9 Places to Hide During SHTF

Whether you're trying to avoid looters, hostile individuals, or simply waiting out a dangerous situation, having secure hiding places can make all the difference. Here are nine great hiding places to consider during such events.

SHTF & SECURITY

9/3/20246 min read

people running from an attack during shtf

9 Places to Hide During SHTF

During a SHTF (Sh*t Hits The Fan) scenario or a major disaster, the ability to stay out of sight can be crucial for your survival. Whether you're trying to avoid looters, hostile individuals, or simply waiting out a dangerous situation, having secure hiding places can make all the difference. Here are nine great hiding places to consider during such events.

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I learned early on in my career—working with clients who had the means to stockpile food resources most people could only dream of—that all the gear in the world wouldn’t save you if you didn’t know where to disappear. I’ve seen well-prepared families, with basements that could rival fallout shelters, ignore the basic principles of evasion, only to face dangers they never anticipated. The most expensive rifle, the largest stockpile of canned goods, the sturdiest generator—all useless if the wrong people show up at your door or worse, if you’re caught out in the open. Often times you have to hide before you can fight, and if time permits, mere seconds, try to find a hiding spot that can also act as a way to ambush. Even if it means staying there for several hours before escaping.

Disaster doesn’t always announce itself. It’s not the kind of enemy you can always see coming, and sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, it forces you to vanish. Hiding isn’t weakness; it’s strategy. When chaos erupts, you can’t count on order. Looters don’t knock politely, and desperate people will become hostile, and that means you have to have a defensive survival plan, literally in order to defend yourself and loved ones. Knowing where to hide, whether it’s in your home or out in the wild, can mean the difference between life and death.

The art of evasion starts long before disaster strikes. The first step is understanding the terrain—your terrain. If you’re in an urban area, you need to identify structural hard cover and strongholds, places that aren’t obvious but offer concealment and protection. These might be old buildings with basements, maintenance tunnels, or even spaces within your own home that can’t be easily breached. In rural settings, it’s about knowing the land: the natural contours, tree lines, and caves that provide cover. Think like a predator, but act like prey; you’re not looking to confront the chaos but outlast it.

I recall a client who had a mountain bunker that ended up flooding. They had to retreat to a fallback position they’d barely considered: a small, unremarkable cabin miles away, one they had wisely pre-stocked but never thought they’d need. The bunker was the golden plan but it ended up being uninhabitable for several weeks. Fortunately, the survival skills this client knew, could be taken anywhere. As prepping knowledge is versatile.

When planning your hiding spots, redundancy isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Think layers—one primary location and at least one or two backups. Each spot should be stocked with the essentials: water, non-perishable food, basic medical supplies, and the tools to defend yourself. But more importantly, it should be defensible and, if possible, untraceable. Digital footprints, too, can betray you, especially during a cyber attack. Be cautious of what you post online, who knows about your preparations, and what habits you might unconsciously reveal.

Survival isn’t just about hiding; it’s about hiding smart. You need to understand not only where to go but how to get there unseen. Every route you plan should have contingencies. If the main roads are blocked, do you know the side streets or trails? If you’re pursued, do you know how to shake a tail? These aren’t just tactical considerations; they’re life skills. Too often, people overestimate the power of their gear and underestimate the importance of knowledge—and knowledge, when paired with preparation, is your greatest weapon.

The reality is, hiding isn’t glamorous. It’s not what survival shows or movies glorify. It’s dirty, exhausting, and, more often than not, terrifying. But it’s also necessary. You don’t choose to hide because you’re scared; you choose to hide because it keeps you alive. Gear can be taken, food can spoil, and water can run out, but the skill to evade and the wisdom to know when to do so will never fail you.

1. Underground Bunkers

Underground bunkers are one of the safest and most secure hiding places during a SHTF scenario. These structures can be custom-built or repurposed from existing spaces like basements. Bunkers provide protection from natural disasters, radiation, and intruders. They can be stocked with supplies, ensuring you have everything you need to survive while remaining hidden.

Advantages:

Provides excellent protection from external threats.
Can be equipped with ventilation, power, and supplies for extended stays.

Considerations:

Requires significant investment and preparation.
Entrance should be concealed to avoid detection.

2. False Walls and Hidden Rooms

False walls and hidden rooms can be created within your home to provide a discreet place to hide. These spaces are typically built behind bookshelves, closets, or in attics and basements. The key to a successful hidden room is ensuring that it blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it undetectable to outsiders.

Advantages:

Can be easily incorporated into existing homes.
Offers a quick and accessible hiding spot.

Considerations:

Requires some construction and planning.
May not provide as much protection as a bunker.

3. Dense Forests and Wilderness Areas

If you’re in a rural area, dense forests and wilderness areas can provide excellent cover. These locations offer natural concealment, making it difficult for others to find you. Setting up a well-camouflaged shelter in the wilderness can keep you hidden for extended periods.

Advantages:

Natural cover and concealment.
Low chance of encountering others.

Considerations:

Requires knowledge of survival skills.
Limited access to supplies.

4. Abandoned Buildings During SHTF

Abandoned buildings, particularly those in remote areas, can serve as temporary hideouts. These structures often go unnoticed and can provide shelter from the elements. However, it's essential to thoroughly inspect the building for structural integrity and potential hazards before taking refuge.

Advantages:

Easy to find in urban and rural areas.
Provides shelter from weather conditions.

Considerations:

May attract other people seeking shelter.
Risk of structural collapse or hazards.

5. Caves and Natural Rock Formations

Caves and natural rock formations are excellent hiding spots due to their natural camouflage and protection from the elements. These locations are often difficult to access, making them less likely to be discovered by others. However, it’s important to ensure that the cave is stable and free from dangerous wildlife.

Advantages:

Natural concealment and protection.
Typically cooler temperatures, beneficial in hot climates.

Considerations:

Risk of flooding or cave-ins.
Potential encounters with wildlife.

6. Septic Tanks or Old Wells

While not the most glamorous option, septic tanks or old wells can serve as emergency hiding spots in extreme situations. These spaces are often overlooked and can provide short-term concealment. If you choose this option, make sure the space is clean and has enough ventilation.

Advantages:

Highly unlikely to be searched by intruders.
Provides concealment in close proximity to your home.

Considerations:

Limited space and ventilation.
Potential health risks if not properly maintained.

7. Inside Thick Walls or Chimneys

Old, thick walls and chimneys can be converted into hiding spots. These areas are often hollow and can be accessed by creating a small, concealed entrance. This method is especially useful in older homes with thick, stone walls or large fireplaces.

Advantages:

Inconspicuous and hard to detect.
Provides some protection from external threats.

Considerations:

Limited space.
Requires careful construction to ensure safety.

8. Underground Water Cisterns or Wells

Underground water cisterns or wells, especially those no longer in use, can be repurposed as hiding places. These structures are typically deep and out of sight, offering a secure location for temporary refuge. Ensure the area is clean and has adequate air supply before using it.

Advantages:

Naturally concealed and hard to discover.
Provides a cool environment, beneficial in hot weather.

Considerations:

Limited access and egress.
Requires careful maintenance to ensure safety.

9. Concealed Spaces in Attics or Crawlspaces

Attics and crawlspaces are often overlooked during searches, making them ideal hiding spots. These spaces can be enhanced with additional insulation or camouflage to further conceal your presence. Ensure that the entrance to these areas is well hidden and that the space is equipped with essentials for short-term survival.

Advantages: