This article was originally published by Michael Snyder at The Economic Collapse Blog.
People have been asking me to do an article like this for quite some time. In all the years that I have been writing, I have never seen so many of my readers so alarmed about our immediate future.
Over and over again, I have been getting emails from people asking for advice about how to prepare for what is ahead, and so many of them are using the word “urgency” to describe what they are feeling. And I can definitely identify with that, because around the middle of last year that is a word that I started using constantly. I felt an urgency about 2020 that I had never felt about any other upcoming year, and there were certain things that I knew that I had to get done. One of those things that I had to get done was my new book, and it is now finished. The plan is to release it this month, and after reading it there will be no doubt about why I have been feeling such a sense of urgency in recent months.
I want to warn you in advance that the list below is not an exhaustive list.
Instead, it is meant to be a very basic starting guide. There are many other things that could (and probably should) be added to this list, and I very much encourage readers to leave comments after this article with their own suggestions and recommendations. We should always be willing to learn from one another because nobody is an expert on everything.
To me, the four primary priorities for preparing for an emergency scenario are food, water, energy, and shelter. Once you have got those four basic areas covered, you can certainly build on that foundation by addressing other considerations.
In the title of this article I use the phrase “the next 12 months”, but I do not mean to imply that everything will be fine after those 12 months are over. In fact, I am convinced that our problems are only going to intensify as time rolls along.
And I certainly hope that you will not need everything on this list during the next 12 months. Hopefully, you will not need to use some of these items for a few years. But this is definitely a great opportunity to purchase many of these things because a lot of them are only going to become more expensive and more difficult to acquire the worse conditions get.
In putting this list together, I was envisioning a scenario in which most of you will be sheltering at home rather than “bugging out” to an alternative location. In a “bugging out” scenario, this list would look quite a bit different.
Also, I didn’t address self-defense on this list, but without a doubt, it is very important. In fact, if you live in or near a major city, it is imperative to have a plan for defending yourself and your family. For years, I have been encouraging readers to move away from the major cities, but for a lot of people that simply isn’t possible at this moment. More than 51 million Americans have filed new claims for unemployment so far this year, and so a good stable job is an extremely valuable thing to have at this moment. If your job is keeping you in a potentially dangerous area right now, you will also want to have a plan for “bugging out” to a more remote location if the need arises.
With all of that being said, the following are 50 things that I am encouraging everyone to stock up on in order to prepare for the chaotic times that are coming…
#1 A Generator
#2 A Berkey Water Filter
#3 A Rainwater Collection System If You Do Not Have A Natural Supply Of Water Near Your Home
#4 An Emergency Medical Kit
#5 Rice
#6 Pasta
#7 Canned Soup
#9 Canned Fruit
#10 Canned Chicken
#12 Salt
#13 Sugar
#14 Powdered Milk
#15 Bags Of Flour
#16 Yeast
#17 Lots Of Extra Coffee (If You Drink It)
#18 Buckets Of Long-Term Storable Food
#19 Extra Vitamins
#21 Candles
#22 Flashlights Or Lanterns
#23 Plenty Of Wood To Burn
#24 Extra Blankets
#26 A Sun Oven
#27 An Extra Fan If You Live In A Hot Climate
#28 Hand Sanitizer
#29 Toilet Paper
#31 Extra Toothpaste
#32 Extra Razors
#34 A Battery-Powered Radio
#35 Extra Batteries
#36 Solar Chargers
#37 Trash Bags
#38 Tarps
#39 A Pocket Knife
#40 A Hammer
#41 An Axe
#42 A Shovel
#43 Work Gloves
#44 N95 Masks
#46 Canning Jars
#47 Extra Supplies For Your Pets
#48 An Emergency Supply Of Cash
#49 Bibles For Every Member Of Your Family
#50 A “Bug Out Bag” For Every Member Of Your Family
Are there certain key items that you would add to this list? If so, please feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts below.
I understand that there are a lot of people out there that are feeling extreme financial stress during this severe economic downturn, and acquiring all of the items on this list may not be possible.
And that is okay. Our job is to do the very best that we can with what we have, and we shall trust God with the rest.
I know that a lot of people out there don’t like it when I write such “negative” articles. But I wouldn’t be doing my duty if I didn’t warn people about what was coming, and I actually believe that articles like this give people a lot of hope.
There is hope in understanding what is coming, there is hope in getting prepared, and there is hope in connecting with others that are also preparing.
Just like we witnessed during the early stages of this COVID-19 pandemic, the people that will be freaking out when things get really crazy will be those that do not understand what is happening and haven’t made any preparations in advance.
Millions upon millions of Americans will not be able to handle the times that are coming, but we prepare because we believe that with God’s help we can make it through all of the storms that are ahead.
