Prepper Kit Essentials

When building a prepper kit, most will agree that having the essential gear and supplies is crucial for emergency preparedness.

This article explores the 10 fundamental items that every prepper kit should contain to ensure survival preparedness for a variety of emergency scenarios.

You'll discover the core survival staples like food, water, first aid, and communications gear alongside tools, shelter supplies, safety equipment, and more.

Introduction to Prepper Kit Essentials

A well-stocked prepper kit is essential for emergency preparedness. This kit should contain gear and supplies to meet basic survival needs, as well as items to safely shelter in place during disasters.

When building your prepper kit, focus first on meeting fundamental needs:

Water - Stock up on bottled water and water filtration systems like a LifeStraw. Plan for at least one gallon per person per day.
Food - Pack high-calorie non-perishable foods like peanut butter, protein bars, and freeze-dried meals.
First Aid - Anatomy of a first aid kit: bandages, gauze, medicines, instruments, etc.
Tools - Pack multi-tools, knives, duct tape, work gloves, and other essentials.
Light - Stock up on LED flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps. Also pack extra batteries.

You'll also want to prepare for sheltering in place by stocking supplies like:

Prescription medications
Personal hygiene items
Emergency radio
Extra batteries
Sleeping bags and blankets
Backup chargers for devices

Customize your prepper kit based on your climate, location, living situation, health needs, and potential risks in your area. Update and take inventory of your supplies every 6 months. With the right prepper kit, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're ready to handle whatever comes your way.

What do you put in a prepper kit?

A well-stocked prepper kit is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most important items to include:

Water and Food

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Prioritize water storage.
Stock up on non-perishable foods like canned goods, rice, beans, peanut butter, etc.

Communication and Information Tools

Pack a battery-powered or hand crank AM/FM radio to receive emergency broadcasts and weather updates. Consider a NOAA weather radio as well.
Include flashlights, headlamps, and extra batteries. Light is extremely important.
A whistle can be used to signal for help if needed.

Health and Safety Equipment

A robust first aid kit is a must, stocked with medical essentials like bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc.
Face masks, sturdy shoes, gloves, and goggles provide protection.
A fire extinguisher and emergency blankets are useful for a range of situations.

The exact contents of a prepper kit can be customized according to factors like climate, location, health status, and likely risks. But the categories above form a strong, general foundation. Continually monitor and resupply items as needed.

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 - Critical for lighting and signaling in the dark. Pack extra batteries.
Whistle - Loud whistles can signal rescuers from afar. Choose a high-decibel model.
Dust mask - Protects airways from smoke, ash, and airborne particles. Have several on hand.
Maps - Local maps help identify surroundings, navigate terrain. Laminated prevents weathering.
Manual can opener - Allows accessing canned goods without power. Sturdy design is important.
Emergency radio - Battery-powered radios provide weather updates, emergency instructions when cell towers are down.
Games/books - Quiet activities reduce stress for children in prolonged emergencies. Include paper, pens.
First aid kit - Treat injuries until professional medical care is available. See Anatomy of a First Aid Kit for details.
Multi-tool - Compact tools like pliers, screwdrivers, knives address survival tasks. Choose durable, stainless steel.
Emergency blankets - Retain body heat to prevent hypothermia. Waterproof and windproof material recommended.

Be sure to customize your survival kit based on likely regional hazards, individual needs. Rotate perishable items to keep supplies fresh and ready to use.

How to get free emergency kit?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit to help individuals and families prepare financially for emergencies.

To get the free emergency financial kit:

Go to the FEMA website's Emergency Financial First Aid Kit page.
Click the green "Download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit" button.
The kit will download as a PDF document that you can save and print.

The kit contains a checklist of important financial documents and information to have on hand for emergencies. It also includes forms to track household finances, contacts, and other vital information.

Having this financial information organized in one place will help you recover more quickly after a disaster or emergency. It will enable you to apply for FEMA disaster assistance or an SBA loan if eligible.

So take advantage of this free offering from FEMA and download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit today to start preparing.

What are the 72 hour survival kit?

A 72 hour survival kit, also known as a "bug out bag", is designed to contain the essential items needed to survive for 3 days in an emergency situation where you need to evacuate your home.

