Is prepping just for doomsday enthusiasts and conspiracy theorists? Of course it is. . UK prepping is becoming mainstream. More Brits are realising the value of being prepared for unexpected situations.
This blog post will break down UK prepping, explaining why it’s gaining popularity and offering you a comprehensive guide to start your own prepping journey effectively. From food storage to emergency kits, you’ll learn all the essentials to keep your family safe and sound.
Ready to dive into the world of prepping? Let’s get started on making sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.
What is UK Prepping?
Prepping in the UK has taken on a new significance in recent years. It’s about being prepared for unexpected events, whether they be natural disasters, economic downturns, or other emergencies. Being prepared means having a plan and supplies ready to face these potential challenges.
Historical Context
Prepping has a rich history in the UK. During the Cold War, the fear of nuclear war led many to begin stockpiling supplies. More recently, events like Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and increasing severe weather have spurred a new wave of interest in prepping. These events highlighted the need for readiness in a world where things can change unexpectedly.
The early days of UK prepping were primarily driven by older generations who remembered wartime rationing. Today, it’s not just about surviving nuclear fallout; it’s about ensuring you and your family can thrive in uncertain times. The movement has evolved to include sustainable living practices, self-sufficiency, and community resilience.
Why UK Prepping is Important
In today’s world, there are several reasons why prepping has become increasingly important for many in the UK
Unpredictable Weather and Natural Disasters: While the UK doesn’t experience extreme weather like hurricanes, it does face flooding, severe storms, and occasional earthquakes. Being prepared can mitigate the impact of these events on your family’s well-being.
Economic Uncertainty: Economic fluctuations, recessions, and job market changes can affect financial stability. Prepping ensures you have resources during tough times.
Utility Failures: Power outages, water supply disruptions, or gas leaks can happen unexpectedly. Having backup supplies ensures you’re not left stranded.
Global Pandemics: Recent events have highlighted the importance of preparedness. Having essential supplies and a plan can make a difference during health crises.
Personal Emergencies: Accidents, sudden illnesses, or unexpected situations require immediate action. Preparedness helps you respond effectively.
Self-Reliance: Prepping encourages self-sufficiency. Knowing how to grow food, purify water, and provide basic medical care empowers you.
Community Resilience: When individuals prepare, communities become more resilient. Neighbors helping each other during emergencies strengthens social bonds.
Mental Health: Prepping reduces stress by giving you a sense of control. Focusing on positive actions boosts mental well-being.
Environmental Concerns: Climate change and environmental degradation can impact resources. Being prepared minimizes vulnerability.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re ready for unforeseen events provides peace of mind and confidence in facing challenges.
Remember, prepping doesn’t mean building a nuclear bunker—it’s about practical readiness for everyday emergencies. You’re already prepping in small ways; now let’s enhance that preparedness! 😊🌟
Additional Resources For UK Prepping
For those interested in beginning their prepping journey, there are several fantastic resources available:
UK Prepping Shop offers a wide range of emergency food, survival kits, and other prepper essentials.
r/UKPreppers on Reddit is a community where you can discuss and share information about prepping in the UK.
Start Prepping provides a detailed guide to help you start prepping in the UK.
Preppers Shop UK stocks products from leading camping and survival brands.
Understanding these aspects of UK prepping can help you make informed decisions and ensure you’re ready for whatever the future holds.
Essential Supplies for UK Prepping
When it comes to prepping in the UK, being prepared means having the right supplies on hand. From emergency kits to food storage, having a well-rounded set of resources can make all the difference in an unexpected situation. Let’s break down some key areas to focus on.
72 hour emergency bug-in kit
The first thing every UK prepper needs is a solid 72-hour emergency bug-in kit. This kit is vital for those initial days when you need to stay put due to an emergency, such as a severe storm or societal disruption.
Here’s what you should include:
Water:
Minimum Survival: The Sphere Standards recommend that all people should have safe and equitable access to a minimum quantity of water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. Based on CDC recommendations, you need at least one gallon (approximately 3.8 liters) of water per person per day for survival.
Basic Hygiene: To take care of basic hygiene needs and basic food hygiene, a higher quantity of about 15 to 20 liters per capita per day is required. This includes washing hands, cleaning utensils, and maintaining personal hygiene.
Preparedness: It’s wise to stockpile at least three days’ worth of water as a bare minimum. However, the CDC recommends having two weeks’ worth of water to be safe during an emergency. Keep in mind that you could be without fresh water for over a month if disaster strikes.
Food:
In an emergency, it’s essential to have an adequate food supply. The recommendation of stockpiling 2,100 calories of food per day for emergency preparedness. This amount should suffice for an average adult engaged in light activity. Keep in mind that individual calorie needs can vary based on factors like weight, height, gender, and health.
