When crisis strikes, having basic supplies on hand can make all the difference for survival and resilience. Most would agree that being prepared with essentials is wise.
This comprehensive guide outlines the key items every beginner should stockpile for emergency preparedness. You'll discover the most vital categories to cover and top-rated solutions to build your first well-rounded SHTF kit.
From non-perishable food staples to medical necessities, water storage, self-defense tools, shelter essentials, and more, you'll find a simplified checklist to get started prepping for disruptive scenarios.
Introduction to SHTF Prepping
Understanding the SHTF Phenomenon
SHTF refers to a major crisis or catastrophe that significantly disrupts normal society. This could include events like natural disasters, economic collapse, pandemics, or social unrest. When SHTF, critical infrastructure like power grids, supply chains, and communication networks can fail. Emergency services may be overwhelmed. Store shelves can empty quickly. Being prepared with key supplies helps you withstand disruptions and take care of your family.
The Importance of a Well-Prepared SHTF Kit
Having basic provisions and gear on hand saves lives when disaster strikes. As a beginner prepper, start simple with versatile items. Build a 72-hour kit for short-term crises first. Then expand your reserves and skills over time. Rotating and using your supplies makes prepping manageable. You'll gain confidence handling challenges if SHTF events occur.
Essential Categories for a Comprehensive SHTF List
Focus initially on stockpiling water, shelf-stable food, first aid items, tools, and other basics covered later. Store at least a 14 day supply, then build up to 30 days. Having backup power, communication devices, sanitation/hygiene products, clothing, and self-defense gear boosts readiness too. Prepare bug out bags if you may need to leave quickly.
What should I stockpile for doomsday?
When preparing your doomsday stockpile, focus on the essentials - food, water, first aid supplies, tools, and other critical items to survive a disaster scenario.
Here is a simplified beginner's checklist to get your SHTF kit started:
Food & Water
- Canned goods and non-perishables
- Bottled water
- Water purification tablets
- Dried fruits, nuts, jerky
- MREs
First Aid
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Antibiotic ointment
Tools & Supplies
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Manual can opener
- Multi-tool
- Duct tape
- Fire starting materials
- Portable stove and fuel
Other Essentials
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Sleeping bags
- Portable radio
- Cash
- Important documents
Focus on compact, lightweight, and multi-purpose SHTF supplies to build a practical 72-hour bug out bag for evacuation. Then expand your stockpile over time by adding bulkier items. With some planning and prudent choices, you can be prepared for doomsday on any budget.
What prepper supplies should I stock up on?
When building your first SHTF (Shit Hits The Fan) kit, it's important to start with the basics and focus on practical essentials. As a beginner prepper, you'll want to prioritize simplicity, affordability, and versatility with your supplies.
Here is a straightforward starter checklist of prepper gear to stock up on:
Water and Food
- Bottled water - 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
- Canned goods - beans, soup, vegetables, fruit
- MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) - long shelf life, convenient
- Protein bars/granola bars - lightweight, nutrient-dense
- Nuts and trail mix - calorie-dense, non-perishable
Tools and Light Sources
- LED flashlight + extra batteries
- Battery-powered/hand crank radio
- Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife
- Duct tape - versatile for repairs
- Fire making kit - matches, lighter, fire starters
First Aid Supplies
- First aid kit - bandages, gauze, ointments
- Medications - painkillers, anti-diarrhea meds, antibiotics
- N95 masks - protect against airborne particles
- Nitrile gloves - prevent disease transmission
When prepping your SHTF supplies, focus first on covering the critical basics like water, food, first aid, and versatile tools. As you advance in your prepping journey, you can expand into more specialized gear. But starting out, keep things simple and practical.
How much does the average prepper spend?
The average American prepper spent around $149 on survival supplies in 2022, according to a recent survey by Finder. With over a third of Americans identifying as preppers, this amounted to a staggering $11 billion market.
When starting your own prep, focus first on covering the basics like food, water, medical essentials, and communication devices. As a beginner, here are some budget-friendly items to include in your SHTF supplies checklist:
- Water and Food - Canned goods, freeze-dried meals, bottled water. Stock up on nutritious non-perishables.
- First Aid Supplies - Bandages, ointments, medicines. Have materials to treat injuries and illnesses.
