At first glance it may seem like preparing for the end of the world will break the bank. Not so. It is true that you often get what you pay for, but just as often the most expensive thing is not necessary. I am very picky when it comes to certain things, and other things I will gladly use the cheapest thing available. Below is just a few examples on what you can skimp on and what not.
Socks: Not to Skimp
It's funny that the first thing I write about I actually don't think you should skimp on. You can easily spend $10-$20 on a good pair of socks. That's a lot considering that some brands will sell 6 pairs for $8. However, in a bug out situation your feet may be your most important and most used tool. The last thing you need is sore feet and a bunch of blisters. It's true that a lot of preparation (ie breaking in boots, toughening your feet, etc) can go a long way, but so can a good pair of socks. There are plenty of hiking socks that will help prevent blisters by wicking moisture and also creating a soft friction reducing layer. Not only that, but by buying the proper socks you can make sure to keep your feet warm in cold weather.
Food Storage: Skimp
There are a million brands of longterm food storage. However, they are all selling basically the same stuff; some dehydrated, some freeze-dried. The difference between these brands is little more than packaging, taste, and ease of preparation (ie dehydrated food might take a few min. longer to hydrate). In a "bug in" situation these differences are negligible. If you want to live like a king at the end of the world, by all means go all out. However, I feel the likelihood that I will be forced to live on my longterm food storage is slim. I would rather save thousands on food storage by canning for basic needs, and spending the money elsewhere. For more information on food storage see Emergency Prep/Get a Kit. A few quick tips are:
- Dehydrated tends to be cheaper.
- Find a LDS Cannery close by. They can help you can a lot of your food storage for super cheap.
- Supplement what you can get there with a cheap dehydrated brand. We endorse Wise Food Storage found at UrbandSurvivalTools.com. However, we also like the brand Augason Farms. By following these tips you can save thousands on a year of food storage.
Clothing: Skimp
With the exception of a good rain layer, a little knowledge of fabric types can get you a long way at a second had store. You don't have to look like a professional outdoorsman to dress like one. Avoid cotton like the plague. Silk, wool, polyester, spandex and just about any synthetic fabric is good. Your layers are:
- Underwear: remember NO COTTON and something that won't rub.
- Thermal or Base: Any synthetic thermals or body armor type clothing is good.
- Fuzz: Fleece (no cotton) is common for this layer, but polyester pjs are just as good.
- Main Layer: This is your shirt and pants that you would normally wear. Synthetics only!
- Rain Layer: Don't Skimp. Cheap tyvek overalls would work well. Anything breathable and waterproof.
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