As a seasoned prepper, I’ve seen countless lists of “must-have” survival items. But here’s the truth: not everything you think you need will actually help you when the going gets tough. I’ve learned this the hard way, through years of trial and error. Today, I’m going to share some surprising insights that might just change your prepping strategy. Let’s dive into 24 items many preppers stockpile, but probably shouldn’t waste their time and resources on.
Massive Stockpiles of Canned Food
We’ve all seen those prepper pantries filled to the brim with canned goods. But large stockpiles of canned food aren’t as crucial as many think. While having some canned goods is smart, focusing solely on this can leave you nutritionally deficient in a long-term scenario. Instead, consider learning food preservation techniques and gardening skills. These will serve you better in the long run and provide fresher, more nutritious options.
Excessive Amounts of Bottled Water
Sure, water is crucial for survival, but hoarding cases upon cases of bottled water isn’t the answer. It takes up valuable space and creates unnecessary plastic waste. A better approach is to invest in water purification methods like filters, tablets, or even learning how to build a DIY water filtration system. This way, you can make virtually any water source potable, which is a much more sustainable long-term solution.
High-Tech Gadgets
In a true survival situation, fancy gadgets with complex electronics are more likely to become paperweights than lifesavers. Many of these devices rely on batteries or power sources that may not be available. Instead of splurging on the latest survival tech, focus on learning basic skills like fire-making, shelter-building, and navigation using a map and compass. These timeless skills will serve you far better than a GPS unit with dead batteries.
Excessive Weaponry
While self-defense is important, some preppers go overboard with their weapons cache. Having multiple guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition might seem like a good idea, but it’s often overkill. A couple of reliable firearms that you’re proficient with, along with a reasonable amount of ammunition, is usually sufficient. Remember, in a true survival situation, avoiding conflict altogether is often the wisest course of action.
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
Military-style MREs are popular among preppers, but they’re not ideal for long-term sustenance. They’re expensive, have a limited shelf life, and aren’t particularly nutritious or tasty. Instead, consider learning to make your own dehydrated meals or investing in freeze-dried foods. These options are often lighter, last longer, and provide better nutrition. Plus, you can tailor them to your dietary preferences and needs.
Generator
Many preppers consider a generator essential, but they come with significant drawbacks. They’re noisy, require fuel (which may be scarce), and can attract unwanted attention. A more practical alternative is investing in solar panels or other renewable energy sources. These provide quieter, more sustainable power and don’t rely on finite fuel supplies. Plus, they’re useful even in non-emergency situations.
Gold and Silver
While precious metals might seem like a smart investment for a post-apocalyptic economy, they’re not as practical as you might think. In a true survival situation, people are more likely to barter with useful items like food, water, or medical supplies. Instead of hoarding gold and silver, consider stocking up on small, useful items that could be valuable for trade, like matches, soap, or first aid supplies.
Massive First Aid Kits
Having a well-stocked first aid kit is important, but some preppers go overboard with huge kits full of items they don’t know how to use. A more effective approach is to build a practical kit based on your actual medical knowledge and skills. Focus on learning basic first aid and slowly expand your kit as you gain more medical knowledge. Quality over quantity is key here.
Survival Seeds
Many preppers stock up on survival seed vaults, thinking they’ll be able to grow their own food when SHTF. The reality is that gardening is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. If you’ve never grown food before, you’re unlikely to succeed when your life depends on it. Instead of relying on seed stockpiles, start a garden now and learn through experience. This skill will be far more valuable than a can of seeds you’ve never used.
Bug Out Bags Filled with Gadgets
While having a bug out bag is smart, many are filled with unnecessary gadgets and tools. A truly effective bug out bag should be lightweight and contain only the essentials you need to get to safety. Focus on the basics: water, food, shelter, first aid, and navigation tools. Avoid the temptation to pack every survival gadget you own. Remember, in a bug out situation, mobility is key.
Huge Knife Collections
A good knife is undoubtedly useful in a survival situation, but some preppers accumulate vast collections of blades they’ll never use. Instead of amassing a small armory of knives, invest in one or two high-quality, versatile knives and learn how to use and maintain them properly. A well-maintained knife you’re comfortable using is far more valuable than a drawer full of unused blades.