Key Components

A well-stocked 72 hour kit should include:

Water - 1 gallon per person per day minimum. Water filtration/purification supplies.
Food - Non-perishable, high-calorie foods like granola bars, nuts, jerky. Items that don't require cooking.
Clothing - Seasonally appropriate extra layers and rain gear.
Shelter - Tent, tarp, emergency blanket and sleeping bag.
Light - Flashlight, glow sticks, headlamp with extra batteries.
Communication - AM/FM radio, emergency whistle, signal mirror.
Tools - Knife, duct tape, fire starters, parachute cord, multi-tool.
Medical Supplies - First aid items, medications, hygiene essentials.
Documents - Copies of important papers, ID cards, cash in small bills.

The goal is to have the essential elements to survive away from home for up to 72 hours. The kit should be portable and contain critical elements like food, water, shelter to meet basic needs temporarily until you can get to a safe location or return home. Customize your kit based on your climate, health needs, and possible risks in your region.

The Core of Survival: Water and Food Supplies

Having access to clean water and non-perishable food is critical in an emergency when utilities may be disrupted. Here are some key supplies to include in your prepper kit.

Securing Clean Water: Filtration Systems and Purification Methods

Pack a LifeStraw personal water filter that allows you to drink directly from streams or other water sources. This removes bacteria and parasites.
Have Aquatabs Water Purification Tablets on hand. Add these to questionable water to kill viruses, bacteria, and protozoa.
Carry collapsible water containers and pouches to store water if access is lost. Aim for 1-2 gallons per person for 3 days.
A water filter pitcher can also purify stored water. These are easier to use than a Lifestraw for drinking and cooking.

Prepper Pantry Staples: Non-Perishable Food Items

Prioritize high-calorie non-perishables with a long shelf life:

Peanut butter - High in protein and calories. Opt for all-natural brands without hydrogenated oils.
Rice - White rice can be stored for up to 30 years if kept dry and cool. Brown rice has more nutrients but shorter shelf life.
Canned goods like beans, vegetables, or soup can last 2-5 years unopened. Choose low-sodium options.
Crackers and dried fruits are lightweight and won't spoil without refrigeration.

Rotate and replace food every 6-12 months to keep your prepper pantry fresh. Track expiration dates with a marker on the packaging.

First Aid Kit: Anatomy of a Lifesaver

Being able to provide basic first aid during an emergency is key. Make sure to pack bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, tools, etc.

Comprehensive Wound Care: Bandages, Antiseptics, and Tools

Having the proper materials to treat wounds is essential in an emergency first aid kit. Some key items to include:

Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes to cover small cuts and abrasions
Gauze pads and rolls for applying pressure to large wounds or wrapping injuries
Medical tape such as surgical tape or first aid tape to secure dressings
Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection in cuts and scrapes
Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds before dressing them
Trauma shears to cut clothing away from injuries
Tweezers to remove debris from wounds
Latex gloves to protect yourself from bodily fluids

Make sure to pack enough wound care supplies to treat multiple injuries. Having backup bandages, extra gauze, and multiple antiseptic options is important.

Medication Essentials: Painkillers, Prescription Medications, and Allergy Relief

In addition to wound care items, certain medications are key for an emergency medical kit:

Pain relief medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin can treat pain from injuries
Antihistamines like diphenhydramine help relieve allergy symptoms
Prescriptions - pack at least 5 days' worth of medications you take regularly
Electrolyte tablets to treat dehydration
Antacids to relieve heartburn, nausea, and other GI issues
Anti-diarrheal medication to treat stomach issues
Thermometer to monitor for fevers indicating infection
Tweezers and a tick removal tool

Rotate medications to ensure they do not expire. Replenish any medications after use. Having critical medications on hand during an emergency could save a life.

Emergency Communications: Staying Informed and Connected

Stay oriented and connected with emergency radios, maps, compasses GPS devices, whistles, signal mirrors, etc.

Emergency Radios and Reliable Two-Way Communication

Having reliable communication devices in your prepper kit is essential for staying informed and connected during an emergency. Here are some recommended items:

Emergency radio: Pack a hand crank or battery powered radio that can receive AM/FM/NOAA weather band. Models like the Midland ER310 allow you to charge devices.
Two-way radios: Walkie-talkies with a 30+ mile range provide communication if cell towers are overloaded. Waterproof models can be useful.
Whistles and signal mirrors: Whistles can signal for help if you are trapped. Signal mirrors flash sunlight to attract attention from afar.

Choose devices that do not rely on cell reception or electricity. Having multiple power sources (crank, solar, battery) provides redundancy if one fails. Test reception from your most likely locations. Place items high up or near windows for best reception.

