Prepping for Beginners 101

A Beginner’s Guide to Survival Preparedness

Welcome to the world of prepping, where those who see beyond the calm surface of society prepare for the unexpected storms. Whether you’re worried about natural disasters, economic collapse, or more sinister conspiracies, prepping for beginners is the best way to start building a safety net for you and your family. In a world that changes in the blink of an eye, taking the first steps towards survival prepping basics might just be the most important thing you do.

Why Should You Start Prepping?

If the events of recent years have taught us anything, it’s that nothing can be taken for granted. From unexpected pandemics to supply chain disruptions, it’s easy to see why more and more people are turning towards prepping. Think of prepping as an insurance policy—except instead of relying on an industry that may collapse, you’re relying on yourself.

Prepping for beginners isn’t about doomsday paranoia; it’s about personal responsibility and being ready to face whatever life throws your way. Think of it this way—is it crazy to have a spare tire in your car or an extra loaf of bread at home? Prepping just takes this practical idea and extends it to cover your whole life.

The Basics of Prepping for Beginners

Getting started with prepping can feel overwhelming—there’s so much to learn and so many possibilities for what could go wrong. But don’t worry, with a few essential steps, you’ll start feeling more secure and ready for whatever comes.

Here’s a simple guide to help you ease into prepping for beginners:

1. Start With Water

Water is the most critical resource for survival. If you’re new to prepping, your first priority should be making sure you have enough drinking water stored for you and your family.

• Rule of Thumb: Have at least one gallon of water per person per day, and plan for at least two weeks. This means that for a family of four, you should have at least 56 gallons of water stored.
• Storage Tips: Use food-grade plastic containers or large water barrels. Be sure to rotate your stored water every six months to keep it fresh. You can also use commercially bottled water, but remember to check the expiration dates and replace as needed.
• Purification: Learn how to purify water using basic household items like bleach or a good-quality water filter. In a pinch, boiling water for 3-5 minutes can eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens. There are also portable water filters and purification tablets that are great for emergency use.
• Rainwater Collection: Consider setting up a rainwater collection system if you have the space. This can provide a renewable source of water, but make sure you have a way to filter and purify it before use.

2. Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food

Food security is another essential aspect of survival prepping basics. Think about what would happen if the grocery store shelves went empty tomorrow—what would you do?

• Staples to Store:
  • Rice: Long grain, white rice has a long shelf life and is versatile.
  • Beans: Dried beans are a great source of protein and easy to store.
  • Canned meats: Options like tuna, chicken, or spam provide essential protein.
  • Dried pasta: Easy to cook and store.
  • Peanut butter: High in calories and fats, it’s a great source of quick energy.
  • Powdered milk: Provides calcium and can be used in cooking or drinking.
  • Canned fruits and vegetables: These help provide necessary vitamins and nutrients.
• Pro Tip: Store what you eat. There’s no point in stocking 50 cans of anchovies if no one in your family likes them. Make sure to build a food supply that your family will actually enjoy eating.
• Rotation: Practice the “first in, first out” rule, which means you should eat and replace the oldest items in your stockpile to keep everything fresh. Label your food items with the date of purchase and use them before they expire.
• Cooking Without Power: Invest in a portable camping stove or a propane grill. If the power goes out, you’ll still need a way to cook your food. Make sure you have enough fuel stored to last for several weeks.

3. Develop a Communications Plan

One overlooked aspect of prepping for beginners is having a solid communication plan. In an emergency, you may need to get in touch with family members or friends, and regular methods of communication may be down.

• Family Contact List: Write down important numbers, even if they’re stored in your phone—you might not have access to electronics. Keep a hard copy in your bug-out bag and another at home.
• Two-Way Radios: Invest in a set of two-way radios. These are invaluable when cell service is down and you need to coordinate with others nearby. Look for radios with a long battery life and an extended range to ensure they are effective.
• Code Words: Establish code words or phrases to let others know when something is wrong or if it’s safe to come home. This can be especially important if you need to communicate discreetly.
• Emergency Radio: A hand-crank or solar-powered emergency radio can help you stay informed about weather alerts, government instructions, or other important broadcasts when traditional communications are not available.

4. Create a Bug-Out Bag

A bug-out bag is an emergency kit that contains essential items to help you survive for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate.

• Must-Have Items:
  1. Water bottles and purification tablets: At least 3 liters of water per person, plus purification tablets in case you need to replenish your supply.
  2. Non-perishable food and energy bars: Pack lightweight, high-calorie foods that don’t require cooking.
  3. First-aid supplies: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
  4. Flashlight with extra batteries: A headlamp is also useful for hands-free light.
  5. Multi-tool or pocket knife: This is essential for a variety of tasks, from cutting rope to opening cans.
  6. Clothing suitable for the current season: Include socks, a hat, gloves, and an emergency blanket for warmth.
  7. Important documents or copies: IDs, insurance papers, medical information, and any other crucial documents in a waterproof bag.
  8. Cash: Small bills are best, as ATMs may not be available, and credit cards may be useless in an emergency.
  9. Fire-starting tools: Waterproof matches, a lighter, and a small amount of dry tinder can make all the difference.
• Personalize It: Your bug-out bag should be tailored to your specific needs. If you have children, include items like diapers and formula. If you have pets, pack food and supplies for them as well.

5. Secure Your Home

Home security is crucial. If society collapses, your home will be your castle. You need to be ready to protect what’s yours.