- Tools and Light Sources - Flashlights, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape. Prepare for power grid failures.
- Communication Devices - Battery powered radio, walkie talkies. Stay updated and connected.
You don't need to break the bank to put together your first well-rounded SHTF kit. Focus on the essentials, shop sales when possible, and build up your supplies over time. With some planning, even those on a tight budget can gain peace of mind knowing they have the necessary items to handle an emergency situation.
What does every prepper need?
Every prepper should have a well-stocked supply of essential items to survive a disaster or emergency situation. Here is a checklist of supplies to stockpile for basic survival preparedness:
Food and Water
Having enough food and water is critical in an emergency. Stock up on non-perishable foods like canned goods, dried foods, nuts, and MREs. Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person - more if possible. Refresh supplies every 6 months.
First Aid Supplies
A first aid kit is vital to treat injuries when medical care is limited. Stock gauze, bandages, ointments, medications, etc. Also pack scissors, tweezers, thermometers, gloves, and emergency first aid handbooks.
Tools and Supplies
Gather basic tools like matches, duct tape, ropes, tarps, shovels, axes, and multitools. Also useful are batteries, flashlights, lanterns, radios, and alternative charging methods. Stockpile fuel, propane, wood, and other power sources.
Clothing and Shelter
Having warm clothing, gloves, hats, sturdy shoes/boots, and extra socks can be lifesavers. Tents, sleeping bags, blankets and emergency shelters provide protection from the elements.
The key is preparing for any situation by stocking up on necessities ahead of time. Rotate and replace items before they expire. With smart planning, preppers can be self-reliant and ready for anything.
100 Items to Stockpile for SHTF Scenarios
Food is critical for survival. Beginner preppers should stockpile non-perishable foods and basic provisions that will sustain you if SHTF.
Non-Perishable Food Staples
When building your food stockpile, focus on nutritious non-perishable items that will last for years without refrigeration. Some good options include:
- Canned foods like beans, vegetables, fruits, meats, and soups. Look for low/no sodium options.
- Whole grains like rice, pasta, oats, and quinoa
- Dried fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and trail mixes
- Nut butters like peanut and almond butter
- Nutritional drink mixes and protein powders
When stockpiling, prioritize foods that provide balanced nutrition and calories to support health. Make sure to store foods properly and rotate stock to maximize freshness.
Ready-to-Eat Meals and Survival Rations
For convenience in an emergency, stock up on ready-to-eat meals like:
- MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) which contain full, balanced meals in lightweight packaging
- Freeze dried meal pouches which just require hot water
- Canned prepared meals like stews, chili, pasta dishes
These foods simplify preparation when utilities/appliances are unavailable. MREs and freeze dried meals also have long shelf lives of 5+ years.
Comfort Foods and Morale Boosters
Don't underestimate the value of comfort foods for providing a mental boost in stressful times:
- Familiar snacks like granola/protein bars, crackers, cookies
- Coffee, tea, powdered drinks like hot chocolate
- Jelly, honey, syrup, salsa, ketchup and other flavorings
- Hard candy, chocolate, gum
Store some nostalgic and morale-lifting foods to help cope with emergencies. Prioritize high-calorie foods as well.
When building your first food stockpile, focus on versatility, nutrition, and calories. Store foods properly and integrate into your regular diet to maximize freshness. Be sure to include some comfort foods as well for morale. Rotate and replenish items as you use them.
Water Storage & Purification Essentials
Stockpiling water and the means to acquire/purify more is vital for survival if SHTF. We outline the key supplies every beginner should have.
Reliable Water Storage Solutions
Beginners should stockpile bottled water and if possible, larger barrels for water storage. Calculate 1 gal/person/day.
- Stock up on cases of bottled water from big box stores. Get a variety of bottle sizes for versatility.
- Food-grade plastic barrels are ideal for longer term water storage. Ensure barrels have bung closures.
- Calculate water needs as 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene. Stock 2 weeks minimum initially.
- Store water barrels in cool, dark areas like a basement to maximize shelf life. Add water preserver as needed.
Water Filtration and Purification Systems
Stock reliable water filters like lifestraws and purification tabs like aquatabs in case stored water runs out.
