When crisis strikes, having the right gear can make all the difference for survival.
This comprehensive guide outlines the most critical items every prepper needs, from water purification to first aid, to create a reliable stockpile.
You'll discover the core supplies for your prepper checklist, how to customize it for your situation, and key skills to develop self-reliance if SHTF.
Introduction to Prepping Essentials
Prepping refers to preparing for emergencies or disasters by stockpiling necessary supplies. Having basic gear and equipment on hand can be crucial for survival in crisis situations. This article will provide an overview of some of the most essential items every prepper should have.
Understanding the Prepper Priority List
When building an emergency supply kit, preppers utilize a priority list to ensure they obtain the most vital items first. Top priorities include:
- Water - Aim to have at least one gallon per person per day for at least 72 hours. Store water in sealed containers and replace every six months.
- Food - Stock up on non-perishable foods like canned goods, dehydrated meals, protein bars, etc. Have at least a three day supply.
- First aid kit - Essentials like bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc.
- Communication devices - Battery powered radio, walkie talkies, signal flares.
- Light sources - Flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks.
- Shelter and bedding - Tents, tarps, blankets, sleeping bags.
Following these critical supplies, the list expands to tools, hygiene items, clothing, self defense items, and more.
The Importance of a Prepper Checklist PDF
Maintaining a printable emergency supply checklist is vital for preppers to track what they have and what gaps need to be filled. Checklists help ensure you don't overlook any critical items. They also facilitate regular inspections and replenishment of dated supplies.
Free printable prepper checklists available online provide pre-filled categories to select and customize based on your family's unique needs. They often estimate quantities needed based on factors like family size.
Assessing Prepper Gear List for a Family of 4
When prepping for a family, carefully evaluate each member's needs across different scenarios. For a family of four, ensure all have adequate food, water, clothing, medication, etc. Also account for children's needs like diapers, formula, toys for distraction. And have at least one family member learn emergency skills like first aid, navigation, radio communication.
Printable checklists customized for families take guesswork out of the planning. Build kits for each member so everyone is covered no matter if separated in an emergency.
What gear do preppers need?
Preppers need to have certain essential gear in their kits to ensure survival preparedness. Here is a list of some of the most critical items every prepper should have:
- Water purification supplies - A water filter or purification tablets are vital to access safe drinking water. The Sawyer Mini filter and Potable Aqua tablets are top choices.
- Emergency shelter - A durable tent or tarp can provide critical protection from the elements. The Snugpak Ionosphere tent and UST Tube Tarp are recommended.
- Food rations - Non-perishable food supplies with a long shelf life are a must-have. Top picks include Mountain House freeze-dried meals, Wise Company emergency buckets, and Datrex emergency bars.
- Fire starting kit - Having multiple methods to start a fire greatly improves chances of success. Carry stormproof matches, a magnesium fire starter, and jute twine for tinder.
- Lighting - Illumination is critical. A headlamp allows hands-free use while a handheld flashlight serves as a backup.
The above covers just the basics - there are many other important items like first aid kits, survival knives, emergency blankets, and more than preppers need in their go bags. But having these essentials will provide a minimum viable kit to get started.
What should a prepper stock up on?
When building your prepper stockpile, focus on the essentials for survival. Here are some of the most vital categories to cover:
Water and Food
Having access to clean water and non-perishable food is critical in an emergency situation.
- Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and pet. Consider water filtration systems like Lifestraws or water purification tablets.
- Stock up on foods with a long shelf-life that don't require refrigeration like rice, beans, canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and nut butters.
- Choose foods that are high in protein and nutrients but low in salt as too much sodium can dehydrate you.
- Don't forget to include utensils, a manual can opener, paper plates, etc. to prepare meals.
Light and Communication
Being able to see in the dark and access news is also extremely important during disasters.
- Gather flashlights, lanterns, batteries, and other prepper gear to illuminate your surroundings.
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio on hand to stay updated.
