What are your must haves/things you dont think people talk about enough?
Posted by Tay_foxx@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 198 comments
this is a question for both tuesday preppers and doomsday preppers! im curious - what are your must haves for prep? it can be anything, but dont comment something that is on virtually every prepper list out there (like food). for example, i think physical photos of loved ones and pets are important. a must have? maybe not, but i haven’t seen many people talk about it (granted im a casual prepper). you never know what you’re going to encounter in an emergency, and living 4.5 hours away from family, i personally feel like having these physical pictures would serve as a reminder of why i need to fight so hard to stay safe and get home.
tirandagan@reddit
A complete set of maps for your state with contour lines so you can use them to cross terrain and trails in the less populated areas. These can be great during non emergency for camping, hiking etc. Get a waterproof one, my favorite:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/296753817613
RonJohnJr@reddit
Throwing them in a tote is trivial. Your children will thank you.
Bodily waste disposal is discussed, but (especially people with municipal sewerage) usually have inadequate plans. Or they plan to evacuate if it gets untenable.
mountainsformiles@reddit
Yes, toilet issues. What are you going to use, where are you going to dispose of it and how to keep the smell down.
TheBearded54@reddit
I’m riding out this hurricane. I have a makeshift camping toilet that I made out of a 5 gallon bucket and a cheap toilet seat I bought at Lowe’s.
I took some 2x4s and made a seat, secured the bucket under it and screwed the toilet seat onto it. I also made a holder for TP and wet wipes. It’s rudimentary but it’ll work if we gotta use it.
I then bought 500 contractor trash bags, 42lb box of cat litter. I’ll line the bucket with the trash bag, use the bathroom and throw some litter in the bag afterwards to absorb liquid and block some of the odor. I’ll tie a knot between uses and be able to use 1 bag for 3 uses. I’ll probably just piss outside though but I do need a setup for my wife.
nostalgicvintage@reddit
As a woman who frequently pees outside ... there is no real difference needed.
Mixing urine and feces smells way worse, so it's preferable to pee elsewhere and use the bucket to poop. Also peeing in the bag/bucket makes it way heavier to dispose of and more vulnerable to spills.
I'd rather just squat outside and only use the bucket to poop. I don't like female urinary devices ( have tired a few) because they require finess and the ability to control how fast you pee.
My tips: pop an open zip lock in one pocket and TP in the other. Get into a full ass-to-grass sumo squat. Pee, wipe, bag the paper before standing up. The real key is a wide stance low squat. Keeps you from peeing on your feet.
If you have to poop in a cat hole, it works best to dig a squat's distance from a small tree. FACE the tree, squat, and hold the tree for balance if needed.
Now, all this supposes I can go outside. In a hurricane, I'd probably pee in a dedicated sink. And clean it after.
mountainsformiles@reddit
Sounds great! I have a 5 gallon bucket with toilet seat. I've got a plastic ring around the bottom to help stabilize it but some wood pieces would probably work better. I've been using these rabbit bedding pellets to soak it up but it doesn't help much with the smell. I do have some doodle bags. That also doesn't help much with the smell.
I've hear that you should have separate buckets for the solids and liquids, but who has the space for that?
TheBearded54@reddit
Yeah cat litters been the go to in the past. It’ll clump, helps a little with the smell. I use the Contractor trash bags because they’re thicker.
I know people have said different buckets for solid and liquids but I’m not trying to do all that. The goal is to have nothing go into the bucket, it’s there to act as a trash can essentially where I’m lining it with a bag.
transitional_path@reddit
Poo powder.
Ryan_e3p@reddit
Those who know how to honey dip are going to be well loved in their communities.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
What’s honey dipping ?
Ryan_e3p@reddit
MADtv - Honeydipper Dan - YouTube
dinamet7@reddit
It may be a regional term, but afaik it's the people who provide septic cleaning and maintenance services.
MothraKnowsBest@reddit
Finding natural honey-holes, I’m guessing. Where bees store their honey in nature.
StageSevere2947@reddit
Entertainment, especially for kids. spices, way to wash/ dry clothing without machines.
No_Character_5315@reddit
Alot of powdered soaps and detergents don't expire always wondered why peoole don't mention it in preps for longer term. Being clean and hygienic will keep you healthy and happy
StageSevere2947@reddit
I thought the post was more about what people overlooked. I think soaps are pretty much 101 preps.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
it is, but theyre replying directly to a comment that mentions being sure you have a way to wash clothing without machines. most people nowadays probably use liquid detergent and dont think about powdered detergent being an option. can definitely tell you i hadnt thought about powdered hand soap… didnt even know it existed lol
babyCuckquean@reddit
Wait til i tell you about solid shampoo, conditioner and dish soap....
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
lol i do know about those shampoo/conditioner bars just never considered the fact that powdered shampoo/conditioner would be a thing
StageSevere2947@reddit
Powdered is all we use. 1/2 Borax, 1/2 washing soda. Works like a charm and costs nexr to nothing.
xXJA88AXx@reddit
2 - 5 gal. buckets. A lid with a hole in the center. 1 regular plunger. Put holes in the bottom of 1 of the buckets. The plunger handle goes in the lid. put the bucket with holes.in the bucket that doesn't, fill with clothes about half way. Add water and soap. Put the lid on and plunger the clothes. Pull out the bucket with the clothes, empty the bucket with the dirty water, repeat if needed.
TheBearded54@reddit
To add to this. I’m riding out the hurricane in FL right now. I have plenty of water and supplies but I ended up buying 4 - 5gal buckets with lids from Lowe’s (they’re pretty cheap) yesterday.
What I did was scrub them with Blue Dawn (it’s a degreaser) and rinse with warm water. I repeated this process twice on each bucket. I then let them dry to ensure no residue. Then I disinfected with bleach (one teaspoon per gallon) and filled them up. I let them sit for an hour. Then I dumped them, rinsed really well and let air dry. After the bleach mixture I used vinegar to wipe down the walls again, then filled them up, let sit overnight. This morning I rinsed really well again. I then filled each one up completely with water. This gives me 20 gallons to use if the water is an issue after the storm and my supplies start to run low.
I’ll use this water to flush toilets if needed and as emergency drinking water. I also have water purification tablets that I’ll use just to be extra safe if I need to drink it.
I know the bath tub trick but I have a 4 month old and would rather save my tub to be able to bathe her.
Thatdipwadthere@reddit
The white Lowes buckets are food safe
Itchecksout_76@reddit
Great to know thanks
TheBearded54@reddit
Had to buy blue ones. They’re just for emergency though.
StageSevere2947@reddit
Dang, you are on top of it. God speed down there!
TheBearded54@reddit
I didn’t board up. I haven’t gotten our worst yet. I have some strong windows since it’s a 2023 built home.
I’m less worried about the storm. It’ll do what it does and I’ll fight my insurance if I gotta. I’m more worried about people though.
AdditionalAd9794@reddit
Stimulants legal or otherwise, electrolytes and sleeping accommodations.
I mean people really think they're gonna walk 50 miles straight without sleeping and without cramping in shtf.
An exorbitant amount of caffeine, a few bumps of coke or prescription amphatamines are probably barely up to the task of keeping you going.
It's either drugs or sleep, pick one
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Unhealthy people that rely on drugs for everything will get shot for (trying to steal) or off themself when they run out of their addiction. Our must stronger ancestors before us lived and worked hard in the sun daily Walked miles to get places and worked for every bit of food they ate And didn’t need drugs. It’s such a looser mindset. But of course we live in a drug glorified society so…
BigRantBoi@reddit
Absolutely untrue stimulants have been getting abused since thousands of years before the romans, don't comment bullshit for the sake of it.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
I guess you look through history and idolize the looser who wanted to get high all day. I idolize the winner who built the modern world and we’re in peak health and physical form.
Ill_Economy7021@reddit
Almost ALL of the greatest contributors in history, whether it'd be art, science, physics etc. ALL had an unhealthy addiction in some form or another. Whether that'd be drugs, alcohol or women, they all had a crutch and still managed to achieve growth and legacies of greatness. Please don't be this delusional.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
So I should aim to repeat all the failures and mistakes of the greats ? What’s the point you’re trying to make ? We live in a society that cares more about drugs and a good time than health and strength All I’m saying is I wouldn’t use drugs unless absolutely necessary as the last resort. And the human body is extremely strong and capable people are just to weak to sacrifice and push it to its full capability
Ill_Economy7021@reddit
What you do is up to you. But saying that others are weaker than you because of a,b,c isn't rational thinking. By your rationale, if someone is for instance, wounded, they dont need pain meds because that stuff is for pussies and they should just push their bodies to its full capabilities in order to deal...right? If your point is that drugs are harmful and cause societal problems then yes, of course they do. In a SHTF scenario, most folks will check out in the first 72 hours regardless of how many miles they can currently hike or how many cigarettes they currently smoke. I digress. Drugs bad yes. Have a good evening.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
People like you hear what they want. Never did I say a wounded individual is a pus for needing meds? No. But popping pills for “exhaustion “ ? If you trained harder it would be very rare that you should need that. People are to reliant on modern luxury’s and feel good remedies. And yes sorry to break it to you some people are weaker than others. Have a good one pal
babyCuckquean@reddit
You do know they test world class athletes for drugs, right? Because even those who train the hardest, who are among the best, want to be the best and strongest on the day. Apply this to a shtf situation. Youve hiked for 36 hours and can barely put one foot in front of the other. Its not safe to sleep, and you only have 5 hours left of hiking before you hit safety.
Youre being overly judgemental and self righteous over this. Noones saying junkies are gonna rule in the apocalypse, noones saying drugs are cool, we're saying drugs - include prescription, illicit and nootropics in this - can be useful, and even lifesaving when used at an appropriate time in an appropriate way.
Theres no need for the grandstanding posture and hypervigilance, we're all adults or very close to it and arent going to go throw our lives away tomorrow because we read a comment thread on reddit today.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Stalker.
babyCuckquean@reddit
Are you?
LOOK OUT EVERYONE THIS GUY SAYS HE'S A STALKER!
seriously though, a couple of comments does not a stalker make. Im legitimately interested in the topic and genuinely disturbed by your stance on it.
Somewhere else you try to make out that caffeine may or may not be a drug depending on a persons viewpoint, but i can assure you that chemical compounds do not care what people think of them.
They just do their thing, and humans can use or misuse or abuse them. It doesnt affect the chemical in questions purpose or efficacy or legitimacy at all.