- Lifestraw personal filters allow you to drink directly from lakes, streams, etc. in a pinch.
- Water purification tablets like Aquatabs kill bacteria & viruses when treating found water.
- Consider a gravity water filter to purify larger volumes collected in barrels or buckets.
- Bleach can also purify water - mix 8 drops per gallon and let sit 30+ minutes.
Rainwater Collection and Utilization
Tarps, barrels, and gutters allow you to collect rainwater. Have basic catchment tools on hand.
- Use tarps, plastic sheeting to collect rain runoff into barrels during storms.
- Attach PVC piping to gutters to divert flow into covered collection barrels.
- Screen collected rainwater to filter debris before drinking or using for hygiene needs.
- Consider a water collection system like rain chains or PVC pipes on your roof and property to maximize rainwater capture from the elements into barrels. Every bit helps in an extended SHTF scenario.
Prepper First Aid Kit and Medical Supplies
Having basic medical supplies on hand is crucial for emergency preparedness. When disaster strikes, professional medical care may be delayed or unavailable. Being able to provide first aid and basic treatment can save lives.
First Aid Kit Essentials for Every Prepper
A well-stocked first aid kit is a prepper must-have. At minimum, keep the following supplies:
- Adhesive bandages
- Gauze pads and rolls
- First aid tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Nitrile gloves
- Trauma items like tourniquets and pressure dressings
Tailor your kit based on your family's needs. Have supplies for handling cuts, burns, sprains and other common injuries. Rotate stock every 6 months to keep it fresh.
Medications and Antibiotics to Stockpile
Over-the-counter medications can relieve symptoms when illness strikes:
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen provide fever and headache relief
- Antacids treat gastrointestinal issues
- Anti-diarrheals manage diarrhea
- Antihistamines control allergic reactions
- Cough and cold medications reduce symptoms
Stock essential prescription medications for those with chronic conditions. Have basic antibiotics like amoxicillin on hand to treat bacterial infections when medical care is delayed. Rotate medication stock to prevent expiration.
Hygiene and Sanitation Supplies
Preventing illness is equally important. Stock soaps, disinfectants, masks and protective equipment. Key items include:
- Bar soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach for disinfection
- Rubbing alcohol
- N95 masks
- Nitrile gloves
- Biohazard bags
Proper sanitation prevents communicable illnesses from spreading. Maintain good hygiene practices during an emergency by washing hands, properly disposing waste and isolating the sick.
Stockpiling medical essentials prepares families to handle health issues when professional care is unavailable. Tailor first aid kits, medications and sanitation supplies to meet your family's unique needs and vulnerabilities. Rotate stock every 6-12 months to ensure freshness. With the proper supplies and training, many common post-disaster injuries and illnesses can be effectively managed at home.
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Self-Defense and SHTF Security Measures
When SHTF, chaos and conflict can occur. Having basic defense items helps protect yourself, your family, and your critical supplies.
Firearms and Ammunition for SHTF Defense
Firearms allow you to hunt game or defend against threats if needed. Consider having basic firearms training and stock ammunition if lawful and responsible in your area. However, the first line of defense is avoiding conflict when possible through vigilance and preparation.
Alternative Defense Tools and Melee Weapons
Items like knives, axes, and machetes serve as quiet, no-fuss defense and utility options. If owning such items, properly learn safety and usage techniques. However, avoiding conflict should be the priority when possible.
Home Security Enhancements
Simple alarms, locks, lighting, and other lawful precautions help secure your home or location against intruders. Staying vigilant and building positive community relationships also promotes safety.
Alternative Energy and Lighting Solutions
Power grids often fail post-disaster. Having alternate energy sources and lighting allows critical operations to continue.
Solar Power and Portable Generators
Solar panels and portable generators provide renewable electricity to power small devices and tools when the main power grid goes down. Consider getting a solar charging kit to keep devices charged. Gasoline-powered portable generators can also supply backup power, but require fuel stabilizer and safe operation.
Fuel Storage and Management
Stockpile fuel sources like propane, gasoline, diesel for cooking, heating, and transport. Use fuel stabilizers and have proper containers to safely store for long periods. Rotate your fuel supply to keep it fresh. Have a fuel management plan detailing usage priorities.
