Estimated reading time: 21 minutes
If you're reading this, you probably already know the basics: water, food storage, first aid, etc. But even hardcore survivalists can overlook items that could be important. In this post, I'm going to list 100 survival items you might have forgotten to buy.
Originally, this was a list of 50 survival items, but since then, I've gotten all sorts of comments and messages from people telling me about other things preppers often forget. Once I had 50 more, I added them to the list. Now there's a total of 100.
To be clear, this isn't meant to be a comprehensive list of every survival item you'll need. It's just a list of the ones that are often overlooked. Hopefully, it will help you fill in any gaps in your survival plan. For everything on this list that you already have, give yourself a pat on the back.
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1. Acoustic Instruments
Not just for entertainment, but also for boosting morale in stressful situations. Music can be a powerful way to keep spirits up, whether it’s an acoustic guitar, a harmonica, or a drum. Instruments don’t need batteries or power, making them perfect for a long-term survival scenario.
Known for treating poisonings, activated charcoal can also help with filtering water, managing gas and bloating, and many other things. In a pinch, it can serve as a tooth cleaner. Its powerful absorption makes it a versatile item in any survival kit.
3. Altoids
The mints may be refreshing, but it’s really the tins that make them valuable. They’re small, sturdy, and can be reused to create mini first-aid kits, compact survival kits, or even tiny fire-starting kits. Their durability and portability make them ideal for storing small, essential items.
There are many important uses for aluminum foil in a survival situation. Specifically, you can use aluminum foil to create a splint for a broken or dislocated finger, to waterproof your phone or electronic devices (simply wrap the devices in multiple layers of foil), or to leave a trail when you venture into the woods (simply wrap strips of aluminum foil around twigs or brush) so you can retrace your steps.
Not only will it keep rodents away from your stored food, but animal repellent is also a useful tool to protect your garden crops from small pests. This can be particularly important if you’re relying on a garden for a food source.
6. Axes
Essential for firewood and shelter construction, an axe can also help you process food, clear brush, and even serve as a self-defense tool in a last-resort scenario. Look for one that’s durable and easy to handle, as a reliable axe can make a world of difference in a survival situation.
7. Baby Wipes
Besides their marketed use case, you can also use baby wipes to wash your hands when you don't have access to water, for cleaning surfaces when you don't have access to other cleaning solutions, or as deodorant as an alternative to actual deodorant.
8. Baking Soda
Baking soda is among the most versatile cleaning and health agents in existence. You can use baking soda to clean your teeth as an alternative to toothpaste, as a cleaning paste to help remove household odors and to treat irritations and rashes from bug bites or Poison Ivy.
9. Bandanas
Bandanas can be more than just a headband. You can use them to mark trails, as a makeshift tourniquet or sling, or as a cooling towel (simply soak the bandana in cool water, wring it, and then tie it around your head or neck for cooling purposes), to make cordage, and more.
10. Baseballs, Basketballs, Footballs, etc.
Sports balls like basketballs and footballs can offer a much-needed outlet for exercise and stress relief. Exercise, especially when the usual routines are disrupted, is essential for both mental and physical health, and these familiar items can keep you active.
11. Bicycle Gear
Not only does a bike pump and extra tubes ensure mobility, but they also give you an option to travel silently, which could be crucial in avoiding detection. Bicycles don’t require fuel, making them invaluable if gasoline becomes scarce.
12. Binder Clips
These are more than just office supplies. Use them to secure makeshift curtains, clip important documents, hold small tools or supplies together, and even as food bag clips. Their strength and versatility make them surprisingly useful in many survival scenarios.
13. Booklights
Booklights are lightweight, easy to power, and can be attached to other objects, making them ideal for hands-free light. They use minimal energy, which is perfect for low-light reading or performing small tasks without draining flashlight batteries.
14. Books
Are there any books you've always meant to read but never got around to it? Moby Dick? Atlas Shrugged? War and Peace? Well, if a long-term crisis such as another Great Depression happens, you might find yourself unemployed during a time when power and Internet are unreliable. That will be your chance to do some reading.
15. Bug Spray
Bug spray is essential to avoid bites, irritation, and even disease. In some regions, mosquitoes and ticks carry harmful pathogens, so protecting yourself with bug spray helps reduce your chances of infections or even allergic reactions from bites. A bug-free environment can also make sleep easier and more restful.
16. Bungee Cords
Bungee cords are among the most useful items you can use for survival purposes. You can use them as a makeshift belt around your waist, to help build a shelter (extend a bungee cord between two trees and then lay a tarp over it to help make a lean-to shelter), or for exercise purposes (you can use them as resistance bands).