First Aid
Medical emergencies can happen any time, so having first aid supplies is vital.
- Stock various bandages, gauze, antibiotics, pain meds, etc. depending on your family's needs.
- If you rely on medications or contact lenses/solution, keep extra on hand.
Documents
- Always have copies of important documents like IDs, insurance, birth certificates, etc. These will be necessary for recovering after the emergency.
The exact items that are most essential will vary for each family's unique situation. Evaluate your needs, stock up appropriately, and routinely cycle out anything that expires. With smart preparation, you can rest easy knowing you've got the prepper supplies to weather an emergency.
What is the #1 survival must have?
A fire starter is perhaps the single most important item to have in your survival kit. Being able to start a fire allows you to:
- Cook food and purify water - Having access to hot food and clean drinking water is critical for survival. A fire allows you to boil water to kill bacteria and parasites. You can also cook wild edibles or preserved foods from your stockpile.
- Keep warm - Fire provides warmth, which is essential for both comfort and safety in an emergency situation. Hypothermia is a severe risk that can be mitigated with a heat source.
- Scare away predators - The light and smoke from a fire helps deter predators looking for an easy meal. Feeling secure from wildlife threats enables restful sleep.
- Signal rescuers - The smoke and flame can alert people to your location if you are lost or stranded.
There are many small, lightweight options for starting fires such as stormproof matches, flint strikers, and magnesium fire starters. The prepper gear list essentials should always include at least two forms of reliable fire starters.
Popular portable and weatherproof choices are:
- Stormproof matches - Long-burning matches that will ignite even when wet.
- Flint and steel striker - Creates sparks to ignite tinder.
- Magnesium fire starter - Shavings catch sparks and burn at high temperatures.
Having multiple types of fire starters in your survival kit provides redundancy. If one fails, you have back-up options to try. This fail-safe approach can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
What should I pack for a prepper?
When building your prepper gear list, focus first on the basics for survival. Having these essential disaster supplies on hand will help you withstand the initial shocks of an emergency scenario.
Water
Water is critical for staying alive. Aim to have at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. Store water in food-grade plastic containers and replace it every six months. Consider packing water filtration devices as well, like portable water filters or water purification tablets.
Food
Stock up on non-perishable foods that don't require refrigeration or preparation, like protein bars, canned goods, nuts, and dried fruits and vegetables. Rotate your food supplies to avoid expiration. Target at least a 3-day supply to start.
Communication
Stay informed about developing hazards and connect with emergency responders by packing a battery-powered or hand crank AM/FM radio. Pair this with a NOAA weather radio that will sound tone alerts for your area.
Light
Flashlights and headlamps allow you to navigate safely in the dark. LED bulbs last the longest. Bring extra batteries too. Glow sticks also work when electronics fail.
First Aid
Basic first aid supplies help you treat injuries when medical care is limited. Adhesive bandages, gauze, trauma shears, antibiotic ointment, latex gloves, and medications you regularly take are good starters.
By starting with these fundamental survival items, you'll be able to meet your basic needs if disaster strikes unexpectedly. Continue expanding your supplies over time as your situation allows.
Water and Hydration: The Lifeline of Survival
Having access to clean drinking water is critical for survival in any emergency situation. As preppers, stocking water filtration systems, purification tablets, and collapsible containers should be top priorities.
Choosing Water Filtration Systems for Preppers
Portable water filters are essential prepper gear for purifying drinking water in the wilderness or in a disaster scenario. The Sawyer Mini and LifeStraw filters are top-rated options that filter out 99.9% of bacteria and parasites. Key features to look for include:
- Removes bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chemicals
- High flow rate for quick water purification
- Long filter life span
- Lightweight and compact size for portability
When shopping for a water filter, consider your intended uses, group size, frequency of use and specific water quality threats in your region.
