Introduction
As preppers, we aim to be as self-reliant and prepared for emergencies as possible. However, it’s easy to fall into common traps and make mistakes along the way - even seasoned preppers can let their guard down. Paying attention to key areas where we often go wrong is crucial, so we can course correct and avoid critical oversights. When planning for uncertain futures, even small mistakes can have huge consequences. This article covers some of the most common missteps preppers make, so you can learn from others’ errors and prime yourself through proper diligence and training. We all must constantly educate ourselves to sidestep complacency and be truly ready when disaster strikes.
Failing to Stockpile Adequate Supplies
Not budgeting enough funds for stockpiling essentials is a huge downfall. Many neglect to account for sudden price fluctuations or supply shortages when projecting costs. It’s vital to allocate ample resources for at least 3-6 months’ worth of supplies like:
- Non-perishable food/water - aim for at least 2000 calories per person per day
- First aid items, OTC medications - stock extra bandages, antibiotics, pain relievers
- Fuel, batteries, flashlights - 20 gallons of fuel, 100 batteries, 3 flashlights per person
- Camping/survival equipment - tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear
- Cash reserves, barter goods - $1000 cash per person, cigarettes, liquor
Don’t just buy what’s on sale - purchase strategically based on actual survival priority. Take regular inventory and rotate stock to avoid expiration. Failing to sufficiently provide for your family’s basic needs will leave you extremely vulnerable when SHTF.
Recommended Supplies to Stockpile
- 3+ month supply of water and long-shelf-life food per person
- Robust first aid kits, OTC meds, hygiene items
- Backup power sources - batteries, fuel, generators
- Tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear for outdoor survival
- Firearms, ammunition, tools for defense and practical use
Tips for Stockpiling Effectively
- Catalog all emergency supplies and update as needed
- Practice FIFO (first-in, first-out) rotation of perishable stock
- Research and buy in bulk when prices drop
- Diversify food supplies to meet nutritional requirements
- Coordinate with like-minded neighbors to split bulk costs
Having an Inadequate Bug Out Plan
Many preppers fail to thoroughly plan for evacuation scenarios. Not identifying optimal bug out locations ahead of time or mapping efficient escape routes is a critical oversight. Similarly, lacking the necessary skills to navigate and survive off-grid will hinder execution. Failing to pack “go bags” for all family members or account for special needs like prescriptions is another common mistake. Regularly practicing and testing your bug out plan is essential.
Essential Bug Out Bag Contents
- 3+ days of water and food rations per person
- First aid supplies, essential medications
- Battery powered radio, flashlight, spare batteries
- Tent, sleeping bags, basic camping gear
- Multi-purpose tools, pocket knife, fire starters
Key Bug Out Tips
- Plot primary and alternate bug out routes in advance
- Establish rally points to reunite if separated
- Identify contingencies for road closures like washed out bridges or accidents blocking roads
- Stick to backroads and avoid crowded highways when possible
- Keep cash, ID cards, and key documents on hand
Having Insufficient Security Measures
Preppers often underestimate the importance of strong security protocols. Failing to properly secure access points like doors and windows can make you an easy target. Not investing in robust communication systems or forming trusted neighborhood alliances are other common gaps. Advanced options like security cameras, alarm systems, and encrypted communication channels should be considered. Staying vigilant against online privacy leaks is also critical.
Low-Cost Security Upgrades
- Install extra locks, alarms, motion sensor lights
- Use two-factor authentication on accounts
- Join neighborhood watch groups
- Develop rapport with local emergency responders
- Keep valuables and supplies in concealed caches
Advanced Security Options
- Install complete home security system
- Construct safe room or hardened bunker
- Invest in guard dogs or perimeter security drones
- Take tactical defense and firearm safety courses
- Set up encrypted digital communication channels
Having Insufficient Medical Training
Another common prepper pitfall is lacking adequate medical knowledge and supplies. Taking first aid classes and stocking essential medications is non-negotiable. Be able to recognize and treat injuries like wounds, fractures, burns. Learn techniques for improvised anesthesia and emergency dental work. Studying wilderness medicine provides critical off-grid skills as well. Don’t forget about general health too - get in shape and address any chronic conditions.
