When considering doomsday preparation, most would agree that having the essentials for shelter, food, water, and security is crucial.
By putting together a comprehensive doomsday prep kit with items that cover those key areas, you can greatly increase your chances of survival in an emergency situation.
In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on the must-have items for any basic doomsday prep kit. You will learn about critical supplies for shelter, sustenance, first aid, tools, power, communication, protection, and practical skills.
The Ultimate Guide to Doomsday Prep Kit Essentials
A doomsday prep kit contains critical supplies to help you survive a disaster scenario. Having these essentials on hand can make a life-or-death difference if the unthinkable happens. This guide outlines the key items every prep kit should include.
Shelter
Shelter is one of the most basic human needs in a crisis. Being able to take cover and have a safe place to sleep is essential. Consider packing:
- Tent or tarp
- Sleeping bags and blankets
- Portable stove and fuel
- Tools to build basic shelter like a shovel or hatchet
Having durable shelter materials and the ability to start a fire helps create warmth and protection no matter the conditions.
Sustenance
Food and water sustains life. Stock up on:
- Canned goods and MREs (meals ready-to-eat)
- Water filtration system or water purification tablets
- Mess kit including pot, plates, utensils
- Emergency food ration bars
Focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable foods that don't require refrigeration. Have at least a 72-hour supply, but ideally build up a 30-day stock.
Security
Safety gear protects you from harm. Essentials include:
- First aid kit fully stocked with bandages, medications, suture kit
- Weapon like a knife, gun, or pepper spray
- Tools like a radio, flashlight, batteries
- Fire making kit with matches, lighter, magnesium starter
Defense items combined with survival tools for navigation, communication and injury treatment can help you overcome nearly any situation when disaster strikes.
Prioritizing shelter, food, water, and security sets you up for success. Customize your doomsday prep kit to your needs and refresh perishable items annually. Being proactive beats being caught off guard if catastrophe hits.
What should I put in a doomsday survival kit?
A doomsday survival kit, also known as a bug out bag, is essential for emergency preparedness. This kit should contain supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours in case of a disaster or societal collapse. Here are some of the most important items to include:
Water
Having an adequate supply of water is critical in an emergency situation. The recommended amount is one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. For a 72-hour evacuation kit, pack a 3-day supply of water. For a home doomsday kit, it's best to have a 2-week supply if possible. Store water in food-grade plastic containers and replace it every six months.
Non-Perishable Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods that don't require cooking, such as protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, canned goods, and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Like water, plan for a 3-day supply for an evacuation kit and 2-week supply for a home kit. Also include a manual can opener.
Flashlight
A flashlight with spare batteries or crank charger is vital to have in case of a power outage. LED flashlights last the longest. Also consider having glow sticks, solar-powered lights, or hands-free headlamps.
Battery-Powered Radio
A radio keeps you connected with emergency broadcasts and weather reports. Choose a hand crank, solar-powered, or battery-operated weather radio. Make sure it can receive NOAA alerts.
Include other essentials like first aid supplies, matches/lighter, multi-tool, emergency blankets and shelter, extra clothing and footwear, local maps, gloves and dust masks, toiletries, prescription medications, and important documents. Customize your doomsday kit based on your family's unique needs.
What are 10 items in a survival kit?
Here are 10 essential items to include in your emergency survival kit:
- Flashlight - A flashlight with extra batteries is crucial to have light and visibility during a disaster when the power goes out. Consider a hand crank or solar powered flashlight as a backup.
- Whistle - A loud whistle can be used to signal for help if you are trapped or need emergency assistance.
- Dust mask - A dust mask helps filter the air if there is smoke, ash, or other particulate matter in the air after an earthquake, fire, or building collapse.
- Local maps - Having local maps on hand helps with navigation if cell towers and GPS are down after a disaster. Know your area.
- Manual can opener - When the power is out, you'll need a non-electric can opener to open canned food, beans, vegetables, etc.
- Emergency radio - A battery-powered or hand cranked emergency radio provides access to news and emergency broadcasts when the power grid fails.
- Entertainment items - Board games, puzzles, books, crayons and paper will keep children occupied if stuck indoors. Reduce stress through activities.
- First aid kit - A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc. is vital for treating injuries when medical care is limited.