The Role of Water Purification Tablets in Disaster Survival
Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide to make non-potable water drinkable in emergencies. They are an essential backup when filters are unavailable. Key benefits include:
- Destroy bacteria, viruses and protozoan cysts
- Portable and lightweight
- 4 year shelf life
- Treat multiple liters per tablet
Follow dosage instructions carefully to ensure full disinfection. Consider packing a variety of tablet brands to be prepared for unknown water sources.
Collapsible Water Containers: A Prepper’s Supplies Must-Have
Rugged yet flexible BPA-free collapsible water carriers are perfect for bug out bags. The Platypus SoftBottle folds down small, but holds 1 liter when full. Other excellent options include:
- Nalgene Collapsible Cantene - Wide mouth design is easy to fill
- HydroBlu Versa Flow - Filters water while carrying
Look for durable BPA-free construction and a wide fill opening. Carry at least 2 liters per person to be prepared for emergency evacuation.
Food and Emergency Rations: Sustaining Through Crises
Having a supply of non-perishable food and emergency rations is critical when shelters or supply chains are disrupted. This section examines freeze-dried meals, MREs, granola bars and other high-calorie options.
Stockpiling Freeze-Dried Meals for the Long Haul
Freeze-dried meals are a lightweight, nutritious option for building a 30-90 day food supply. With a shelf life of 25+ years when properly stored, they are ideal for stockpiling. When buying freeze-dried meals look for ones that have a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat to maintain health. Some top picks are:
- Mountain House meals
- Wise Company buckets
- Augason Farms pouches
Properly storing your freeze-dried food supply is key. Use oxygen absorbers and store the pouches or buckets in a cool, dark place like a basement or root cellar. Rotate stock by using the older pouches and replenishing with new ones.
MREs: A Staple in the Doomsday Survival Kit List
MREs, or Meals Ready to Eat, are portable, self-contained meals with a flameless ration heater to warm them. With a 5 year shelf life, they make a good short-term emergency food option.
Key advantages of MREs are:
- Long shelf life
- Built-in heater
- Lightweight and portable
- Do not require refrigeration
Look for MREs that offer a good balance of calories, carbs, protein and nutrients. Some popular picks are the SOPAKCO Sure-Pak or the emergency food bars from Datrex. Keep a 2 week supply for bug out purposes.
High-Calorie Energy Bars: A Quick Nutritional Boost
Stashing high-calorie granola bars, protein bars, and meal replacement bars is smart for quick energy. Search for at least 400-500 calories per bar. Prioritize bars with oats, nuts, dried fruit - these provide long-lasting energy.
Some top energy bar picks are:
- Clif Builder's Protein Bars
- PROBAR Meal Bars
- Pemmican high-calorie survival bars
It's ideal to keep a 2 month supply of bars. Rotate stock by eating the older ones under normal conditions and replacing them with new bars. Tuck these bars into bug out bags, car emergency kits, and anywhere else they may come in handy during a disaster.
sbb-itb-b932644
First Aid Supplies: Managing Medical Emergencies
Being prepared to handle medical emergencies is critical for any prepper. Having the right first aid supplies on hand can help manage injuries and illness when professional medical care is limited or unavailable.
Building a Comprehensive Trauma Kit
A well-stocked trauma kit is essential to stop bleeding and stabilize injuries in an emergency. Here are some of the key items every prepper should have:
- Tourniquets - Tourniquets like the CAT or SOFTT-W are vital for controlling severe bleeding from limbs. Have at least 2 available.
- QuikClot - This special gauze helps blood clot quickly when applied to a wound.
- Chest seals - Used to treat punctures and open chest wounds. Choose vented seals like Bolin or Hyfin.
- Trauma dressing - These absorbent compressed gauzes stop bleeding for wounds on arms, legs or torso.
- Gloves and shears - Nitrile gloves and EMT shears allow safe handling of injuries and cutting away clothing.
A comprehensive trauma kit should be organized and ready to grab quickly when needed. Rotate supplies to ensure items are not expired.
Essential Over-the-Counter Medications
Having a supply of key OTC medications on hand allows managing common injuries and illnesses:
- Pain relievers - Ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin help relieve pain from injuries.
