Most preppers out there will agree that prepping is basically the process of “peace of mind” so if the worst was to happen you would be prepared for it. Weather this may be preparing for disaster, civil uprest or for just when times get tough. Prepping supplies have become more common to find, which is a big plus for anyone wanting to begin their first steps into prepping.
This blog post contains all of our suggestions on what you should be adding to your basic prepping kit. Every prepper should have these items. In regards to prepping we feel that simplicity is key, you don’t need military grade gear when basic provisions work just as well. So stay within your budget, don’t blow the bank here and try to build a bunker that’s ready for the next nuclear apocalypse.
As always be aware of your family dynamics and what your family are capable of. If you are limited on what you can store, maximise space and as always make sure everyone is catered for. So, any medications or special supplies will need to be considered.
The Basic Kit
Backpack – Bugout Bag
If you are keen on prepping you will keep two back. A bugout bag which is normally for a 3 day period and a much larger two week bag. These will contain your essential items when on the move.
What you will need to do is write up a plan of what you consume and require over 3 days and the same over 2 weeks. Then ensure both of these bags contain all the items you need. Here at ghost preppers we recommend everyone to get a reliable strong backpack. You can’t beat them. These are suitable for all types of people and make it much easier to carry over rough terrain.
You do not want to carry around a trolley as where you are going might not be accessible. So, remember to carry lite.
Flashlight
This is going to be your best friend at night. There is nothing worse than being out alone and having no source of light. Of course you can get light from the moon and stars but when it’s overcast or cloudy you are on your own.
Flashlights can also be used to signal others from large distances (learn morse code)
Not all flashlights are equal so it’s best to go try a few out. You will want to make sure your flashlights are not to bright or too dim for the purpose you require them.
Also ensure that when you come to purchase a flash light, be certain it’s durable and would survive being dropped on the floor.
Multi-tool
A survival multitool can really be a valuable addition to your gear as it provides a compact and versatile solution for various tasks and emergencies. We wouldn’t leave home without one. We always keep a spare one in the car.
Typically a multi tool consists of a wide range of tools like a knife, pliers, scissors, saw, can opener, and screwdrivers. All of these tools can be useful for survival situations, camping and outdoor activities. People learning how to get them most out of prepping essential items require this as a key item.
The upside about having a having survival multitool is that it can help you to quickly and easily address a range of challenges that may arise in the wilderness, without having to carry multiple individual tools. No need to reach around looking for one tool when they are all attached to one handy multi tool.
First-Aid Kit
No if’s or buts you need a complete fist aid kit. You can purchase these pretty much anywhere. You need to ensure it has enough equipment to last 30 days and easy to place inside a bag.Not only will you want the usual items found in a first aid kit, you will also need your basic over the counter medicines (think of painkillers, flue, allergy, laxatives and diarrhoea medications).
Ensure that your prescription medication is kept nearby so you can easily throw it into your bug out bag when the time comes. This is the most important item you will need to carry as some people rely on their meds. Do not forget it!
Hand-Crank Radio
It's worth while to point out that some hand-cranked radios also have built-in flashlights and phone chargers, making them even more versatile. By cranking the handle, you can generate enough power to listen to weather updates and other important information that can help you make informed decisions in emergency situations. Additionally, hand-cranked radios are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry with you wherever you go.
Matches
Straight off the bat – Waterproof matches are the best matches’ period. If you are going to buy some get them. Last thing you want is damp getting to your matches and rendering them completely useless. Sure, they are of course more expensive but worth it in the long run.
Lighters are better than matches too, so ensure you carry around a decent lighter. We recommend you carry both in case either were to fail.
Power Bank
Over the past decade technology is come along way. We now have more portable viable options when it comes to storing electricity. Power banks are a vital necessity for any prepper as they are a perfect solution to obtaining electricity.
Some of these bank can be powered by multiple sources including the sun and have a pretty decent charge on them. Making them viable for a wide range of purposes making them the prefect preppers essential item.
But please be warned. We do not recommend charing your power banks if your climate is far too hot this can cause the bank to become damaged. Always read the manual before operating your device.
Batteries
No if’s or buts buy them. Purchase a good brand that’s going to last and ensure they are in date. We personally use singles use ones. Have a few packs and throw them when you are done. But for long periods you should get yourself rechargeable ones.
Sleeping Bag, Warm Blanket and a Pillow
No one likes sleeping rough so ensure you have all the essentials you need. As a prepper a sleeping bag will soon become your best friend. Ok we are aware that some of these items are quite large and might barley squeeze into your bugout bag.
That’s where you need options and there are plenty of specialist items out there that are going to help you when sleeping. You can use special blankets designed to keep heat in that are really thin and even inflateable pillows.
The sleeping bag is a must though so don’t skimp on it. The good thing about a sleepingb bag is that they tend to be foldable small and able to clip into your bag. So they don’t take up too much room.
Cards and Games
Most people forget this, but boredom really is a killer. You will want to ensure you bring some form of enterainment so you don’t slowly go insane. Preppers do have bouts of isolation and there is nothing better to help you get through them than some boredom breakers.
You can look at some travel boardgames, these are much smaller versions of the full size game but are still just as fun. Can’t go wrong with a pack of cards either. Weather that’s the standard Deck or magic/Pokémon your choice!
Cleaning Agent
You will want to carry something to clean your hands with. You can carry alchohol based cleaners like hand sanatizers or just plain old hand wash in a dispense bottle. You don’t want to pass germs around, last thing you want is someone ill from not following basic hygiene.
Food and Water
Now this is a hot topic that we could talk about for hours. But we are going to trim down the fat and give you the basics here.
What you will want is water and food for either 3 days or two weeks depending on your bugoutbag. Each person going with you will do the same. If anyone has extra room carry extra food and water as this is a vital item for all preppers. No one likes to be hungry period.
You will need to ensure your water is kept in some kind of acceptable storage i.e clean sterile water bottles. Some people use push cap bottles but these can get mould underneath them so we recommend twist cap bottles. You should learn basic water storage techniques.
There is a wide range of foods you can choose from, dried, salted, canned, frozen the choice is yours just ensure they will last the journey and not go bad. So anything that might melt of go off we would advise against taking on your journey. A lot of prepping essentials look at freeze dried foods or power bars and beef jerky for instant snacks.
Please note this was just our “The Best Basic Items to Stock for Any Emergency - Prepping Essentials” guide. This is no means a full and in depth kit you would need to carry to survive.
This guide is aimed at beginners of prepping wondering what they should carry on their first trial run. So as always ensure that everyone has what they require and you will all be safe when you go out into the open world.
As always take care, stay safe and be prepared.
- Ghost Preppers.