Let’s face it, prepping can get expensive fast. But here’s a secret: dollar stores are a prepper’s paradise. I’ve spent years honing my skills and stockpile, and I’m constantly amazed at the treasures I uncover in these budget-friendly shops. From basic survival gear to clever multi-use items, dollar stores offer a goldmine of affordable prep essentials. So grab your cart and let’s explore the 24 must-have prepper items you can snag without breaking the bank. Remember, the key is to stock up gradually and focus on versatile items that serve multiple purposes.
Candles
Candles are a prepper’s best friend when the lights go out. Dollar stores often stock various sizes and types, from tea lights to emergency candles. I always grab a few packs on each visit. They’re not just for light – candles can also provide a bit of warmth in a pinch. For added efficiency, look for candles in metal tins, which can double as makeshift cooking vessels in a survival situation.
Matches
Speaking of candles, you’ll need a way to light them. Dollar stores usually carry boxes of matches, which are essential for any emergency kit. I recommend waterproof matches if you can find them, but regular ones work too if you store them properly. Don’t forget to grab a few extra boxes – you can never have too many. To waterproof regular matches, dip the heads in melted paraffin wax and let them dry completely before storing.
Batteries
Power outages are a common emergency, so stock up on batteries when you see them. Dollar stores often have great deals on AA and AAA batteries, which fit most flashlights and small devices. I always keep a drawer full of these, rotating my stock to ensure freshness. To extend battery life, store them in a cool, dry place and consider using a battery tester to check their charge periodically.
First Aid Supplies
Basic first aid items are crucial for any prepper, and dollar stores are full of them. Bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and pain relievers are usually available. I’ve even found small first aid kits that make great additions to bug-out bags or car emergency kits. Don’t forget to include tweezers and small scissors in your kit, as these can be invaluable for removing splinters or cutting bandages.
Duct Tape
Ah, duct tape – the ultimate multi-use prepper item. Dollar store duct tape might not be as durable as premium brands, but it’ll do in a pinch. I’ve used it for everything from patching tarps to making emergency shoes. Always keep a roll or two in your prep supplies. In a survival situation, duct tape can even be used to create a makeshift water container or to seal food packages to keep out pests.
Zip Ties
These little plastic wonders are incredibly versatile. Use them to secure tarps, create makeshift handles, or bundle items together. I once used zip ties to fix a broken tent pole during a camping trip. Dollar stores often have packs of various sizes. In a pinch, zip ties can also be used as emergency shoelaces or to create a improvised clothesline.
Trash Bags
Heavy-duty trash bags have countless uses in emergency situations. They can serve as rain ponchos, ground covers, or water collection devices. I always keep a box in my prep supplies. Look for the thickest ones available at your dollar store. In a survival scenario, large trash bags can be filled with leaves or other insulating materials to create an emergency sleeping bag.
Bottled Water
While not a long-term solution, bottled water is great for short-term emergencies. Many dollar stores sell gallon jugs or multi-packs of smaller bottles. I like to keep a few gallons on hand and rotate them regularly to ensure freshness. Don’t forget to save the empty bottles – they can be repurposed for water storage or as containers for dry goods.
Canned Goods
Canned foods are prepper staples, and dollar stores often have a decent selection. Look for high-protein options like beans, tuna, and chicken. I always check expiration dates and try to find cans with pull-tab openings for easy access. Remember to balance your canned goods selection with a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded emergency diet.
Manual Can Opener
If your canned goods don’t have pull-tabs, you’ll need a way to open them. Dollar store can openers might not last forever, but they’re cheap enough to stock up on. I keep one in my kitchen and one in each emergency kit. Look for can openers with a bottle opener feature for added versatility.
Flashlights
Reliable light sources are crucial during power outages. While dollar store flashlights might not be the highest quality, they’re perfectly serviceable for short-term use. I’ve found some surprisingly bright LED models in recent years. To maximize battery life, look for flashlights with multiple light settings, including a low-power option.