If you’re preparing, consider having at least a two-week supply of food and clean water on hand, adjusting based on your storage space and specific requirements.
Hygiene:
Water and Soap: Stock up on clean water for drinking and hygiene. Soap is crucial for handwashing.
Hand Sanitizer: In case water isn’t available, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is useful.
Toilet Paper: Ensure an adequate supply for personal hygiene.
Trash Bags: Use for waste disposal and to keep your environment clean.
Disinfectant Wipes or Spray: For cleaning surfaces and high-touch areas.
Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, etc.
Disposable Gloves: Useful for handling contaminated items.
Face Masks: To protect yourself and others.
Buckets or Containers: For collecting and storing water or waste.
By having these essentials ready, you’ll ensure that you and your family can weather the initial impact of an emergency.
Food and Water Storage For UK Prepping
Storing food and water properly is crucial for long-term preparedness. The UK climate, with its varying temperatures and humidity, requires specific strategies to keep supplies fresh.
Best practices for food storage:
Choose non-perishables: Canned vegetables, beans, rice, pasta, and dried meats. These items have a long shelf life and are versatile.
Store in cool, dry places: Avoid damp areas to prevent mould and spoilage.
Rotate your stock: Use the oldest items first and replace them with new ones. This practice ensures you always have fresh supplies available.
Calculate Your Water Needs:
Aim for one gallon of water per person per day. This accounts for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
Adjust based on factors like climate (hotter areas require more water) and the type of food you’ll prepare during emergencies.
Choose Suitable Containers:
Bottled water and portable containers work well for short-term storage.
More serious preppers use barrels, cisterns, or rainwater harvesting systems.
Repurposed containers like soda bottles or food-grade drums can also be effective.
Proper Storage:
Label and sanitize your containers.
Replenish stored water every six months.
Store water between 50-70°F in a dark and cool place.
Avoid stacking bottles on top of each other.
Backup Plan:
Store more water than you think you need.
Consider alternative water sources, but be cautious during civil unrest or conflicts.
Don’t forget water for your pets.
Remember, water is essential for survival, so plan wisely! 🌊💧
Water Filtration systems:
With the fluoridated water supply in the UK personally i think a filter is a must. When it comes to water filters for emergencies, here are three reliable options from many, which one is best for you will always depend on the circumstances. I have tried alot of different types and i always find being able to have clean safe drinking water “anytime anywhere” works best. That’s why I use Lifesaver water purifier’s they are amazing and are used by Oxfam to bring clean water to millions in the developing countries worldwide.
Gravity-Fed Water Filters:
These filters use gravity to pull water through a filter element. They’re portable and don’t require electricity.
Popular models include
British Berkefeld Gravity Water Filter System – 12L Stainless
𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐃 – Improve the taste, smell and safety of your drinking water with Ceramic Ultra Sterasyl Cartridges. Produce clear and great-tasting water and remove up to 99.99% of common contaminants with granular activated carbon and heavy metals removal media
Portable Pump Filters:
These hand-operated filters are effective for purifying water from natural sources like rivers and lakes.
Lifesaver water purifiers are about as good as they get
LIFESAVER WAYFARER™
Born from the spirit of adventure, the LifeSaver Wayfarer™ is compact and robust, making dirty, microbiologically contaminated water safe to drink. It’s our smallest and lightest water purification system yet. Feel the freedom to go further with a pocket-sized purifier, capable of purifying up to 5,000 litres of clean, safe drinking water.
Straw Filters:
Compact and lightweight, straw filters allow you to drink directly
from contaminated water sources.
LifeStraw Peak Series – Personal Water Filter
- Protects against 99.999999% of bacteria (including E.coli, Salmonella), 99.999% of parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium), 99.999% of microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness
Remember to choose a filter based on your specific needs and the type of emergencies you anticipate! 💧🔍
For more detailed guidance on food and water storage, you can refer to Food Bunker.
Medical Supplies
Having the right medical supplies can be the difference between a minor issue and a major crisis. Your prepper kit should include basic medical items that can address common injuries and illnesses.
US and Canada Only
Essential medical supplies:
First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and scissors.
Medications: Pain relievers, anti-diarrhoea tablets, antihistamines, and any prescription meds.
Personal items: Include supplies specific to individual needs, like glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids. And any specific dietary needs.
Hygiene products: Soap, hand sanitiser, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste. and of course toilet paper.
Detailed lists and options for first aid supplies can be found at UK Prepping Shop.
Tools and Equipment For UK Prepping
Tools and equipment are key to handling various situations that may arise during an emergency. UK preppers need multi-use items and effective communication devices.