Trying to apply a hysterical human morality to science is like.. well we know better than that in this day and age, dont we? There are solid, science backed, lifesaving treatments and therapies using substituted phenethylamines for example - from asthma, cardiac arrest, anaphylactic shock and way more, hundreds of uses for them.
Substituted phenethylamines also bring us MDMA and methamphetamine. Which have been proven to have excellent therapeutic properties too unfortunately they feel very good too which can be very bad for people who dont have a lot going for them.
Trust me though, theyre still being used clinically just not willy nilly or for long term. One trial showed a small amphetamine dose at onset of a stroke can protect the brain from injury. No chemical compound is all bad.
Thats it, thats all i have to say on it.
I hope your future is healthy and happy.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
I’m not reading this paragraph bud. Have a nice life lol
babyCuckquean@reddit
Lol. Standard. Head in the sand.
BigRantBoi@reddit
Don't idolise it at all I'm simply realistic about the world
Lost_Poem7495@reddit
The special forces who protect your ass daily take “allowed meth” to stay awake. Try again. I get the point you are making, and its true. But dont get all butt hurt, cuz in a life or death situation, Your smoking the meth and rucking 50 miles Bud.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
I’m not butt hurt but sounds like you and a lot of other people are. You aren’t special forces. And special forces ARE IN PEAK PHYSICAL AND HEALTH CONDITIONS. A normal fat a$$ laying on his sofa doesn’t need those drugs. Sounds like yall making excuses do get high. Good luck with that.
Lost_Poem7495@reddit
Stating a fact is not being butt hurt. Clearly you don’t know anything about the military if you don’t know they are given narcotics for many things! No worries man, just educate yourself better. I also told you, the sentiment behind your initial comment was correct. Living a drug free life. That wasn’t enough for you though, you couldn’t accept being corrected respectfully.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Bro idk what you are talking about but good luck with that lol Just going on and on and on Everyone does not agree with you. I can hike 20 miles everyday for 5 days with no drugs on 5 hours of sleep so….yeah Y’all need to train more
Lost_Poem7495@reddit
Clearly you dont man! Well stay in shape, good luck to you too!
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Good luck bro
babyCuckquean@reddit
used, also abused.. but often just used, in the same way as opium, cannabis and other useful chemicals have been identified, isolated, and used. The same way a LOT of animals do.
Zoopharmacognacy is a real thing, and we are just animals when it comes down to it.
destrictusensis@reddit
What is coffee?
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Some people consider it a drug some don’t. But coffee wasn’t in ever part of the earth and people still got things done. But I’d rather coffee than DRUGS And ultimately I rather training my mind and body to function and get things done. It’s possible people are just lazy and wanna take the easy way out
AdditionalAd9794@reddit
And what of an emergency scenario, you have to stay awake for 36hrs or longer? Without these drugs, if you don't nod off and fall asleep, you will be greatly impaired, both physically and mentally
AdditionalAd9794@reddit
I think you don't understand the usefulness or how commonly these drugs are used. From college students to white collar professionals, these drugs are widely prescribed, not just for recreational use. I mean how often do you hear of students to all nighter study crams the day before an exam, or using these drugs to be on point during an exam.
Not to mention one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the World Bayer studied the use of these drugs in Nazi Germany 80 years ago. There were also studies in the US and Japan. These were literally our ancestors, or great grand parents
Ryan_e3p@reddit
Do I have to pick only one?
AdditionalAd9794@reddit
You could do all 4 caffeine, cocaine and amphetamines, then sleep for 36hrs when you crash
transitional_path@reddit
You can't just take amphetamines and caffeine for three days straight and not crash for days afterwards.
I guess meth users do it for weeks at a time, but then they sleep for weeks after.
So I guess it's go big or go home.
Personally, I would be careful about too many stimulants. There is no free lunch. It will severely suppress your immune system. Your chances of getting sick go way up (B cells, T cells, Immunoglobulins, everything is way down). And healing takes way longer, while on stimulants. The more powerful, the more suppressant.
They put your body into fight or flight. Not rest and heal.
I think it could be a powerful tool for a 50 mile hike. But you have to figure in rest blocked in somewhere. You don't just get free energy from stimulants. You pay for it later. If you're out for the count because you went crazy earlier, that's a vulnerability.
AdditionalAd9794@reddit
I agree, the point of the stimulant is to get you to safety, be it home or a bugout location. At which point you can sleep for probably an entire day.
My comment was mostly directed at the get home bag scenario. Where people often think they are gonna make a 50 mile trek home without sleep. Realistically you either need to plan to sleep en route and prepare accordingly, or you need drugs, preferably legal prescribed amphetamines.
That said, it should be a tool in your tool bag, your get home bag, even if ultimately you don't use it, it is nice to have the tool as an option
transitional_path@reddit
Makes sense. Like if you've got 8 hours left in a hike and you can't stop.
UM222@reddit
Communities and the roles of individuals within.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
No. Stick with your group of family or friends that you know and trust. You don’t need the whole world knowing what you have and drawing attention to yourself. When are people gonna get that??? The friendly neighbors you know and love will turn evil in a real society collapse or war when the law no longer exists
transitional_path@reddit
After being here a bit, I realize this is literally the most 50/50, fiercely debated topic in the prepper communities.
