When starting out as a prepper, it's normal to feel overwhelmed about gathering supplies and making preparations.
This comprehensive beginner's guide will provide you with a clear checklist of the basic items to stock up on as well as key factors to consider when assembling your emergency kits.
You'll get detailed supply lists for 14-day and long-term kits tailored for disasters like earthquakes and evacuations. You'll also learn practical tips for customizing kits, storing items properly, and staying motivated to achieve your preparedness goals.
Introduction to Prepping
What is Prepping?
Prepping refers to preparing for emergencies by gathering critical supplies and learning key skills ahead of time. This can help you survive various disasters like natural disasters, economic crises, or social unrest. Being a prepper simply means being proactive and having necessary provisions on hand in case traditional supply chains are disrupted. This could include having extra food, water, first aid supplies, communication devices, and other essentials. Prepping empowers individuals and families to become more self-reliant during times of hardship.
Who Can Benefit from Prepping
Prepping can benefit individuals, families, communities, and organizations. Anyone can gain peace of mind by being prepared with basic provisions in case of emergency. Prepping is especially prudent for those living in regions prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes. Those in crowded urban areas may also consider prepping in case of infrastructure breakdowns or civil unrest. Prepping allows one to provide for loved ones and ease anxiety during turbulent times.
Why Prepping Matters
Disasters and emergencies can strike suddenly with little warning. Recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic have shown just how quickly modern supply chains can break down, leaving many scrambling. Being prepared ahead of time with basic provisions provides security and removes reliance on others. Prepping teaches useful skills like foraging, hunting, and homesteading. It also brings families and communities together to support one another. Ultimately, prepping empowers self-reliance and resilience in the face of unexpected adversity. Just a few simple preparations can make all the difference.
What are basic prepper supplies?
Having basic prepper supplies on hand is crucial for emergency preparedness. Here is an essential checklist to get any beginner started:
Water
- Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. Aim for a 3-day supply for an evacuation kit, and 2-week supply for home storage.
- Purchase commercially bottled water or store tap water in food-grade plastic containers. Replace water every 6 months.
Food
- Stock up on non-perishable, nutritious, easy-to-prepare food items like canned goods, cereals, trail mix, and protein bars.
- Have at least a 3-day supply of food in your evacuation kit, and 2-week supply for your home.
Light and Communication
- Pack a flashlight with extra batteries or a self-powered, hand crank flashlight/radio combo unit (consider a NOAA weather radio).
- Also have extra batteries for radios and other battery-powered devices.
The basic prepper supplies on this checklist serve as a foundation to build upon. Gradually accumulate additional gear like first aid kits, tools, and other emergency items. Refer to 14-day emergency kit list and 30 day prepper list for more ideas.
What should a prepper stock up on?
When building your prepper supplies, focus on non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration and are lower in sodium content. Some good options include:
- Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, meats
- Dried goods like pasta, rice, oats, trail mix
- Shelf-stable milk, nut butters, jerky
- Water and water purification supplies
You'll also want to stock up on other essential emergency items like:
- Flashlights and headlamps with extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- Manual can opener
- First aid kit
- Copies of important documents
- Cash in small denominations
Depending on your family's unique needs, you may also consider stocking additional supplies like medications, pet food, baby formula, diapers, contact lens solution, etc. The key is preparing based on the specific needs of your household.
When in doubt, refer to FEMA's emergency supply list for additional guidance on key items to include. Their recommendations provide a fantastic starting point for any prepper.
What are 10 items in a survival kit?
A well-stocked survival kit should contain essential items to help you get through an emergency situation. Here are 10 must-have items to include:
- Flashlight - Critical for lighting your way in the dark. Pack extra batteries too.
- Whistle - Useful for signaling your location if lost or injured.
- Dust mask - Helps filter contaminated air during disasters.
- Map and compass - For navigation if you become lost or disoriented.
- Can opener - Allows you to open canned food when regular openers are unavailable. Consider a manual one.
- Emergency radio - Battery-powered or hand cranked models provide access to weather updates and emergency instructions when power is out.
- Entertainment items - Books, games, puzzles keep children occupied during stressful times.
- First aid kit - Treat minor cuts, burns, sprains until professional medical treatment is available.
- Water and food - Enough to sustain you for at least 72 hours. Think lightweight, high calorie, non-perishable items.