Illumination Tools for Power Outages
Reliable lighting is essential during outages. Keep battery-powered flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks, and headlamps. Also have fuel-based options like propane lanterns, candles, kerosene lamps. Place lights strategically around living areas, stock extra batteries/fuel. Waterproof and outdoor lighting allows visibility for critical tasks.
Shelter and Clothing Necessities for SHTF Preparedness
Without adequate shelter and clothing, exposure can quickly become life-threatening. Having basic provisions ready is crucial.
Insulation and Warmth: Emergency Blankets and Clothing
Wool, down and weatherproof jackets, hats, and gloves can help battle the cold. Emergency survival blankets trap body heat and provide insulation.
Pack multiple layers and prepper gear for various weather conditions. Having the proper attire prevents hypothermia and frostbites during extreme weather.
Shelter Building Supplies: Tents, Tarps, and Ropes
Invest in durable, waterproof tents and tarps to allow quick shelter construction if needed. Having strong rope and cordage is essential for securing your shelter.
Choose gear made of ripstop fabrics. Opt for earth tone colors to blend into the environment. Practice setting up your tent in different terrain.
Appropriate Apparel for Survival Situations
Proper footwear prevents injury so choose sturdy boots with ankle support. Have clothing for both hot and cold weather conditions.
Pack extra socks and base layers. Natural fibers like wool regulate body temperature better than synthetics. You'll need gloves, face masks, gaiters, and rain gear as well.
Prioritize function over style when assembling your SHTF list. Focus on practical items over trendy ones.
25 Items Every Prepper Should Stockpile
Being prepared for an emergency situation requires having certain essential items on hand. As a beginner prepper, focus first on stockpiling these 25 basic necessities.
Essential Tools for Building and Repairs
Having the right tools available can make a big difference in an emergency. Consider stockpiling:
- Shovels - for digging latrines, moving soil, harvesting roots
- Saws - for cutting wood to build shelters or use as fuel
- Hatchets - for splitting kindling, felling small trees
- Hammers/nails - for constructing basic structures and shelters
- Duct tape - one of the most versatile emergency repair tools
Comprehensive Toolkits for Various Needs
In addition to individual tools, be sure to have full kits available for:
- Home repairs - plumbing, electrical, structural
- Vehicle repairs - sockets, wrenches, jumper cables
- Camping/hiking - knife, flint, compass
These pre-packed toolkits save time and ensure you have what's needed for critical repairs.
Multipurpose Supplies: Ropes, Tarps, and Adhesives
Some supplies can serve many different purposes:
- Rope - building shelters, lifting/moving heavy objects, securing items
- Tarps - construct basic shelters, collect rainwater
- Duct tape - emergency repairs for damaged tools, torn clothing/shoes
Stockpiling versatile items that can solve many problems is efficient and takes up little storage space.
Prepper Gear and Supplies to Enhance Survival
Beyond the basics, there are additional gear and supplies that can significantly improve a prepper's ability to survive and thrive in emergency situations.
Navigation and Communication Tools
Having the proper navigation and communication equipment can be invaluable when SHTF. Consider stockpiling the following:
- Maps and compasses - Ensure you have topographical maps of your area and quality compasses to maintain orientation if digital navigation devices fail.
- Two-way radios - Reliable two-way radios allow communication with your group locally. Opt for longer range models.
- Satellite phones - When cell networks go down, sat phones still enable long distance communication. Though expensive, they are worth the investment.
Survival Books and Educational Resources
Self-education is key to emergency preparedness. Stockpile:
- Wilderness survival manuals - Cover crucial topics like finding water, trapping food, and crafting shelters.
- First aid guides - Have references for treating injuries when medical care is unavailable.
- Gardening books - Learn techniques for homesteading and providing your own food supply.
Hunting and Fishing Equipment
If SHTF, hunting and fishing may provide vital food sources when stores are empty. Have gear like:
- Rifles, bows, snares - Essentials for hunting game animals and protecting your cache.
- Fishing rods, tackle boxes - Enables procuring fish from lakes and rivers. Stock hooks, line, lures.
- Field dressing knives - Necessary for safely cleaning hunted game to prepare meat.