Camouflage Everything
While tactical gear has its place, decking yourself out head-to-toe in camouflage isn’t necessary for most survival situations. In fact, it might make you stand out more in an urban or suburban environment. Instead, focus on practical, durable clothing in neutral colors. Layering options and weather-appropriate gear are more important than looking like you’ve stepped out of a military catalog.
Excessive Amounts of Toilet Paper
The great toilet paper shortage of 2020 led many preppers to stockpile massive amounts of TP. While having some on hand is nice, it’s not a true survival essential. There are many alternatives, from bidets to reusable cloth wipes, that are more sustainable in the long run. Consider learning about these options rather than dedicating valuable storage space to mountains of toilet paper.
Fancy Survival Watches
Those multi-function survival watches with built-in compasses, altimeters, and barometers might seem cool, but they’re often unnecessary. A simple, reliable watch is all you really need to keep track of time. For navigation and weather prediction, learn to read natural signs and use basic tools like a compass and map. These skills are more reliable and don’t depend on battery life or fragile electronics.
Survival TV Show Gear
Many items popularized by survival TV shows are more for entertainment than practical use. Things like paracord bracelets, credit card multi-tools, or “tactical pens” often have limited real-world utility. Instead of buying gimmicky items, invest in quality versions of basic tools like a good fixed-blade knife, a sturdy lighter, and a durable water container. These will serve you far better in a true survival situation.
Excessive Amounts of Fuel
Stockpiling large quantities of gasoline or propane might seem prudent, but it comes with significant risks. Fuel degrades over time and can be dangerous to store in large amounts. Instead of hoarding fuel, consider alternatives like solar ovens for cooking or learning to cook over an open fire. For transportation, consider bicycles or other non-motorized options that don’t rely on fuel.
Freeze-Dried Ice Cream
While it might be a fun novelty item, freeze-dried ice cream and other “luxury” survival foods are unnecessary and take up valuable space and resources. Focus on nutritious, calorie-dense foods that will actually sustain you in a crisis. Things like rice, beans, and nuts provide more bang for your buck and storage space.
Excessive Doses of Vitamins
Some preppers stockpile huge quantities of vitamin supplements, thinking they’ll ward off nutritional deficiencies. However, many vitamins degrade over time and can even become harmful if taken in large doses. Instead of relying on pills, focus on storing and growing nutrient-dense foods. Learning about wild edibles in your area can also provide a sustainable source of vitamins and minerals.
Survival Straws
While portable water filters like survival straws seem convenient, they have limitations. They can’t filter out viruses and have a limited lifespan. A more versatile option is a pump-style water filter or even learning how to make a DIY filter using natural materials. These methods are more reliable for long-term water purification needs.
Excessive Amounts of Soap and Cleaning Supplies
While hygiene is important, stockpiling years’ worth of soap and cleaning supplies is unnecessary. Many of these products have a limited shelf life and take up valuable storage space. Instead, learn to make your own soaps and cleaning solutions using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. These skills will serve you well beyond just survival situations.
Gas Masks
Unless you live near a chemical plant or in an area with a specific threat of chemical warfare, a gas mask is likely overkill. They’re bulky, have limited filter life, and require proper training to use effectively. A more practical approach is to have a plan for sheltering in place and sealing off a room in case of airborne threats.
Faraday Cages
While electromagnetic pulse (EMP) protection might seem important, the likelihood of an EMP attack is relatively low compared to other threats. Building or buying Faraday cages to protect electronics often isn’t the best use of resources. Instead, focus on developing skills and systems that don’t rely heavily on electronics. Basic radios and simple devices are often sufficient for communication needs.
Excessive Amounts of Cash
While having some cash on hand is wise, stockpiling large amounts can be risky. In a true long-term disaster, cash may quickly become worthless. Instead of hoarding money, invest in tangible assets and skills that will be valuable in a crisis. Things like tools, knowledge, and community connections often prove more valuable than paper money in true survival situations.
Bunkers
While underground bunkers might seem like the ultimate prepper item, they’re often impractical and incredibly expensive. They can also become death traps if not properly designed and maintained. Instead of investing in a bunker, focus on making your current home more resilient. Improving security, stockpiling supplies, and having a solid evacuation plan are often more practical than building an underground shelter.