- Water - Stock up on bottled water or pack water purification tablets to disinfect water from lakes, streams or other untreated sources.
- Non-perishable food - Pack high-calorie, long shelf life foods like granola bars, jerky, canned goods, trail mix, and meal replacement shakes.
Be prepared with these basic disaster survival kit essentials. Customize your kit based on your family's unique needs and likely risks in your region. Check and resupply items twice a year.
How do I prepare for Doomsday?
When preparing for a potential doomsday scenario, having basic disaster supplies on hand is essential. Here are some of the key items every doomsday prep kit should include:
Water
Having access to clean drinking water is critical in an emergency situation. Experts recommend storing at least one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking as well as basic sanitation. Consider stocking up on bottled water or setting up water storage containers. You'll also want to have water purification tablets on hand in case you need to treat found water from lakes, streams, etc.
Food
Stock up on non-perishable foods with a long shelf life, such as canned goods, dried foods, granola bars, and Emergency Food Ration Bars. Choose calorie-dense foods that don't require cooking. Have at least a 3-day supply, but ideally build up a 2-week stockpile. Rotate and replace food before expiration dates.
Communication & Information
Stay updated on weather and news with a battery-powered or hand crank radio. Also consider a NOAA Weather Radio for emergency alerts. Ensure you have alternate light sources like LED flashlights and lamps. Stock up on extra batteries.
First Aid
A comprehensive first aid kit is a must, including bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. Consider adding a trauma kit as well.
Tools & Safety
Have basic tools on hand like matches, duct tape, a whistle, zip ties, garbage bags, and work gloves. Items like pocket knives, pepper spray, and boarding up materials may also be prudent safety measures depending on your situation.
Prioritize gathering these basic disaster supplies, then build up your doomsday survival kit further with shelter, fuel, lighting, communication equipment, specialized tools, weapons, and more as your situation allows. Maintain and routinely cycle out anything expiration-dated. With smart preparation, you can be ready for anything doomsday may bring.
What should I stock up on in case of war?
When preparing for potential war or unrest, it's important to stock up on shelf-stable foods and other essential supplies. Here are some key things to include in your stockpile:
Food and Water
- Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruit, chili, tuna, chicken, etc. Avoid high-sodium options.
- Dried goods like rice, pasta, oats, granola bars, trail mix.
- Bottled water or water purification tablets.
- Powdered milk, plant-based milk powder, or shelf-stable milk boxes.
Tools and Supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Manual can opener
- Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
- First aid kit and medications
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
- Emergency blankets and warm clothing
- Backup chargers and batteries for devices
- Cash in small denominations
Sanitation and Hygiene
- Toilet paper, paper towels
- Hand sanitizer, bar soap
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Feminine hygiene products
- Bucket with tight lid for waste
Pet Supplies
If you have pets, stock up on:
- Pet food
- Extra leashes and collars
- Pet medication
- Cat litter and litter box
Focus on shelf-stable, non-perishable items tailored to your family's needs. Having at least a 2 week supply is recommended. Routinely cycle through and replace expired stock.
The Foundation: Building Your Emergency Go Bag
Your emergency go bag is your first line of defense in a crisis. Having a well-stocked bag ready to go at a moment's notice can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. When building your go bag, focus on the essentials - durable shelter, nutritious food, clean water, and personal safety.
Choosing the Right Bag: Durability Meets Functionality
When selecting a bag for your emergency go kit, you'll want one that balances durability, comfort and space. Look for tough fabrics like canvas or cordura nylon that can stand up to years of use. Make sure to choose a bag with multiple compartments to organize your gear. Consider an attachable hip belt or sternum strap for heavier loads. Water-resistant fabrics help contents stay dry. Aim for a capacity of 40-50 liters.
Essential Documents and Cash
No matter where you end up, cash on hand and copies of important documents like ID cards, birth certificates, insurance policies etc. will be critical. Keep copies in a waterproof bag or USB drive. Bring at least $100-200 in small bills and coins in case electronic payments are unavailable.
Clothing for All Climates
Prepare for different weather conditions by packing versatile layers and weather-appropriate footwear:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
- Fleece mid-layers for insulation
- Waterproof/windproof outer shell
- Wool socks + broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes
- Weather-appropriate hat + gloves
- Rain poncho
The Essentials Complete Deluxe Survival 72-Hour Kit
For a ready-made foundation, The Essentials 72-hour kit packs shelter, food, water and more into an organized, portable package. Useful for natural disasters, you can customize it by adding medications, tools, and other doomsday prepping supplies.
