First purchases?
Posted by softeggnoodles@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 83 comments
I'm making a list w/ prices of everything I'd want in my get home bag and everything I would want in my 3+day bag as I plan on having both, 1 for my car, 1 for home. What do you guys think are absolute staples, and could u recommend some brands/products you bought first for your kit?
Plastic_Chocolate801@reddit
What’s the 3 plus day bag for?
For the get home bag
Most people pack way too much and think they are going to be hiking in the woods if something happens.
Your get home bag should probably have less than 10lbs In it.
Just need a few essentials. Bic lighter, knife like the morakniv, maybe a multi tool as well, two 1 liter bottles of water like the smart bottles. If you really want a filter get one like sawyer. Cheap and can screw on end of bottles, will also need a sillcock key to get access to water outside business and city buildings.Some shelf stable food/snacks to keep you going for about a day or two. Shoes good for walking, extra socks, mole skin because most people are not used to walking several miles and will get blisters., and a light jacket for rain.
Of course the distance of your commute to work could change things being put in.
Also buy a decent bag, you can find decent ones for cheap, don’t cheap out and buy dollar store ones because chafing will be obvious and can cause problems
Discopline1@reddit
For the car, a seatbelt cutter/window breaker and flashlight (waterproof)
Few-Lawyer3707@reddit
Pistol, rifle, water storage, food storage
goldman1290@reddit
First aid kit, including a small variety of OTC meds, water, knife, something to light a fire, flashlight, couple of energy bars, a change of clothes.
I always carry a gun as well but there's a lot of variables for that. Where you live, if you're comfortable with it, etc.
softeggnoodles@reddit (OP)
What type of knife do you recommend? I heard any puukko knife is essential but there are also more tactical options. I need to research as well
Spiley_spile@reddit
I carry a swiss army knife with a can opener. I use it all the time. There are hundreds of models of Swiss Army knives (SAK). So, it's worth it to do some research before buying one. To get an idea of lots of creative ways to use various tools, check out Jony afire's channel on youtube. All of Jony's videos on "secret uses" are gold.
theloosestool@reddit
So, you have the swiss army knife of knives
Spiley_spile@reddit
For me? Just about. I saved up and comissioned a custom build. It's called a Compact-Huntsman. It has the capability of both the Compact and the Huntsman in a 3-layer SAK.
I say "just about", because between my increase of volunteer work with the community and my aging eyesight, Im needing a magnifying glass and pliars more frequently, alongside all the tools in my current set up. Once I can afford it, Ill have someone move these tools over from the Swiss Champ that lives in my toolbox.
Why not just edc my Swiss Champ? I don't like hunting through so many tools I dont need, in order to find the ones I do. It doesnt have the combo parce hookl/file tool. Nor the combo camp liter/can opener. And lastly, it's too bulky. I need room in my pocket for more than just a multitool. When I switch it to belt carry, however, it looks like Im doing a terrible job conceal carrying a pistol.
Longjumping-Army-172@reddit
A humble Swiss Army Knife will get you through a lot. And nobody will notice or care about it if you do pull it out to do something.
my11c3nts@reddit
🤔 true
Longjumping-Army-172@reddit
You don't need one of the ones that have 600 blades and ways seven pounds. Just go to the Victorinox website, and decide which one has the implements that you'll actually use. Add a keychain flashlight to it, and you're set.
my11c3nts@reddit
I would say look into the Swiss tech. They have a fixed blade made out of AUS8 steel. That's reasonably budget friendly, and most walmarts sell that brand now sopositly from what i hear, so it should be easy enough to pick up and use for basic bushcraft and for potential defense
my11c3nts@reddit
I would say look into the Swiss tech. They have a fixed blade made out of AUS8 steel. That's reasonably budget friendly, and most walmarts sell that brand now sopositly from what i hear, so it should be easy enough to pick up
FreshAd7490@reddit
Crkt is my recommendation
Ghostbaby_xo@reddit
I really like Morakniv fixed blade knives
mildlyornery@reddit
Most aren't full tang but that's never been the part that broke on me. All of those times would have ruined most knives anyway. The perfect cheap beater knife. Holds a good edge, comfortable grips, nice steel, tolerable hard sheath and light enough you wont be annoyed.