You may also need these to tie valuables to your bug out vehicle, or you could use them instead of rope for other projects.
17. Calendars
A calendar helps keep track of important dates, like when you planted crops or treated water. It’s also beneficial for maintaining routines and tracking long-term plans. Knowing the days can help maintain a sense of normalcy and structure, which can be grounding during uncertain times.
18. Chapstick
You wouldn't think so, but there are lots of things you can do with chapstick. A few of these uses include soothing skin irritation from bug bites, protecting knives and tools from rusting, and helping get a campfire going (simply apply chapstick to your kindling and then light with matches or a lighter – it works just as effectively as Vaseline).
19. Candy
Candy isn’t just for a morale boost; high-sugar candies can give a quick energy boost if you’re exerting yourself, and they tend to last a long time if stored properly. Having a small stash of hard candy can help lift spirits and provide a bit of energy in challenging times.
20. Car Charger
With a car charger, you can charge essential devices even if the power is out at home. Some car chargers also have USB and battery backup capabilities, allowing you to charge devices even if the car is off, making them a versatile and reliable choice in emergencies.
Cast iron can handle open flames and high temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor or campfire cooking. Its durability means it will last a lifetime if cared for properly. Additionally, cast iron is naturally non-stick and can add a bit of iron to your diet, which can be beneficial in a survival situation.
22. Cloth Diapers
Not only for babies, but cloth diapers are also reusable and highly absorbent, making them great for cleaning tasks, emergency bandages, or as reusable napkins. Since they’re washable, they’re an eco-friendly and low-waste option when resources are limited.
23. Clothes Lines and Pins
Without a dryer, you’ll need a way to dry clothes, and clotheslines and pins are simple, reliable solutions. These can also be used to organize supplies, keep food bags sealed, and even create temporary privacy barriers if strung up indoors. Here's how to wash clothes without a washing machine.
24. Condiments
Condiments can make plain food more palatable and break up the monotony of survival meals. Items like hot sauce, salt, and pepper can add flavor, making it easier to consume calorie-dense but bland foods, which can keep morale high and meals enjoyable.
25. Condoms
Besides contraception, condoms have other survival uses: they can hold water in a pinch, serve as waterproof covers for small items, and even be used as emergency tourniquets. They’re small, lightweight, and extremely versatile.
26. Cookbooks
Especially ones that explain how to make things from scratch, like this one. You could also look for some good from-scratch recipes online and print them.
27. Crank Lantern
Crank lanterns provide reliable, battery-free light, which can be essential in prolonged outages. Some models even come with charging ports for phones or radios, offering a dependable and eco-friendly lighting option.
28. Crayons and Coloring Books
A good way to keep small children entertained while the power is out. Also, crayons can be used as fire starters or emergency candles.
29. Crowbar
A crowbar is a multipurpose tool for breaking into abandoned buildings or scavenging for supplies in an urban survival setting. It’s also an excellent self-defense tool and can assist in construction, making it a valuable addition to any prepper’s toolkit.
30. Dental Kit
Dental emergencies, like a lost filling or a chipped tooth, can be incredibly painful. Having a dental kit allows you to perform basic repairs and prevent infection until you can get professional help, which might be a long wait in a survival scenario.
31. Diapers
Regular disposable diapers are crucial if you have infants, but they also come in handy for absorbing moisture in other settings. They can line makeshift beds or help keep feet dry if layered inside shoes. Diapers are lightweight, and their absorbency can be valuable in many unexpected ways. Plus, they have several other uses.
32. Door Stop Alarm
A simple, affordable device, a door stop alarm provides an extra layer of security in unfamiliar or vulnerable locations. It’s especially useful when camping or staying in temporary shelters. The alarm will sound if anyone tries to enter, helping to alert you and potentially scare off intruders.
33. Duct Tape
A must-have for any prepper. You can use duct tape to help secure a makeshift splint to a broken arm or a leg, to help mend shoes or clothing (simply apply the tape over the site of the tearing or ripping), or to make cordage (simply twist multiple lengths of duct tape together into a makeshift cord).
34. Ear Plugs
It's important to use these when hunting with firearms, but they'll also help you sleep at night. Why? Because after the SHTF every little bump will wake you up. Just make sure someone is standing guard while you sleep.
35. Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants
In a survival situation, knowing which plants are safe to eat can be life-saving. A guidebook with color images and descriptions is invaluable if you ever need to forage for food. This knowledge can provide a backup food source if your supplies run low.
36. Fire Blanket
A fire blanket is a quick and efficient way to put out small fires, which can be especially important if you’re cooking over open flames. Unlike fire extinguishers, they don’t require maintenance, making them a reliable and low-cost way to stay prepared.
37. Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is crucial for handling larger fires, particularly if you’re using a generator or other fuel sources. Different extinguishers handle different types of fires, so having a multi-purpose model can save your life and your property.
38. Floss
It's even more important than your toothbrush. If you're not flossing now, get started. Many critical uses for floss also go beyond its intended use. You can use floss to help stitch an open wound, as a thread for repairing clothing or as an alternative to a fishing line.
39. French Press
A French press allows you to make coffee or tea without electricity. Just add boiling water, and it works for loose-leaf tea or coffee grounds. A simple French press also saves on filters and other disposable supplies, making it eco-friendly and long-lasting.
40. Frisbee
A frisbee might seem trivial, but it can be a versatile tool. Besides offering exercise and entertainment, it can serve as a plate, a small shovel for digging, or even a fan to help start a fire. Its lightweight design makes it easy to pack.
41. Games
Playing cards, board games, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and any other type of game that doesn't require power. This is especially important if you have children.
42. Glasses and Repair Kits
For those who rely on glasses, a backup pair and a repair kit can be life-saving. A broken pair of glasses could render you unable to read maps, prepare food, or even move safely. A compact repair kit ensures you can keep your glasses in working order.
43. Glow Sticks
Glow sticks provide hands-free light and are an ideal choice for children or marking locations at night. They’re waterproof, battery-free, come in various colors for signaling or marking trails, and have many uses.
44. Goggles
Safety and swim goggles protect your eyes from dust, debris, and hazardous materials. In a survival setting, they can shield you during repairs, cooking, and outdoor work, as well as in water-related tasks. Durable eye protection is essential in any emergency.
45. Hand Sanitizer
As I mentioned above, there might be a lack of proper sanitation after a major disaster. Stay germ-free. And besides its marketed use as a hygiene agent, you can also use hand sanitizer as a cleaning material to help remove stains from clothing, remove glue or the residue left from sticky labels, or help start a fire.
46. Inflatable Mattresses
Inflatable mattresses provide extra sleeping space and comfort in temporary shelters. They’re easier to store and set up than traditional bedding, and they also serve as insulation from the cold ground. If you need additional sleeping space, these are a convenient option.
47. Instant Coffee
Instant coffee provides a quick energy boost, which can be morale-boosting in stressful situations. Since it doesn’t require brewing, it’s ideal for survival kits. You can also use coffee grounds as an odor neutralizer for gear or to help remove grime from hands.
48. Kiddie Pools
Surprisingly useful, kiddie pools can be used for washing clothes, bathing, collecting rainwater, or even as a raised garden bed. When empty, they’re lightweight and easy to store, making them a versatile addition to any emergency setup.
49. Landline Phone
A basic landline phone can still work if the power goes out, provided you have a working phone line. This simple technology can be invaluable for reaching emergency services or staying in touch with neighbors when cell service is down. But that's just one type of SHTF communication.
Paper maps are critical for navigation when GPS isn’t an option. They allow you to plan routes, locate resources, and even mark important sites for future reference. Laminated maps are particularly durable and won’t get damaged in wet conditions.
51. Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring food safety, especially when cooking over an open flame where temperatures are harder to control. Undercooked meat can lead to foodborne illness, so a thermometer helps ensure food is cooked thoroughly and safely. Here is a guide to recommended temperatures.
52. Mesh Strainer
Useful for straining herbs, water, oil, and even small debris from gathered rainwater, a mesh strainer has many culinary and practical applications. It’s compact but invaluable for anyone who may need to process or clean food and liquids.
53. Mylar Blankets
Mylar blankets are excellent for retaining body heat and are highly reflective, making them useful for signaling. Besides warmth, they can provide shelter, water collection, or even be used to make a solar oven. Their lightweight and packable nature make them a must-have. Here's a list of 22 things you can do with them.
54. N95 Masks
N95 masks protect against airborne particles, which can be crucial in environments with dust, smoke, or even during disease outbreaks. They’re far more effective than cloth masks in filtering out particles, making them essential in many disaster situations.
55. Pantyhose
Surprisingly versatile, pantyhose can be used for filtering water, holding bait for fishing, making cordage, protecting plants from pests. and many other things. They’re durable, flexible, and light, making them a multipurpose tool in a survival kit.
56. Paper Plates
Paper plates eliminate the need for water to wash dishes, conserving resources. They can also serve as fire starters or even be used as makeshift fans or insulation layers. They’re lightweight and easy to pack, making them practical in a pinch.