Personal Items and Prescription Medications
Round out your kit with personal care basics like toiletries, feminine products, and medications:
- Prescription meds + first aid supplies
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen, insect repellent
- Flashlight, batteries
- Multitool, pocket knife
- Emergency whistle + flares
With planning and practice, your emergency go bag can equip you to handle nearly any crisis fate throws your way. Stay vigilant and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Shelter and Warmth: Creating a Safe Haven
Having the right supplies to create shelter and maintain body heat is vital in a doomsday scenario. Here are some essential items to include in your survival kit:
Emergency Shelter Options
Pack a compact, easy-to-assemble emergency tent and space blankets for immediate shelter if you need to evacuate or can't stay in your home. Mylar space blankets can retain up to 90% of your body heat.
Insulation Against the Elements
Include a lightweight, compact sleeping bag rated for extreme cold temperatures. Thermal blankets or a wool blanket will also help insulate your body heat. Having multiple layers of insulation is key.
Tools for Shelter Building
Carry a multi-tool, like a Leatherman, and 50 ft of paracord. These will allow you to construct basic shelter and make repairs if you need to shelter in place. The paracord can also be used to tie together shelter materials.
Shelter Maintenance and Repair Kit
Duct tape, a small tarp, rope, and zip ties can be invaluable for patching holes, making waterproof seals, and repairing damage to your shelter. Having the ability to maintain and improve your existing shelter is crucial.
By carefully choosing compact, durable, and multi-use shelter materials, your doomsday prep kit will enable you to create lifesaving shelter in any survival situation. Prioritize insulation, waterproofing, and the ability to make repairs with basic tools. Your shelter is your first line of defense.
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Sustenance: Securing Food and Water
Survival depends on access to food and clean water. Ensure your doomsday prep kit is stocked with the following essentials.
Emergency Food Ration Bars
Pack high-calorie food bars designed to sustain you for days. Look for bars with a 5 year shelf life that provide a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Recommended brands include Datrex, SOS, and Mainstay. These compact, lightweight bars can provide the nutrients you need to keep going when other food is scarce.
Water Purification Methods
Include multiple means of water purification, such as filters and water treatment tablets. A good option is a LifeStraw personal water filter which removes bacteria and parasites. Pair this with Potable Aqua iodine tablets to kill viruses. Boiling water is also effective if you have fuel and a pot. Redundancy across purification methods ensures safe drinking water.
Long-Term Food Storage Solutions
Consider freeze-dried meals and vacuum-sealed snacks that have a long shelf life. Products like Mountain House freeze dried food pouches and Augason Farms #10 cans of vegetables, grains and meats can last 10+ years. Rotate and replace food every 1-2 years.
Cooking Implements and Utensils
A portable stove, mess kit, and utensils are necessary for preparing and consuming meals. A small backpacking stove like the MSR Pocket Rocket runs on isobutane canisters. Pair it with a lightweight titanium mess kit and reusable bamboo utensils.
First Aid: Managing Medical Emergencies
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any doomsday preparation. Being able to effectively treat injuries and illnesses when professional medical care is unavailable could mean the difference between life and death.
Comprehensive First Aid Kit
Having a wide variety of medical supplies on hand will allow you to handle more situations. Important items include:
- Bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic wipes
- Medications like ibuprofen, antihistamines
- Tools like tweezers, scissors, safety pins
- Antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone cream
- Thermometer, blood pressure cuff
Stock multiples of critical supplies and check expiration dates every 6 months. Rotate out anything expired.
Bleeding Control Zip Pack with QuikClot and Celox
Severe bleeding must be controlled quickly. Include celox gauze, QuikClot, and a tourniquet to stop bleeding from major wounds. Know proper application techniques ahead of time.
Medications and Treatments
Have at least a 30-day supply of any prescription medications on hand. Stock over-the-counter meds to treat pain, fever, allergies, stomach issues, etc.
Rotate medication stock every 6 months to avoid expiration. Store all medications properly.
Specialized Medical Supplies
Those with chronic medical conditions may require specialized supplies like asthma inhalers, EpiPens for allergies, or insulin for diabetes.
