Basic Prepper Supplies Checklist

Preparing for emergencies is an understandable concern many people share.

This comprehensive guide outlines the essential supplies every household should stockpile, covering critical basics like water, food, first aid, communication devices, and more.

You'll learn key considerations when assembling your prepper kit, from planning for dietary restrictions to choosing durable tools and setting up reliable off-grid power sources. With this checklist, you can effectively prepare your home and family to weather crises safely.

Introduction to Basic Prepper Supplies

Being prepared for emergencies and unexpected events is critical in today's world. As we see more frequent and intense natural disasters due to climate change, as well as potential man-made crises, having basic prepper supplies on hand makes sense. This introductory section covers the essentials of putting together a well-stocked prepper kit.

Understanding the Essentials of Prepper Supplies

When it comes to prepper supplies, there are some key categories to focus on:

Water - Having access to clean drinking water is the most vital prepper necessity. Items like water filtration systems and water purification tablets are essential. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Food - Non-perishable foods with a long shelf-life are key for an emergency stockpile. MREs, freeze-dried meals, canned goods, and emergency food ration bars can sustain you when stores are inaccessible.
First Aid - A first aid kit tailored for emergencies like burns, injuries, or illness when medical care is limited. Stock key supplies like bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
Tools and Gear - Equipment to cook, build shelter, navigate, communicate, generate power, and more. Items like multi-tools, emergency radios, solar chargers, and LED flashlights enable resilience.

The Importance of an Emergency Stockpile Checklist

Having a comprehensive checklist covering all necessary prepper supplies is vital to ensure you don't overlook anything critical. A checklist should outline gear for survival needs like:

Emergency shelter and warmth - tents, sleeping bags, blankets
Water storage and filtration
Short and long-term food rations
Grid-down power options - solar generators, batteries
Self-defense items if required
Critical documents if evacuating

Checklists help methodically build well-rounded emergency stockpiles. They also help take inventory if supplies need replenishing.

Accessing a Prepper Checklist PDF

There are many prepper checklist PDF resources available online that catalogue all recommended supplies. Quality checklists break down gear by survival categories and often note quantities needed. They may also provide product recommendations if you need guidance on brands or specific items to purchase.

When selecting a PDF, look for recent versions focused on fundamentals. Outdated lists or ones leaning towards "doomsday" extremes may not offer the best advice. Start with the basics, assess your needs and resources, and build up your preparedness levels over time.

What prepper supplies should I stock up on?

When building your basic prepper supply kit, focus on gathering non-perishable food and water as well as basic survival gear.

Food and Water

Prioritize food that does not require refrigeration and has a long shelf-life. Canned goods, dried foods, and MREs are good options. Choose items that are low in salt to avoid dehydration.

You'll also want to stock up on bottled water or use a water filtration system to ensure access to clean drinking water. Calculate to have at least one gallon per person per day.

Essential Gear

Your basic prepper supply kit should also contain:

Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
Whistle to signal for help
Dust masks and plastic sheeting
Manual can opener
Maps of the local area
Copies of important personal documents

Additional Supplies

Depending on your family's unique needs, you may also want to stock up on:

Prescription medications
First aid kit
Pet food
Baby formula, diapers
Contact lens solution
Cash

The key is preparing your household to be self-reliant for at least 3 days without access to stores or public services. Continually monitor your stockpile and rotate out expired items.

What are 10 items in a survival kit?

A well-stocked survival kit is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are 10 must-have items to include:

Flashlight and Extra Batteries

A flashlight allows you to navigate in the dark and doubles as a signaling device. Be sure to pack extra batteries. Waterproof LED flashlights are ideal.

Whistle

A loud whistle can alert rescuers to your location. Choose one with no moving parts that cannot jam.

Dust Mask

Dust masks filter airborne particles that can irritate lungs. Have several on hand.

Maps

Local maps help identify evacuation routes, shelters, hospitals, and other key locations. Laminated maps withstand weather.

Manual Can Opener

A non-electric can opener lets you access canned food when the power is out. Select durable, easy-to-use openers.

Battery-Powered Radio

Stay updated on news and emergency instructions via a hand crank or solar-powered radio. NOAA weather radio channels are most useful.

Games and Puzzles

Quiet games, books, and puzzles entertain and occupy children during stressful times. Choose engaging, familiar options.