Water Purifier: Ensures access to clean drinking water.
Multi-Tool: Versatile tool with knives, pliers, and screwdrivers.
Flashlight: A reliable headtorch is a must during power cuts.
Portable Stove: For cooking when regular utilities are unavailable.
Communication Device: Two-way radios or windup radio.
Sleeping Bag: Provides warmth in adverse conditions.
Survival Knife: Useful for various tasks.
Generator: Small silent residential generators are worth there weight in gold
Having these tools at your disposal can make managing an emergency much more feasible. For a more expansive range of gear, check Preppers Shop for high-quality items.
Preparing with these supplies in mind will ensure you are ready to face emergencies head-on, keeping you and your loved ones safe and secure.
UK Prepping on a Budget
Prepping doesn’t have to break the bank. There are smart, budget-friendly ways to build up your supplies and be ready for emergencies without spending a fortune. Here, I’ll share some practical advice and point you towards affordable suppliers in the UK.
Affordable Prepping Tips
Starting your prepper journey on a budget is all about making small, strategic steps. Here are some tips to help you get started without overspending:
Plan Your Purchases: Make a list of essential items and prioritise them. Focus on what you need most urgently and acquire these items first.
Buy in Bulk: Purchasing non-perishable items in bulk can save you money in the long run. Look for sales and bulk deals on items like rice, pasta, and canned goods.
DIY Solutions: Get creative and make some supplies yourself. For example, you can create your own water filtration system with simple materials.
Use Coupons and Discounts: Always be on the lookout for coupons and discount codes. Websites and supermarket apps often offer deals that can save you a significant amount.
Repurpose Household Items: Many items around your home can be repurposed for prepping. Old containers can be used for storage, and household tools can serve multiple purposes.
Set a Weekly Budget: Allocate a small amount each week that goes specifically towards prepping. Even £5 a week can add up over time and help you build a solid stockpile.
By being strategic and resourceful, you can slowly build a robust prepping stockpile without feeling the financial pinch.
Learn DIY Canning and Preserving HERE
Budget-Friendly Suppliers
Finding the right suppliers is crucial when you’re prepping on a budget. Here are some UK-based suppliers that offer quality prepping supplies at reasonable prices:
Food Bunker: This site offers a variety of affordable prepping supplies, including bulk food items and emergency kits. Read more about prepping on a budget.
Preppers Shop UK: Known for a wide range of affordable survival gear, from tools to food storage solutions. They often have sales, so keep an eye out for bargains. You can check their collection here.
Emergency Food Storage UK: Specialises in long-term food storage solutions. They offer bulk discounts and have a good reputation for quality. Visit their site for more information.
UK Prepping Shop: A great resource for budget-friendly prepping supplies, including DIY kits and basic first aid items. Explore their products here.
By shopping smart and choosing the right suppliers, you can gather all the essentials without stretching your budget too thin. Remember, prepping is a marathon, not a sprint. Little by little, you’ll build a stockpile that can give you peace of mind.
Building a Prepping Community in the UK
Creating a solid prepping community is a crucial step in your preparedness journey. It provides not only support and information but also a sense of camaraderie and collaboration. Connecting with others who share the same mindset can make prepping less daunting and more rewarding.
Online Communities
In the digital age, finding likeminded individuals is easier than ever. Several online forums, social media groups, and websites cater to UK preppers, offering platforms for advice, shared experiences, and support.
Here are some of the top online communities where you can get involved:
r/UKPreppers on Reddit: This vibrant subreddit is a hub for UK preppers. Members discuss various topics, from survival strategies to product reviews, providing a wealth of information and support.
UK Preppers & Survivalists on Facebook: With over 21,000 members, this private Facebook group is dedicated to preparing and surviving in the UK. It’s a great place to ask questions, share insights, and learn valuable skills.
UK Preppers Forum: This forum is a space for preppers in the UK to connect, discuss, and share strategies. New members frequently join to find local connections and exchange knowledge.
Start Prepping Guide: This comprehensive guide offers tips on how to start prepping in the UK, including finding or forming a group. It’s a valuable resource for beginners and seasoned preppers alike.
Engaging in these online communities can provide you with the support and information you need to enhance your prepping journey.
Local Groups and Meetups
While online communities are fantastic, there’s undeniable value in physical meetups. Being part of a local prepping group offers hands-on learning experiences and builds a robust support network.
How to Find Local Groups:
Social Media: Platforms like Facebook often have local prepping groups. Search for your town or region + “prepping” to find nearby groups.
Online Forums: Check out the forums mentioned above where members often organise local meetups.
Community Boards: Look for notices on community boards at libraries, supermarkets, or local events.