- Tools - Knives, paracord, fire starters, duct tape, work gloves assist with shelter building, fire starting, and other survival tasks.
Be sure to customize your kit based on your needs and potential risks in your region. Periodically inspect and replace expired items. With the right prep, you can get through even the toughest emergencies.
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:
Food and Water
- Store at least a 2-week supply of non-perishable food such as canned goods, rice, pasta, oats, trail mix, and protein bars. Make sure to include comfort foods as well.
- Have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 7 days. Store water in food-grade plastic containers and replace every 6 months. Consider water filtration and purification methods as well such as water filters and water purification tablets.
First Aid
- First aid kit with bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, scissors, safety pins, thermometer, medications, etc.
- Extra prescription medications if needed.
Tools and Supplies
- Flashlights, batteries, lighter, matches/fire starters
- Multi-tool, pocket knife
- Duct tape, paracord/rope
- Weather radio, emergency whistle
- Sanitation and hygiene items - toilet paper, baby wipes, feminine products, soap, toothbrush, etc.
- Garbage bags and ziplock bags for storage and water protection
Clothing and Shelter
- Warm clothes, socks, gloves, hat, rain poncho
- Sleeping bags, blankets, tent
- Emergency thermal blankets and hand/foot warmers
The key is to gather critical supplies across major categories - food, water, first aid, tools, hygiene, clothing and shelter. Continue building up your supplies over time. Review and take inventory every 6 months, replacing expired items as needed.
Building Your 14-Day Emergency Kit List
Having a 14-day supply of essential items is a critical first step in emergency preparedness. This ensures you have the basics to survive if access to stores and utilities is cut off.
Water and Hydration Solutions
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day. Include water purification tablets or a portable water filter in case you need to find and treat water. Also pack powdered drink mixes to provide electrolytes.
Nutrition and Long-Term Food Storage
Stock up on canned goods, freeze-dried meals, protein bars, nuts, and other non-perishable foods. Prioritize calories, nutrients, and easy preparation.
First Aid and Health Maintenance
Assemble a first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medications, sanitation supplies, etc. Also include two weeks' worth of prescription medications you normally take.
Shelter and Warmth Essentials
Pack blankets, hand warmers, and waterproof matches. Have a backup power option for lighting and charging devices if the electricity goes out.
Tools and Safety Gear
Include flashlights, batteries, a pocket knife, duct tape, and work gloves. Also pack dust masks, plastic sheeting, and a whistle for safety and signaling.
Following this 14-day emergency supply list will give you a solid foundation when prepping. Continue expanding your supplies over time as your situation allows.
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The Comprehensive Disaster Survival Kit List
Survival Kit List and Uses
A well-stocked survival kit is essential for emergency preparedness. It should contain supplies to meet your basic needs, like food, water, first aid, shelter, lighting, communication devices, and tools.
When disaster strikes, you may need to rely on your survival kit for several days until help arrives or conditions improve. Having the right gear on hand can be the difference between life and death.
Carefully choose items that serve multiple purposes and customize your kit based on likely risks in your region. Prioritize lightweight, high-calorie, non-perishable foods, purification tablets/filters for water, a first aid kit, emergency blankets, a radio, flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags, maps, a whistle, flares, cash, and copies of important documents.
Practice using your kit so you know how to access and utilize the contents effectively when stressed or in the dark. Periodically inspect everything for expiration dates and functionality.
Customizing Your Kit for Specific Disasters
Tailor your survival kit based on the most likely disasters in your area. Those in hurricane zones may add ropes, tarps, boards/sandbags for flooding, and waterproof bags. Earthquake prone areas should stockpile potable water, medical supplies, gloves, and dust masks.
Wildfire kits should contain an emergency fire shelter, respiratory gear, eye protection, long sleeves/pants, and escape route maps. Check government preparedness sites for region-specific recommendations.
Maintaining and Updating Your Survival Kit
To ensure readiness, routinely cycle through your survival kit, checking expiration dates, replacing batteries, restocking used items, and assessing the condition of equipment like flashlights. Update documents and refresh perishable supplies like food/medicine a few times per year.
When adding new gear, balance portability against utility. As you gain skills and identify needs from disaster drills, modify the contents to boost practicality. If acquiring new tools, learn how to use them via hands-on training.
