Prepping on a budget isn’t easy, but it is not impossible. Learning to prepare for the worst while also saving money is an essential ability for anyone.
You don’t want to be the person that doesn’t have food or water during an emergency because of money problems. Instead, use your instinct to prepare appropriately without losing money.
Here are the 7 secrets to prepping on a budget:
Secret #1: Start with saving water
Many of us don’t think about water too much, but the truth is this item is essential when you are in survival mode. The first thing to do when you start prepping is to buy water in bulk. This is something that should be widely available in grocery or wholesale stores.
If you prefer it, though, a good water filtration system can solve your water problem in most cases. Make sure you keep this filter nearby or in your survival kit, as it can be life-saving anywhere you are.
Secret #2: Food should be a top priority too
As you may have guessed already, water isn’t the only thing you’ll need to prep. Food is another key element in your prepping adventure, so make sure you prioritize too. You can purchase dehydrated and canned goods very easily.
Most grocery and outdoor stores will have all sorts of canned foods, like meat, beans, vegetables, and fruits. These same stores may also have dehydrated foods that you can stock up on.
If you want to save money, you can buy dehydrated and freeze-dried food in bulk. Another good tip is to use the food you already have. If you have a dehydrator at home, you can dry all sorts of foods, including vegetables, fruits, and meat. Making your beef jerky at home is just one way to save money and be prepared.
Secret #3: Stick to the essentials when prepping on a budget
One of the first mistakes people on a budget make is buying too many things at once. It is normal to have anxiety about what to include, but the essentials should come first. The supplies you will need are a first aid kit, tarp, a Mylar blanket, a multi-tool, duct tape, and paracord.
Make sure you read reviews on each product before buying it, as it will be a waste of money otherwise. To put it all together you may want to also invest in an easy to carry duffel bag or backpack.
Secret #4: Make sure you have shelter and transportation
When you are on a budget, you can’t afford to buy any remote land to hide out or survive. Instead, you’ll want to make sure you have the tools to camp or set up whenever it is possible.
The same goes for transportation, so you have to make sure you always have gas handy for your car. Another thing people tend to forget is the battery, but you should really prepare and have one spare just in case.
Another key point in prepping is that you leave an emergency kit in your car, which is essential if you find yourself stranded somewhere. If you can afford it, make two sets of survival kits and have them ready to go at home and in your vehicle.
Secret #5: Learn about the land and territory nearby
If you are on a budget, buying tools to work the land can seem impossible. Instead, a good prepper will know how to work the land by hand.
Some of this learning also includes planting seeds, finding water sources, differentiating the plants and fruits available, and knowing what livestock and game are around.
Secret #6: Keep up with the deals
Finding cheap supplies, tools, and food isn’t easy, but it is not impossible. You can always keep up with sales at your favorite camping, fishing, and outdoor stores. Some of the best items to buy on sale include a tarp, winter and water-proof clothes, tents, tarp, boots, and more.
Keep your magazines, coupons, email alerts, and newspaper clippings handy, as they will always be a good way to know when your favorite stores are having major sales.
Secret #7: Save up money every time you can
Finally, when you prepare for the worst you want to be able to stop and buy things if you need to. More than just having cash on the spot, you should be ready to save money whenever you can.
Having a monthly savings quota is a good way to stay on track. Also, in the day-to-day, you should save money by looking for discounts and using what you already have at home.
Final prepping thoughts
As you can see, prepping doesn’t have to be about spending large amounts of money. You can save money by buying things on sale, preserving food at home, keeping up with your car maintenance, and more.
The last thing you want is to be left stranded and unprepared, but you can prepare in your own way and without losing money.
