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Survival doesn’t have to be expensive. Today we’re going to talk about 10 survival items that you can buy at the dollar store. There’s a misconception that prepping for emergencies has to be costly, but these budget-friendly items prove otherwise. The Bug Out Bag (also known as a bugout bag, B.O.B., or go bag) is where many people start with preparedness.
Fire Starters for Your Emergency Bug Out Bag
The first essential is matches and lighters. Ideally, you should have both in your survival kit for redundancy, as fire is crucial in emergencies. Having at least two sources of fire (even a third for backup) is a wise move. Dollar store lighters and matches make it easy to build a get-home bag, bugout bag, or emergency kit without a large expense.
Light and Warmth with Dollar Store Candles
The dollar store offers a variety of candles, from large to tea lights, that provide light and a little warmth during blackouts. Unscented candles are best, and even a small four-pack can be an invaluable addition to your emergency kit. In a winter blackout, isolating everyone to one room and using candles can help retain heat in a small area, providing comfort and light in one.
First Aid Supplies and Bandages
Basic first aid supplies are easy to find at the dollar store. You can pick up flexible fabric bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other items. Spending a few dollars allows you to build a first aid kit tailored to small cuts and injuries. Dollar store supplies make it feasible to create an effective kit for home, bugout, or even a go-bag.
Staying Hydrated: Water and Bleach for Purification
Water is a staple in any survival kit. You can purchase quart-sized containers of water at the dollar store. Ideally, you’d want at least two quarts for a bugout bag. Additionally, small containers of unscented bleach are valuable for water purification and sanitation. The CDC recommends two drops of bleach per quart of water, making this a simple and affordable solution for staying hydrated.
Food and Energy Sources
While ramen noodles may not be high in nutrition, they’re a lightweight, low-cost food source suitable for short-term needs. Dollar stores offer a range of canned foods and other shelf-stable items, so you can easily assemble a 24-hour or 72-hour food supply for emergencies. Ramen, canned meats, and other items make for affordable, emergency-ready meals.
Other Useful Items: Batteries, Medicine, and Hygiene Supplies
Having extra batteries is essential for flashlights, radios, and other gear. Dollar stores carry a variety of batteries that can keep your devices powered during an emergency. Additionally, stocking up on generic medicines such as anti-inflammatories and antacids, and hygiene products like wet wipes and travel-sized toiletries, is easy and inexpensive. These items support health and sanitation when resources are limited.
Organization with Resealable Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are versatile and help you organize your gear. Use them to separate first aid items, fire starters, or hygiene supplies. They’re also useful for carrying small amounts of water or storing tinder. For $1, you can get a pack of resealable bags to keep your bugout bag organized and prepared.
Additional Tips for a Realistic Bug Out Bag
Preparedness experts emphasize practicality in assembling emergency kits. Tailor your bugout bag to the most likely threats in your area and prioritize items that provide immediate relief during the first 72 hours. Remember that a bugout bag is meant for mobility, so maintain a manageable weight. Investing in essential items rather than bulky gadgets ensures you have a practical, efficient emergency kit.
Final Thoughts
Building an affordable emergency kit with items from the dollar store is achievable for everyone. For just $10, you can start assembling a basic survival kit covering fire, light, warmth, water, and food. By setting small goals to add to your kit each month, you can create a reliable bugout bag without breaking the bank. Preparedness is within reach—start building your kit today!