- Antihistamines - Cetirizine treats allergic reactions from insect bites, plants and medications.
- Antibiotic ointment - Helps prevent infection in wounds and burns. Choose triple antibiotic versions.
- Antidiarrheals - Loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate manage diarrhea from food poisoning or infection.
- Electrolyte replacements - Oral rehydration salts and Pedialyte prevent dehydration from diarrhea or vomiting.
Rotate stock every year to ensure potency. Store in a cool, dark place.
Stockpiling Personal Protective Equipment
Face masks, nitrile gloves and other protective equipment prevents the spread of germs and disease:
- N95 respirators - Filter 95% of airborne particles to protect against illness.
- Nitrile gloves - More durable than latex with less risk of allergic reaction.
- Splash goggles - Shield eyes from body fluids which may carry infection.
- Biohazard bags - Safely contain contaminated items like dressings or clothing.
Having PPE ensures preppers can care for the injured while avoiding disease exposure during a pandemic or societal collapse. Include these critical supplies in preparations.
Shelter and Warmth: Creating a Safe Haven
Reliable shelter is critical in a disaster scenario to protect against the elements. When choosing tents and sleeping equipment, focus on durability, portability, and ability to withstand extreme weather.
Selecting a 4-Season Tent for Year-Round Protection
When selecting a 4-season tent, prioritize the following features:
- Waterproof floor and rain fly. Choose a tent with a bathtub-style floor to keep ground moisture out and a rain fly to shield against precipitation. Look for taped or sealed seams for added weather resistance.
- Ventilation options. Mesh panels, vents, and vestibules allow airflow to prevent condensation buildup inside the tent. This airflow is crucial for comfort.
- Freestanding design. Freestanding tents work well in varied terrain since they don't require staking to stay upright. This makes them faster to set up.
- Durability. Opt for robust tent fabrics with reinforced stitching that can handle high winds and snow loads. Aluminum poles are also more durable than fiberglass.
Popular 4-season tent brands like North Face, Marmot, and MSR offer excellent extreme weather protection.
Choosing Sleeping Bags and Pads for Optimal Rest
Proper insulation for sleeping is vital to conserve energy and maintain health through a disaster or prolonged outdoor excursion. When selecting sleeping bags and pads, consider:
- Temperature rating. Choose a bag with a rating at least 10-15°F below the coldest anticipated temperatures for sufficient insulation.
- Fill material. Down fill offers superior warmth-to-weight ratio but loses insulative value when wet. Synthetic fills retain more warmth when damp.
- Compressibility. For portability, pick a bag that packs down small without compromising insulation.
Pair your sleeping bag with a closed-cell foam or inflatable sleeping pad for essential insulation from the ground.
The Importance of Emergency Bivvy Sacks
Bivvy sacks are lightweight, compact emergency shelters that help retain body heat and provide weather protection. Key features include:
- Reflective interior lining to reflect radiant heat back to the body
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer
- Breathable fabric prevents dangerous condensation buildup
- Compact size takes up little room in survival kits
Though not suitable for long-term use, bivvies can be lifesavers as an extra layer of protection if your tent fails or in extreme weather. Quality bivvy brands like SOL and Adventure Medical Kits weigh under 1 lb.
Fire Making and Light Sources: Essential Illumination and Warmth
Having reliable fire making capabilities and light sources is critical for survival preparedness. This section covers key gear that provides illumination, warmth, water purification, cooking, and signaling capabilities.
Mastering the Use of Ferrocerium Rod Fire Starters
Ferrocerium rod strikers, also known as magnesium fire starters, are an extremely reliable way to start fires. Here are some tips for effective use:
- Choose a striker that is at least 5-7 inches long to allow plenty of striking surface area. Strikers with integrated compass and whistles can add extra functionality.
- Pair the rod with a good scraper, such as one with a serrated edge for scraping magnesium shavings.
