Prepping doesn't have to drain your bank account. There are numerous ways to enhance your preparedness without spending a fortune. Take your prepping skills to the next level with these 10 budget-friendly tips:
1. Become a Handyman
That broken item in your home that you've been neglecting? Take action and fix it yourself. With a simple YouTube search, you can find tutorials on repairing almost any modern appliance. In today's throwaway culture, people rarely bother fixing things. Change that mindset by tackling the broken item in your home and gain valuable DIY skills in the process.
2. Stay Informed About Local Threats
Think you already know all the potential threats in your area? Threats are constantly evolving. Keep up with the latest developments by checking local crime maps for emerging patterns. Familiarize yourself with flood maps and any new developments near rivers or basins close to your location. Complacency can leave you unprepared when new threats arise. At TruePrepper, we have ranked various threats based on general risk, so make sure you're ready for any that could impact you. Stay vigilant to avoid becoming a victim.
3. Learn the Art of Foraging
Foraging is a low-cost skill that requires knowledge and time. While it's ideal to learn from an experienced forager, you can also use online resources or books to identify local edible plants. Whether you're living in a rural area or a bustling city, foraging is a valuable skill to acquire.
4. Get Active
Engage in physical activities like hiking, rock climbing, rowing, or marathon running. You don't need an expensive gym membership or aerobics class to stay fit. Simply spending time outdoors and being physically active will significantly enhance your preparedness for any challenging situation.
5. Expand Your Knowledge Through Reading
Read books on prepping, whether they are free prepper Kindle books or borrowed from your local library. Reference books offer valuable insights, while fiction can provide inspiration. Discover how reading “One Second After” transformed the life of one of our writers.
6. Master Essential Knots
Learning a few essential knots is easier than teaching a child to tie their shoelaces. With a little practice and guidance, you can quickly pick up knot-tying skills. We've compiled a list of the top 10 survival knots with visual guides to help you get started. You can even learn them from the comfort of your couch.
7. Create an Emergency Plan
When was the last time you reviewed your emergency plan? If you've moved or experienced significant life changes since then, it's essential to update your plan. Set aside an hour or two to discuss and develop a comprehensive plan with your family. Make sure everyone is aware of designated meet-up areas, bug out locations, and establish key words for intruder situations. Also, designate a shelter-in-place room. If creating a plan from scratch seems overwhelming, don't worry! We've already done most of the work for you with our Basic Emergency Plan.
8. Research the Best Gear
Choosing the right equipment that offers durability and functionality isn't always easy. Take the Morakniv Companion knife, for example. Despite its affordable price and simple appearance, this knife surpasses many fancy alternatives. Conduct thorough research to ensure you select gear that will withstand any SHTF (shit hits the fan) scenario. Window shopping online is free, so explore multiple options before making a purchase.
9. Familiarize Yourself with Your Existing Gear
Take out any gear you haven't used and familiarize yourself with its features and functions. Before investing in new preps, it's crucial to know how to effectively use the gear you already own. Remember, practice makes perfect.
10. Develop Gardening Skills
Gardening isn't just about learning; it's about taking action. Whether you're planting a vegetable plot, exploring vertical gardening, or experimenting with hydroponics, engaging in gardening activities is beneficial. Gardening equips you with a valuable survival skill, saves money, provides a relaxing hobby, and offers delicious homegrown produce. Even if you're not the primary chef in your household, contributing to your preparedness with a thriving garden is worthwhile.
Bonus: Meal Planning and Budgeting
Planning your meals in advance can save you a significant amount of money. It also allows you to ensure that each meal contains the necessary food groups and nutrients. If you're responsible for feeding yourself or your family, take the time to create a meal plan. It's a decision you won't regret.
Speaking of saving money, creating a budget is crucial for preppers. Without a budget, your expenses can spiral out of control. Take charge of your finances to minimize personal risks. Approach financial security with the same determination as individual preparedness. Whether you use a spreadsheet or a pen and paper, making a budget doesn't have to be overwhelming. Balancing your income with your expenses will help you save for emergencies, avoid impulse buying, and achieve your financial goals. Check out our Prepper Financial Planning Guide for more information.
The Final Word
Improving your prepping skills doesn't have to be expensive. Explore the possibilities that can be achieved without spending a dime. For more helpful guides, check out:
- How to Obtain Free Survival Maps
- The Top 10 Canned Foods to Stockpile for Survival
- Free Survival PDFs, Manuals, and Downloads [Prepper Library]
Continue to expand your knowledge, stay prepared, and stay safe.
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By: Rusty Collins
Title: 10 Affordable Ways to Improve Your Prepping Skills
Sourced From: www.trueprepper.com/cheap-better-prepper/
Published Date: Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:20:34 +0000