57. Paracord
Paracord is known for its strength and versatility. It can be used to set up a shelter, as a clothesline, for fishing, or even for emergency repairs. Its light weight and durability make it an essential item for building, securing, and crafting in survival scenarios. Here are some ways paracord could save your life.
58. Pencil and Paper
Important for recording information, keeping a journal, making maps, and leaving messages. Pencil and paper are versatile tools that don’t require power and can be indispensable for organization, communication, and documentation.
59. Pet Supplies
It’s easy to forget that pets have needs too. Stock up on food, medications, and items for comfort and hygiene. Even if you don’t have pets, certain pet supplies, like waste bags, can serve double duty for various uses. Here's a detailed list of pet supplies.
60. Plant Pots
Growing plants in pots allows for easier relocation and control over soil quality. In a survival situation, potted plants can be moved for optimal sunlight or protection, allowing you to grow fresh food even in unconventional spaces.
61. Plastic Sheeting
You can use plastic sheeting for repairing leaks, collecting water, keeping out contaminants, waterproofing your firewood (simply cover your stack of wood to shield it from rain), as a general alternative to a tarp, or to help create an isolation or quarantine area in the event of an airborne disease breaking out, and much more.
62. Plywood
Plywood is incredibly useful for boarding up windows, building shelter, or even creating furniture in emergency situations. It’s durable and versatile, providing protection and building material for almost any need.
63. Powdered Butter and Eggs
These items provide essential fats and proteins and can be stored long-term, unlike fresh dairy products. Powdered versions are shelf-stable and make it easier to prepare meals that require these ingredients in a survival situation.
64. Powdered Juice Mix
Adding a powdered juice mix can provide flavor to drinking water, making it more appealing, and adding some essential vitamins. The mix can also be a morale booster and make it easier to consume the necessary daily water intake.
65. PVC Pipe
PVC pipe can be used for construction, water transport, or even building traps. Its durability, affordability, and adaptability make it useful in creating irrigation systems, shelters, and countless other survival projects.
66. Rem Oil Wipes
These wipes are essential for maintaining metal tools and preventing rust. They’re also good for cleaning firearms and other equipment, ensuring they remain in good working order during extended periods of non-use.
67. Rubber Bands
I use these to keep small items together and organized, and sometimes string just isn't enough. You can also use rubber bands to hold your paracord together to stop it from unraveling in your pack or you can also use it to help construct a makeshift slingshot. You can also wrap a flashlight to your wrist if you need to work with two hands in the darkness.
68. Safety Pins
Use as a fish hook, hang stuff to dry, fix shoelaces, attach gear to your bug out bag, connect blankets or tarps to build a shelter, etc. Your imagination is the limit. Here's a list of safety pin hacks.
69. Sandbags
Sandbags are essential for flood protection and can also serve as weights, barriers, or even improvised chairs. They’re versatile and provide a way to protect your shelter or garden from excessive water or erosion. They can also be used to gather water, carry supplies, trap animals, patch tents, and much more.
70. Saw
While axes are great for splitting wood, a saw is better for cutting branches, building structures, and processing materials. A reliable saw will make it easier to create shelter, build furniture, and manage firewood efficiently.
71. Seed Sprouter
Growing sprouts can be a source of fresh, nutrient-dense food, especially in situations where outdoor gardening isn’t an option. Sprouting seeds are easy to store and prepare, and they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.
72. Sewing Kit
A sewing kit allows you to repair clothes, gear, and even create makeshift equipment. In a situation where replacements are hard to find, sewing skills and a simple kit can go a long way in maintaining your clothing and supplies.
73. Shoe Laces
Again, you might not be able to get new ones. Plus, shoelaces have several uses. You can use shoelaces as a makeshift clothesline, as an alternative to cordage to help construct a survival shelter, or as a tripwire if you need to construct an emergency alarm system around your survival site.
74. Shut-off Wrench
For anyone with gas power, a shut-off wrench is essential for quickly turning off gas lines in an emergency. This helps prevent gas leaks and explosions, making it an important safety tool in disaster preparedness.
75. Slingshots
Slingshots are lightweight and can be effective for small-game hunting. They’re silent, easy to carry, and require minimal maintenance, making them a practical option for gathering food in a survival situation.
76. Socks
In the words of Lieutenant Dan, “Take good care of your feet!” Having clean, dry socks can help prevent blisters and infections, keeping you mobile and healthy. They can also be used as gloves, pouches, bandages, masks, and tinder.
Solar air lanterns are a sustainable way to provide light without relying on batteries. They’re inflatable and lightweight, and once charged by the sun, they provide hours of illumination, making them ideal for camping or emergencies.
