We all look for value in life. Whether it’s in a product, a program or a partner. Or even a pastor or priest.
We want to get a good “return” on anything we invest in. Regardless of whether that investment involves our time, money, or emotional or spiritual energy.
When it comes to preparedness, this can mean acquiring as many low-cost items as possible that will provide value during a survival situation.
Yes, there are a number of pricier products worth getting to help you and your family. But there are also some common, inexpensive household items you should include in your stockpile.
They could end up being priceless in a crisis. Even if you don’t end up needing everything you gather, you can use some items for bartering. After all, there are bound to be some products or services you will need too.
TP, sanitizer, alcohol and cigarettes
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit America, toilet paper was difficult to find for many people. The same thing is bound to happen after a societal collapse. Stock up on plenty now while it’s available and relatively inexpensive.
There’s a good reason hand sanitizer disappeared from store shelves as quickly as toilet paper did at the start of the pandemic. It will be a valuable commodity in the future as well.
Alcohol and cigarettes are probably not “survival” items for most people. At least I hope they’re not. But I can guarantee there will be a huge demand for these products after the stuff hits the fan.
Remember, prices for common objects will skyrocket during a crisis. So get ‘em while the gettin’s good.
Other common items
Among other items you can acquire cheaply now, in no particular order, are:
- Plastic sheeting. Breakage will be common in a survival situation. Sheeting can help cover broken windows and leaky roofs.
- Seeds. Stockpile as many heirloom seeds as you can. You and others may need to grow much of your food.
- Cordage. This can be everything from thin wire to thick rope. Binding and pulling are two of its uses.
- Medications. A survival situation is one big headache. Aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen will help relieve it.
- Duct tape. There are countless uses for duct tape. Including shelter building and as a fix-it for just about everything.
- Cigarette lighters and matches. Folks will be looking for them. You could have a bunch to sell or trade.
- Superglue. Repairing a wide variety of items will be important and this can do the job.
- Batteries. They will be worth much more than they cost now during an extended power outage.
- Paper towels/plates/bowls/cups. All paper products will be in high demand.
- Socks. Being able to change into a dry pair of socks anytime you want will help you stay healthy.
- Aluminum foil. It can be used for cleaning, cooking, fire making and a whole lot more.
- Fishing line. You may have to fish for some meals. Others will as well. Fishing line can also be used for hanging items to dry and making traps.
- Oral hygiene. Stock up on toothpaste and toothbrushes. Add a dental kit while you’re at it.
- Bandages. There will be many scrapes, cuts and other minor wounds in a survival situation.
- Sunscreen & lip balm. We’ll be spending more time outdoors than normal when trying to survive. Protecting skin and lips will be important.
- Ponchos. It will be essential to stay warm and dry in a crisis. Ponchos have other uses as well.
- Zip ties & zip-top bags. Keeping small items organized and dry will be crucial. Especially small electronic devices.
- Hand lotion. Hands will get a workout in a crisis. People will want a way to soothe theirs.
- Candy. Many people will crave sweets – for themselves and their children – in an emergency.
- Baking soda. It’s useful for teeth brushing, deodorizing and cleaning. Plus unclogging drains, stain removal and melting ice.
- Vitamins. Nothing depletes the body of key nutrients more than stress does. Vitamins will help make up the difference.
- Glow sticks. Useful as signals, trail makers and night lights, they’ll be popular but difficult to acquire items.
- Salt. De-icing in the winter and keeping pests away from your camp are just two of the uses.
- Can openers. Manual can openers will be highly sought after in a grid-down scenario.
- Soap. Very inexpensive now, but very costly when everyone wants it and there’s little to be had.
- Cloth towels. These will be essential for staying dry, covering windows and sealing drafty doors.
- Candles. Flashlights are better, but candles will help preserve battery power.
- Activated charcoal. It can purify water, relieve gas and bloating, and treat poisonings.
- Cotton balls. Ear protection, treating wounds and cleaning are just three of the many uses for this item.
Now, it doesn’t take a genius to realize that lawlessness will be common in a survival situation.
You could have all the necessities you want, and more, but you also need a plan to protect them from thugs. So, do what you need to do about that.
I hope you’ll think seriously about acquiring some of the items listed above. A small investment now could pay huge dividends in the future.
