When crisis strikes, having basic emergency supplies on hand is crucial for weathering the storm.
This comprehensive checklist outlines the essential prepping gear and supplies you need to assemble a complete basic emergency preparedness kit.
You'll discover the key categories of gear to stock up on, including water, food, first aid, tools, and more. With this guide, you'll be fully equipped with the fundamental provisions to face disasters and emergency scenarios.
Introduction to Basic Prepping Supplies
Understanding the Essentials of Disaster Preparedness
Being prepared with basic supplies in case of an emergency or disaster is called "prepping." Having these essential items on hand can make a difficult situation more manageable. Key reasons to be prepared include:
- Natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods can strike suddenly, disrupting access to food, water, and medical care
- Power outages from severe weather can last for days, preventing access to basic necessities
- Personal emergencies like injuries, accidents, or sudden illness require first aid supplies
Making reasonable preparations helps you safely meet basic needs during an emergency.
Assembling Your Basic Prepping Kit
A well-stocked basic prepping kit contains supplies in several key categories:
Water - Having an emergency supply of water prevents dehydration and allows for sanitation and hygiene needs. The recommended amount is one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
Food - Non-perishable foods like canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruits provide nutrition during an emergency. The goal is to have a three day supply or more per person.
First Aid - A first aid kit includes bandages, gauze, medications, tools, etc. This allows you to treat injuries and illness when medical care is delayed.
Tools and Safety Gear - Equipment like flashlights, batteries, matches, blankets, and protective clothing provide light, warmth, and fire-starting ability.
Organizing and Storing Your Emergency Kit Checklist
Properly storing your basic prepping supplies keeps them protected and easy to access in an emergency:
- Use waterproof storage bins and bags to prevent damage
- Keep supplies together in a central, easy to access location
- Make smaller kits for your home, workplace, or vehicle
- Inventory and replenish any expired or missing items at least twice a year
Following these principles allows you to quickly gather what you need when disaster strikes.
What do I need to start prepping?
Prepping can seem overwhelming for beginners, but having the essential supplies on hand will ensure you and your family are prepared in an emergency. Here is a basic prepping checklist to get you started:
Emergency Food and Water
- Store at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food like canned goods, nuts, dried fruits. Consider meal replacement shakes.
- Have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. Store in sealed containers.
First Aid Supplies
- Adhesive bandages, gauze, wraps, antibiotic ointment
- Medications like pain/fever relievers, antihistamines
- Flashlight, batteries, manual can opener
Hygiene and Sanitation
- Toilet paper, paper towels, baby wipes
- Soap, toothpaste, feminine products
- Bleach, disinfecting wipes to clean surfaces
Tools and Safety Gear
- Battery-powered radio, whistles, dust masks
- Matches, lighter, candles, flashlight, batteries
- Basic toolkit with pliers, screwdriver, hammer
Start with these basic necessities. Then build up your stockpile over time. A 72-hour emergency kit is a good foundation to being prepared.
What prepper supplies should I stock up on?
When building your basic prepping supplies, focus on gathering non-perishable food, water, first aid items, and other necessities to survive for at least 3 days without electricity or running water.
Food & Water
Stock up on foods that don't require refrigeration and have a long shelf life, such as:
- Canned goods (vegetables, fruits, soups, meats)
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Granola and protein bars
- Powdered milk
- Cereals
- Crackers
Avoid stockpiling foods that are high in salt, as this will increase thirst. Make sure to stock up on bottled water as well - plan for at least one gallon per person per day. Rotating your stock by using and replacing food before expiration dates is also important.
First Aid & Hygiene
Your basic prepping kit should also contain:
- First aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments
- Medications (pain relievers, anti-diarrhea)
- Flashlight and batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
- Manual can opener
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, feminine products)
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag
Additional Supplies
Depending on your family's unique needs, you may also want to stock up on supplies such as:
- Baby formula, diapers
- Pet food
- Contact lens solution
- Cash
- Camping supplies like matches, fuel, cooking equipment
The key is preparing your household to be self-reliant for at least 72 hours in an emergency situation where electricity, water or access to stores may be limited. Start with the basics, then build up your prepping supplies over time as your budget allows.
What are good things to stockpile?
When building your basic prepping supplies, it's important to stockpile non-perishable foods and other essentials. Here are some of the best things to have on hand:
Canned and Dried Goods
- Canned fruits, vegetables, beans, tuna, salmon, and broth provide nutrients and can last for years unopened. Prioritize non-perishable food like beans, tomatoes, corn, peas, carrots, and protein like chicken, salmon, or tuna.
- Dried beans and lentils are versatile, nutritious, and have a long shelf-life. Stock up on bags of pinto beans, black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, and lentils.