78. Song Books
As with acoustic instruments (mentioned above), these are good for entertainment. Group singing can be a morale booster, helping to build camaraderie and alleviate stress during tough times.
A stainless steel pot is perfect for boiling water, cooking, and even sterilizing items. Its durability and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for extended outdoor use, and it’s essential for any survival kitchen setup.
80. Steel Wool
Steel wool is useful for scrubbing pots and cleaning. It can also be used as tinder when starting fires, and when paired with a battery, it can ignite easily. A small amount of steel wool goes a long way for multiple uses.
81. Super Glue
Besides its obvious repair uses, super glue can help seal small cuts, making it useful in first aid. It’s also handy for repairing broken gear, patching leaks, and securing loose items, making it a valuable tool in emergencies.
82. Survival Books
Having survival books on hand provides you with important skills, from food preparation to shelter building. Knowledge is power, and these books act as a resource when internet access isn’t available, helping you stay prepared. Check out my post on the 100 Best Survival Books of All Time.
83. Tarps
Tarps are versatile for building shelter, covering supplies, creating barriers, and collecting rainwater. They’re waterproof, lightweight, and easy to store, making them an essential item in any emergency kit.
84. Toys
Toys help keep children entertained, which can make life easier for adults trying to handle survival tasks. Choose toys that don’t require batteries and are durable, providing comfort and familiarity for young ones in stressful situations.
A treadle sewing machine operates without electricity, allowing you to make and repair clothes and fabric items. This is especially valuable in long-term survival situations where power is unreliable or unavailable.
86. Umbrellas
Umbrellas are practical for rain protection and can also provide shade in sunny areas. They’re easy to carry and offer immediate protection from weather elements, making them convenient to have on hand.
87. Vacuum Sealer
Vacuum sealers preserve food and protect items from moisture. They’re useful for long-term storage of food and other supplies, reducing waste and keeping things fresh and protected from the elements.
88. Vaseline
Vaseline serves as a fire starter, wound protectant, and rust preventer. It can be used to seal minor cuts, moisturize skin, and even protect equipment from corrosion, making it a highly versatile addition to a survival kit. Here's a list of uses for Vaseline.
A vehicle escape tool can help you break windows or cut seat belts in an emergency, allowing for a quick exit if you’re trapped in your vehicle. This tool is compact and designed for ease of use under stress.
90. Vet Wrap
Vet wrap is self-adhering, making it excellent for securing bandages on yourself or even on pets. It’s stretchy, durable, and easy to remove without adhesive, making it a go-to for emergency wound care.
91. Waterproof Wristwatch
A waterproof wristwatch helps keep track of time even when wet, which is important if you’re dealing with outdoor conditions. It’s an independent time source that doesn’t rely on electricity or batteries.
92. WD-40
WD-40 lubricates, loosens rust, and even removes sticky residue. It’s essential for tool maintenance and can help you keep hinges, locks, and gears in working order, making it a practical item for maintenance tasks. Here are some more uses for WD-40.
93. Whistles
Whistles are essential for signaling in emergencies, especially if you’re lost or need to draw attention. They require minimal effort, are easy to carry, and can help alert others in critical situations.
94. Whiteboard and Markers
A whiteboard can be used to keep track of tasks, notes, and important dates. In a family setting, it’s also useful for communication. Markers allow you to easily erase and reuse the board, making it versatile and low-waste.
95. Wind-Up Clocks
A wind-up clock provides reliable timekeeping without batteries, which is helpful in power outages. It’s a dependable option for maintaining routine and schedule, even in extended off-grid scenarios.
Window insulator kits help keep heat in during the winter, which is essential in a power outage. They’re easy to install and can make a big difference in comfort and energy efficiency in cold weather.
97. Wonderbag
A non-electric portable slow cooker. All you have to do is bring your food to a boil, then put it in the bag. It retains the heat and slow cooks your food for hours. This thing is awesome!
98. Yard Bags
Heavy-duty yard bags are ideal for managing waste and debris, especially in disaster cleanup. They’re also helpful for carrying supplies, storing food, and even improvising rain ponchos or shelter components.
99. Zip Ties
Zip ties are incredibly useful for securing gear, bundling items, and making quick repairs. They’re durable, easy to carry, and have multiple survival applications, from shelter construction to securing supplies.
100. Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags are great for organizing, waterproofing, storing small items, and many other things. They help keep food and gear dry, which is critical in humid or rainy conditions, and are easy to pack and carry.
So there you have it, my ultimate list of survival items people often forget about. If you're a homesteader, be sure to check out these 25 Homestead Items You Forgot To Buy.
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