Training to Use Your Survival Kit Effectively
Simply owning a survival kit is inadequate preparation by itself. You need to know how to effectively utilize the contents, especially during stressful scenarios. Set up real-world practice sessions to simulate disasters and test your responses.
For example, challenge yourself to set up your shelter, start a fire, or navigate by map/compass at night. Have everyone in your family try lighting the stove, radio, and lanterns. Practicing together builds confidence and identifies gaps for a well-rounded kit tailored to your unique situation.
As your abilities improve, periodically reassess the utility of your survival kit and make any necessary adjustments to its composition. The right mindset, knowledge, and tools are key to emergency readiness.
Assembling Your Go Bag Kit List
Assembling a go bag with essential supplies is a critical part of emergency preparedness. This bag should contain items to sustain you for at least the first 72 hours of an evacuation scenario.
Essential Items for Immediate Evacuation
When packing your go bag, prioritize including:
- Bottled water and non-perishable food like protein bars or dried fruits and nuts
- First aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
- Flashlight, radio, and batteries
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
- Extra clothes, shoes, rain jacket, gloves, hat
- Hygiene items like toilet paper, soap, feminine products
- Whistle for signaling
- Dust masks
- Local map
- Cash in small denominations
Focus on the basics for short-term survival. You can pack more supplies once you reach a secure location.
Lightweight and Portable Solutions
Choose compact and lightweight gear to avoid weighing yourself down. For example:
- Pack travel-size toiletries
- Use vacuum-sealed clothes to save space
- Choose an emergency blanket instead of a sleeping bag
- Use refillable water bottles instead of large jugs
With a light go bag, you can move swiftly in an emergency evacuation.
Personal Documents and Cash
Even during disasters, having forms of identification and payment options is essential. Be sure to include:
- Copies of key personal documents like ID cards, birth certificate, insurance cards
- At least $100-$200 in small bills and coins
Store these copies in a waterproof bag or pouch to protect them.
Communication and Signaling Devices
Without access to cell towers or WiFi, alternative communication methods are vital, like:
- Battery, solar, or crank-powered radio
- Whistles for signaling
- Flares or glow sticks
- Two-way radios
- Satellite communicator if possible
These devices enable connecting with first responders when infrastructure fails.
Prioritizing go-bag preparedness with supplies for evacuation, survival, communication and identification helps ensure safety during disasters where rapid exit is necessary. Follow expert guidance to assemble your own all-hazard go bag suitable for your needs.
Preparing an Earthquake Emergency Kit List
Tailor your prepper supplies to be ready for the unique challenges posed by earthquakes. Having the right equipment and plans in place can help ensure your safety if an earthquake strikes.
Securing Supplies for Post-Earthquake Survival
Focus your prepper checklist on supplies that will be essential in the aftermath of an earthquake, such as:
- Sturdy shoes and gloves to protect yourself from debris and broken glass
- Dust masks and goggles to protect from ash and dust
- Structural tools like heavy-duty ropes, duct tape, and tarps for securing your shelter
- A whistle and flashlight with spare batteries
- Bottled water and non-perishable food items
Emergency Structural Repair Items
Your earthquake prepper supplies should include materials to make temporary repairs:
- Wood boards and beams to shore up walls or ceilings
- Tarps, staple guns, duct tape to cover holes and cracks
- Wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers and other hand tools
- Work gloves, protective eyewear, dust masks
Have the knowledge and skills to safely make structural repairs after a quake.
Utility Safety and Management
Earthquakes can damage gas, electric, water and sewer lines. Have tools on hand such as a crescent wrench, vice grips and safety gloves. Know when and how to turn off utilities. Establish procedures for conservation and storage of water if lines are disrupted.
Communication Plan and Meeting Points
Cell networks may be overwhelmed post-earthquake. Establish meeting points, procedures for contacting each other, and backup plans in case traditional communications channels fail.
Having the right earthquake emergency prepper supplies and knowledge builds resilience to seismic events. Continue expanding your skills and readiness over time.
The 30 Day Prepper List for Long-Term Preparedness
Being prepared for any situation that may arise is key. Having supplies on hand for 30 days ensures you can provide for yourself and your family, no matter what happens.
Extensive Food and Water Storage
When prepping for 30 days, you'll want to store enough non-perishable food to feed each person 2000 calories per day. Canned goods, rice, beans, pasta, and oats are all good options. Calculate total calories and nutritional needs. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day as well. Rotate stock to keep it fresh.
