Here is a list of 50 items you can start collecting today to be much more prepared in any situation. Part 3.
31. Drink Mixes
Drink mixes are easy to store and the have generally long shelf lives. Consider single packets in lieu of larger packaging as it will make them easier to trade.
32. Backpacks and Cloth Bags
Backpacks are light and easy to store, and useful in a wide array of survival scenarios.
33. Fishing Poles and Gear
When you can’t just go down to the store, one of the easiest ways to find some dinner is to go fishing.
34. Multi-tools and Pocket Knives
Multi-tools are the best for bartering, because they cover a wide range of uses, meaning they are more universally needed. You can store a lot of multi-tools and pocket knives in a small space, unlike what their full size equivalents would be.
35. Screws, Nuts & Bolts
If basic supplies are hard to come by, having a stockpile of things like screws, nuts and bolts for trade will come in handy.
36. Gardening Tools
In a variety of different scenarios it is likely we may have to go out and find new ways to feed our families. For many that will mean farming in order to sustain their family. Gardening tools and resources like fertilizers will be highly sought after.
37. Firewood
Another no brainer, fire is life and many of us will need firewood to keep us warm or help us cook our food.
38. Tarps
Tarps are great temporary covers and shelters, not to mention their various other uses. They will always be a popular trade item.
39. Rope and Bungee cords
Everyone knows that rope is an important survival tool, and in a SHTF scenario it is not different.
40. Lotion and Chapstick
Dry conditions actually can provide painful situations, making lotion and chapstick necessary items for some people.
41. Sleeping Bags and Blankets
People will always need a place to sleep, and in disaster situations they could become quite the commodity.
42. Air Mattresses and Air Pump
Much like sleeping bags, but with a higher trade value, air mattresses provide comfort and restful sleep, a priceless benefit in a survival situation. Make sure you have an air pump as well, but consider the power sources, you probably want to invest in one that comes with a manual option, a car power source, or at least something more than just a traditional electric plug.
43. CDs and Musical Instruments
In tough times, there must be joy. Music is generally priceless, but in times of hardship instruments and musical sources could gain a pretty penny in trade.
44. Laundry Detergent
Keeping our clothes clean is psychologically beneficial, as well as in generally healthier.
45. Soda
Soda, much like coffee or tea, provides that caffeine boost that can be a much needed and added benefit in a survival situation. Sodas are also a luxury item, like chocolate, that will bring a higher trade value.
46. Candles
Candles are another obvious item, but needed nonetheless. They are also items that eventually burn out, meaning they will be a consistently needed item.
47. Paper, Pens and Pencils
Writing is not only a form of communication, it is a way to record history, tell stories, play games, send word, and draw pictures. Their worth is immeasurable.
48. Grooming Supplies
Grooming items are important. Like soap, they help us feel a little more human in an uncertain world. Items like hair brushes, shavers, shaving cream, and combs will be highly sought after and useful for trade.
49. Baby Supplies
Baby diapers, wipes, formula and food may be a more specialized item to trade, but their value would be huge to a mother or father just looking for some creature comforts for their baby.
50. Books
Those things called books that people used before “Google” may actually prove some use if the Internet and electricity is down. Books still hold a vast amount of knowledge that you can’t put a price on. Not to mention their entertainment value.
Little things like hotel bars of soap, over the counter meds, travel sized toiletries, alcohol nips, instant coffee and tea etc... Will all be needed or craved when the stores shut down for good...