Prepping On a Budget

Photo by Holly Mandarich on Unsplash

I am a secret prepper. I believe we should all prepare for the unexpected as much as we possibly can. This virus outbreak just confirmed that for me. 

We don't know how long this is going to last or how it's going to affect our economy and food supply. I am not being paranoid. I am simply thinking ahead to what I can do to ensure my family's survival. I am thinking about this with a calm mind and a rational outlook. 

It's better to think practical rather than an overly optimistic outlook simply because we have never experienced anything like this before. 

So how can you prep on a budget?

1. Take an inventory of what you already have on hand.This will keep you from buying something you already have. Anything you don't need, sell and use the cash to buy what you need.
2. Get serious with your budget. Cut out all non-essentials for the time being. You need your          money to work for you: keep a roof over your head, food, and utilities. This is the time to get back to basics. You can add the extras back at a later time!
3. Decide how much you can spare from your budget to use to obtain prepper supplies. Even if it's only $5-10, it's better than doing nothing at all.
4. Buy foods your family will eat & are used to, otherwise you'll be wasting money and resources.
5. Stock up on sale items so you will get the most bang for your money. Use coupons if applicable.
6. For what you lack in money, invest time in becoming more knowledgeable about survivalist techniques. Learn basic survival skills and make it a family learning experience: how to build a fire, how to cook on an open flame, how to keep warm in winter with no power, etc.
7. Try yard sales, thrift shops, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to get items you need inexpensively.
8. Dollar stores have things you can buy to build up your medical supplies for little money: rubbing alcohol, bandages, neosporin, pain relievers/fever reducers, etc. Also good for cleaning supplies and toiletries.

Again, do not panic buy. Stop and think about what you need and what can be improved. Then, make a plan on how you are going to do it.