Navigating without cell service requires backup navigation aids like maps, compasses, and signaling devices:

Maps: Have both paper and digital (PDF) topographic maps for your area marked with rally points, landmarks, potential shelters, etc.
Lensatic compass: Military lensatic compasses allow precise orientation and coordination of maps/navigation.
GPS devices: While dependent on satellites, GPS devices enable tracking locations when cell service fails.
Signal mirrors and whistles: Like mentioned before, these devices enable signaling for help when trapped or lost.

Make sure to understand how to read topographic maps, use a military compass, and basic wilderness navigation before an emergency occurs. Test all devices ahead of time as well.

Illuminating the Dark: Light Sources and Fire Supplies

Having reliable light sources is critical for emergency preparedness. When power outages occur, flashlights, lanterns, matches, and other non-electric lighting become essential. This section explores recommended items to include in your prepper kit.

Durable Flashlights and Lanterns for Emergency Lighting

Invest in waterproof, impact-resistant LED flashlights and lanterns. Brands like Streamlight, Fenix, and Maglite offer durable and long-lasting models.
Crank and solar-powered lighting provides renewable backup when batteries die. The Sunforce 50012 12V Solar Emergency Power Pack charges handheld electronics.
Place flashlights, glow sticks, lanterns, and candles strategically around your home and bug out location. Illuminate paths of egress.

Fire Essentials: Candles, UCO Stormproof Matches, and Lighters

Long-burning emergency candles can provide light for 48 hours or more. Choose unscented wax or soy models. Place in sturdy glass containers.
UCO Stormproof matches and peel-n-stick fire starters ignite even when wet. Store in waterproof cases.
Pack several BIC lighters and fire steel in your go bag. Practice fire starting skills regularly.

Reliable illumination during disasters enables navigation, security, and morale. Stock multiple non-electric light sources tailored to your situation. Integrate fire starting tools to provide warmth and purify water. With preparation, darkness need not induce panic.

Survival Tools and Gear: The Prepper's Arsenal

Equip your kit with multi-tools, knives, protective equipment, tarps, duct tape, carabiners, and cordage.

The Best Multi-Tools for Preppers

Quality multi-tools like Leatherman's are invaluable for repairs, food prep, medical aid, and other survival tasks. Consider the following features when selecting a multi-tool:

Pliers and wire cutters for manipulating objects or cutting wires
Knife and saw blades for cutting, slicing, or sawing wood and other materials
Screwdrivers, bottle openers, can openers for manipulating screws, caps, cans
Scissors for cutting fabric, rope, or bandages
File for sharpening other tools or smoothing rough edges

The best multi-tools are durable, corrosion-resistant, and made with high-quality steel. Leatherman, Gerber, and Victorinox Swiss Army make excellent multi-tools designed for survival purposes.

Essential Knives and Cutting Tools for Survival

Knives serve various critical wilderness survival needs like shelter building, fire craft, food gathering and preparation. Consider carrying both folding and fixed blade knives.

Features of a good survival knife include:

Fixed blade for durability and strength
Full tang construction
High carbon steel blade (1095 or D2)
Serrated edge near handle for sawing wood, rope, etc.
Lanyard hole in handle for paracord wrapping
Fire starter integrated into handle
Sharpener integrated into sheath

Quality knife brands like Ka-Bar, Gerber, Buck, Benchmade, and Spyderco offer knives well-suited for survival purposes. A solid folding knife combined with a full tang fixed blade knife covers all bases.

Apparel and Shelter: Preparing for the Elements

When planning your prepper kit, it's crucial to prepare for extremes in temperature by packing appropriate layers, blankets, sleeping bags, and protective accessories.

Layering for Survival: Outdoor Apparel and Wool Blankets

Base layers made of merino wool or synthetic fabrics that still insulate when wet are key for regulating body temperature. Choose moisture-wicking thermal underwear and mid-layers to trap heat.
Pack extra wool socks, gloves, hats, balaclavas, and neck gaiters. Having multiples allows you to dry out damp gear by rotating.
Wool blankets, like military-style blankets, retain up to 80% heat even when wet. They're durable, antimicrobial, and don't hold odors.