Some say every man for himself. Some say you'll have more death and risk without working together.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Y’all are forgetting a key component of working together is OTHER PEOPLE. So if you willingly want to deal with jealousy, greed, stealing, lying , and wanting to be in control and lead then good luck. I’d rather be with my group and keep others out. Plus it unrealistic expectations. Everyone had the chance to prep but now that you are unprepared you want my stuff ? I don’t think so
CDay007@reddit
“My group” is already other people. No one is saying come together with the entire population of your city. Community could be your neighborhood, it could just be two neighbors, it could just be family or friends that don’t live in your house.
And IF community means neighbors, often times these are people you’ve discussed this stuff with. You know you don’t have to go crazy prepping medical supplies because neighbor John’s got that covered, and John doesn’t need the gas because you’ve got it. Your group and community are the same thing
Delicious-Response88@reddit
I’d rather have everything I could possibly need in house. I don’t want to rely on neighbors resources. But good luck
CDay007@reddit
If that’s what you want that’s fine. You have to recognize there’s pros and cons to both though. Yes, you don’t have to trust others. But it’ll also cost you more money, space, time, and effort to learn, acquire, store, use, repair, protect, etc. everything you need on your own
Delicious-Response88@reddit
First off the time and money it’ll take? Everyone should be putting in that work because if one of your group dies in a hurricane They shouldn’t have been the only one that knows how to use the first aid kit ( y’all rely on people way to much) Secondly it’s number one priority for me to be 100% self sufficient and be able to survive by myself That the only way I’m externally helpful to my Freinds and family. I always teach my family to be the same way so there are no weak spots in our small group and when SHTF No one will be welcomed into the small group. Also very silly to think having all these extra people will benefit you 9 times outta 10 when SHTF they’ll turn on you and not have your back Or raid everything they know you have. When it’s life or death and primal instinct kicks in People do horrible things it’s just the sad truth. No one can stab you in the back if you are alone ( not saying to be completely alone but you get it )
CDay007@reddit
As I said, if you think the risk of someone turning on you is more important than the benefit of having extra people, that’s your call to make. But if you think you can have all the same knowledge and skills as a group of people then you’re just a fool.
ARGirlLOL@reddit
If them raiding you is what you are worried about, wouldn’t helping them along so they can be a part of your clique be the smartest choice? Seems you’re intent on 1) being alone 2) being trapped in the apocalypse with just your family and both of those seem like real bad choices when literally there are people next door you’d rather starve to death than be part of your team who, if you added to your team you think they would then maybe raid you? Trust me, you’ll want every defense from the actually raiders you can have and that’s not best health with while having an enemy next door.
transitional_path@reddit
That's definitely one view. I don't disagree. People are desperate.
I also think a lot of those who don't prep, don't have a gun or weapon of any kind either, and can barely lift their leg to kick in a door. So they aren't much of a threat, so long as you don't invite them in.
I agree though, they will do what they're good at then: lie, deceive, manipulate, steal. Probably.
But also, it depends on the people. But knowing Americans.....that's probably how people are.
Delicious-Response88@reddit
Yeah 100% people are opening the door simply to get fooled and manipulated because they want to believe people are so good. Also it’s not just Americans that everyone in a life or death situation.
transitional_path@reddit
Yeah that's why they used to call out "State your business".
Or I guess say nothing at all...
kmitts2@reddit
Crazy how you keep knowing better than the other commenters! Everyone is stupid except me.
UM222@reddit
Family+Friends=Community
Usernamenotdetermin@reddit
Books, hard copy.
hortlerslover2@reddit
A kindle in a faraday bag with a solar charger is a solid option too. Mine lasts a super long time.
BlackWolf3277777771@reddit
Yeah I was about to say if the situation includes and EMP there goes your tech unless it's protected and charged.
septic_sergeant@reddit
A boox tablet is even better. You can load up android apps. Which means you can use it to display off line maps and other things.
alexandria3142@reddit
I love my kindle paperwhite honestly
Usernamenotdetermin@reddit
I use my iPad when I am fixing the car
I own a chiltoms on that model year and it’s on the shelf
I take advantage of tech whenever possible, but still advocate for hard copies for the important stuff
hortlerslover2@reddit
Ohh 100% in some cases. But it helps free up space to have them digitally too.
BluebirdFast3963@reddit
Books about which plants you can eat in your area with good pictures and descriptions
Literally a life saver
You don't need to retain all that mycology and plant information in your brain if you have a book ready
TomSmith113@reddit
Yes! But also do your practice before it's necessary so that you make your mistakes in a controlled environment!
Usernamenotdetermin@reddit
Chiltons manual / Haynes manual
Greys Anatomy
Field guide to (fill in the blank)
So many examples
Build a small library really
StrugglingGhost@reddit
Why would I need to keep an old television show on hand?
Usernamenotdetermin@reddit
https://a.co/d/5ufIQTt
DaGreatPenguini@reddit
McDreamy, duh
dinamet7@reddit
And make sure it's a legit book by a reputable local author that you can make sure is a real person (recently saw a video posted by Alexis Nikole about AI written foraging books with 5 star reviews with a made up a fake author with a legitimate looking background blurb and the information contained within the book is at best irrelevant to the local ecosystem, and at worst, contains dangerous misinformation.)
reincarnateme@reddit
And maps
Dry_Technology_1190@reddit
Yeap, paper maps.