XRlagniappe@reddit
Second vote for Morakniv. They are inexpensive, sturdy, and compact.
KeithJamesB@reddit
I really like Morakniv. They’re really good quality and lightweight.
TexWolf84@reddit
Not sure what you'd want in your bag, but my EDC i aways make sure it has a seat belt cutter and a glass breaker
McRibs2024@reddit
I have a ton of knives for all dif purposes but honestly the best cheap reliable knife I have that is the one in my go bag is my mora. Was like 15 bucks.
Germs_Dean@reddit
Not OP but I personally like to carry a folding pocket knife that is partly serrated.
D-Ray1469@reddit
Any knife you will carry is always best. Keep it sharp, and it will serve you well. There is a great debate on which is better, a pocket knife or a sheath knife. Both have pros and cons. This is just my opinion, but a good multitool is super handy to have as well. Leatherman makes various models with multiple useful tools on them.
goldman1290@reddit
Just to throw in a bag and forget about, something full tang. There's a ton of different brands to choose from , i don't really have a preference just don't cheap out too much on it. Doesn't have to cost 200 bucks but it shouldn't be 14 bucks from Amazon either. I also carry a Case 3 inch folding knife.
CashOverAss@reddit
Is there an efficient way to get a variety of OTC? I've been looking for like a premade variety pack. Seems like this should easily exist. Can't really find a good option
Power-of-Erised@reddit
I got one of these
https://a.co/d/hhxCQy2
They come in a variety of colors, with a plethora of labels, and fits easily in my EDC
goldman1290@reddit
I always just go to Dollar Tree. They always have a variety of OTC in small quantities for cheap. It would be nice if they made a pre-made variety pack, but I've never seen one.
Power-of-Erised@reddit
I got one of these
https://a.co/d/hhxCQy2
They come in a variety of colors, with a plethora of labels, and fits easily in my EDC
Power-of-Erised@reddit
I got one of these
They come in a variety of colors, with a plethora of labels, and fits easily in my EDC
Nobody232323@reddit
To add on, get a cheap first aid kit for the small stuff but spend on something like N.A.R for your trauma kit. Cheap band aids are annoying, but a cheap tourniquet is fatal
TheCarcissist@reddit
Every couple years I do the Stop The Bleed course as a refresher and last time he hit us with a stat that after the Boston marathon bombing 30 people were admitted to the hospital with improvised tourniquet, not one worked properly. All 30 failed. Really goes to show how important a proper TQ is
Nobody232323@reddit
I booked my WFR course for later this year which will be my first proper training, that is a pretty wild statistic though.
Regular_Evidence_267@reddit
Yes you’ve got to be careful on the last bit, prepping anything for self defence is illegal in some countries
Federal_Refrigerator@reddit
Also don’t forget you should always carry a fire extinguisher inside the vehicle just in case
XRlagniappe@reddit
ashburnmom@reddit
Great list. Why do you include quarters?
XRlagniappe@reddit
It's a holdover from when vending machines only took change and when pay phones were still around. I have cash stored in a waterproof pouch but just kept them for extra money.
NickMeAnotherTime@reddit
I like it, it's alphabetical. And it's minimalistic, but I still don't agree with the compressed tissue tablets. For whatever reason it's not a necessity.
Also for OP, this is like a basic kit. You need to adjust depending on your elements.
dachjaw@reddit
“Light-headlamp” is out of order. Darn it, the whole list is useless now.
XRlagniappe@reddit
The compressed tissue tablets can be used for several purposes, like toilet paper, face wipes, hand wipes, tissues, etc. They are also compact. They fit perfectly in those plastic match boxes.