Renewable Energy Sources
Having backup power is crucial in an emergency situation. Consider solar panels, power stations, or generators. Make sure you have fuel stored safely for gas-powered options. Know proper usage and storage techniques to avoid accidents or waste.
Long-Term Sanitation Solutions
Proper sanitation prevents illness when infrastructure fails. Stock toilet paper, baby wipes, plastic bags for waste, bleach for disinfecting, etc. Digging emergency latrines may become necessary as well. Maintain cleanliness standards.
Stockpiling Seeds and Gardening Supplies
For long hauls, the ability to grow your own food is invaluable. Stock heirloom seeds for fruits and vegetables you enjoy, as well as gardening tools. Prepare adequate soil and fertilizer. Know harvesting best practices for each crop. Consider canning/preserving any yields.
Preparing for 30 days requires forethought and dedication. By covering all your bases - food, water, power, sanitation, production - you equip yourself to handle whatever comes your way. The peace of mind is worth the effort.
FEMA Emergency Supply List PDF: A Guide to Preparedness
FEMA's recommended emergency supply list provides an excellent foundation for disaster preparedness. By understanding what items FEMA recommends and why, preppers can build a comprehensive supply inventory tailored to their unique needs.
Understanding FEMA's Recommended Supplies
FEMA's emergency supply list includes basics like water, food, first aid, sanitation and hygiene items, clothing, bedding, tools, emergency supplies, and disability-specific items. FEMA breaks down how much of each item individuals and families should stockpile for at least 72 hours. For example, FEMA recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day. The list acts as a baseline to build upon.
The list emphasizes general preparedness, with items applicable to many emergency scenarios like power outages, natural disasters, etc. While fundamental, incorporating FEMA guidance into your prepping supplies facilitates self-reliance if disaster strikes.
Adapting the FEMA List to Your Needs
While comprehensive, FEMA's general recommendations should be customized based on your household, geographical location, disaster risks, medical needs, budget and other individual factors.
For example, those prone to earthquakes may stock more food and water for longer durations, given associated supply chain disruptions. Cold environments might warrant extra blankets and warm clothing as well. Underlying medical conditions may necessitate vital prescription medications. Tailor accordingly.
That said, FEMA's list establishes a thoughtful, universal starting point for emergency readiness. Tweak quantities and categories based on your situation, using the list as a adaptable template.
Creating Digital and Physical Copies of the List
To leverage FEMA guidance most effectively, maintain both digital and print copies of your adapted supply checklist.
Digitally archiving your personalized list allows quick access from any internet-connected device. Save it using cloud storage platforms like Google Drive for redundancy.
Print at least one hard copy as well. Should you need to evacuate quickly, online access may be compromised. A physical checklist removes reliance on electricity and internet connectivity amid chaos.
Using the FEMA List as a Training Tool
Beyond a supply inventory, use FEMA's list to educate family and run emergency drills. Assign disaster simulation exercises using your checklist. Time how long it takes to locate each recommended item. This tests preparedness levels and allows you to identify any inventory gaps.
Revisiting the list often keeps emergency protocols top of mind for household members. Leverage it as a training mechanism beyond simply stocking supplies. Review frequently and refresh items as needed over time.
Staying Motivated with Realistic Prepping Goals
Start Small with Attainable Objectives
When first getting into disaster preparedness, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by extensive prepper checklists. Instead of trying to buy everything at once, set small, achievable goals each week. Start with affordable basics like extra bottled water and shelf-stable foods. Check them off as you go to build momentum. Over time these small wins will build the layers of preparation to withstand emergencies.
Make Prepping Fun with Others
Getting friends and family involved in preparing for disasters makes the process more enjoyable. Plan group activities like first aid training, building bug out bags, or practicing evacuation routes. Split up research tasks to learn skills like alternative power sources or water filtration faster. Turn prepper supply runs into regular bonding events. Making your circle resilient together leads to strengths all around.
Reward Yourself as you Reach Milestones
When you hit target preparedness milestones, be sure to celebrate. Completing your 14-day supply reserves or assembling bug out bags for everyone warrants excitement. Mark major achievements by treating yourself to morale-boosting survival tools like emergency radios, specialized cooking gear, or night vision optics. Let accomplishments, even small ones, energize you for the next realistic prepping goal.