• Reinforce Entry Points: Add deadbolts to doors and place dowels in the tracks of sliding windows. Consider installing security bars on vulnerable windows or basement entries.
• Motion-Activated Lights: Install outdoor lights with motion sensors. They’re an excellent deterrent for potential intruders. Solar-powered lights are a great option since they won’t be affected by power outages.
• Defensive Items: Consider less-lethal options like pepper spray or a baseball bat, or, depending on your comfort level and local laws, firearms for home defense. If you choose to have firearms, make sure you and your family are trained in their proper use and storage.
• Fortify Your Perimeter: Plant thorny bushes under windows and around entry points. Create barriers that make it difficult for anyone to approach your home unnoticed.

6. Learn Basic Survival Skills

In the prepping community, knowledge can be just as valuable as physical supplies. Prepping for beginners isn’t just about stockpiling things—it’s also about developing the skills that will help you get through tough times.

• Fire Starting: Learn multiple methods to start a fire, like using flint and steel, lighters, or even a magnifying glass. Practice building fires in different weather conditions so you know how to do it when it really counts.
• First Aid: Take a basic first aid and CPR class. You’ll be thankful for the skills if someone in your family gets hurt. Learn how to stop bleeding, splint broken bones, and recognize signs of shock.
• Gardening: Start growing your own food, even if it’s just a small herb garden. Self-sufficiency is a cornerstone of prepping. Learn how to grow vegetables that are nutrient-dense and easy to store, such as potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens.
• Navigation: Learn how to use a map and compass. GPS may not always be available, and knowing how to navigate the old-fashioned way can be a lifesaver.
• Foraging: Educate yourself about the edible plants in your area. Being able to supplement your food supply with foraged items can make a big difference in a survival situation.

The Importance of a Community

Many beginner preppers make the mistake of thinking they need to go it alone. The truth is, having a network of like-minded people can be one of your biggest assets. Look for local prepping groups or online forums to connect with others who are interested in prepping for beginners.

• Strength in Numbers: A group can provide extra hands, skills, and resources that can be lifesaving in an emergency. A lone individual can easily be overwhelmed, but a group can pool resources and skills for mutual benefit.
• Shared Skills: Some people are great at first aid, others at mechanics. Sharing knowledge and learning from others makes your group stronger. Consider organizing skill-sharing events where members of your group can teach each other valuable survival skills.
• Mutual Defense: In a true crisis, having multiple people to defend your location can be crucial. You can organize watches, establish a perimeter, and provide each other with much-needed support.

Don’t Forget About Health and Hygiene

Hygiene is often overlooked when it comes to prepping, but it’s crucial. In a long-term crisis, staying clean can mean the difference between life and death, especially when diseases start spreading due to poor sanitation.

• Stockpile Hygiene Supplies:
  • Toilet paper: Aim for at least a three-month supply.
  • Soap: Stock both bar soap and liquid soap. They’re multipurpose and can be used for personal hygiene as well as cleaning dishes or clothes.
  • Hand sanitizer: Especially important if water is in short supply.
  • Feminine hygiene products: Don’t forget to store these if needed. Consider reusable options like menstrual cups if supplies become scarce.
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste: Oral hygiene is critical to prevent infections.
  • Disinfectants: Bleach or alcohol-based cleaners to keep your space sanitized.
• Waste Disposal: If running water becomes unavailable, you’ll need to figure out how to safely dispose of waste. Consider portable toilets or DIY composting options. If you have a yard, a properly dug latrine can also be an option.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, and eye protection can be invaluable during a pandemic or when cleaning up hazardous materials. Make sure you have these items on hand.

The Role of Self-Defense in Prepping

The harsh reality is that in times of crisis, the rule of law may falter. Prepping for beginners must also include the ability to protect yourself and your loved ones.

• Self-Defense Training: Take a self-defense course. Knowing how to physically protect yourself is as important as any stockpile. Look for classes that teach practical techniques that can be used by anyone, regardless of size or strength.
• Weapons: Depending on your comfort level, you might want to invest in some weapons for defense. Remember, the key to responsible ownership is training and safety. Consider options like pepper spray, tasers, or firearms. Ensure you are familiar with local laws and regulations regarding weapons.
• Situational Awareness: Learn how to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Knowing when to avoid a confrontation can be just as important as knowing how to fight. Practice observing people, identifying exits, and recognizing potentially dangerous situations before they escalate.

A Quick Checklist to Get Started

For those just dipping their toes into the waters of prepping for beginners, here’s a quick checklist to help you on your way:

1. Water Storage: Aim for at least two weeks’ worth. Remember to include purification methods.
2. Food Supplies: Store enough non-perishable items for at least a month. Rotate items regularly.
3. Bug-Out Bag: Create a kit that you can grab in an emergency. Customize it for each family member.
4. Home Security: Reinforce your home to keep it safe. Install deadbolts, secure windows, and add motion-activated lighting.
5. Survival Skills: Start learning basic skills like fire-starting, first aid, and gardening. Practice these skills regularly.
6. Join a Community: Find a group of like-minded preppers to share knowledge and resources. Build a network that can support each other.
7. Self-Defense: Learn how to protect yourself. Take a self-defense class and consider defensive tools.
8. Hygiene Supplies: Stock up on hygiene items and have a plan for waste disposal in case utilities are down.

Final Thoughts

Prepping for beginners is about being proactive rather than reactive. The world can be unpredictable, and being prepared doesn’t make you paranoid—it makes you smart. Whether it’s learning to grow your own food, storing extra water, or developing the skills you need to protect your family, the time to start prepping is now.

Remember, the key to survival isn’t just about having stuff; it’s about mindset, skills, and community. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep prepping—because the storm always hits when you least expect it.