NickMeAnotherTime@reddit
I know, you are correct. But I never found it necessary to be honest.
rhisoneros@reddit
Would a sewing kit be something to have as well or is that for a larger go kit?
XRlagniappe@reddit
Maybe one of those little ones like they might have at a hotel.
ilreppans@reddit
Well this is different, but for me - compact/efficient human-powered wheels to ~triple my walking pace/range. I’m in an urban area where there’s lots of asphalt, and in the worst situations gridlock is likely. Add an UL backpacking set-up, and can cover 120mi in 3days self-supported. With skills can fit room/board/transport in a carryon-size onebag, or w/o skills, go to twobags.
Imagirl48@reddit
Same for me. Collapsible, it stays in the Jeep.
ilreppans@reddit
What is it? Folding bike?
Imagirl48@reddit
Foldable hand truck.
ilreppans@reddit
We’re talking about different things then. I mean wheeled transport that’ll allow me to cruise 8+mph, 40+mi/day under my own power. That said, I do also keep a folding hand truck in my car too - but it’s for hauling groceries up to my apartment.
Imagirl48@reddit
Yes. That was discernible from your original post about the number of miles you believe you could cover. That mileage is highly unlikely on foot. I was simply climbing on the notion that there is more than one form of wheels. This 69F has a go bag put together in a backpack but know that actually carrying it on my back for any long period of time is not going to happen. (Also in SHTF scenario I’m highly likely to have it taken from me unless I have my gun which I rarely carry). Like many, my best hope in this kind of situation is to be at or near home and shelter in place.
ilreppans@reddit
OK got you… initial wasn’t clear, due to your 1 sentence 1st post.
FlashyImprovement5@reddit
A way to cook off grid. Propane camping stove- 2 burner. You can go with butane but those are a bit weaker. They can be used for tailgating, for a summer kitchen setup and are great in emergencies. Mine is strong enough to use for canning.
Battery powered CO detector
Omni-directional camping light that takes standard batteries, is rechargeable and they usually have a solar panel and hand crank. They can also help charge a phone.
Head lamps for each adult.
Camping fan with removable batteries. Has light and fan function The batteries can function as phone battery chargers as well. Mine runs for about 24 hours on low and at least 8 on high. I use it by my bed.
Wool blanket, at least 85% wool content.
Propane heater. They range from a tank top heater that goes over the 20lb BBQ tanks for small rooms up to 30k BTU for multiple rooms. They are a great heat source in winter.
I can DM you links to mine if you want.
softeggnoodles@reddit (OP)
I worry about weight and space for the camping stove. Where do you store the propane and how do you do it safely?
FlashyImprovement5@reddit
And while the propane stove for the car, you can also carry a folding biomass stove in your backpack
FlashyImprovement5@reddit
You can also go with a small single burner butane stove but they don't have the same BTU as propane stoves. And they aren't as robust for taking outside.
FlashyImprovement5@reddit
Mine is as thick as a briefcase, not as tall when closed up but a little wider. They also have a small 1 burner camping stove that is fairly small.
I have a explosive gas detector for when I keep them inside in the winter and I usually just keep my tanks either in the shed or beside the house in the summer.
video
halcyonforeveragain@reddit
My first recommendation for a GHB item: a $50 Uber gift card.
It's great for everyday emergency get home options up to full collapse. If you encounter someone else that needs a ride you can give it to them. If your phone is lost/stolen/broken you can give someone else the card to order a ride for you.
It can also doubles as a food option because you can use it for Uber Eats.
Now it doesn't work for a grid down, cell phones out, collapse situation. But it makes a good first item.
Cherimoose@reddit
That's a pretty basic question, so check the wiki, and also google
HudyD@reddit
First rule: don’t drop $300 on a tactical spork before you buy a decent water filter. Ask me how I know
dachjaw@reddit
Tactical Spork? Didn’t they open for the Honeydrippers?