If you wish to mock us for being preppers, please feel free to do so, but you also need to be prepared to issue one whopper of an apology when you are forced to turn to one of us for help one day.
About the Author: I am a voice crying out for change in a society that generally seems content to stay asleep. My name is Michael Snyder and I am the publisher of The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream, and The Most Important News, and the articles that I publish on those sites are republished on dozens of other prominent websites all over the globe. I have written four books that are available on Amazon.com including The Beginning Of The End, Get Prepared Now, and Living A Life That Really Matters. (#CommissionsEarned) By purchasing those books you help to support my work. I always freely and happily allow others to republish my articles on their own websites, but due to government regulations, I need those that republish my articles to include this “About the Author” section with each article. In order to comply with those government regulations, I need to tell you that the controversial opinions in this article are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the websites where my work is republished. The material contained in this article is for general information purposes only, and readers should consult licensed professionals before making any legal, business, financial, or health decisions. Those responding to this article by making comments are solely responsible for their viewpoints, and those viewpoints do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of Michael Snyder or the operators of the websites where my work is republished. I encourage you to follow me on social media on Facebook and Twitter, and anyway that you can share these articles with others is a great help. During these very challenging times, people will need hope more than ever before, and it is our goal to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with as many people as we possibly can.
Come on,you need some sort of firearms to defend your stuff.
Bob, and readers at SHTFplan, have you tried to find ammo, gun parts, etc.
IMPOSSIBLE. Every web site says “out of stock”. on near anything-everything gun related, useful items.
Go try to find 9mm ammo. My neighbor said, “he has looked for MONTHS. Shelves empty. He wants to, “go to range, is afraid to shoot two boxes he has on hand.” He has been unable to restock. He also commented about long lines and waits to buy.
If you are unarmed now? You will pay TWICE normal prices. Ammo for that firearm is Very Difficult to find.
My wife said she wished that I wouldn’t have Sold off and traded All of my gear after coming back home. Everything gone. All gone. Funny thing that, She said she was worried about the boys getting into things and encouraged me to sell off Everything at that time THEN. Today, present time, The riots have made her change her mind. But too late. All gear gone.
Traded ALL of my gear to former neighbor moving, for his second truck with minor problems. Was good trade. Truck can get my family out of here. Runs great, now. Glad I traded. He hunts and camps, wanted my gear. I have had enough “camping” and no plans to ever hunt again. I was done with it. Deer season is more dangerous around here than combat. How embarassing to get shot by an insurance salesman from big city on opening day. No thanks.
Firearms money can be better spent.
I’d rather invest in shop tools-auto parts-food-medical needs. Especially Food. Famine is ugly. Winter can be ugly.
I wouldn’t pay the current inflated prices if I were you. Myself, I will remain unarmed. Besides, if things really go haywire. The tactical tommy types will provide plenty of “Battlefield Pickups” for those that stayed out of it for first 30 days. So no worries.
FYI:
Small arms are a False security. Better to run than fight, if you have family. Run-hide-hunker down, do everything you can to break perimeter and escape the effected zone of conflict or disaster. Get out. Do not stay. Do not Delay. Leave it all behind. If people get stupid with riots and unrest, LEAVE. Stuff can be replaced. Don’t die for your stuff.
You folks might also be reminded that winter is coming. Get your wood-stoves-cold weather clothing for the children NOW.
Can you be comfortable with no electricity or heat in December-January?
The Lefties and their Soros-Gates-Rockefellar masters, might make up another crises, or try a coup after Trump wins his second term.
Winter Ready:
Have Food.
Vehicle ready to roll. Ready to escape. Snow chains-shovel.
Family squared away, Winter supplies, boots, gloves, hats, coats, and spares, tarps, heavy blankets.
Be ready for long ruck in winter with your family if required.
yeah my comment will be made fun of by you experts. But I’ve actually seen it. Not by sitting home watching cnn,internet, lies. Seeing Hungry, Cold, Scared, injured, refugee people are a real tragedy. Especially the mothers with children and elderly trying to walk out of the turmoil. The people that left early lived. Those that stayed mostly died. Firearms won’t be of much use. People will kill you for them. Police and soldiers will kill you or take your firearms. You will be alone and they will have the numbers. You stand you die, and your family gets caught in crossfire. If you want to play soldier join the Army. If you want to fight and kill, go be a Marine. War is a bad place for a family. Just Leave. All i can tell you.
You make some great points and I wish the best for you and yours. I get where you are coming from and can hear your experience talking.
Do you have a ” Plan B ” ?
I’m no longer into guns or hunting since going to war. Yes, family is the most important thing but ( and you knew there was a “but” coming up ) I still recommend having a plan b.
You can only run so far and evade for so long.
Bottom line,
I won’t go quietly without taking alot of bad guys out first.
Best of luck.