- Rice, pasta, oats, flour, and other grains are filling and can form the base of many meals. Make sure to store them in airtight containers to prevent bugs.
Water and Drinks
- Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days. Consider storing bottled water or jugs.
- Powdered drink mixes like electrolyte mixes, coffee, tea, powdered milk can boost morale.
First Aid Supplies
A comprehensive first aid kit is vital. Be sure to have bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain meds, latex gloves, trauma supplies, thermometers, and any necessary medications.
Rotate your stockpile every 6 months to keep it fresh and usable in an emergency. Keep an inventory list and emergency kit checklist to remember to replace expired items. With some planning, you can build a stockpile that covers your essential food, water, and medical needs.
What is the first rule of prepping?
The first rule of prepping is to keep your preparations confidential. Many preppers recommend not openly discussing your supplies and plans with others outside your household.
There are a few reasons for this:
-
Broadcasting your preps can make you a target if social order breaks down. Desperate or unprepared people may try to take what you have.
-
It can cause friction if friends/family resent your preparedness or ask to rely on your supplies in an emergency.
-
People may doubt or ridicule your efforts if they don't appreciate the need for self-reliance.
Rather than explaining prepping to skeptics, subtly encourage your inner circle to prepare themselves without divulging details. Redirect the discussion to basic emergency recommendations from trusted sources like FEMA or the Red Cross.
If asked directly, deflect or give vague answers about your personal preparations. Or lightheartedly tell nosy friends/relatives you'll be quite boring to hang out with in a disaster scenario. The less revealed about your supplies, the better.
Ultimately, the only people who need to know the details of your prepping efforts are those under your own roof. Keeping things confidential will allow you to prepare in peace while avoiding unwanted scrutiny or dependence from others down the line.
Water Safety and Emergency Water Supply
Ensuring access to clean drinking water is critical in an emergency situation. Having the right water storage solutions and purification methods in place will help you maintain proper hydration when regular water sources are compromised.
Essential Water Storage Solutions
When building your basic prepping supplies, be sure to stock up on water storage options:
- Store water in food-grade plastic barrels or drums, allowing for 55+ gallons of drinking water storage. Position barrels in a cool, shaded area.
- Stock cases of commercially bottled water, rotating out supply every 6 months.
- Use clean, disinfected plastic soda/water bottles for small-scale water storage. Replace every 3 months.
Water Purification Methods
In addition to stored water, you may need to purify found water sources. Useful methods include:
- Water filtration pumps and straws remove bacteria and particulates. Choose well-reviewed models designed for wilderness/emergency use.
- Water purification tablets (like iodine or chlorine dioxide) kill pathogens when added to questionable water sources.
- Boiling water vigorously for 1+ minute eliminates harmful organisms, though requires fuel and proper containers.
Maintaining Hydration During Emergencies
When an emergency strikes, be intentional about hydration:
- Drink at least 2-4 liters of water per day depending on climate, physical activity, etc.
- Monitor hydration by checking urine color - clear to pale yellow indicates proper hydration.
- Drink frequently instead of relying on thirst - don't wait until already dehydrated or thirsty to drink.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and high sugar drinks as these can promote further dehydration.
Storing ample water and having multiple purification methods helps ensure clean, safe drinking water access even if regular supplies are cut off. Monitoring intake and staying intentional about hydration is key. Prepare accordingly with proper water storage solutions so your basic prepping kit has you covered in an emergency.
sbb-itb-b932644
Securing Your Long-Term Food Supplies
This section provides practical tips for stocking your emergency food pantry with non-perishable items that will sustain you and your family during a crisis. Having an adequate food supply is a critical part of any basic prepping kit.
Stocking Up on Canned and Non-Perishable Foods
Canned goods and jarred foods like fruits, vegetables, soups, meats, and beans make up the foundation of a well-stocked emergency pantry. Prioritize nutrient-dense options packed in water over those packed in sugary syrups or oils. Aim for a variety - tomatoes, green beans, corn, tuna, salmon, chicken, chili, etc. Consider ready-to-eat pop-top cans for convenience.
Grains and Legumes for Sustenance
Dried goods like rice, quinoa, oatmeal, pasta, and beans are affordable basic prepping supplies that store for years. These whole grains and legumes are nutrition powerhouses. Beans are especially valuable for their protein. Opt for whole varieties over refined white rice and pastas when possible.
Vital Oils and Fats
While fresh dairy doesn't store well long-term, oils and fats like olive oil, coconut oil, vegetable oil, shortening, and ghee provide essential calories and nutrients. Powdered milk and eggs can also be handy for baking. Consider adding nuts, nut butters, and seeds as well.
