When preparing for the unexpected, everyday items can be hidden survival gems, transforming your household into a resourceful arsenal. Repurposing ordinary objects not only cuts down on waste but also offers practical, budget-friendly solutions that could make all the difference when the unexpected happens.
These 16 household items prove that survival is as much about creativity as it is about essentials.
1. Napkins & Paper Towels
Fast food napkins and paper towels are more than just disposable wipers. Preppers save these thin paper products for fire starters in a pinch. They take up minimal space in your pack but can be a lifesaver when you need to get a fire going quickly.
In addition to their flammability, napkins, and paper towels are handy for handling small spills and messes, even in survival situations. Keep a stash in your car’s glove box and various emergency kits. You never know when they’ll come in handy.
2. Condiment Packets
Don’t toss those little packets of ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper from takeout orders! Condiments can provide much-needed flavor to bland survival food. Hot sauce packets are another great option to spice things up.
Honey packets are especially valuable, providing a quick energy boost and indefinite shelf life. Accumulate a variety of condiment packets in a designated container or ziplock bag. Your taste buds will appreciate the added zing during tough times.
3. Plastic Utensils
Disposable forks, knives, and spoons from takeout meals and fast food runs can be a game-changer in emergencies. When water is scarce, washing dishes becomes a luxury. A stockpile of plastic utensils allows you to conserve precious H2O for drinking and cooking.
Plastic utensils are lightweight and compact, perfect for camping trips, bug-out bags, and other on-the-go situations. While not as durable as metal, they’ll do the job without weighing you down. Start collecting those cutlery packets today.
4. Glass & Plastic Jars
Empty glass and plastic jars are organizational powerhouses in a prepper’s stockpile. These containers are ideal for storing small items like nails, screws, and other hardware. The clear sides make it easy to see what’s inside.
Although glass jars are prone to shattering, sturdy plastic jars offer a more durable solution. Many preppers upcycle plastic containers from takeout orders, like those used for beans and rice at Mexican restaurants. Wash and save these versatile vessels for corralling your survival supplies.
5. Ziplock Bags
Don’t discard those resealable plastic bags that come with small product purchases. These miniature ziplock-style pouches are perfect for organizing and protecting various items in your emergency kits.
Use them to store fire starters, such as Vaseline-soaked cotton balls, or to keep matches dry. Even bags with small holes can be repurposed to hold items that won’t be damaged by moisture, like keys or small tools.
Develop a habit of saving these useful bags whenever you come across them. You’ll be surprised how quickly your collection grows!
6. Plastic Grocery Bags
While many of us are trying to use reusable shopping bags, there’s no denying that plastic grocery bags have their place in a prepper’s toolkit. These lightweight bags can serve as makeshift trash or transpiration bags to collect water from tree leaves in a pinch.
Stuff a few plastic grocery bags into your bug-out bag or survival kit. They take up minimal room but offer a range of uses, from keeping dirty clothes separate to serving as an impromptu poncho.
Just replace them periodically, as they can degrade over time.
7. Twisty Ties & Rubber Bands
Those little wire ties with loaves of bread and other packaged goods? They’re not just for sealing bags. Preppers know twisty ties are invaluable for organizing charging cables and taming unruly straps on backpacks. They can even be used to repair glasses or secure small items together in a pinch.
Similarly, rubber bands have many uses in survival situations. These stretchy loops are endlessly adaptable, from bundling kindling to creating a makeshift clothesline.
Start saving twisty ties and rubber bands in a designated container. You’ll have an ample supply when the need arises.
8. Cardboard Boxes
Sturdy cardboard boxes are a prepper’s best friend for storage and organization. These free containers are perfect for stashing non-perishable food items, first aid supplies, and other essentials. Collapse and store extra boxes for future use.
Remember that cardboard is not rodent-proof or waterproof, so avoid using these boxes for items that could be damaged by pests or moisture.
Consider lining the boxes with plastic bags or storing them in airtight containers for protection. With proper precautions, cardboard boxes can be a cost-effective way to organize your survival supplies.