Have backup equipment like spare glasses, hearing aid batteries, mobility devices, or catheters if needed.
The key is assessing your specific risks and needs. Customize your medical preparations accordingly.
Survival Tools: Equipping Yourself for Self-Reliance
Having the right tools can make all the difference when facing a doomsday scenario or other emergency situation. Being prepared with key survival gear gives you the ability to handle numerous tasks, take care of basic needs, and improve your chances of self-reliance. This section covers some of the most essential items to include in your doomsday prep kit.
All-Purpose Tools and Knives
A good multi-tool like a Leatherman and a fixed-blade knife are invaluable for handling all kinds of jobs. These can be used for:
- Building temporary shelter
- Preparing kindling and firewood
- Hunting and preparing food
- Opening cans and packages
- Cutting rope, bandages, or cloth
- Basic repairs and modifications
Focus on durable, stainless steel tools that will hold up to heavy use. A serrated knife is also useful for sawing through material.
Fire Starting Gear
Being able to start a fire is critical for cooking, purifying water, signaling, and staying warm. A magnesium alloy fire starter allows you to create sparks even when wet. Waterproof stormproof matches are also essential backup. Store these essentials in a watertight container.
Navigation Aids
Without power or cell networks, navigation quickly becomes difficult. Having maps and a compass allows you to orient yourself, identify alternate routes, establish rendezvous points, and more. Laminated maps are water and tear-resistant. Learn key navigation skills like pacing and triangulation.
Signaling Devices for Rescue
A loud safety whistle draws attention from rescuers better than using your voice. Pack signal flares as well - different colors indicate different meanings internationally. Place these items in easy reach for emergency use.
Equipping your doomsday prep kit with these types of versatile, durable tools allows you to handle numerous survival scenarios with greater self-reliance. Choose gear that meets your specific needs and learn to use it effectively before an emergency strikes.
Communication and Power: Staying Connected
In a crisis, having reliable communication and power sources can mean the difference between life and death. Here are some key items to include in your doomsday prep kit to stay connected when disaster strikes.
Emergency Radio for Information
A hand-crank or battery-powered radio allows you to receive broadcasts and emergency alerts when the power grid fails. Choose a radio with AM/FM bands as well as NOAA weather radio capabilities. Waterproof models with flashlights and phone charging ports provide extra usefulness. With an emergency radio, you can stay informed about the situation, weather forecasts, and relief efforts.
Charging Solutions for Electronics
Solar chargers utilize the sun's energy to charge devices, providing renewable power when electricity is unavailable. Crank chargers also let you manually generate backup power. Having spare disposable batteries for critical electronics is equally important. Store charged battery packs, rechargeable batteries with a charger, and single-use batteries rated for long shelf lives. With these charging solutions, you can maintain operation of smartphones, radios, flashlights and other gear.
Waterproof Storage for Electronics
Since electronics and water don't mix well, it's wise to keep devices in waterproof bags or cases. Look for lightweight, flexible cases that fully seal yet allow interaction with phone screens. Hard waterproof boxes also protect larger items like radios and battery packs. Ensure storage cases have lanyard holes for securing them to backpacks or belts. With waterproof storage, electronics stay functional no matter the weather or environment.
Two-Way Radios for Group Communication
Two-way radios enable direct person-to-person communication over a few miles, unlike cell networks which can fail in disasters. Opt for long-range FRS/GMRS models with NOAA weather channels. Pack an extra set of rechargeable batteries for each radio. Assign radio channels beforehand for your group. That way if you get separated, you can coordinate via the radios. They allow quick contact to request help or report your position.
Personal Protection and Security
Security is a top priority when preparing for potential doomsday scenarios. Having the right tools and training can help you defend yourself and your family.
Self-Defense Weapons
When choosing self-defense weapons, focus on non-lethal options whenever possible. Pepper spray is an excellent choice - it incapacitates attackers while avoiding permanent injury or escalating violence. Select pepper sprays designed specifically for self-defense, with a strong stream range of 10-15 feet.
Other non-lethal options like stun guns can also stop threats without lethal force. Make sure any weapons you choose align with your local laws. Only use them for self-defense as a last resort.
Security Planning and Awareness
Developing a security plan is essential to stay safe. Identify potential threats like civil unrest, natural disasters, or home invasions based on your area and situation.