Starting Your Own Group:
Identify Interests: Find people in your immediate community with similar interests in preparedness.
Set a Meeting Place: Choose a local community centre, café, or even a park where everyone can gather comfortably.
Create a Schedule: Regular meetings keep the group active and engaged. Plan monthly or bi-monthly meetups.
Share Knowledge: Each member can bring a unique skill or resource to the group, from first aid training to gardening.
Benefits of In-Person Meetups:
Hands-On Learning: Practice skills like bushcraft, first aid, and food preservation in real-time.
Network Building: Develop a network of trusted individuals who can offer support during emergencies.
Community Resilience: Strengthen the overall resilience of your community by sharing resources and knowledge.
In-person meetups can significantly enhance your prepping efforts, providing a sense of community and a practical approach to preparedness.
Common Challenges and Solutions for UK Preppers
Prepping in the UK comes with its unique set of challenges. From limited storage space in urban homes to navigating the legal landscape, UK preppers face various obstacles that require creative and practical solutions.
Storage Space Issues
Living in cities means dealing with smaller living spaces, and one of the biggest challenges for UK preppers is finding enough room to store supplies. But don’t worry, there are some clever ways to maximise your limited space.
Here are 10 storage ideas to help you make the most of your limited room:
Opt for Multipurpose Furniture: Choose furniture pieces that serve dual purposes, such as storage ottomans or coffee tables with hidden compartments. Consider beds with built-in drawers for under-bed storage.
Use Vertical Space: Install wall-mounted shelves or grids to free up floor space. Hang hooks or pegboards for organizing items like bags, hats, or kitchen utensils.
Declutter Regularly: Regularly assess your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need. Keep only what truly adds value to your life.
Categorize and Label: Group similar items together (e.g., kitchen supplies, office supplies) and label containers or shelves. This makes it easier to find what you need.
Maximize Closet Space: Use slim hangers to create more room in your closet. Add hanging organizers or shoe racks to keep things tidy.
Create Designated Zones: Assign specific areas for different purposes (e.g., a study nook, a workout corner).This helps maintain order and prevents clutter from spreading.
Under-Bed Storage: Invest in storage bins or drawers that fit under your bed. Store seasonal clothing, shoes, or extra bedding there.
Built-In Wall Storage: Consider alcoves or cubbyholes in walls for built-in shelves or cabinets. These blend seamlessly into the room.
Sliding Cupboards in the Kitchen: Install sliding cupboards that can hold ingredients and slide back in line with your kitchen units. Ideal for contemporary kitchens.
Think Outside the Box: Look for unused spaces, like the area between floors, to add storage.
Get creative with unconventional solutions!
Remember, small spaces can be functional and stylish with the right storage strategies. By thinking creatively about your storage solutions, you can make the most of even the smallest living spaces.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Prepping in the UK also involves navigating the legal and ethical landscape. Understanding what is legal and ensuring your preparations do not infringe on others’ rights is crucial.
Pepper Spray: Carry a compact aerosol canister with capsaicin (from chilli peppers) to create an intense burning sensation in an attacker’s eyes and skin. It provides a safe distance for self-defense without close physical contact.
Tactical Flashlight: Use a high-intensity flashlight to disorient assailants temporarily. Some models have serrated edges for striking if necessary.
Personal Alarm: Portable devices that emit a loud siren-like sound when activated. They draw attention, potentially scaring off attackers and signalling the need for help.
Self-Defense Keychain: Attach a kubotan or cat-shaped tool to your keys. It fits between fingers for effective punches or strikes.
Learn Self-Defense Techniques: Consider taking self-defense classes or martial arts courses to build foundational skills.
Stay Fit: Regular exercise helps maintain physical strength and agility.
Carry a Multi-Tool: Swiss army knives or tactical pens serve multiple purposes, including self-defense.
Awareness and Avoidance: Stay alert, avoid risky areas, and trust your instincts.
Navigating these considerations responsibly ensures that your prepping efforts are both legal and ethical, supporting not just your own family, but also your community.
For more insights on UK prepping challenges and solutions, explore resources like r/UKPreppers on Reddit and Food Bunker.
Conclusion
UK prepping is more than just a response to doomsday fears; it’s a practical approach to ensuring your family’s safety and stability in uncertain times. From economic instability to climate change, the reasons to be prepared are clear and pressing.
Taking the first step in your prepping journey might feel daunting, but with the proper resources and a supportive community, it becomes manageable. Remember, it’s about gradual, consistent preparation rather than overwhelming yourself with immediate perfection.
Start small, plan strategically, and build your supplies over time. By being proactive, you’ll gain peace of mind and be ready for whatever challenges the future holds.