TeamRedundancyTeam@reddit
Should mention offline maps on your phone too. It's easy to do and gives you a lot more info than paper maps.
ommnian@reddit
Yes. I see sooo many posts about 'look! Just go download ebooks!' and... I just can't. ALL of my references - about plants, animals, fungi, gardening, animal husbandry, building stuff, etc are real, hard copies. If you've ever tried to read an ebook about one of these subjects while in the field, you understand instantly, why paper is preferred!!!
TeamRedundancyTeam@reddit
But you do realize there are way, way more books that you wouldn't be reading "in the field" right? You can have physical books, but an eReader can carry far far more without the space or weight. It seems silly to be entirely against ereaders because of one type of book.
Realistic_Willow_662@reddit
Chapstick. Spices. Books.
KlienIngHome2897@reddit
Investing.
ellsiejay@reddit
Can you clarify? Thanks!
VenusRocker@reddit
Up to date dental care. As well as medical, vision, etc. This is not the time to wish you'd had that painful tooth looked at sooner. Or the new glasses you know you need. Or to find out those occasional pains are your heart, or another treatable condition. Be kinda depressing to be prepped for a year, but die in 3 months from an infected tooth.
Eeyor1982@reddit
A list of the phone numbers for friends and family in my wallet and in a designated spot in my house. I don't remember any phone numbers anymore since everything is programmed into my phone. If my phone is lost, damaged, or not charged enough to power up, I want to be able to contact folks if I need to borrow a phone. It's also a bit of an ICE list if something happens and I am unresponsive in a hospital.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
yes!! one of the things on my to do list is to type out contact information of friends/family, have a few copies, and get them laminated (or seal them on my own using some plastic and heat). they won’t do me any good if they get wet, and i figure typing is best in case i have an emergency and someone needs to be able to read the phone numbers. my hand writing isnt always the best lol
Heavy-Attorney-9054@reddit
Dump your contact list to a spreadsheet and code it.
Eeyor1982@reddit
A friend of mine had to evacuate their house in the middle of the night due to a fire. They were able to grab their cat, shoes, wallet, and a jacket before vacating. They borrowed a phone to call family for assistance, but didn't know their mom's number. They ended up calling a friend from high school, the only number they could remember, to call their mom. Because of their experience, I want a physical copy in addition to any digital copies.
ARGirlLOL@reddit
Contractor bags and duct tape
rakut@reddit
I think having the originals of everything that’s most important kept all together somewhere safe and easily accessible is pretty important.
I had to evacuate my home quickly and was able to grab everyone’s social security card, birth certificates, marriage certificate, passports, car titles, wills, powers of attorney, and all my expensive heirloom jewelry in 30 seconds without any hesitation or searching because they’re all kept together in a lockbox in a safe. I just grabbed the box and tossed it into our bag.
Big-Preference-2331@reddit
Hot sauce. It makes about anything edible. Prairie dog kabobs, cotton tails, quail, jack rabbit etc. Having good hot sauce makes them all tolerable.
DJH351@reddit
Give any vet a pack of MRE crackers and a mini bottle of tabasco and they can eat boiled bootleather.
Professional-Can1385@reddit
hot sauce recipe
Skenz14@reddit
1 part hot, 2 part sauce.
mezasu123@reddit
Or if you want it hotter, 2 parts hot one part sauce.
alittlebitofmystuff@reddit
Laser pointer in case you are stranded in a remote region and aircraft is search for you.
Adol214@reddit
Please explain how you would use it and how powerful the laser need to be.
alittlebitofmystuff@reddit
There are several on the market with durability, intensity and battery life being key features. I would say get the best one you can afford. The idea is to sweep the pointer horizontally in the direction of your rescuers so you get a consistent flash and draw their attention.
TheLostExpedition@reddit
Coffee ☕ a Second would be books.
Adol214@reddit
Water .
Often not mentioned. Volume needed is usually underestimated.
We sometimes see people focusing on using doubtful water source and looking for way to purify it, which don't have a week a drinkable water stocked.
Recently, from a swamp and capturing rain water from the window of a flat.
1st stock drinkable water.
2nd have some way of getting and cleaning water.
You don't want to be dehydrated when dragging around 4 gal of water in the middle of a crises.
bfrankiehankie@reddit
Deck of cards
Adol214@reddit
And rules for many kind of games
loondog@reddit
Menstrual products. Tampons can also be used to pack wounds in a pinch.
Sk8rToon@reddit
Feminine Hygiene products!!!
Not just for the women of reproductive age in your life. Not just for the women of reproductive age you might come across & need to barter with. But they make great absorbers be it for wounds (they’re sanitary!) or water overflow. I had no clue I had a leaky bottle of Tide because it dripped down into a pile of pads that absorbed it on the shelf below (which has now been remedied). Imagine my surprise when I picked up a brand new Big jug of it & it was near empty but nothing on the floor!
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
definitely second this one, but be safe using them for wounds. obviously, if it is a last resort then youve got to do what youve got to do, but remember they aren’t sterile. there was a recent study done that showed the presence of toxic metals in tampons. sounds like youre talking mostly about pads, but i wouldnt put it past companies that are somehow allowing toxic metals into their tampons to also be allowing questionable things into their pads.
all of that said, always a good idea to have different hygeine products on you, whether you’re using them for their intended purpose or not.
