Survival skills like fire-making, shelter-building, water purification, and navigation are essential for anyone who wants to survive in the wilderness. Learning these skills takes time and practice, so it's important to start early and build on your knowledge over time.
Emergencies can happen at any time, so it's important to be prepared. This includes having a well-stocked emergency kit, a plan for evacuation or sheltering in place, and the knowledge to handle medical emergencies.
Having the right equipment can make a big difference in your chances of survival. This includes gear like knives, flashlights, and water filters. It's important to choose high-quality equipment that is durable and reliable.
Being in good physical shape can help you handle the physical demands of survival situations. This includes cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and flexibility.
When you're in the wilderness, it's important to respect the environment and the wildlife that lives there. This means practicing Leave No Trace principles, avoiding confrontations with animals, and minimizing your impact on the environment.
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least two weeks.
Canned goods, dried fruits and vegetables, rice, pasta, dried beans. See below for a detailed list for a survival pantry.
Make sure you have a sufficient supply of any necessary prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrhea medication.
Include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, and any other supplies you might need in case of injury.
Masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer.
Disinfectant wipes, bleach, and dish soap.
Soap, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and toilet paper.
Diapers, formula, baby food, and baby wipes.
Food, litter, and any necessary medications.
Make sure you have enough warm clothing and blankets to stay comfortable if the power goes out or if you need to leave your home.
Make sure you have enough flashlights and batteries to last at least several days.
GMRS and/or Ham Radio for communications.
Battery, solar, or hand-cranked powered AM/FM radio to listen to weather updates.
Keep some cash on hand in case ATMs or credit card systems are not working.
Keeping firearms and extra ammunition is always prudent. You could opt for other self-defense items such as mace, knives, baseball bats, or anything that you could wield, in the event of needing to protect yourself or your family.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the items you choose, so that you are ready in the case of emergency.
Keep important documents like passports, insurance policies, and birth certificates in a secure, waterproof container.
Include items like a can opener, a knife, a wrench or pliers, a hammer, and a screwdriver in case you need to make repairs.
Books, board games, and playing cards to help pass the time.
Remember, this is just a general list, and the best items to store ahead of a crisis may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of crisis you're preparing for.
As a prepper, you may want to keep a variety of non-perishable foods on hand that can provide a balanced diet and meet your calorie needs. Here is a detailed list of food items you may want to consider keeping in your stockpile:
Canned meat and fish
Canned fruits
Canned vegetables
Dried fruits
Dried beans
Rice
Pasta
Cereal
Crackers
Nuts: almonds, peanuts, cashews, and walnuts.
Peanut butter
Powdered milk
Canned soups and stews
Cooking oil or coconut oil
Spices and seasonings
Remember, when stockpiling food, it's important to choose items that you enjoy eating and that provide a balanced diet. Rotate your stockpile by using and replacing items regularly to ensure that everything is still usable and has not expired. Additionally, make sure to have a way to cook and prepare your food, such as a camping stove or charcoal grill, and the necessary fuel to power it.