First Aid Supplies

A well-stocked first aid kit aids in treating injuries until professional medical care is available. Include bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc.

Rounding out your kit with basic prepper supplies like nonperishable food, water, blankets, matches/lighters, and basic tools helps ensure you can safely wait out emergencies in temporary shelters when needed. Customize your survival pack based on likely regional hazards and individual needs.

What is needed to be a prepper?

To be a prepper, the most basic supplies you'll need in your stockpile include:

Water - Having access to clean drinking water is essential in an emergency. Consider stocking bottled water as well as water filtration systems like portable water filters or water purification tablets. You'll want at least one gallon per person per day.
Food - Non-perishable foods like canned goods, dehydrated meals (MREs), and emergency food ration bars will be important for your stockpile. Make sure to include a can opener! Rotate your stock to use items before expiration.
First Aid Supplies - A well-stocked first aid kit is vital, containing bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. Know basic first aid and CPR as well.
Tools and Supplies - Gather flashlights, batteries, matches/lighters, multi-tools, tarps, duct tape, and other gear. Items like emergency blankets, hand/foot warmers are also handy for your stockpile.
Self Defense Items - Consider pepper spray, firearms, or other means of protection if laws allow. Safety courses on proper handling are recommended.

Beyond the physical supplies, key skills like fire starting, water purification, shelter building, navigation, and plant identification can help you survive if SHTF. Connect with like-minded preppers to exchange knowledge. Start small, train regularly with your gear, and build over time. Consistency is key to being prepared.

What are good things to stockpile?

When building your basic prepper supplies, it's important to stockpile non-perishable foods and other essential items. Here are some of the best things to include in your emergency stockpile:

Canned and Dried Goods

Canned fruits, vegetables, beans, tuna, chicken, and salmon are nutritious and have a long shelf-life. Prioritize high-protein options.
Dried beans and lentils are inexpensive, nutritious, and easy to cook when you need them. They store for years.
Rice, pasta, oats, flour, and other grains are versatile carbohydrates that give you energy and nutrients.

Water and Fluids

Store a 3-day supply of water for each person. Calculate 1 gallon per person per day. Rotate water every 6 months.
Stock powdered milk, shelf-stable plant-based milk, electrolyte mixes, broths, juices, and coffee/tea.

Fuel and Energy

Store propane, charcoal, or wood pellets to cook food if the power goes out.
Pack a solar phone charger, battery pack, flashlights, lanterns, candles, matches, and lighters.

Rotate your stockpile every 6-12 months, using and replacing items before they expire. Track expiration dates and create a checklist to stay organized. Start small and build your emergency stockpile over time.

Water and Hydration Essentials

Having reliable access to clean water is one of the most critical elements of emergency preparedness. When traditional water sources are compromised, being prepared with purification tools and proper storage can be lifesaving.

Water Purification Techniques and Tools

There are several methods for purifying water in emergency situations:

Water filtration devices like the Sawyer Mini filter or LifeStraw allow you to filter water from lakes, streams, etc. to remove bacteria, protozoa and solids. They are compact, portable, and extremely effective.
Boiling water vigorously for 1-3 minutes will kill most pathogens. Simple, but requires fuel and proper containers.
Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide to kill bacteria and viruses. Easy to pack and use, but leaves an aftertaste.
A combination of methods like filtering plus tablets or boiling is best to eliminate all contaminants.

Safe Water Storage Solutions

Properly storing purified water is critical:

Store in opaque, food-grade plastic jugs or bottles, and replace containers every 6-12 months.
Rotate your supply - refill containers whenever used and check for leaks. Shoot for a 3-6 month supply.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and chemical fumes.

Emergency Water Sources and Collection

If usual water access is cut off, here are some alternative sources:

The hot water heater tank contains 30-50 gallons of drinkable water. Turn off power to heater first.
Rainwater collection with clean barrels and surfaces. Use a tarp, pond liner or other methods.
Surface water from rivers, streams, ponds can be purified as above. Scout locations in advance.

Having reliable tools and knowledge to obtain water in an emergency can save lives. Prepare now with robust purification, storage, and alternative sources.