- Prepare your tinder bundle ahead of time so it's ready to ignite. Good tinder includes dry grass, leaves, pine needles, cotton balls, and wax-covered cotton balls.
- Strike the rod downward at a 45 degree angle applying firm pressure. This shaves off magnesium that ignites from the scraping friction.
- Collect the magnesium shavings directly into your tinder bundle, then gently blow on the bundle to feed the sparks with oxygen to build the fire.
With some practice, ferrocerium rod strikers enable starting fires even in windy or wet conditions.
Waterproof Matches and Lighters: A Survivor's Best Friends
Waterproof and windproof matches and lighters provide reliable backup ignition if your primary fire starter fails. Look for matches that have longer wooden sticks and striker pads on the box. Prioritize lighters that are refillable with replaceable flints. Must-have options include:
- UCO Stormproof Match Kit: 25 windproof/waterproof matches good for 15,000 strikes
- Zippo Emergency Fire Starter: Windproof dual jet flame lighter
- BIC disposable lighters: Inexpensive backup option, get 2-3 per person
- Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel: Waterproof matches paired with a firesteel rod
Test matches and lighters under adverse conditions during training to verify their performance. Replace worn out lighters and expired match striker pads annually.
Navigating the Dark with Headlamps, Flashlights and Lanterns
Quality lighting gear provides personal hands-free illumination for tasks, map reading, repairs, first-aid, etc. as well as area lighting for campsites and shelters. Look for water resistance ratings of at least IPX-4 and impact resistance to 2 meters. Recommended options include:
- Black Diamond ReVolt Headlamp: 300 lumen max brightness, red/green night vision modes
- Fenix LD15R Flashlight: 1,000 lumen max, 5 lighting modes including strobe
- LE LED Camping Lantern: 500 lumen area light, collapsible, 30 hour runtime
- Goal Zero Lighthouse 400 Lantern: 400 lumen runtime, solar rechargeable
Use lithium batteries for longest shelf life. Pack extra batteries and glow sticks for spares and markers. Stage lights in key locations for power failures. Practice navigating your home using only flashlights during blackouts.
Power and Communications: Staying Connected in the Dark
When the grid is down, having reliable communication tools and power sources becomes critical for monitoring news and emergency channels, navigation, and staying in touch with others. Preppers equip themselves with equipment like two-way radios, portable chargers and DIY power systems.
Selecting Two-Way Radios for Prepper Communications
Two-way radios allow short-range communication without relying on cell towers. When selecting prepper radios, consider factors like:
- Range - Prioritize longer ranges for communicating over distance. High-powered 5-watt radios can reach ranges of several miles.
- Channels - Radios with 14+ channels avoid interference and allow monitoring of emergency bands. NOAA weather radio channels are especially useful.
- Power - Hand crank and solar charging allows using radios off-grid. Battery saver features conserve energy.
- Durability - Rugged, waterproof models withstand harsh weather when you need them most.
Top-rated two-way radios like the BaoFeng UV-5R meet prepper needs with excellent range, battery life, and versatility across frequencies.
Harnessing Solar Power with Chargers and Battery Banks
Solar chargers and batteries enable staying powered up off-grid by storing the sun's energy for later use. Consider key factors like:
- Portability - Compact, foldable solar panels easily fit in bags for mobility. Anker, BigBlue and other brands offer lightweight options.
- Capacity - High-capacity external batteries and solar chargers above 20,000mAh enable charging devices multiple times.
- Outputs - Multiple USB ports allow simultaneously charging several devices like smartphones, radios, lamps and more.
With a foldable 100W solar panel and 30,000mAh battery like the Anker PowerHouse, preppers can stay connected for weeks off-grid.
Emergency Crank Chargers: Manual Power Solutions
When solar power is unavailable, crank chargers generate power by hand to charge devices. Useful features include:
- Multi-Power - Crank, solar and battery inputs make chargers versatile for any situation.
- LED Flashlight - Built-in lights provide illumination when needed most.