Sleep Systems for Sheltering in Place: Tents and Sleeping Bags

Inflatable sleeping pads, like Therm-A-Rest pads, act as insulation from the cold ground. They pack small but expand for comfort.
Compact and lightweight sleeping bags with water-resistant shells and synthetic insulation provide portable shelter. Choose temperature ratings for your climate.
Durable, freestanding tents that are easy to set up offer mobile shelter from wind, rain, snow. Make sure to seal seams and store tent dry.

Safety and Self-Defense: Protecting Yourself and Your Family

Emergency preparedness involves more than just stocking up on supplies. It's also vital to plan for personal safety and self-defense to protect yourself and your family.

Emergency Shelters: Tents, Tarps, and Paracord

Having sturdy, weather-resistant shelters in your prepper kit is crucial for short-term outdoor survival scenarios.

Tents provide portable enclosed shelter from the elements. Look for durable, waterproof nylon tents with aluminum poles that can withstand wind and rain. A 3-4 person tent allows space for supplies.
Tarps have multiple protective uses - as a tent footprint, shelter roof, or wrap barrier. Heavy-duty polyethylene tarps resist punctures and UV damage. Include rope and duct tape to secure tarps.
Paracord serves many purposes - securing tarps, making repairs, lifting gear, and even fishing. 550 lb test paracord is versatile and compact. Carry at least 50 ft.

Personal Protective Equipment: Respirators, Goggles, and Self-Defense Gear

Protect yourself from airborne hazards and danger with key protective gear:

N95 respirators filter out smoke, dust, and microparticles from wildfires or industrial accidents. Have fitted masks for each family member.
Protective goggles create a barrier against debris, biohazards, and pepper spray. Choose impact and UV resistant models with adjustable straps.
Self-defense items like pepper spray, alarms, and tactical pens provide non-lethal protection. Useful even if not highly skilled in combat. Practice and train regularly.

Adequate shelter and defense equipment helps you ride out disasters or civil unrest safely. Tailor gear needs to likely regional risks and your family size or mobility limitations.

Sanitation and Hygiene: Maintaining Health in Emergencies

Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation during an emergency is critical to prevent illness and infection. This section covers essential personal care and sanitation supplies every prepper should have on hand.

Personal Care Essentials: Hygiene Products and No-Rinse Solutions

Personal hygiene is extremely important, even more so in emergency scenarios. Be sure to pack the following in your prepper kit:

Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, lip balm with SPF. Stock up on any prescription medications you may need.
No-rinse body wash: Pack a no-rinse body wash like No-Rinse Body Wash that can be used without running water.
Oral hygiene: Keep extra toothbrushes, travel-size toothpaste tubes, and floss on hand.

Staying clean is vital to avoid bacteria and contamination that can lead to illness and infection when access to clean water is limited.

Sanitation Supplies: Waste Management and Water Treatment

Properly disposing of human waste and greywater is also critical for health and sanitation:

Pack a small shovel and heavy-duty garbage bags to dispose of waste.
Have a plan for burying waste away from water sources.
Bring water filtration systems like LifeStraw or Aquatabs to purify drinking water.

Proper sanitation and hygiene prevents communicable diseases - a leading cause of illness and death after disasters. Following CDC guidelines on waste disposal and water treatment is key.

Conclusion: Assembling Your Comprehensive Emergency Survival Kit

Creating a well-stocked prepper kit takes time but ensures you have the gear, tools, and supplies to safely meet basic survival needs during emergencies. Prioritize water, food, first aid, light, communications/navigation, shelter, and sanitation when packing your kit.

When assembling your prepper kit, focus on the essentials:

Water - Stock up on bottled water and water filtration systems like the Life Straw to ensure access to clean drinking water.
Food - Pack high-calorie non-perishable foods like peanut butter, protein bars, and freeze-dried meals that don't require refrigeration.
First Aid - A comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. is vital for treating injuries.
Light - Pack LED flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps so you can see at night or when power is out.
Communications - An emergency radio and signal mirror enable communicating with others when cell towers are down.
Shelter - Pack tents, sleeping bags, and blankets to protect from the elements if displaced from home.
Sanitation - Hygiene items like toilet paper, baby wipes, and garbage bags maintain health standards.

Customize your disaster preparedness kit based on your family's unique needs, adding prescriptions, pet food, or other critical supplies. Routinely check expiration dates and replenish as needed. Keep kits in multiple locations like your home, car, and office to ensure access during disasters.

Investing time upfront to assemble a comprehensive survival kit gives peace of mind that you have the gear and supplies to safely endure various emergencies.