Glow Sticks
These aren’t just for raves – glow sticks provide safe, waterproof light in emergencies. They’re great for marking trails or lighting up small spaces. I always keep a pack in my car and another in my home emergency kit. In a survival situation, you can crack a glow stick and pour the liquid into a clear water bottle to create a larger area light.
Lighters
In addition to matches, lighters are essential fire-starting tools. Dollar stores often carry multi-packs of disposable lighters. I prefer the long-handled ones for safety, but any type will do in an emergency. Consider keeping a lighter in a waterproof container or bag to ensure it stays dry and functional when you need it most.
Aluminum Foil
Foil has numerous uses in a survival situation. It can be used for cooking, signaling, and even as an improvised solar still for water purification. I always keep a few rolls in my prep supplies. In an emergency, a sheet of foil can be shaped into a makeshift bowl or used to line the inside of a pot for easier cleaning.
Plastic Sheeting
Large plastic sheets or tarps are invaluable for creating shelter, collecting rainwater, or covering broken windows. Dollar stores often carry lighter-weight versions that are still useful in a pinch. I’ve used these to create quick rain shelters during unexpected downpours. In a survival situation, clear plastic sheeting can be used to create a simple greenhouse for growing food.
Hand Sanitizer
Keeping clean is crucial in emergency situations to prevent illness. Most dollar stores stock small bottles of hand sanitizer, which are perfect for emergency kits. I make sure to have one in every vehicle and bug-out bag. Remember that alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be used as a fire starter in emergency situations.
Bleach
Unscented bleach is a powerful disinfectant and can be used to purify water in extreme situations. Dollar stores usually carry small bottles, which are easier to store and transport. Remember, a little goes a long way – the CDC recommends using 8 drops (about 1/8 teaspoon) of 6% unscented household liquid bleach per gallon of water for purification. Bleach can also be used to sanitize surfaces and tools in an emergency scenario.
Work Gloves
Protecting your hands is important in any emergency situation. Dollar store work gloves might not be top quality, but they’re better than nothing. I keep a pair in my car and another with my home tools. Look for gloves with textured palms for better grip when handling tools or debris.
Rope or Paracord
You’d be surprised how often you need cordage in survival situations. Dollar stores often carry packages of clothesline or thin rope. While not as strong as paracord, it’s still useful for many tasks. I always grab a package when I see it. In a pinch, you can unravel rope to use the individual fibers as fishing line or sewing thread.
Safety Pins
These simple tools have countless uses, from repairing clothing to improvising fishing hooks. Dollar stores usually sell multi-packs in various sizes. I keep a small container of assorted safety pins in each of my emergency kits. In a survival situation, a safety pin can be bent into a small snare for catching small game.
Sewing Kit
Basic sewing supplies can help you repair clothing and gear in an emergency. Dollar stores often carry small travel sewing kits that are perfect for bug-out bags. I’ve used these to patch torn tents and mend ripped backpacks. Consider adding a few extra needles and some strong thread to your dollar store kit for added durability.
Disposable Rain Ponchos
Staying dry is crucial for maintaining body heat in emergencies. Dollar store ponchos might not be the most durable, but they’re lightweight and easy to pack. I keep one in each vehicle and several in my home emergency supplies. In a pinch, a poncho can be used as a makeshift ground cover or tarp for shelter.
Reading Glasses
If you wear corrective lenses, having a backup pair is crucial. Many dollar stores sell reading glasses in various strengths. Even if you don’t need them, they can be useful for detailed tasks like first aid or gear repair in low light conditions. Consider getting a pair with an attached neck cord to prevent loss in emergency situations.
Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
Maintaining oral hygiene is important for overall health, even in emergencies. Dollar stores usually stock basic toothbrushes and small tubes of toothpaste. I include these in all my emergency kits and bug-out bags. In a survival situation, the bristles of a toothbrush can be used as a small scrub brush for cleaning tools or equipment.