Nutrition and Emergency Food Supplies

Stockpiling Non-Perishable Food Items

When building your emergency food stockpile, focus on non-perishable items with a long shelf life that meet your nutritional needs. Some good options include:

MREs (Meals Ready to Eat): Pre-packaged meals designed for military use that contain about 1200 calories per pouch and can last 5+ years when stored properly. Look for ones with items you enjoy.
Emergency food ration bars: Compact high-calorie bars that provide essential nutrition. Choose options fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Canned goods: Canned vegetables, fruits, beans, soups, and meats can last 2-5 years when stored in a cool, dark place. Buy pop-top cans that don't require a can opener.
Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, quinoa, and other whole grains are nutritious and have a shelf life of 6 months or longer when stored with oxygen absorbers in airtight containers.
Nuts and dried fruits: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Store in airtight containers and use within 6-12 months.

Rotate and replace items as you use them to keep your stockpile fresh. Track expiration dates and storage conditions.

Considerations for Dietary Restrictions

When prepping emergency food, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions you may have:

Review ingredient labels carefully if you have food allergies or intolerances. Stock more of your safe foods.
Choose gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options if needed.
Include supplemental items like nutritional shakes or powders to fill any nutritional gaps.
For those with diabetes or weight concerns, portion and calorie-count items to control carbs.
If you need soft or pureed foods, store canned fruit and vegetables as well as items that just require water.

Having the right foods for your needs makes maintaining health easier during an emergency. Share your restrictions with others you’ll be with so they can also prepare properly.

Cooking Without Power

Should the power go out for an extended time, you’ll need to cook without electricity. Some methods include:

Camp stoves: Portable stoves that run on propane or butane allow you to boil water and cook. Use with proper ventilation.
Solar ovens: Harness the sun’s energy to bake, roast, or steam food. DIY options can be made from boxes and tin foil.
Grilling: As long as propane or charcoal is available, you can grill meats, vegetables, and more. Never grill indoors.
Canning stove: Uses small sterno cans that burn gelled fuel to heat food in a pot on top. Each can burns for about 1.5 hours.

Practice these techniques now before you need them. Having multiple off-grid cooking options ensures you can prepare your emergency food stocks.

Shelter and Warmth

Maintaining adequate shelter and warmth during an emergency is critical for survival. Having the right supplies and plans in place can help you ride out power outages, harsh weather, or other crisis scenarios.

Emergency Shelter Solutions

When preparing your emergency kit, be sure to include portable shelter options. A durable tent or tarp can provide lifesaving protection from the elements. Look for lightweight shelters that are easy to set up, even in high winds or precipitation. Waterproof and insulated options will retain more heat while keeping you dry.

Key items to pack:
- Lightweight, portable tent or tarp
- Waterproof ground tarp
- Emergency thermal blankets
- Rope, stakes, and tie-downs

Insulation and Warmth Retention

In cold weather emergencies, preserving body heat is critical. Focus on layered clothing and insulation when packing your kit:

Wool socks and base layers help wick moisture while retaining warmth
Insulated jackets and pants act as barriers against wind, rain, and cold
Hats, gloves, and scarves protect extremities from frostbite

Also be sure to have sleeping bags and pads suitable for low temperatures. Prioritize gear with high insulation ratings to maximize warmth.

Portable Heating Options

For portable heat sources, opt for safe solutions that don't require ventilation or generate toxic fumes. Top options include:

* Chemical hand and body warmers - Air activated for on-demand heat * Emergency candles or Sterno cans - Long-burning for compact heating

Portable solar generators - For powering small heaters and charging devices

Avoid makeshift heating approaches like outdoor grills or gas stoves, as these can pose safety hazards indoors.

With the right insulation, shelter, and safe supplemental heating, you can maintain safety and comfort through many emergency scenarios. Prioritize durable, portable solutions able to withstand the expected conditions in your area.

Health and First Aid

Health and medical preparedness are critical components of any emergency plan. Being equipped to address injuries, illnesses, and chronic conditions can help save lives when professional medical care is limited or delayed. This section covers key supplies, skills, and strategies for health and first aid preparedness.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit Contents

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any prepper. At a minimum, your kit should contain:

Sterile gauze pads and rolls in multiple sizes
Adhesive bandages of varying sizes
Elastic wrap bandages
Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
Nitrile gloves
Trauma shears
Tweezers
Safety pins
Thermometer
Aspirin and ibuprofen
Anti-diarrhea medication
Electrolyte tablets
Steri-strips for wound closure
Triangular bandages
CPR face shield

You'll also want to include any necessary personal medications, supplies for chronic conditions, and emergency medical details like blood type and allergies. Rotate and restock medical supplies regularly to ensure they don't expire.

