One of the first questions that I often get asked is; what do preppers stock up on? 

It's one of the most common questions I get, so I thought I would write a post about this popular topic.

When disaster strikes, preppers aim to have enough supplies on hand to fall back on.

They must be ready for any occasion, including the prospect of a few months when store shelves might be bare.

They must be prepared to survive off-grid scenarios for as long as it takes to reach the end game.

Preppers are dedicated individuals who prepare ahead of time for unexpected events.

However, they differ from doomsday preppers in that they store food and other supplies in anticipation of the end of the world.

In contrast, preppers stockpile supplies in anticipation of instability or emergency scenarios.

I like to keep the two separate even though they are related, if that makes any sense.

Now, I know what you may be thinking.

That sounds like a lot of work, and who wants a hobby like that?

Well, preppers don't call it a hobby for anything, and there are plenty of perks.

For example, you can make a little extra money storing extra food or preserve any surplus that may grow on your farm or garden.

You could even use it for swap. Just remember preppers stock on food, water, and supplies.

What food do preppers stock up on?

Most of us probably know that food is one of the most important aspects of prepping.

But where do you get started? Don't worry; preppers already have it all figured out.

There are hundreds of foods you can store in your pantry and refrigerator that can last you for up to two years.

I personally like to focus on a 3-4 month supply.

That way, if something catastrophic should strike or a local emergency (flood, earthquake, blizzard, etc.), you'll be covered.

This way, you won't have to fight your way through people to get your hands on water or food.

Believe me, it's much more impressive if you can store your own food rather than your friends having to raid the local grocery store.

Canned goods, rice, and freeze-dried foods are good to start with, in the beginning.

Preppers stock up on a range of foods, so here is a shortlist

• Canned goods
• Rice: long grain, short grain, and basmati (Indian)
• MREs
• Wheat berries (white, hard preferred)
• Dried corn
• Popcorn
• Rolled oats
• Cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Cake flour
• Pasta
• Quinoa
• Instant grits
• Instant mashed potatoes/potato flakes

These are just some of the main food staples that preppers stock up on.

Now, if you are worried about running out of food for some reason, don't panic.

What you need to do is stock up gradually.

For example, I would start by stocking up on MREs, canned goods, rice, and wheatberries first, then have something to build on, etc.

I could devote an entire post on a preppers food list, and I will do that in the future.

Preppers stockpile list

Are preppers stockpile list does not only mean food but also can include things like food supplements, hygiene products, and clothes.

Having these things stockpiled and ready to go can come in handy during a disaster.

Most of all, the preppers stockpile list should be based on your needs.

Size and number of your family, where you live, are just some factors to consider.

Some people have criticisms about the preppers stockpile list.

They will say that it is a waste of money and that preppers are gathering for things they may never use.

However, a prepper's stockpile list stretches beyond food.

Here is a small list of items you may want on your stockpile list

1. Knives: Are great for cutting up old clothes and tarps and hunting. 
2. Duct tape and WD-40: We all know these two items can and will fix anything. 
3. Rope and cord: Your inventory should include a variety of ropes, including paracord is a must-have.
4. Small Tools: Hammer, box cutter, wrench, screwdriver, and other small handtools will help you make those quick minor repairs.
5. Screws and Nails: Another must-have for doing small repairs and erecting shelters and homemade furniture.
6. Flashlights and Candles.
7. Heater: There are some nice indoor and outdoor portable heaters available.
8. Stove: You can use a portable camping stove.
9. Batteries: Have different sizes but make sure you have the ones you need.
10. Plastic/Tarps: Works great for collecting water and just about anything else you might need.
11. Pencils/Pens: Don't forget the paper.
12. Games/Entertainment: A deck of cards will help the time pass and have some how-to survival guides to read too.
13. Fresh underwear and socks: Dirty socks and underwear are a no-no. This will lead to chaffing and infections.
14. Water filters: Not just filters, but having some tablets and capsules will also help to purify water.
15. Bleach: to help disinfect the water, bleach is critical if you don't have any water filters left and helps with hygiene.
16. Waterproof matches or lighters: And fire starters are a must.
17. Fuel: Comes in handy to restock if something happens with the power grid. 
18. Weapons/Ammo and self-defense items: to keep you and your family safe when bad things happen, and you need to defend yourself and others. Having barbwire and some pepper spray won't hurt.
19. Gas mask/Face mask or respirator: Use these items to protect your lungs against the harmful dust, gases, and particles when a disaster hits.
20. Gloves: For protecting your hands when repairing, cutting, etc.
21. Blankets and protective clothing, and hats: To protect you when the weather gets cold
22. First aid kit: Don't forget to include all prescription meds in the first aid kit.
23. Hygiene items: Things like toilet paper, soap, shampoo, etc.

