Top 16 Uncommon Overlooked SHTF Items

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EMERGENCY PREP

9/5/20243 min read

Top 16 Uncommon Overlooked SHTF Items

When preparing for a SHTF (Sh*t Hits the Fan) scenario, most people think of the basics: food, water, shelter, and firearms. However, there are many overlooked, less common items that can make a significant difference when things go south. Here are 16 essential but often overlooked items to include in your survival kit.

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1. Manual Coffee Grinder

For many, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a daily necessity. In a prolonged emergency, having a manual coffee grinder can allow you to enjoy a fresh brew when electricity or conveniences are no longer available. It’s a small comfort that can keep morale high.

2. Hand-Crank Radio with Solar Charger

Staying informed is crucial during a crisis. A hand-crank radio ensures you have access to news, weather reports, or emergency broadcasts, even when the grid goes down. The solar charger can help power small devices as well.

3. Rat Traps for Small Game

While snares and fishing gear are common in survival kits, few consider rat traps. These compact, easy-to-set traps can catch small game like squirrels, which can provide essential protein in a survival situation.

4. Heavy-Duty Trash Bags

They’re often associated with garbage, but heavy-duty trash bags have multiple uses in survival scenarios. They can serve as rain ponchos, make-shift shelters, ground cover, or even water collectors in a pinch.

5. Lye (for Soap Making)

Hygiene can become a challenge in SHTF situations, and clean water may be scarce. Lye, combined with fats or oils, can be used to make soap to maintain hygiene and prevent disease. It's an old-school but essential skill for long-term survival.

6. Calcium Hypochlorite (Pool Shock)

Water purification is key to survival. While most people know about water filters, calcium hypochlorite (sold as pool shock) is a powerful water disinfectant. It’s highly concentrated and can purify thousands of gallons of water when mixed properly.

7. Wire Mesh

Wire mesh, though often overlooked, can be used to create small animal traps, reinforce windows, or even act as an improvised fence. It’s light and takes up minimal space, but can serve multiple purposes.

8. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is invaluable for water filtration and can also be used to treat poisonings or stomach ailments. It's a natural detoxifier, essential in situations where you may encounter contaminated water or food.

9. Condoms (Non-Lubricated)

This might seem strange, but non-lubricated condoms are strong and versatile. They can be used to carry water, keep electronic devices dry, or even protect the barrel of a firearm from dirt and debris. Their compact nature makes them easy to store and carry.

10. Safety Pins

Safety pins are often overlooked but incredibly useful. They can be used to repair clothing, hold bandages in place, or secure shelter materials. In a pinch, they can even be fashioned into fishing hooks or used as temporary fasteners.

11. Spare Prescription Glasses

If you wear prescription glasses, having a backup pair is essential. A break in your primary pair could leave you with limited vision, which can be dangerous in an emergency situation. Pack an extra set in a protective case.

12. Tampons and Menstrual Pads

In addition to their primary use, tampons and menstrual pads can be repurposed for first aid. Tampons can help plug small puncture wounds, and pads can be used as compresses for larger injuries. They’re sterile, absorbent, and lightweight.

13. Liquid Bandage

Traditional bandages work well for small cuts and scrapes, but liquid bandage provides a waterproof seal that can help keep wounds clean when you may not have access to regular cleaning supplies. It also works well in areas where standard bandages won’t stick.

14. Dental Kit

Most preppers think of first aid kits but often forget dental emergencies. A toothache, abscess, or broken tooth can become debilitating. Having a small dental kit with temporary filling material, dental floss, and pain relief can be critical in a long-term survival scenario.

15. Spare Shoelaces

Shoelaces can wear out, break, or fray when you're on the move. Beyond their obvious use, they can double as cordage for building shelters, securing gear, or even creating snares. They’re small but highly useful.

16. Windproof Lighters

While fire-starting tools like matches and fire steel are essential, windproof lighters are often overlooked. They work in tough weather conditions, providing a reliable flame when you need it most. Having a few on hand is a smart move.