TheCarcissist@reddit
First thing is your get home bag should be an extension of your EDC kit. Get that dialed in first, than worry about the GHB. My GHB is technically 3 bags, one is my edc, one is the extra gear I carry, the 3rd is a bag of clothes and shoes. In an emergency I grab all 3, and hoof it to a safe location, I would then use the 3rd bag to change into clothing that is more appropriate to the conditions im about to face.(i.e. if I was in a business suit, im going to change into clothes and shoes better suited for a ruck) id cache the 3rd bag and then make my way out.
PrisonerV@reddit
Fire extinguisher for your car, first aid kit, several phone chargers, meds, water, a box of granola bars, battery jumper pack, a tire plug kit, 12v inflator, wet wipes, and gloves.
WashyLegs@reddit
get some quick energy food, like oat bars and stuff like that
Vegetable-Prune-8363@reddit
Find a good pair of shoes. Something that you can walk 5+ miles in. Then go buy 2 more pairs of the exact same shoe. Wear the new pairs until they are broken in properly. Keep one pair in your car and another in your bag.
Buy quality socks. Each pair of shoes should have 2 pairs of socks. One pair tucked into each shoe.
rhisoneros@reddit
Oh that’s a good point on the shoes
InformalMajor41815@reddit
That right there^ Socks! Definitely socks. Always remember that regardless of health and fitness, if you're feet get infected (and that isn't hard to do), you're screwed.
NoChance2000@reddit
My philosophy is you need basic supplies first, if you have room get water. You can get 6 months worth for 1 person for about $170 using a Sam's club 40pk water bottle pallet. SoS ration bars and caloriemate will give you all the calories, vitamin and nutrients you need in a damn space efficient package, you can fit 64 days of bars in a 120mm ammo can, and you can fit 2 months of caloriemate I believe in a 80mm ammo can. After you have food and water the world is your oyster. I'd go with a day to defend your new hoard personally but it's up to you
BernKurman@reddit
water filter (sawyer squeeze), Leatherman multi-tool, Petzl headlamp, Mylar blanket, and basic med-kit. A small 500Wh portable power station to charge phones or lights is also needed.
crypto_journeyman@reddit
Water purifier. Money.
KeithJamesB@reddit
Not a purchase but a pair of comfortable walking shoes and socks should be in your GHB. Especially if you’re female. Doesn’t have to be new, but a pair of tennis shoes that you have laying around.
InformalMajor41815@reddit
I have found new to suck the most for me. They aren't broke in and can easily cause blistering. Have you found different?
FreshAd7490@reddit
Get a pair of new balance 608s and you can walk all day in comfort. I walk all day at work in them for the last 20 years and their good to go out of the box 🤘🏻
nakedonmygoat@reddit
While I hear what you're saying, as a former marathoner and triathlete, as well as an avid hiker, I can say that the shoe that works for your feet might not be the right one for someone else.
OP should try different kinds and see what works best. I'm glad you found one that's perfect for your own feet, though. I did too, and so did my husband. But finding that magical unicorn shoe might be a different trial and error process for someone else.
KeithJamesB@reddit
Yes, I’m a ultramarathoner so I will run a race with shoes with only 50 miles or so on them. Running shoes a can look brand new but the midsoles will be broken down. Of course it’s model of shoe that I have used before.
InformalMajor41815@reddit
Oh, that makes sense. I thought you were meaning for them to be brand new.
OtherwiseAlbatross14@reddit
I'd say it's even better if they aren't new. Broken in at least somewhat would be preferable to brand new
--kwisatzhaderach--@reddit
By far the most important thing to have. Plus a phone charger and some cash
Outspoken_Idiot@reddit
I'd be interested in seeing your list once you have done it up, can I suggest that you use a spreadsheet/excel. It might be a very useful resource to others.