No-Badger9275@reddit
There are safe pads and tampons out there (organic, bleach-free, chemical-free cotton). They’re more expensive but worth it. Certainly no less harmful than the bandages found to have high levels of carcinogenic chemicals that leach directly into your wound. I’d also suggest the reusable pads (not the underwear since those will be more size-restrictive), especially if not being used for wounds. They typically retain absorption ability for dozens of cycles. If opting for the reusable pads, look for organic, plastic-free versions. They come in different lengths and “flow” ratings.
baby___bug@reddit
water and water wipes to clean yourself for if you don't have access to clean water. could happen in almost all scenarios.
also thos camping/hiking water filters. they even have some in a whole water bottle which I thought was cool.
water water water!
and portable fire pits/grills.
Nemo_Shadows@reddit
Knowledge, Books, How Too's, they all come in handy and sooner or later you may need them to use or to teach others how too.
It isn't just about survival it is about rebuilding what stupide people may have destroyed or nature did, and you simply were lucky or unlucky enough to have survived it and you will need to rebuild and that is everything from medicinal to animal husbandry, farming to structural engineering to physics and everything in between.
Keeps one from also being bored because sooner or later after one goes through those 5 stages of loss and grief you are going to want to do SOMETHING, and it helps to have the knowledge if you do not have it already.
Just saying.
N. S
StaceyEcks@reddit
Bug Repellant, Flares, headlamp, portable fan
Moogie21@reddit
A multi tool to turn off water and gas valves. I don’t think I’ve seen one listed on any lists. But good to have in an emergency.
acl0624@reddit
Spigot key?
Moogie21@reddit
It’s a 4-in-1 tool described as “4 in 1 Emergency Tool - Heat Treated Alloy, Multi-Function Tool - Shuts Off Gas, Water, Pry Tool, Digs Debris, Non-Sparking, For Firefighters, 1st Responders, Emergency Kit For Disaster Preparedness”. It was $20 off Amazon.
exit65@reddit
Just use pliers
Source: am professional firefighter
madp8nter@reddit
Relying on skills rather than self soothing consumption is not how we do things around here >:(
Heavy-Attorney-9054@reddit
I've worked with people who didn't know which end of a screwdriver worked.
akaydis@reddit
Death and wills
Low_Beautiful_5970@reddit
Pet supplies
Somthin_Clever@reddit
hygine products
Embarrassed-Aspect-9@reddit
Mouse traps and lice removal shampoo. Mice can destroy your preps and lice would make you miserable.
Superb_Astronaut8980@reddit
My mum is in Asheville dealing with the hurricane damage and she told me she wishes she had more pet food……. Been making rice for her cat to eat
Superb_Astronaut8980@reddit
I appreciate it all but she’s elderly and stuck. My brother is hiking back in tomorrow to take her some food and pet supplies
wool@reddit
Tell her Petco on Brevard Road (highway 191) is well stocked. Also MANNA food bank at the farmer’s market on the same road will give you pet food for free.
brithogin@reddit
We’ve been making supply drops to Asheville, does she need some cat food dropped off? Happy to do so! (Our kiddo was at UNCA)
aspiringagent@reddit
It’s great that she’s trying but she may want to reach out for help on this one. Cats can only digest protein so the rice isn’t the answer she needs it to be.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
oh gosh im sorry to hear that but glad they are alright! ive got a cat as well and will be making an emergency pet bag just in case. if she has any powdered (or real) eggs she could mix a few of those in with the rice to help. if she has any type of chicken broth/stock she could water it down (like wayyyyyy down it has a ton of sodium in it) and cook the rice with that. not sure that it would provide many additional nutrients but could be worth a shot.
Professional-Can1385@reddit
I hope she's got some meat for her cat too! Cats aren't omnivores like dogs.
MothraKnowsBest@reddit
Aw, how awful for them both. I’m hoping she’s OK for the time being?
KingWaffle12345@reddit
Entertainment. Like a DS and a powerbank. If power goes out and you need to hunker down (which is most likely, atleast over here) you can still play for days.
BoxOfUsefulParts@reddit
I have two, Wrecking and Rescue kits. Tool bags of things like crow (US = pry?) bars, hammers, chisels, knives, screw drivers etc. These are ready to go. One is heavy and one is lighter.
Available for assisting neighbours in collapsed buildings or damaged vehicles. (When that big, old tree comes down in a storm)
I also have a, See me - Rescue me BoB. It is all red and high-viz, ready to go at a moments notice for fire escape. It has clothing and shoes, snacks and drinks, whistles and torches (US = flashlight) etc. I have smoke hoods by my bed and at an escape window. Have a fire plan, folks.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
honestly feel like i hear crow bar more often than pry bar but it could be the part of the country im in, not that it really matters.
smoke hoods are brilliant i definitely need to grab some. honestly didnt even know they were a thing, but a fire is one of my bigger fears, especially because i live in an apartment so who knows what my neighbors are doing.
BoxOfUsefulParts@reddit
I am in block of flats. I have one exit door. I am 40 feet up so I have a metal roll out ladder to go out of the kitchen window, should I need it. I have a smoke hood in a hamper by my bed and another by the ladder. etc etc.