Establish protocols like emergency meeting places, communication methods, and self-defense procedures. Make sure all family members understand the plan.
Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is also key. Keep an eye out for suspicious activity and learn common signs of danger. Trust your instincts - if a situation doesn't feel right, leave.
Securing Your Location
When sheltering in place, fortifying your location keeps threats at bay. Consider reinforcing doors and windows with extra locks, bars, or boards. Set up physical barriers like fences or walls to control access.
Monitor approaches to your home with security cameras and alarm systems. Make sure you have adequate outdoor lighting to eliminate blind spots and deter potential attacks.
Training and Preparedness
Simply having self-defense weapons and gear isn't enough. You need to know how to use them properly when lives are at stake. Seek professional training for any security tools you acquire.
Practice emergency response scenarios regularly so reactions become second nature. Keep your supplies organized and easily accessible. Maintaining your readiness ensures you can act decisively in critical situations.
Following security best practices helps avoid conflicts, but being prepared to defend yourself is essential. With the right tools, training, and preparedness, you can keep your family safe.
Practical Skills: Preparing to Turn Off Utilities and More
Knowing how to manage your environment and utilities can prevent further disaster during an emergency. Developing practical skills related to your shelter, utilities, and general survival can greatly improve your readiness.
How to Safely Turn Off Utilities
When a disaster strikes, being able to safely shut off utilities can prevent further damage or injury. Follow these steps:
- Gas: Locate the main gas valve next to your gas meter. Use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn until it's perpendicular to the pipe to shut off the gas supply.
- Water: Find the water main valve, usually near where the water line enters your home. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water.
- Electricity: Locate your electrical panel and flip the main breaker to shut off power to the circuits.
Turning off utilities during an emergency can literally save lives. Practice locating valves and breakers so you can act quickly if needed.
Basic Repair Skills
Having basic repair skills allows you to maintain your shelter and gear during a crisis. Useful skills include:
- Basic plumbing repairs like fixing leaks
- Electrical repairs like replacing fuses
- Securing broken windows/doors
- Replacing flat tires
- Field maintenance for survival gear
Consider taking classes or watching tutorial videos to learn critical repair abilities.
Survival Skill Training
Beyond gear, knowledge is essential. Seek training on key survival competencies like:
- Starting fires: Practice fire starting methods using matches, flint, and other tools. This provides warmth and the ability to purify water or cook.
- Finding/purifying water: Know how to locate natural sources of water and purify it for drinking using filters or chemical treatment. Water is critical for survival.
- Foraging for food: Learn to identify edible plants and techniques like trapping small game. Alternate food sources are vital.
Take wilderness survival, first aid, navigation, and other hands-on courses to hone survival abilities.
Emergency Drills and Scenarios
Once you gain critical knowledge and skills, practice responding to emergencies through mock scenarios. Steps include:
- Develop emergency action plans for disasters like earthquakes or storms
- Run through drills to test readiness - assign roles and simulate disaster conditions
- Identify gaps in plans to improve response
- Repeat drills periodically to keep skills fresh
Hands-on practice makes reaction instinctual during actual crises. Include your family to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Gaining practical preparedness skills takes time but can prove invaluable. Focus first on safety-critical abilities around utilities, shelter, water, food, and first aid. With training and practice, you have the tools to take action when every second counts.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Your Doomsday Survival Kit
A comprehensive doomsday survival kit is critical for emergency preparedness. Here are some final recommendations when assembling your kit:
- Review your kit regularly and replace expired items. Check batteries, food, and water supplies. Update items as needed.
- Practice using your survival gear. Build skills and familiarity with equipment ahead of an actual emergency.
- Store your kit in an easily accessible, protective case. Consider weatherproof containers.
- Customize your kit based on likely regional disasters or personal needs. Prepare for earthquakes, storms, power outages, etc.
- Consider including extras like cash, prescription meds, pet supplies. Plan for a minimum 72 hours isolated.
- Invest in quality gear and ration food/water. Cheaping out can cost safety. Buy durable, reliable, EDC items.
Having the right emergency preparedness supplies can save lives if disaster strikes. Build your doomsday survival kit thoughtfully and maintain it diligently. With proper diligence, your kit offers indispensable protection when you need it most.