_Kiritsugu_@reddit
Good start! For me, first buys were a quality multitool (Leatherman), flashlight (Fenix or Olight), water filter (Sawyer Mini), and power bank. Those cover basics. Add meds and snacks, then build from there.
SunLillyFairy@reddit
My first bags were almost free. I bought bags for my family from a thrift store that were literally under $1 each, then I used things around the house to get something together. A change of clothes and shoes, beanies, headlamps, water bottles, snacks, printed copies of IDs and contact info, a list of important numbers including our insurance folks, a few days of RX meds, some first aid items, some huge black trash bags that could be used as ponchos or to help make a shelter... a few other handy things. Thrm as time went by I upgraded and added.
What is most important really depends where you live... someone who might have to deal with 120 temps will have different considerations than someone living where it still drops into the 40's at night. Someone who will have to walk through a rough neighborhood has different considerations than someone who may have to hike through tall grass and mud.
Some priorities to consider - appropriate clothes and shoes (just my luck I'd be in a sundress and heels on my way back from a day party when SHTF on a cool night and I have to hike 10 miles home), cash, a way to charge your phone, self defense, food and water, water purification, some kind of shelter and/or waterproof sleeping bag, fire-starting stuff, medical needs (first aid/RX meds), climate/bug protection.
Brenttdwp@reddit
Make one great edc/get home bags vs two sub par bags.
I love the 5.11 rush 12 mine is in ranger green *
DeafHeretic@reddit
Shelter, water, food, health (hygiene, FAK, etc.)
FancyFlamingo208@reddit
I always have various meds (ibuprofen, zyrtec, B12, potassium iodide, activated charcoal, and a few other ones specific for me. I have a small skinny case for my purse, one for my suitcase, one for my car (don't use Advil liquigels here, if you have temperature fluctuations).
Clothing. Long sleeves, pants, spare underwear you were going to weed out, and sneakers that work, but not for a ton longer. You can always cut legs and arms off the long sleeve/pant situation, but you can't magically find them on a tank top and shorts.
Snacks and water. For a while, I had a soft sided cooler from Costco I kept all manner of shelf stable snacks, water, and juice in, and kept my gremlins (and myself) happier on long drives wherever we were going. The cooler was always under the feet of the youngest, so they had a foot rest.
A laminated map or atlas. Of just your county if for a work/get home bag, or comprehensive giant one for the car.
And while I don't play baseball and have a mitt or ball or bat in my vehicles, I do have a hitch. That I sometimes have to convince it, or a pin, with a hammer. That I just so happen to have easily accessible from the front seat. Ahem. My dad used to have a D-cell maglite attached to his lower front dashboard.
Pen and paper. I have a mileage log, and just got a bigger notebook than I'll ever need, so I can rip a few small pages of notes out, no problem. Tic tac toe and hangman are popular games with those. Also, cards. Regular cards, Uno, travel board games, you do you. I have waterproof Uno in my vehicles and hot springs bag. Bff has a water proof deck of cards in her go bag, and binoculars in her glovebox. Plus we have regular decks of cards (casino castoffs!) squirreled away in vehicle.
I also have a tire inflater, battery charging pack, tools, roadside assistance bag, sunscreen, and so on in my vehicle.
Those are basics, for just regular everyday stuff, that I have constantly used for years and had consistent rotations in my vehicles.
Other more specialized things like camping type equipment or tools (my boys and uncles have tools in their backseats) could be helpful, also depends on what kind of ground you're covering. I'm usually in town, and not in the forest super often, as evidenced by what I haul around.
17TraumaKing_Wes76@reddit
Shelter, combustion, hydration & purification, hygiene/clothing, for medical and first-aid, look into Jase Medical, navigation, self-defense and food.
No_NewFriends_2021@reddit
Change of cloths and shoes. Knife(something decent spyderco)headlight(pretzel),extra batteries,map,compass(sunto),water,poncho(disposable),snack.emergency bivy sack.