Go forward with GOD in your heart.
Amen, I kept enough but wish I had more, gave it to my kids, they really didn’t want it but now are concerned. It is hard not to say I told you so. Could of bought ammo at good prices but there was plenty then.i worked at a gun shop for 5 years up until COVID, I saw the kinds of people buying guns, no experience, no training, had to be taught how to load a single shot shotgun. As the man says first 30 days will be brutal, these people will kill each other and themselves. I believe if you can find a gun and know how to use it, and can afford it by all means but it is not the only answer it is part of a plan to cover your needs. Be smart, prudent, wise, and prepare as best you can. Read, learn and be smart is always a good idea no matter who says it.
Water purification will also go a long way. None of us can store enough water so purifying that which is available will be of paramount importance. I would suggest a Sawyer Filter for each person in your household, as well as a Kelly Kettle which affords and opportunity to boil water in a portable unit with any available combustible material.
Watch this before banned. Was Already pulled from YouTube dot com.
Video is now Located at website called:
* Banned dot video:
Title: “Dr. Warns New COVID-19 Vaccine Is Untested And Will Alter Your DNA”
Jul 21, 2020
” Dr Carrie Madej, an Internal Medicine Specialist claims that theCOVID-19 Vaccine Could Be Trojan Horse To Patent Humans as it will change your DNA
Dr Carrie Madej, DO is a Internal Medicine Specialist in McDonough, GA and has over 19 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Kansas City Univ Of Medicine Bioscience College Of Osteopathic Medicine medical school in 2001.”
_ _ _ _ _ _
You really need to find and watch this video. SHTFPlan needs article on topic.
– – – – – – – –
Note: YouTube dot com is banning everyone conservative, in a purge. Save videos of topics that interest you. The Tech Monopoly is banning-censoring-ANYTHING conservative. Truth is Verbotten.
The Occult mask of submission is to train you, for vaccine and mark of the Beast.
Where is the advice on weapons and ammunition? You can have all the supplies in the world, but if you can’t keep the wolves at bay and hold the supplies, you’re simply a, ‘terrorist supply depot.’
Also, you list ‘bug out bags’ for the whole family. How about a place to ‘bug out’ too? And what goes in those bags? How much can the kids or the wife carry? How far have you walked with your ‘bug out bags’? Can you navigate on foot to your interim or final location?
I understand the intent of the article, but without the items to protect what you have, the training in the skills you need to keep what you have, the ability to move or pre-stage what you have, and the ability to communicate and navigate to where you think you need to go, you’re basically a walking supply point.
Thanks for reading.
DTG, didn’t you read what Walker, NavyVetIraq, and JackFallin said, and I’m joining them. When NFAC comes knocking, I’m going to stick a flower in their gun barrel and fly a Black Lives Matter flag, and I’m sure they won’t take my stuff, cause they be honorable people, so just show them love. Trekker Out
Do people comment here?
NO! What are yo u seeing under comments? Let the rest of us know.
Not really.
Not really anymore
I think you are generally on the mark, sad to say. These events are only going to get worse in the long run. There will be some relaxing, but only briefly and then even worse events will come.
Prepping may even be insufficient for the Long haul I’m afraid. The long term, 5 to 10 years, is what concerns me most. 1 to 2 years should not be too hard, but 3 to 7 years out may be a whole other story. God have mercy on us all.
Have read your posts with interest over time. Jesus is the only essential and I have much gratitude that He is freely available to everyone. Preparing is also for everyone; it may help out when you least expect it, like the moment you draw your last breath. Prepping may also help weather a storm, a sudden death in the family or an unexpected change in circumstances. It may allow you to help others. Spread the gospel all the time. We might be surrounded, but we are surrounded by God. If we are here to see these times, then we are meant to be here. Stay-on-task and hold-the-line.
God bless to all.
Very true.
The govt. won’t save you,the opposition won’t save you. Only you can save you with the help of like minded individuals. You won;t make it by yourself…15-20 of you might. Get organized,get assets together and have a defensible location. Get out of the city and let those people duke it out,eliminate each other and make it easier for you to survive.
Commo and a commo plan. Often overlooked
a tabletop icemaker (26lbs.cap.)
ice is great for treating Sprains or various other tissue inflamation (justification)
or who doesn’t enjoy a frozen daquari after a day of fighting zombies ?
can be ran off genset but I prefer solar
what a concept…making ice from the sun…thats a morale boost in itself
*manufacturers suggest using distilled water but the berkey is fine
Loved the list and would like to add :
repair and maintenance items like a sewing kit w/ extra needles thread, buttons etc.
I like a sewing awl and used one just yesterday along with some waxed Dacron thread to mend some web gear for a friend.
Berkey replacement filters are suddenly pretty tough to come by.