Having a fire plan should be your first prep.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
luckily i’m close to the stairs in my apartment and there are multiple different stairways i could use (the others are just further away which obviously isnt ideal). my balcony and all windows face our pool deck which is surrounded on three sides by apartment. no stairs down to the ground, but would be better to be out there than inside.
HappyAnimalCracker@reddit
Extra shoes and socks
CougarWithDowns@reddit
Food and water
I got banned from the other prepper subreddit because a guy had seven knives and I said it was stupid
He didn't even have toilet paper
Xicsess@reddit
He could just use the knives, you've never heard of the poop knife?
CougarWithDowns@reddit
The dude had binoculars and seven different knives and a bunch of other shit like a fucking crowbar lol
The mods ban me for making fun of him lol
Then when I asked what role I broke they muted me for 30 days lol
Some people just want to play survivor Man. I'm like you're going to die in the woods he's like I've been bushcrafting since I was seven I'm like then why do you have two different bushcrafting books and no fishing or hunting gear lol
Xicsess@reddit
The internet seems to no longer be for arguing or finding the most true answers but enforcing someone's viewpoint of what is correct. It's unfortunate.
Yeah, I hope he just started prepping and they were his first buys. Lots of prepping feels too close to mall ninja shenanigans.
CougarWithDowns@reddit
I mean judging by his boots he did look like an outdoorsy type of guy In fact that's what the mod even said his boots tell me all I need to know
I'm like he has a crowbar and no toilet paper lol
He had four folding knives a hatchet at least two or three multi-tools plus cutlery sets that included knives I'm like Jesus Christ dude
What the fuck are you prepping for
Xicsess@reddit
Renaissance festival?
CougarWithDowns@reddit
Lol who knows
All I know is he had two life straws and no containers for water 😂
But the mod said he had nice boots!
FollowingVast1503@reddit
I’m in Florida now. I’ve got my battery camp refrigerator plugged in and juiced up ready for power failure. It’s stocked with no cooking required food. Of course I have paper plates, etc because my lazy a$$ doesn’t want to manually wash dishes.
I didn’t get them out of the closet but I also have a rechargeable battery operated fan and a butane stove. So far the hurricane is north of me so they will stay in the closet.
I also have small ice packs that I wrap a wet washcloth around then store in a baggie. When it gets uncomfortably hot I wipe my arms and neck with the cold wet cloth.
Tay_foxx@reddit (OP)
hey theres no problem with using paper plates! you might as well save water for drinking instead of for washing dishes. wishing you the best!
sylvanfoothills@reddit
A good pen and paper/notebook. I feel more centered and calm when I can write things down.
MArkansas-254@reddit
Skills.
Feeling-Intention995@reddit
Dual citizenship/visa or asylum to another country. Almost all shtf situation calls for migration or leaving your home. Examples would be weather, war, famine, economy, etc. you can always go back to where home is. If you have time to evac, having dual citizenship/visa to another country gives you more option to weather things out till things stabilizes.
hey_hey_you_you@reddit
Shit like this makes me so glad the EU exists.
Feeling-Intention995@reddit
I have not heard preppers talk about these things. My grand parents traversed Siberia to Europe to US during WW2 to escape both Russia and Germany.
iridescent-shimmer@reddit
Yeah I don't talk about it much, because people think I'm nuts (since the US is so huge) and I don't know if it's really an option for most people. I just happened to luck out and was born abroad in a country that recognizes birthright citizenship plus was recognized as an American born abroad. But, two active passports at all times are definitely part of my prep. Need to file the paperwork for my daughter too since she inherits it.
Feeling-Intention995@reddit
Glad you have that as prep sir! Wish you and your daughter the best! Bugging in is one thing and bugging out is another. What if you have a chance to relocate before shtf happens? Plan C would be going abroad. Example is Japan. The US may be a safe haven but for my wife who is of Asian descent, cannot blend in if race is in place. WW2 example are the camps in Manzanar. US citizenship didn’t mean anything since all kinds of Asians were put in camps due to war with Japan. If you can get Visa/citizenship to neighboring country, it is a good addition to your prep.
pile_of_fish@reddit
A good item to consider here are countries that will let you buy a longer term temp visa easily. If we had to flee, our eventually goal would be Scandinavia, where we have family, but India offers visas for a very modest fee, and we consider it to be our top emergency travel country.
27Believe@reddit
What country/countries do u like (or do you have , if you can say?) sorry if I’m nosy.
Feeling-Intention995@reddit
This depends case by case. A lot of factors come into play. Race, religion, law, culture, social status, if the country is strict or willing to take people in, and maybe political ideology? The wealthy here in the US have citizenships in New Zealand, or some actors have citizenship in the Philippines. Will you be persecuted for your religious belief? Do you like the food of the country? Do you speak the language or willing to learn? Does your currency convert to the other country’s currency? Are you resilient enough to weather how people of other culture might see you? Would a South Korean migrate to North Korea? Would an Orthodox Jew Israeli move to Iran? Some countries acknowledges birthright and some allow dual citizenship. Some however are strict where you give up your current citizenship.
ResolutionMaterial81@reddit
Radiological knowledge/equipment/preps.
SilverReception6726@reddit
i admit I haven’t yet but always wanted a tablet in a faraday bag and a small solar panel to charge to keep books, books about plants, traps, animal processing, gardening, pictures ect on.
