5 Everyday Items You Can Repurpose

Arm yourself with knowledge and training for every type of disaster. Increase your physical security tactics, medical prep, and food/water skills..

11/18/20242 min read

5 Everyday Items You Can Repurpose for Survival

When emergencies strike, the tools and supplies you have on hand can make all the difference. Survival situations often call for ingenuity and resourcefulness, especially when specialized gear isn't readily available. Many everyday items can be repurposed to serve critical functions. Here are five common items that could help you stay safe and survive when the unexpected happens.

Real quick... Here are some places to store these items and other ideas:

Here are some items worth carrying in a get home bag:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/get-home-bag-planner-with-104-examples

Bug-out bag items worth looking at:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/bug-out-bag-planner-with-103-examples

Here are vehicle disaster items to have:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/vehicle-shtf-planner-with-101-examples

Important Urban prep Items to have:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/urban-shtf-planner-with-102-examples

103 barter items for SHTF:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/shtf-barter-planner-with-103-examples

1. Duct Tape

Why It's Useful:
Duct tape is a survivalist’s best friend due to its versatility and durability. It’s lightweight, compact, and incredibly strong.

Repurposes:

Shelter Repair: Use it to patch holes in tents, tarps, or even clothing.
Medical Uses: Create makeshift bandages, splints, or slings.
Cordage Replacement: Twist duct tape into a rope or strip it into smaller threads for lashing.
Fire Starter: A small ball of duct tape can be ignited to start a fire in emergencies.

2. Aluminum Foil

Why It's Useful:
This kitchen staple is lightweight, reflective, and malleable, making it highly adaptable for survival.

Repurposes:

Cooking Surface: Shape it into a container to cook food or boil water over a fire.
Signal Reflector: Use the shiny surface to reflect sunlight and signal for help.
Battery Fix: Fold foil into a conductive strip to bridge gaps in electronics like flashlights.
Tool Sharpening: Fold and use it to hone dull blades in the field.

3. Plastic Bottles

Why They're Useful:
Sturdy, waterproof, and abundant, plastic bottles are an excellent resource for survival.

Repurposes:

Water Collection: Use them to collect rainwater or store purified water.
Solar Water Disinfection: Clear plastic bottles can disinfect water when left in direct sunlight for several hours.
Fishing Tools: Create a fishing net or a funnel trap for catching small fish.
Lighting: Fill a clear bottle with water and add bleach to create a bright, makeshift light source.

4. Paracord (or Shoelaces)

Why It’s Useful:
Whether it’s an actual paracord or just a pair of sturdy shoelaces, these strong cords are indispensable.

Repurposes:

Shelter Construction: Use it to secure tarps or branches when building a shelter.
Gear Repair: Replace broken zippers, straps, or buckles.
Traps and Snares: Create hunting tools for small game.
Climbing Aid: In emergencies, they can be braided or knotted for climbing.

5. Coffee Filters

Why They're Useful:
Often overlooked, coffee filters are versatile, lightweight, and inexpensive.

Repurposes:

Water Filtration: Pre-filter debris from water before boiling or chemical purification.
Fire Starter: Highly flammable, they’re great for igniting fires.
Food Storage: Wrap food to keep it dry and protected from insects.
Bandages: Use as a sterile layer to cover wounds temporarily.

Final Thoughts

Survival often depends more on creativity and adaptability than on having all the right tools. By recognizing the hidden potential in everyday items, you can extend your resources and increase your chances of overcoming challenges. Practice repurposing these items beforehand to build your skills and confidence. When the unexpected happens, your resourcefulness may just save the day.