Managing Chronic Conditions During Emergencies

Those with chronic medical conditions face additional risks during emergencies. Key preparation tips include:

Maintaining at least a 30-day supply of prescription medications and medical supplies
Storing medications properly at controlled temperatures if required
Keeping detailed medical records in both print and digital formats
Having contingency plans for power outages and supply chain disruptions
Identifying backup medical providers and alternate care locations
Educating members of your household on condition management

Take steps now to ensure continuity of care should professional medical services become limited.

Basic First Aid Training Resources

Taking a first aid class can equip you with skills to save lives. Reputable options include:

American Red Cross first aid/CPR/AED training
Emergency first response courses from the Emergency Care and Safety Institute
Wilderness and remote first aid certifications for off-grid scenarios
Free online resources like FEMA first aid guides

Knowing how to control bleeding, treat shock, stabilize injuries, perform CPR, and use an AED can make a huge difference in emergencies. Consider getting certified and regularly refreshing your skills.

Power Generation and Energy Storage

Having alternative power sources and energy storage methods is critical for emergency preparedness. When the electrical grid fails, backup power generation and stored energy can mean the difference between safety and disaster.

Solar Generators and Portable Power

Portable solar generators provide renewable emergency power from the sun. Models with lithium batteries offer lightweight, silent operation and USB charging. However, solar output depends on weather conditions. Panels may be fragile and generators can be expensive.

Consider your power needs when selecting a solar generator. Key factors include:

Output wattage based on devices to be powered
Battery capacity for required runtime
Durability for outdoor use
Budget

Battery Banks and Rechargeable Batteries

Stockpiling rechargeable batteries ensures power for flashlights, radios, and other devices when the grid is down.

Focus on versatile AA and AAA batteries over proprietary types. Maintain your supply by:

Storing batteries at room temperature
Recharging every 3-6 months
Testing and replacing old batteries

Choose a battery bank for charging phones and tablets. Opt for at least 10,000 mAh capacity.

Fuel Storage and Safety

Storing fuel enables use of generators and vehicles when infrastructure fails. Gasoline degrades within 3-6 months, so rotate stock. Diesel lasts 12-24 months with stabilizers.

Safe fuel storage guidelines:

Use proper containers away from home in a shed or garage
Install fire extinguishers and "No Smoking" signs
Check for leaks and spills
Limit supply to reduce risk

Rely on fuel as a last resort for essential power needs. Pursue solar, wind, and other renewable sources when possible.

Communication and Information

Maintaining communication capabilities and access to information during an emergency is critical for situational awareness and coordination. This section of a basic prepper supplies checklist focuses on equipment and tools to enable communication and information gathering if traditional infrastructure fails.

Emergency Radios and Communication Devices

Emergency radios allow receiving broadcasts and emergency alerts without relying on cell towers or WiFi. Hand crank and solar-powered radios can operate without batteries or electricity. Two-way radios enable short-range communication. Consider storing:

Crank or solar-powered AM/FM/NOAA weather radio
Two-way radios with extra batteries
Whistles for signaling

When normal navigation methods fail, having backup tools ensures you can navigate areas and signal for help if needed. Useful items include:

Topographical maps of surrounding areas
Compass
Signaling mirror
Brightly colored cloth for visibility

Staying Informed Without Internet Access

Without internet and TV, awareness of unfolding events may diminish. Useful alternatives to consider:

Battery operated shortwave radio
Local newspaper subscriptions
Hard copy reference materials

Having communication equipment, signaling tools, and information sources not dependent on infrastructure provides critical redundancy during disasters when normal systems fail.

Personal Safety and Security

Personal safety and security are critical considerations when preparing for emergencies or unstable situations. Having plans and protective measures in place can help mitigate risks and dangers.

Self-Defense Options and Considerations

There are various legal self-defense tools available, such as pepper spray and alarms, that can be carried for protection. It's important to research your local laws regarding restricted items. Consider enrolling in self-defense training courses as well to boost preparedness.

When selecting self-defense options, prioritize non-lethal forms of protection first before considering more extreme measures. Be mindful of ethical concerns around harming others, even in self-defense. Seek to use the minimum force necessary to neutralize threats and remove yourself from dangerous situations.