Check their actual site for valid distributors. If it’s not on their distributor site, do not buy, you’re more likely than not to get a counterfeit look alike.
https://www.berkeybynmcl.com/find-authorized-berkey-dealers/authorized-international-dealers/
Really glad to have looked into that because I was likely getting fakies from amazon. Do not buy your berkey products on amazon or ebay.
https://www.berkeybynmcl.com/buying-authentic-berkey-products/
Propure was good and worked well, but after a year, there was no saving or rejuvenating the ceramic filter. Going back to Berkey but was thinking of setting an extra top drain compartment so I could run berkey top and bottom filters, then have that automatically run through propure on the bottom side. It’s the flakes that come out of the bottom flouride filters, those don’t last nearly as long as the upper black ones.
https://www.amazon.com/Stovetec-Foot-Two-Door-charcoal-Stove/dp/B00F8NNBQE/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
Get a good ecostove. aka rocketstove. Never thought I’d see these out of stock. Never though I’d have to actually use it either. The pro manufactured ones are better because of the ceramic interior and better construction, much better energy retention.
It’s a quality product, I researched this thoroughly before buying and shelving it many years ago. Suggested.
Still wondering what’s the best generator for me though….
i got lots of lists, as those of you that been here a while know. think of them as reminders of things you might pick from…..many of them are worthless without the knowledge to go with them. i may put a few more up here on this story. seems like a bunch of newbies here now.
I call this the list of MOST IMPORTANT stuff to have when SHTF
fire extinguishers,,,,LOTS of them
night vision
LED headlamp
antibiotics will be worth MORE than gold
motion sensor alarms
rat traps
firestarter
magnifying glass
fuel
come-along
ghillie suit
high powered binocs
work gloves
digging bar from harbor freight
jogging stroller for hauling things that weigh a lot long distances
benadryl
painkillers
wipies
brillo pad makes a good fire starter with jumper cables
a hat for sleeping in….and ALL the clothes you’ll need to keep you warm…and dry….this will require MUCH THOUGHT AND RESEARCH….and testing, on YOUR part.
bulletproof vest…and helmet
tourniquets
a damned-good firstaid kit
DETAILED Maps Of Your Area
wooden 4×6, or 6×8’s for crossing obstacles(3 feet long)
peanut butter….VERY important
folding shovel and saw
army survival manual
boy scout manual
first aid book… where there is no doctor book
military 4 part sleep system…protects to minus 30 degrees if you know what to do with it…and at LEAST have the bivy bag part of it in your car in case you get stranded….if you are dressed for the climate you’re in, it might only take that bivy to save yer life.
tow straps/shackles/chain with pipe for towing
Antacids
Anti-diarrheal
giant channel-lock pliers and crescent wrench
Books on foraging and how to use herbs and essential oils.
sandbags
prybar
here’s my gun list again for those that dint pay attention…..but MIGHT be payin’ attention NOW. randy
rifle and ammo
batteries
870 wingmaster 12 guage with ammo
22LR semi-auto rifle with ammo
9mm pistol with 2000 rounds of ammo
otis cleaning kit for all calibers
gun oil(i use 5w40 synthetic motor oil)
GOOD flashlight
scope
earplugs
rod for clearing jams
extra magazines for all weapons
holster for pistol
gun cleaning solvent
gun disassembly mat
manual for guns owned
multi-tool
parts kit
boresight
cleaning/shop rags
plate carrier
armorers wrench
magazine reloading devices
what did i forget?
eye protection
gloves
here’s MY list of what’s in my pantry. and i aint gonna edit out what was already said, so apologies for that. stuff with lots of water content, and preferably that doesn’t HAVE to be cooked.
macaroni
rice
pinto beans
canned fruit like peaches, fruit cocktail, pears, apricots
peanut butter
tomatoes and tomato sauce
cornmeal
flour
sugar, brown sugar
tabasco sauce
oats
BBQ sauce
popcorn and seasoning
olives, black
canned chilli
canned soups…my favorite, cream of mushroom
milk, dried, evaporated, and condensed
cake mix, 7up or sprite, and canned fruit…to make cobbler, apple or cherry is MY faves(google that) pie filling will be GREAT shtf food…..NObody has enough canned fruit stored.
canned veggies
honey
syrup
vinegar
shortening/corn oil
soy sauce…teriyake
beef/chicken bullion
baking soda, baking powder, yeast
salt
pepper, garlic salt, chilli powder, italian seasoning, cinnamon, ketchup, mustard, mayo.
instant coffee, tea..creamer
hard candy, chocolate
tuna, spam(don’t stack it very high)
powdered eggs
When it comes to a radio, would be good to have one with short wave capabilities, so if communications go out in this country. you can listen to what the other countries are saying happened to us. would help for each family member to have a 30 mile 2 way radio also.