What’s Your Most Underrated Prep Item?

[BlueHarborTea]

Been thinking about gear that doesn’t get enough love in most lists. For me, it’s heavy-duty contractor trash bags—waterproofing, makeshift ponchos, hauling stuff, even solar stills if you’re creative. I always keep a half dozen tucked away in my kit. What’s the one item you rely on that

 

[MarigoldBreeze]

Been thinking about gear that doesn’t get enough love in most lists. For me, it’s heavy-duty contractor trash bags—waterproofing, makeshift ponchos, hauling stuff, even solar stills if you’re creative.

Totally agree, contractor bags are lifesavers—used them to line buckets for emergency toilets more than once. Ever tried doubling them up for sleeping pad insulation? Warmer than you'd think!

 

[PrepperLinda65]

Can’t believe more people don’t mention safety pins. Seriously, they’re tiny but have saved my bacon more times than I can count. Lost a zipper pull? Safety pin. Need to improvise a sling, splint, or secure a bandage? Safety pin. I’ve even used them to hang up tarps or clip gear to my pack when straps have snapped. They weigh nothing and take up zero space—I scatter a handful through every kit and go-bag.

Funny you mention trash bags, too—I once lined my boots with them during a flood to keep my feet dry when I had to wade through water. Not the comfiest, but dry socks make a world of difference. Has anyone else used basic stuff like safety pins or rubber bands in ways that surprised you? Those everyday bits are so often overlooked but can really make a difference in a pinch.

 

[MarigoldBreeze]

For me, it’s heavy-duty contractor trash bags—waterproofing, makeshift ponchos, hauling stuff, even solar stills if you’re creative. I always keep a half dozen tucked away in my kit. What’s the one item you rely on that

Completely with you on contractor bags—they’re so versatile, and folks don’t realize you can even use them to collect rainwater in a pinch. Ever tried fashioning one into a windbreak for a tent? Works surprisingly well!

 

[BlueMarigold]

Clothespins never make the lists, but I reach for them all the time—securing tarps, closing up bags, hanging wet socks, even keeping chip bags sealed in long-term storage. They’re sturdy, light, and nothing else quite does the job as

 

[CrimsonWren145]

Clothespins never make the lists, but I reach for them all the time—securing tarps, closing up bags, hanging wet socks, even keeping chip bags sealed in long-term storage. They’re sturdy, light, and nothing else quite does the job as

Clothespins really are unsung heroes! I keep a handful in my kitchen drawer and they always end up in my emergency bag, too. Used them last storm to keep a blackout curtain up (tacked a blanket over the window), and they held better than tape. Never thought about using them for sealing storage bags, BlueMarigold—that’s smart. Amazing how these little everyday items often end up doing the work of pricier gadgets.

 

[MeadowWhisperer]

Funny you mention fashioning a trash bag into a windbreak—I’ve actually tried that with surprisingly decent results. Didn’t expect something so flimsy to make such a difference, but it cuts the draft just enough to keep things a bit warmer inside the tent. Another one in the same vein for me is waxed paper. Most folks overlook it now, but it’s waterproof, lightweight, and great for wrapping