- USB Charging - Standard USB ports charge a wide range of mobile devices.
Reliable options like the American Red Cross FRX3 handle multiple charging input methods, making them a durable backup power solution.
Investing in redundant power and communication equipment prepares preppers to stay informed and connected during blackouts and disasters.
Tools and Utility Gear: The Backbone of Self-Reliance
Rugged, versatile tools are critical for tasks like firewood processing, digging, construction, hunting, and self-defense when you need to be self-reliant. Here are some key items to consider.
The Versatility of Multi-Tools in Survival Situations
Multi-tools with integrated knives, pliers, screwdrivers and other attachments can be invaluable in survival situations. Look for ones with locking blades, durable construction, and useful attachments like wire cutters, saws, and can openers. Leatherman and Gerber make quality options.
The Leatherman Signal stands out with its fire starting rod, hammer, and whistle integrated into a full-sized multi-tool. While heavier than a traditional multi-tool, these bonus features make it worth carrying if you want an all-in-one option.
Paracord and Emergency Rope: A Prepper's Lifeline
550 lb test paracord can make shelter lines, fishing line, animal snares, gear repairs and more. A good minimum is 50 feet, but 100 to 500 feet is better for more versatility. Tie and untie knots in paracord to keep it from getting stiff over time.
For even greater strength, look for utility rope or AmSteel-Blue rope that can hold thousands of pounds. You can build more robust structures and implements with it.
Choosing the Right Fixed Blade Knife for Survival
A full tang fixed blade knife is a prepper essential for processing firewood, building traps and shelters, and other tasks. Look for one with a 4 to 7 inch blade length, grippy handle, and stainless steel construction. Morakniv, ESEE, Benchmade and Ontario Knife Company make high quality survival knives.
Prioritize chopping ability with thicker blade stock, saber grinds, and a sturdy pommel for batoning through wood. A 90 degree spine allows striking a firesteel, while a partially serrated edge adds cutting versatility. Ultimately the best survival knife depends on your needs and budget.
Developing Essential Prepper Skills for Self-Sufficiency
Beyond stockpiling supplies, developing fundamental knowledge and skills for off-grid living can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Let's explore some key competencies every prepper should cultivate.
Mastering Wilderness Navigation Techniques
Having strong navigation abilities allows you to orient yourself, identify resources, and travel safely through unfamiliar terrain. All preppers should understand:
- Reading topographic maps to identify landmarks, elevation changes, water sources, etc.
- Using a compass and basic land navigation techniques to set bearings and avoid getting lost
- Reading the stars, sun, and landscape to navigate without maps or technology
Start by learning orienteering and then practice navigating with and without technology on hiking trips. These skills take time to develop but are invaluable.
Foraging and Trapping for Sustainable Living
Foraging wild edibles and trapping small game provides a renewable food source if stores run out. Key skills include:
- Identifying common wild plants in your region that are safe to eat
- Learning basic snare construction and placement to humanely trap rabbits and other small mammals
- Understanding local hunting regulations and developing safe firearm handling abilities
Start by learning from expert foragers, take a trapping course, and be sure to follow all laws. Foraging and trapping take much practice but are handy backup survival skills.
Advanced Emergency First Aid Training
Medical care may be limited or delayed in a disaster, so all preppers should take wilderness first aid and trauma care courses focused on:
- Assessing and treating injuries with limited supplies
- Setting fractures, dealing with burns, stopping bleeding
- Stabilizing patients for safe transport
Look for hands-on classes that teach wound care, splinting, suturing, and other key interventions. Advanced emergency medical skills can save lives when professional help is not available.
Creating a Disaster Survival Kit List
As preppers, having a comprehensive disaster survival kit is essential for readiness when emergencies strike. This kit should contain gear and supplies tailored to your needs, allowing you to survive for extended periods if normal services are disrupted.
