What’s the One Prep Item You’d Never Go Without?
If I had to pick just one item I’d never want to be without, it’d be my handheld dual-band ham radio. Staying in touch and gathering info is right up there with food and water in my book, especially once cell towers go down or networks jam up. With a decent battery, a roll-up J-pole antenna, and some programming, you can pull in weather updates, local comms, and coordinate with your group even when you’re miles apart.
Curious what others here prioritize—some go straight for water filtration, others swear by their knives or fire kits. If you had to grab just one item on your way out the door (let’s say you already have clothes/shoes on), what would it be and why? Really interested in hearing if there’s any less-obvious gear folks depend on, or if anyone’s changed their answer after an actual emergency.
Also, for anyone relying on radios, what’s your backup power solution? I’ve been experimenting with solar chargers, but would love to know what’s actually worked in the field for extended grid-down. Looking forward to the responses.
Curious what others here prioritize—some go straight for water filtration, others swear by their knives or fire kits. If you had to grab just one item on your way out the door (let’s say you already have clothes/shoes on), what would it be and why? Really interested in hearing if there’s any less-obvious gear folks depend on, or if anyone’s changed their answer after an actual emergency.
Also, for anyone relying on radios, what’s your backup power solution? I’ve been experimenting with solar chargers, but would love to know what’s actually worked in the field for extended grid-down. Looking forward to the responses.