Securing Your Home and Supplies

Reinforce entry points like doors and windows with extra locks and alarm systems. Keep emergency supplies in a safe, locked space. Maintain comprehensive home insurance.

Have an action plan for threats like fires and floods. Store important documents and backup drives in a fireproof safe or offsite location.

Surveillance and Alarm Systems

Installing cameras, motion sensors, and audible alarms can deter potential theft and break-ins. Ensure systems are hooked up to backup power sources in case of electricity loss.

Place alarms and cameras covering all entry points and high value supply areas. Post warning signage indicating surveillance presence. Routinely check footage and control panels.

Overall, a mix of vigilance, protective tools, preventative measures, and insurance is key to maximizing personal safety and security during disasters.

Tools and Repair Equipment

Having the right tools and equipment for repairs and construction is critical for emergency preparedness. When disaster strikes, you may lose access to professional services, so being able to DIY repairs will be essential. This section covers the tools and supplies you should have on hand.

Essential Tools for Emergency Repairs

A basic set of hand tools can help you fix many common household issues. Consider stocking up on:

Hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers - for general repairs
Duct tape, super glue, zip ties - for quick fixes
Shovels, axes - for clearing debris
Bolt cutters - for accessing blocked areas
Chainsaw (if properly trained) - for removing fallen trees

Focus on versatile, durable tools that don't require fuel or electricity. Manual options allow self-reliant repairs during power failures.

Building and Construction Supplies

Stock construction materials for reinforcing your home or building emergency shelters:

Wood boards, nails, ropes, tarps
Sandbags, bricks, concrete mix - for flooding protection
Space blankets, insulation - for shelter insulation

Even basic supplies like duct tape and plastic sheeting have many emergency uses. Think multi-purpose!

Maintenance of Tools and Equipment

Proper storage and maintenance ensures your tools work when needed:

Clean and lubricate metal components
Check for rust and other wear
Replace old parts like loose handles
Keep sharp edges honed
Store tools properly to prevent damage

Inspect and test gear regularly. Malfunctioning equipment compromises safety and makes repairs much harder.

Having a robust set of functioning repair tools can restore your independence quickly after disasters when professional services are unavailable. Invest in reliable multi-use gear and keep it maintained for emergency readiness.

Sanitation and Hygiene

Maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene is critical for long-term survival during an emergency. Having the right supplies and plans in place can help prevent the spread of illness and disease.

Hygiene Supplies for Long-Term Survival

When building your emergency stockpile, be sure to include:

Bar soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash
Feminine hygiene products
Toilet paper, paper towels
Hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes
Backup manual can opener
Sunscreen, insect repellent
Nail clippers, tweezers
Towels, washcloths
Heavy duty garbage bags
Bleach, disinfectants

Rotate and replace hygiene items before they expire. Have at least a 3 month supply for your household.

Waste Management in Off-Grid Scenarios

Without normal waste and sewage systems, proper disposal is essential. Options include:

Outhouses/latrines
Composting toilets
Disposal bags/buckets with lids
Digging cat holes away from water sources
Garbage trenches if allowed

Designate specific areas for waste and trash. Keep waste disposal separate from food preparation.

Water Conservation for Hygiene Purposes

Take military style showers using just a few gallons
Reuse wash water for flushing when possible
Use disposable wipes, rinseless shampoo
Share resources to reduce overall use

Follow the "if it’s yellow let it mellow" rule. Conserve every possible ounce of water for drinking.

Conclusion: Finalizing Your Basic Prepper Supplies Checklist

Assembling your basic prepper supplies checklist is an important step towards being prepared for emergencies. By having essential items like water purification, emergency shelter, and food rations on hand, you can better weather unexpected events.

When finalizing your checklist, be sure to personalize it to your specific situation. Consider factors like your climate, potential risks in your region, number of people in your household, and any special needs. An emergency kit for a family in a hurricane-prone area may look different than a kit for a single person living inland.

It's also important to regularly revisit your checklist over time. As new products become available or your circumstances change, you may need to swap out or add certain items. Setting reminders to take inventory and replace expired goods is a good way to keep your stockpile up-to-date.

Preparing for emergencies takes forethought and effort, but being proactive now can pay off tremendously later. Use this article's tips to jumpstart your basic prepper supplies, then continue expanding your knowledge and readiness efforts. With the right mindset and preparations, you can handle unexpected events calmly and confidently.