The right specialized gear improves resilience in disasters. Invest preparedness funds wisely into equipment that fills crucial survival needs.
Prepper Supplies Clearance: Budget-Friendly Options
Building an emergency preparedness kit does not need to be expensive. There are many ways to save money on essential supplies while still ensuring you have what you need when an emergency strikes.
Finding Deals on Prepper Essentials
- Check online sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and OfferUp for used gear in good condition. You can often find camping, hiking, and survival items at big discounts.
- Sign up for email alerts from outdoor retailers to get notifications about sales, promo codes, and clearance items. REI, Cabela's, and Sportsman's Warehouse regularly have prepper gear on sale.
- Buy in bulk whenever possible. Products like freeze-dried food, water storage containers, and first aid supplies can see major savings when purchasing larger quantities. Consider going in with friends to split bulk purchases.
- Check thrift stores, garage sales, and second-hand sporting goods shops. You may uncover hidden gems like backpacks, sleeping bags, or camp stoves for pennies on the dollar.
DIY Alternatives for Expensive Gear
- A cheap plastic bucket with a tight lid makes an effective food-grade water storage container. Ensure it previously held food and wash thoroughly before use.
- Upcycle an old backpack or duffel bag into a bug out bag. Use compartments and pockets to organize your critical supplies.
- Make a survival stove from an empty can, alcohol, and a hole punch. There are many designs online using simple, inexpensive materials.
- Repurpose everyday items for prepping. For example, walking sticks double as self-defense tools, and bandanas can be used as water filters or tourniquets.
Prioritizing Investments in Critical Supplies
Focus your funds on stockpiling the most vital items first:
- Water filtration/purification supplies are essential. Consider a gravity filter, chemical treatment, or a DIY bio-sand method.
- Stock up on long-shelf-life calories. Rice, beans, honey, peanut butter, and freeze-dried meals provide sustenance in an emergency.
- A well-equipped first aid kit can save lives. Prioritize trauma supplies like tourniquets, bandages, scissors, and medication.
- Invest in quality gear for fire, light, and communication. Stock batteries, fuel, lighters, flashlights and two-way radios.
With some savvy shopping and clever DIY solutions, preppers can build an effective preparedness kit without breaking the bank. Focus spending on critical survival basics before expanding into more expensive niche gear.
Prepper List 2023: The Latest Must-Haves
Staying up-to-date with the latest prepping gear recommendations and innovations is key for having the most effective SHTF kit. As technology advances and strategies evolve, preppers can utilize new tools to enhance their preparedness.
Emerging Technologies in Prepping
In recent years, solar power and renewable energy sources have become more affordable and efficient. Portable solar panels and power banks allow preppers to charge devices off-grid. Water filtration systems using UV light provide access to clean drinking water in any situation. Multi-tools with built-in LED lights, knives, and fire starters consolidate functionality.
Trending Prepper Gear and Supplies
Pre-packaged bug out bags with essential survival items are gaining popularity for their convenience. Collapsible and packable containers help maximize limited space when stockpiling food and supplies. Freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, and meat have a long shelf life and provide balanced nutrition. Two-way radios facilitate communication when cell networks are down.
Updated Strategies for Modern Preppers
With an unstable economy and political climate, preppers emphasize financial readiness in case of job loss or inflation. Having cash on hand, reducing debt, diversifying assets, and developing skills that generate income without reliance on infrastructure are prudent strategies. As cyber attacks increase, using encrypted communication tools and storing important documents offline enable self-reliance. Recognizing widespread misinformation, critical thinking skills are vital.
Final Tips & Conclusion
As a beginner prepper, it's important not to get overwhelmed. Start by focusing on versatile, lifesaving supplies to form a strong foundation. Use this SHTF checklist as a blueprint to stock up on necessities like food, water, first aid, tools, and other critical items.
Over time, gradually expand your preparations as your knowledge grows. Connect with local prepper communities to exchange ideas and recommendations. Combining resources can make gathering supplies more feasible.
When building your stockpile, aim to sustain it by rotating items before they expire. Proper storage and maintenance will ensure your tools remain operational when needed most.
The key is to continually progress your capabilities. View prepping as an ongoing journey rather than a single destination. With the right mindset and community, you'll be well on your way to emergency preparedness.