I hope this list helps you start looking towards your preppers stockpile list.

Of course, there are many more supplies and items you can add to your stockpile, but these are only a couple to get you started.

I don't want to overwhelm you. This list is to help you get going in the right direction as quickly as possible.

Tips to Get You Started on a Preppers Stockpile

Prepping a stockpile isn't just about stocking up on supplies - it is almost like a lifestyle change.

After preparing for many years, I now realize how much you have to learn and that you have to change your way of thinking to survive.

So the first thing you need to do when prepping your stockpile is to research your needs compared to your wants.

Most people make the mistake of stocking up on junk and useless supplies.

So it is essential to do some thorough research first.

What you don't want to do

Let's begin with the mistakes and what you don't want to do.

The number one mistake most preppers make is not having a plan.

You need to plan your stockpile and resources a year ahead of time.

This is where I differ from most preppers.

I like to have a longer-term plan, so I don't run out of resources and supplies quickly.

If you're planning for the long term, be sure to include items like clothing, shelter, and utensils in your stockpile.

Remember, you need the right things in your stockpile BEFORE you actually need them.

You don't want to stockpile till it's too late

Lastly, you don't want to stockpile what you don't need.

Some people stock up on all kinds of goodies that they will most likely never use.

It may seem like a good idea at the time, but chances are, you will have no idea when you might need them or if you need them at all.

Once you've decided what to stockpile, be sure to invest in space-saving containers.

Stainless steel, plastic, and fabric containers are your best bets.

What you want to do is this

Once you get going and have your stockpile up and running, you will want to keep it going.

Here are a few things to keep in the back of your mind:

• Consider a plan to take inventory every six months. This will help you ensure that you haven't missed any items.
• Make sure you add items that you always need, such as food. Just be sure it's not something you will eat every six months, if you know what I mean.
• Consider trying an item one time to last six months. For instance, if you usually buy a jar or tin of peanut butter, buy two jars last six months.

You also want to make sure that you have enough freeze-dried food to last you at least six months.

Now, if you stockpile freeze-dried foods that won't last six months, then you will be wasting a lot of time and money.

Make sure you are stockpiling things that you know how to use.

If you stash things that you've never used, chances are you will never use them.

Remember to come up with a plan for replenishing your stockpile.

You don't want to buy a bunch of food that you only need a small amount of.

Self-Care Tips for Preppers

Preppers' self-care tips might seem overwhelming at first, but it's essential to prepare for potential crises.

There are many ways to improve your health and wellbeing while preparing for stressful days.

Of course, just the thought of preparing for a disaster is frightening.

But on the other hand, many disasters can be avoided by anticipating the worst-case scenario as long as you take practical steps to reduce the presence.

Despite all the work and research, you have to be patient and wait for the right solutions because they don't come easy.

Above all, you need to make sure that you take care of yourself.

Your family needs you there when disaster strikes.

When your health is compromised, you will not be able to handle anything.

Remember, you want to prepare for the future, but it shouldn't mean being a burden to others.

• Take the time to eat fruits and vegetables for adequate vitamins and nutrients.
• Take time out to exercise. Even if it's just 30 minutes a day, this will help you clear your mind and feel invigorated to tackle whatever problems you face.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will leave you feeling energized and will help you fight any sicknesses that arise.
• Have enough supplies on hand. Ensure you have enough food, water, medicine, and hygiene products to last you for at least two months.
• Make an emergency plan for your family. Include an escape plan, emergency meeting location, and a plan of action if your family or friends are injured or in danger.

Final thoughts

No matter how small, pay close attention to the warning signs of impending disasters.

For instance, take the time to look up your local news or weather channel to see if there will be any extreme weather in your area.

Be sure to watch the news when you can for any warning signs for SHTF situations.

You want to be prepared for an emergency as much as possible, so be alert.

Remember, not all preppers are alike, but they should have something in common.

They all prepare themselves to be self-sufficient in any situation that might arise.

I love prepping, and there is nothing better than waking up or getting home not knowing what the day will bring.

Prepping increases the odds that you and your family will be safe when it's a matter of life and death.

I put this (what do preppers stock up on ) list together to help you organize what you are looking for when you start your prepping. 

If you soon get too advanced in your stashing, by all means, add whatever items you need to your list. "Good Luck!"

Thanks again for reading. I'd appreciate it if you shared this post with all of your survival and prepping peeps, it helps me out and helps me keep the lights on here at Total Prepping.