DecodingLeaves@reddit
Their physical fitness if shtf
NoBit5304@reddit
That's literally always talked about here
NotAnotherRedditAcc2@reddit
Physical fitness is talked about at every single opportunity. Pretty frequently, it's talked about despite there not really being an opportunity. I don't see how it could possibly be talked about more without removing all other content from the sub.
froebull@reddit
This. Exactly why I'm ultimately screwed.
BluebirdFast3963@reddit
A wood stove
Even if you never assemble it, having one ready somewhere just in case when the heat go's off will be a game changer - they aren't that hard to put in
wakanda_banana@reddit
Any solution for renters?
BluebirdFast3963@reddit
I rent.
I would still get one for an apocalypse situation..
Rent isnt ganna matter
slickrok@reddit
A tent inside your apartment that you stay in, even in the bed, will keep you much warmer in a Texas grid goes to shit in a blizzard scenario.
Dramatic-Zebra-7213@reddit
Equipment to insulate and draft-proof your apartment.
Wood stove is a fire and crbon monoxidw hazard, produces conspicuous smoke that draws unwanted attention. Using a wood stove to heat a space is also a lot of work.
A well sealed and insulated small space can stay quite warm even with just the body heat of humans occupying the space. The most important thing is to seal any drafts while maintaining some controlled ventilation. Second most important thing is to insulate doors and windows. Duct tape, plastic sheet, mattresses, quilts etc. can all be used to insulate a room. You can also pitch a tent inside a room for sleeping. It will help trap warm air closer to rhe sleepers. This creates a space that stays surprisingly cozy at cold temperatures and at least survivable even in extreme cold. It also poses no fire or carbon monoxide poisoning hazard and attracts zero attention.
potcake80@reddit
Health! Being and staying fit. Hoarding groceries is simple but lots of “preppers” are overweight and full of heath issues
No-Translator-4584@reddit
Music.
Eredani@reddit
Allergy meds, diarrhea meds, sun screen, bug spray.
MeanBart@reddit
Cuetips
DeepLychee1979@reddit
Imagine if hurricane Helene had done the damage to infrastructure in a major city or urban population center that it has done to western North Carolina. People there are finding out that being without water is just as bad as being without electricity. And western North Carolina has plenty of streams, rivers and lakes. Even with all thar water it doesn't do much good it's either too contaminated to use or the roads are damaged and blocked by fallen trees. Now imagine what it would be like in an area with 10 times as many people the power is out for weeks. Generators that are necessary for water treatment and pressure would run out of fuel at some point. Now, you don't have water OR electricity. People living in confined spaces like apartments and condos don't have room to store large amounts of water. So, I would say water is an absolute necessity that most peppers don't focus on sufficiently.
kiefenator@reddit
A wikipedia stick, as well as electronic flora identification manuals. Ebooks for knots. Ebooks for all sorts of neat shit.
Dramatic-Zebra-7213@reddit
Paper maps of area you live in and also maps that cover a wider area if you need to relocate. Probably one of the most valuable things in a crisis that are often overlooked.
Vegetaman916@reddit
Faraday shielded bookbank, wikipedia database download, multi-terrabyte video/audio library.
https://wastelandbywednesday.com/2022/03/11/the-bookbank-knowledge-for-the-end-of-the-world/
wakanda_banana@reddit
Backup solar generator + 4k movie collection, offline games, rechargeable string lights, contact lenses and solution, glasses, propane heater, carbon monoxide detector, wipes, bidet, coffee french press or espresso pot, & hand grinder for coffee.
Aggressive-Grocery13@reddit
Lube
wakanda_banana@reddit
Diddy confirmed
DeFiClark@reddit
Mops, buckets, sponges, simple green, bleach, work gloves, contractor bags, N95 masks, eye protection
Wrecking bar, sledge, fire ax
Fitting strips, tarps, 10mil plastic sheeting, heavy duty staple gun
Coolers (pre-chilled at your local beer store before you put the ice in)
All of these have seen more use in real disaster than any other preps.
OnTheEdgeOfFreedom@reddit
Any medication that has to do with the intestines. I don't care how bad your disaster is - diarrhea and constipation instantly make it far worse. And disasters tend to trigger diet changes that can cause these things, as can bad water, bad food, etc.
And while people talk about stocking food, there's less discussion of figuring out how much fuel you need to cook it all.
alexandria3142@reddit
I was going to say laxatives. I get constipation somewhat often, and never really thought about needing to keep laxatives as prep since I don’t use them often
EverVigilant1@reddit
basic hand tools, nails, screws, nuts and bolts. Basic makeshift repair items.
hangin-with-mr@reddit
Extra socks, shoes.
Professional-Can1385@reddit
underwear
transitional_path@reddit
Long johns. Regular underwear is cold when you're roughing it.
Professional-Can1385@reddit
depends where you live
Fheredin@reddit
A camping dutch oven.
Rechargeable glowsticks.
Tech repair equipment and skills.
More_Mind6869@reddit
A staple gun !!!
Never see this mentioned. Its always 1 of the 1st things i get.
Uses it for a million things.
floridaman28@reddit
Honey
thedan_9@reddit
Skills , entertainment, mental strength
HamRadio_73@reddit
Heavy duty safe.