Recommended First Aid Supplies
- Bandages, gloves, trauma shears, tourniquets
- Antibiotics, pain relievers, antidiarrheals
- Splints, slings, hot/cold packs, surgical tools
- Topical treatments for cuts, burns, rashes
- Basic suturing kit and syringes
Useful Skills to Learn
- Stopping bleeding, wound care, CPR
- Setting dislocations and fractures
- Treating shock, heart attacks, seizures
- Improvising IVs, anesthesia, stitches
- Preventing/treating infectious diseases
- Casting broken bones, suturing wound closures
Failing to Consider Special Needs
Overlooking the unique requirements of at-risk groups is an easily avoidable but critical error. Whether it’s infants, the elderly, or those with disabilities, specialized contingency planning is essential. Failing to stock extra medications, assistive equipment, or specific nutrition needs can have disastrous consequences. Don’t forget pets too - their survival depends on you. Know how to operate life-sustaining medical devices off-grid.
Planning for At-Risk Groups
- Have extra prescription medications and assistive devices
- Stock special foods and formulas for infants/children
- Get portable mobility aids like walkers, canes
- Research power alternatives for medical devices
- Make copies of instructions for medications, equipment
Pet and Service Animal Prep Tips
- Stock extra food, medicines, crates, leashes
- Get proof of vaccinations, medical records
- Arrange emergency boarding or shelters if needed
- Practice emergency drills - train them to bug out
- Account for their needs in all planning considerations
Lacking the Right Tools and Skills
Being self-reliant requires having robust equipment and honing fundamental skills. Invest in quality tools designed for long-term survival. Regularly practice essentials like starting fires, harvesting water, and preserving food. Learn trap setting, hunting, plant identification. Study techniques for vital survival tasks like constructing debris shelters and making tools from scratch. Don’t neglect your own fitness and conditioning either.
Recommended Multi-Purpose Tools
- Full tang fixed blade knife, folding saw, hatchet, shovel
- Cast iron pans and pots, utensils, camp stoves
- Fishing rods and tackle, snares, firearms
- Sewing kit, snare wire, paracord, duct tape
- Two-way radios, solar chargers, batteries
Useful Skills to Hone
- Fire starting, shelter construction, hunting
- Navigating by landmarks, stars, compass
- Preserving and cooking food without power
- Bartering and negotiation tactics
- Foraging edible plants and fungi
- Animal trapping, fishing, archery
- Food canning, smoking, drying techniques
Not Having a Proper Retreat Location
Attempting to shelter in densely populated urban or suburban areas is a critical strategic blunder. Ensure your location has ample natural resources, defendable geography, and concealment. Vet potential properties thoroughly - inspect grounds, access routes, proximity to towns. Transitioning to a rural homestead surrounded by forest and near fresh water before disaster strikes is ideal. This provides self-sufficiency and the isolation needed for proper security.
Ideal Retreat Location Features
- Remote rural area near forest and water
- Concealed from view for privacy
- Within region containing abundant wildlife
- Has high ground, defensible perimeter
- Supports homesteading like farming, livestock
Vetting and Securing Property
- Complete thorough inspection before purchase
- Survey for risks like fires, floods, slides
- Scout access roads, entrances, towns
- Install fencing, gates to control access
- Clear brush for visibility, fire control
- Ensure access to fresh water sources
- Look for southern exposure for solar
Building Community Resilience
An isolated bunker mentality won't suffice long-term. Get to know like-minded neighbors and coordinate preparedness efforts. Attend town meetings and organize community emergency groups. Share knowledge and resources where feasible to create support networks. But vet allies cautiously - some alliances can jeopardize opsec. Foster positive local relationships, and keep your own counsel on the specifics of your preps.
Tips for Community Engagement
- Attend town meetings and get to know officials
- Organize community emergency response groups
- Barter goods and services with trusted neighbors
- Share general preparedness knowledge
- Keep operational security in mind
Conclusion
Avoiding common prepper pitfalls requires vigilance in all areas of self-reliance. Failing to stockpile adequate supplies, hone survival skills, secure your location, or make robust evacuation plans can prove deadly when SHTF. Mastery of survival fundamentals, healthy paranoia, redundancy in systems, and flexible thinking are key to avoiding critical mistakes. Stay hungry for knowledge and avoid complacency - continue expanding your preparedness skills and resources using the tips outlined here. With proper diligence and training, we can be ready for any calamity that comes our way.
