Prepping for SHTF: Top gear you need

The last thing any prepper would want is to be caught off guard during a disaster or emergency. In case SHTF, you should be prepared with the right equipment to help you survive. Stock up on these crucial pieces of survival gear and you will be ready for anything. (h/t to PreppersWill.com)

Bug-out bag

In order to make a quick getaway, you will need a reliable bug-out bag (BOB) to hold all of your emergency supplies. Tactical backpacks make for ideal BOBs since they are usually large enough to carry at least several days’ worth of clothing and supplies. Your belongings don’t even have to all fit inside your BOB. If you can get a tactical backpack with either Velcro systems or a Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system, you can use these systems to attach useful accessories to the exterior of your BOB. Tactical backpacks are designed to last. They should be made of durable nylon that will not tear or snag easily. Other features your BOB should have include sturdy zippers, a large and accessible front administration pocket, and closed-cell foam shoulder straps that can make it easier for you to carry your BOB.

Durable survival knife

Whether you have a decent pocket knife or a full-sized hunting knife, you need a weapon that you can use for self-defense. Survival knives are more versatile than other weapons, such as pistols or assault rifles, since they can be used for anything, from cutting cordage to dressing wild game. Tactical knives serve as great overall tools for hunting, camping, and bugging out. Folding knives might not be as strong or durable as fixed blade knives, but they are lightweight, compact, and easy to store in a pocket. (Related: Essential gear you need for shelter, fire, water, and survival.)

Flashlight

When the power grid fails, you will need some form of lighting to help you see what you are doing at night. Tactical flashlights are necessary pieces of equipment when SHTF. Unlike traditional flashlights, tactical flashlights come with several useful features. For one thing, they can shine much brighter and farther than regular flashlights, with some versions being able to illuminate objects almost three football fields away. On the other hand, if you want to avoid detection, you can get a tactical flashlight with a low power option so that the light it emits does not bring any unwanted attention. More than that, tactical flashlights also tend to be waterproof and extremely durable. If you want other lighting options, you can also stock up on emergency candles, regular flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns.

First aid kit

During an emergency, you likely won’t have access to immediate medical assistance, which is why you should keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand at all times. Even if you aren’t in a survival situation, you can use your first aid kit to treat minor injuries. A basic first aid kit should consist of sterile bandages, clean gauze pads, tweezers, antibacterial ointments, disinfectants, burn gel, medical tape, and a thermometer. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with all the items in your first aid kit so that you can use them without hesitation in case of an emergency. If you have any chronic health issues that require medication, be sure to keep the necessary medications in your first aid kit as well.

If you stock up on high-quality survival gear and learn how to properly use these items, you can be prepared for anything.

Sources include:

PreppersWill.com

PreppersPortal.com