The Most Important Prepping Supplies for Disaster Readiness
When creating your survival kit, focus first on securing the most vital supplies:
- Water - Stock up on bottled water and water purification methods (e.g. filters, tablets) to have at least one gallon per person per day. Dehydration is a major risk during disasters.
- Food - Pack high-calorie non-perishable foods like canned goods, freeze-dried meals, protein bars. Enough to last each person 7-10 days.
- First Aid - Essentials like bandages, gauze, OTC meds, etc. Know basic first aid to treat injuries without medical care.
- Tools and Gear - Items like multi-tools, tarps, duct tape, and rope have a variety of uses from building shelter to making repairs. Sturdy shoes and gloves also important.
- Light Sources - Stock LED flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks. Prepare backup batteries or crank/solar-powered options.
- Communications - AM/FM radios, two-way radios, and emergency whistles enable contacting aid or calling for help.
Customizing your kit to your situation improves chances of survival greatly. Include additional food, medicine, or gear as needed.
Customizing Your Survival Kit List PDF
To organize your prepper supplies, create a survival kit list PDF with all gear clearly documented. Download a free printable prepper checklist online or make your own list using Word/Google Docs. Categorize items into groups like food, water, shelter, first aid, etc.
Customize quantities based on your family size and specific medical needs. If you have infants, stock extra diapers and formula. Add more medications for those with chronic illness. Having a personalized checklist ensures you remember the proper supplies.
Print out copies to store with your kits, bug out bags, and emergency response plans. Update the PDF annually as needs change. Share with network for accountability.
Utilizing a Free Printable Prepper Checklist
A wide selection of free printable prepper checklists can be found online. These list templates allow preppers to organize critical supplies into clear categories, saving time. Look for lists that:
- Are recent - Updated yearly with latest expert recommendations
- Let you customize - Adjust to your situation adding/removing items
- Have both short and long term options - 30-day, 90-day, 6-month supply lists
- Cover all essentials - Food, water, first aid, tools, hygiene, etc
Use these lists to inventory current prepper supplies and highlight gaps for purchasing. Save in formats like PDF, Excel spreadsheet, etc for easy accessibility.
Implementing a Prepper Checklist Excel Sheet for Inventory Management
For large supply quantities, utilize a prepper checklist Excel sheet to meticulously track all items. Excel allows preppers to:
- Catalog supplies with details like quantity, cost, expiration
- Sort gear by category or room for easy physical counting
- Identify stock depletion and set reminders to replenish
- Share with household to coordinate on supply chain management
- Sync across devices using cloud storage for access anytime
The increased organization and accountability an Excel prepper checklist provides leads to greater disaster readiness and resilience. Staying on top of inventory ensures you have exactly what you need when SHTF.
Following expert guidance and staying organized is key to prepper success. Start with securing the fundamental supplies, then customize further to your situation. Maintain an updated printable checklist and use spreadsheet tools to track long term inventory. With modern resources, tailoring your perfect doomsday survival kit list is achievable.
Conclusion: Recapitulating the Prepper Gear List Essentials
Having reliable gear and supplies is crucial for emergency preparedness. This article covered some essential items that preppers should consider stocking up on, with a focus on basics like water, food, first aid, and shelter.
To recap, here is a checklist covering some of the key gear and supplies discussed:
- Water - Water filtration/purification system, water storage containers
- Food - Canned goods, MREs, freeze-dried meals, seeds
- First Aid - First aid kit, medications, trauma supplies
- Lighting - Flashlights, lanterns, batteries
- Shelter - Tents, tarps, emergency blankets
- Tools - Multi-tool, knife, axe, saw
- Power - Portable generator, solar charger
- Communication - Two-way radios, signal flares
This list covers fundamental prepper gear for survival preparedness. Of course, supplies should be tailored to your situation - additional items like gas masks, night vision, and firearms may be warranted for some preppers planning for extreme scenarios.
Having the basics covered is a good foundation. Assess your risks, build skills as well as supplies, and stay vigilant. With smart preparation, you can be self-reliant and ready to weather whatever comes your way.