties. If the S doesn’t hit the fan you’ll use them regardless. BTW – trash bags are useful for so many purposes beyond trash control. They are really a great survival supply to stock up on and while they are getting more expensive NOW is a great time to grab several boxes.
4. Triple Antibiotic Ointment – I’ve used this fantastic elixir numerous times on cuts and bruises and have seen great results. I have no doubt healing is greatly accelerated. Getting an infection when medical care access is difficult to obtain at best would not be very favorable. Of note – Maine Prepper Girl(who is a nurse), is not a proponent of triple antibiotic ointments. She believes that cuts/scraps/etc. should be cleaned, washed, and covered. Hey – she has lots of experience and training and I’m right. The choice is your of who to believe. 🙂
5. Batteries – Review your inventory of flashlights, optics, etc., and stock up on high-quality lithium-ion and alkaline batteries. After that, a rechargeable battery system that can be utilized via solar is always a good idea.
6. Candles – Head over to Wally World or your local Dollar Tree and get a shoebox full of candles.
7. Walkie Talkies – A simple set of FRS/GMRS walkie talkies are excellent for close-range/neighborhood communications.
8. Extra Magazines – Whatever magazine-fed firearms you have now grab a few extra magazines. They are currently plentiful and depending on firearms fairly inexpensive. Place the order. Palmetto State Armory and Global Ordnance have good selections with fair prices.
9. Fire Extinguisher – Minor fires can turn major in a heartbeat. I recommend an extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, grilling area, and at least one on the 2nd floor if you have one(and one in the basement).
10. Insect Repellant – A bunch of bugs buzzing in your ears and biting on your arms, legs, and neck will make EVERY situation much worse. Grab a few cans of OFF to put back.
11. Tarps – Tarps are extremely versatile and excellent for creating emergency shelter and for covering roof leaks.
12. Manual Can Openers – Although it’s possible to get into a can without a can opener, a manual can opener makes the task so much easier.
13. Propane – A few 20lb tanks can go a long way for cooking. Most of us have gas grills and they serve as a great backup to traditional microwave ovens and stovetops.
14. Canned Goods – Inexpensive and very good shelf life makes canned goods a no-brainer to stack deep.
15. Flashlights – A good flashlight or several good flashlights is a critical part of any preparedness system. Extra batteries must be stocked. This flashlight – follow this link – has proven to e to be of great value.
16. Rainwear – Pretty self-explanatory. Frogg Togg’s are excellent.
17. Gloves – Hands are extremely important and a few pairs of gloves put back will help make sure your hands are available to perform much-needed tasks.
18. Personal Hygiene – There is a reason why 100-200 years ago life expectancy was much less than today. Medical technology is part of it. Sanitation and hygiene are another.
19. Pet Food – Don’t forget extra food for the dog and cat!
20. Tent – God forbid you are forced out of your house and need to find alternative shelter. A good tent can help provide that much-needed shelter when things are far from good.
21. Rope – Cordage of all kinds is so useful and can be applied in so many ways.
22. Jump Starter – An emergency jump starter such as the NOCO GB40 is very handy when a vehicle’s battery just doesn’t have the juice to
23. Gas – Put back enough gas to fill your vehicle at least once.
24. Tire Plug Kit – Keep a tire plug kit on your vehicle. Plugging a tire is fairly easy and can get you back on the road quickly.
25. Water – Keep a few cases of bottled water as well as a few jugs. A few water filters are also a great idea.
Ok, folks – throw out some more down in the comments!
Please give me a hand and share this post on your social media platforms and fellow like-minded folks. Thx!!
Rourke