Adding Comfort Foods to Your Emergency Pantry
Beyond basic sustenance, also stock up on convenience foods to boost morale in trying times. Things like pancake mix, pasta sauce, canned soups, dried herbs and spices, honey, ketchup, crackers, and coffee can go a long way. Store what your family enjoys.
Having a deep pantry with a diverse mix of shelf-stable foods reduces panic and stretches budgets during emergencies. Inventory and rotate items based on expiration dates to avoid waste. Supplement with freeze-dried meals, MREs, or survival food buckets for extreme events.
Survival Essentials: Tools and Gear
This section covers key tools, equipment and gear to support survival needs, including light, cooking, shelter and more, as part of your basic prepping kit.
Illumination and Light Sources
Having proper illumination is critical in an emergency situation where power may be disrupted. Here are some recommended options:
-
Flashlights: LED flashlights are preferred for their brightness and efficiency. Choose one that uses common battery types like AA or AAA so they are easy to replace. Waterproof models are best in case of flooding or storms.
-
Headlamps: These allow for hands-free lighting and are great for tasks like cooking, reading maps, or administering first aid. Choose one with different lighting modes.
-
Lanterns: Battery-powered or propane lanterns can illuminate a wide area for gathering or camping. Collapsible models are portable.
-
Candles: Useful as a backup lighting source. Long-burning emergency candles are a smart addition. Be sure to have matches or a lighter as well.
Emergency Cooking Equipment
When the gas and electricity are off, you'll need alternate ways to cook food. Here are some options:
-
Camping or backpacking stoves: Small, portable stoves that run on propane or butane allow cooking with pots and pans. Have fuel canisters on hand.
-
Grill or campfire: Be prepared to cook outdoors over a charcoal or propane grill, or campfire. Have fuel, matches/lighter, cooking grates.
-
Cooking/eating utensils: Pack plates, cups, cutlery, pots, pans, can opener, knives, and other essentials for preparing meals.
Shelter and Warmth Supplies
Your home may be uninhabitable after a disaster so be ready with shelter and warmth items:
-
Emergency blankets: Lightweight mylar blankets retain 80% of body heat. A must-have for all survival kits.
-
Tents or tarps: Choose durable, waterproof tents or tarps to create temporary shelter. Consider multiple sizes.
-
Sleeping bags: Pack compact sleeping bags and pads suited to your climate. Go for warmth and portability.
Communication Devices
Without electricity and WiFi, communication can be challenging. These devices help connect with others:
-
Battery-powered radio: Receive emergency broadcasts and weather reports. Choose AM/FM models with hand cranks or solar power backup.
-
Walkie-talkies: Allow communication up to a few miles for coordinating with family or neighbors. Go for longer range models.
Be sure to have spare batteries for all devices. Being able to receive instructions, call for help, or locate others will be critical in a disaster scenario.
Sanitation, Personal Hygiene, and Protective Equipment
Maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene is critical during an emergency to prevent illness and disease. Key items to stock up on include:
Essential Toiletries for Personal Hygiene
-
Soap and hand sanitizer - Antibacterial soap and alcohol-based hand sanitizer are essential for cleaning hands and reducing disease transmission. Stock up on pump dispensers and bar soap.
-
Toothbrushes and toothpaste - Dental hygiene is important even in disasters. Have extras on hand.
-
Feminine hygiene products - Stockpile pads, tampons, menstrual cups based on personal needs.
-
Extra eyeglasses - Have an extra current prescription pair stocked in case primary glasses break.
-
Sunscreen - Protect skin from sun exposure and lower risk of sunburns.
-
Lip balm - Prevent chapped lips.
Protective Gear for Safety and Health
-
Disposable face masks - Reduce transmission of airborne illnesses. Have N95 and surgical masks.
-
Gloves - Latex, rubber, and leather options help prevent contact with contaminants.
-
Boots - Sturdy, waterproof boots keep feet dry and protected.
-
Protective suits - Full-body suits create a barrier against biological hazards.
Tools for Maintaining Cleanliness and Sanitation
-
Portable toilet - Useful when plumbing systems fail. Have toilet paper and privacy shelter.
-
Waste bags - Sealable bags properly contain waste to prevent contamination.
-
Bleach - Disinfect surfaces and purify water.
-
Scrub brushes - Remove dirt and grime from skin and surfaces.
-
Bucket - Hold waste, water, cleaning supplies. Durable and multi-use.
Proper sanitation fundamentally enables functioning in an emergency. Stocking up on key hygiene and cleaning items makes maintaining health and preventing illness achievable.
First Aid Essentials for Emergency Preparedness
Having the right first aid supplies on hand is a critical part of emergency preparedness. Being able to effectively treat injuries and illness when professional medical care is limited or delayed can help save lives. This section provides checklists of recommended supplies to include in a comprehensive first aid kit.
