3 Must-Have Items For Survivalists

Whether you simply choose to live life on your homestead off-grid, are preparing for a worst-case SHTF scenario, or just want to always be certain you can take care of your family's needs, there are a few basics you should have. Here is a look at the top three:

Portable Solar Generator

Even for families who have gone back to the basics and live a pretty simple life, it's pretty difficult to eliminate the need for electricity 100 percent. A portable generator that harnesses the power of the sun will provide AC electricity that can be used to run small appliances, television, stereo, small power tools such as an electric drill, and recharge your laptop and cell phones.

A lightweight portable solar generator is also a great option for consumers who live in a hurricane zone and suffer frequent power outages. This way you will be able to keep your home alarm system set and still see in the evening or listen to the news.

To keep your expenses low, work with a company that provides home and landowners with a do-it-yourself kit that will meet your energy needs. If you need a constant supply for a longer period of time, you can also build battery banks that will store the energy for future use.

Water

Water is required for life, and considering people are recommended to drink 64 ounces of water each day, let alone what is needed for hygiene need, cooking, and cleaning, you can no doubt quickly see how important a source is. A minimum of one gallon of water per day, per person, is required just to provide the basics. In the event of a natural disaster, the water supply is often tainted. Even previously safe springs can become contaminated after a flood or hurricane. Every person in your family needs to have two one-gallon lightweight plastic jugs or hydration packs. You will need chlorine tablets and activated charcoal to sanitize your water. Finding water each day and purifying the next day's supply will be a full-time job.

First-Aid Kit

Don't underestimate the need to have a first-aid kit ready to go. In fact, you should have several prepared as there should be one in every vehicle you own, including things like boats, all-terrain vehicles, and motorcycles, as well as one in every dwelling.

Make sure each kit includes antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, pain relievers, rubbing alcohol, disposable gloves, super glue, and a suture kit.

This is nowhere near an exhaustive list of things one should have prepped for emergencies or off-grid living, but these three are usually the first things needed or missed.