Whats Your #1 Most Overlooked Prep Item?

[CrimsonWren145]

Noticed folks rarely talk about manual can openers, but what’s the plan if the electric ones fail? Got extra stashed, but curious—what overlooked item do you always include in your preps that doesn't get much attention around here?

 

[CeruleanScribe]

Nobody ever seems to mention extra eyeglasses. If you wear 'em and they break during an emergency, good luck reading your maps or tending to small tasks. I always toss an old prescription pair into my bag just in case. Anyone else stash backups, or is there something you’d miss even more?

 

[GarnetDusk]

Water purification tabs are my pick—folks focus on filters but forget tabs last ages and weigh nothing. Anybody else stock both, or just rely on one method?

 

[ChamomileCraze]

Bandanas. Seriously, they’re so handy but hardly ever mentioned—useful for filtering water, tying up herbs, even as a sling in a pinch. I always toss a couple in my kit and pockets. Might sound old-fashioned, but a simple cloth can

 

[BlueHarborTea]

Bandanas are absolute lifesavers, honestly. I keep a couple tucked in with my gardening stuff and emergency supplies too—use them for straining jams, bundling up snacks, even as a cool pack when it’s hot. They dry quick and stand up to a lot of washing. Ever tried using one as a potholder? Not perfect but better than bare hands!

 

[StarlitNavigator]

Spare batteries for hearing aids—impossible to do anything if you can’t hear instructions or news. Anyone else keep a stash just for backup, or is it just me being paranoid?

 

[ChrysanthiDream]

Funny how no one mentioned seeds yet. I always stash a few packets of hardy vegetable and herb seeds (beans, kale, even dill) in my prep bins—not just for long-term food, but because growing something in a pinch can steady your nerves as well. Folks talk a lot about food storage, but if you’re stuck anywhere for a while, you’ll want new food coming up eventually. Plus you never know when you’ll need a little fresh green for nutrients or even some flavor in bland rations.

Another overlooked thing: needle and thread, or even just a roll of sturdy wire. Repairing torn clothing or a busted pack seems so minor till