9. Sewing Supplies
A well-stocked sewing kit is a must-have for any prepper. Beyond just replacing buttons, a comprehensive sewing basket with shears, needles, thread, pins, a thimble, an awl, and fabric scraps can help you repair and fabricate clothing in an SHTF scenario.
Consider investing in a foot-treadle sewing machine that doesn’t require electricity. While cotton and polyester thread have a shelf life, having the right tools and skills to mend and create garments can be invaluable when resources are scarce.
Don’t let a torn jacket or ripped pack expose you to the elements!
10. Gloves
Gloves are an often-forgotten essential in many preppers’ stockpiles. Whether dealing with debris, tending to wounds, or handling potentially contaminated materials, a good pair of gloves can protect your hands from injury and infection.
Stock up on various gloves, including heavy-duty work gloves, disposable latex or nitrile gloves, and insulated gloves for cold weather.
Even a simple pair of garden gloves can provide extra protection in a pinch. Don’t overlook this humble but vital addition to your emergency gear.
11. Masks
While gas masks are a staple in many prepper kits, don’t forget about simpler N95-type masks. These disposable face coverings can filter out harmful particles in the air, making them essential during disasters that kick up dust, ash, or other airborne irritants.
Keep a box of N95 masks in your emergency supplies and rotate them out regularly to ensure they haven’t degraded over time.
Having a stockpile of masks could be a lifesaver during a pandemic or other public health crisis. Don’t wait until the shelves are bare to secure this protective equipment.
12. Dental & Oral Care Supplies
Dental issues can quickly become a major problem in a long-term survival situation. Stock up on emergency dental supplies like temporary filling material, numbing gel, silver diamine fluoride to prevent cavities, floss, and extra toothbrushes.
Don’t forget about oral care items beyond toothpaste. Baking soda can be used to brush teeth and has many other uses for cooking and cleaning. Mouthwash and dental tools like mirrors and picks are smart additions to your stockpile.
You can avoid painful and debilitating tooth problems when professional care is unavailable by prioritizing dental hygiene.
13. Feminine Hygiene Products
For women, stockpiling feminine hygiene products is a must. Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and other period supplies will be worth their weight in gold during a crisis. Don’t forget to include a few pairs of period panties as a reusable option.
It’s also wise to have a stockpile of birth control on hand, whether that’s condoms, pills, or other contraceptives. In the chaos of an emergency, family planning may not be top of mind, but an unplanned pregnancy could put a serious strain on your resources.
By planning and having a supply of feminine hygiene essentials, women can maintain their health and comfort even in the most challenging circumstances.
14. Charging & Extension Cords
Keeping devices powered up is a top priority in our technology-driven world, even in emergencies. Ensure you have various charging cables and extension cords in your prepper stockpile.
Look for cords compatible with your most important devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Solar chargers and power banks are also wise investments. Keep your cords organized with zip ties or Velcro straps for easy access.
By having backup charging solutions, you can stay connected and informed when the grid goes down.
15. Bags & Backpacks
You can never have too many bags in your prepper stockpile. From heavy-duty backpacks to simple drawstring sacks, having a variety of bags on hand can make all the difference in an emergency.
Use bags to organize supplies, carry essentials, or collect resources like food and water. Durable, waterproof options are ideal, but even cheap plastic bags can be repurposed for storage and organization.
Keep a selection of bags in various sizes so you’re ready for anything. When it’s time to evacuate or resupply, you’ll be glad you have plenty of carriers.
16. Entertainment Items
While essentials like food, water, and shelter are critical in a crisis, don’t overlook the role of entertainment. Boredom and stress can harm mental health, so having a few fun distractions can be a morale booster.
Add cards, board games, and books to your emergency kit—activities that don’t rely on electricity. Puzzles, coloring books, and brain teasers can keep everyone engaged and in good spirits, helping your family stay resilient and hopeful during challenging times.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.