Comprehensive First Aid Kit Checklist
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any emergency preparedness kit. Here is a checklist of basic medical supplies to treat common injuries:
- Sterile gauze pads and rolls in multiple sizes
- Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes
- Elastic wrap bandages
- Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
- Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds
- Medical tape
- Digital thermometer
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Safety pins
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Nitrile gloves
- CPR breathing barrier
This covers materials to treat basic cuts, scrapes, burns, sprains, and other common injuries. Tailor your first aid kit based on your family's specific needs.
Medications and Health Supplies
In addition to basic wound care items, also stock key over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms:
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium
- Antihistamines for allergies and reactions
- Antidiarrheals
- Antacids
- Anti-nausea medication
- Electrolyte solutions for dehydration
- Vitamins
- Prescription medications you normally take
Rotate medicines to keep them from expiring. Also useful are a digital thermometer, cold packs, heating pads, and latex gloves.
First Aid Tools and Equipment
Some additional supplies that are useful for administering first aid:
- Flashlight
- Cell phone charger
- Extra batteries
- Emergency whistle
- Medical reference guide
- Notepad and pen to document injuries and vital signs
Well-stocked medical kits and knowledge of life-saving techniques allows you to effectively treat illness and injuries until professional help is available. Prepare your family to handle medical emergencies as part of your preparedness efforts.
Preparing for Children: Emergency Preparedness for Kids
Having supplies and plans in place to care for children during an emergency is a key part of family preparedness. This section outlines important considerations when prepping with kids in mind.
Child-Specific First Aid Necessities
It's important to have basic first aid supplies tailored to children's needs. Be sure to stock pediatric medications like children's pain relievers, antibiotics, antihistamines, etc. Bandages and wound care supplies made for kids are also useful to have on hand.
Kid-Friendly Food and Comfort Items
Having non-perishable food and drinks that children enjoy can provide comfort and maintain a sense of normalcy when disasters strike. Consider packing juice boxes, shelf-stable milk, granola bars, crackers, jelly, and other kid-friendly foods. Small toys, books, blankets, and other comfort items can also help reduce stress.
Entertainment and Educational Materials
Boredom can easily set in during confinement, so having activities to engage kids is key. Pack age-appropriate books, coloring books, puzzles, card games, and other boredom busters. Download entertaining and educational apps, ebooks, movies and shows onto devices in advance as well.
Child Safety and Identification
Make sure children are clearly identified in case you get separated. Have current photos, physical descriptions, and contact info for each child. Teach them how to dial emergency numbers and family contacts. Tracking devices, whistles, and other safety gear can also help keep kids secure.
Miscellaneous Survival Items and Preparedness Considerations
Keeping Cash On Hand
Having cash on hand is an important part of any basic prepping kit. During an emergency situation, power outages can cause ATMs and credit card readers to stop working. Having small bills, like $5, $10 or $20 bills, ensures you'll be able to purchase necessary supplies even if electronic payments are unavailable. Experts recommend keeping at least $100-200 in small bills as part of your basic prepping supplies.
Securing Important Documents
Copies of important documentation should be included in your basic prep kit as well. This includes identification cards, insurance policies, medical records, bank account info, and any other critical paperwork. Keep copies in a waterproof bag or container to ensure they remain usable if disaster strikes. Properly securing these documents will provide peace of mind by ensuring access to critical information when it's needed most.
Offline Entertainment Options
Having offline entertainment options can make extended time spent sheltered in place much more bearable. Board games, a deck of cards, books, writing supplies, and puzzles are all examples of boredom-busting items to include. These basic prepping supplies help provide a mental break and prevent restlessness or anxiety during an emergency situation where electronic entertainment may be unavailable.
Final Tips & Conclusion on Building Your Prepping Supplies
As you build your basic prepping supplies kit, keep the following tips in mind:
Regularly Testing and Updating Your Kit
- Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine at least every 6 months
- Cycle out used first aid supplies
- Test batteries, flashlights, radios to ensure they still work
- Replace any damaged or expired items
Incrementally Building Your Emergency Supplies
- Start with the most critical items first
- Add supplies a little at a time each month as your budget allows
- Spreading out costs makes prepping more affordable
Training and Knowledge: The Ultimate Survival Essentials
- Take first aid, CPR and other survival skills classes
- Learn how to properly use the items in your prepping kit
- Knowledge and skills are just as crucial as having the right gear
Creating a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan takes time. Building your emergency supplies in stages allows you to be prepared for disasters while staying within your budget. Combine stocking up on essential gear with gaining critical knowledge by taking survival training classes. With the right supplies and skills, you can feel confident you've covered the basics for keeping your family safe.
