24 Things You Wish You Had When Society Collapses

As scary as it might seem, the idea of society falling apart isn’t that far-fetched. 

In recent years, we’ve seen disasters hit our world at an alarming rate, from hurricanes to pandemics like COVID-19. 

These events make us feel vulnerable and unprepared, prompting us to think about what essentials we’d need if society collapsed. 

From food and water to defense mechanisms, there are things we wish we had in tough times. 

Here, we’ll dive into the top items to have on hand for a societal breakdown because being prepared matters in uncertain times.

#1. Food

The top priority in any emergency is having an adequate supply of non-perishable food in the event of a societal collapse; access to grocery stores may be limited or non-existent.

It’s essential to have a stockpile of non-perishable foods such as canned goods, dried fruits and nuts, and granola bars.

#2. Water

Next on the list of essentials is water, water purification tablets, and a good-quality water filtration system 

The human body can only survive a few days without water, making it crucial to have a clean and reliable source of fresh water.

#3. Shelter

In a societal breakdown, having the necessary tools to build or repair shelter is essential.

You will want to include tents, tarps, ropes, and basic building materials in your emergency preparedness kit.

#4. Cash

During a crisis, having cash available can assist in buying essential items or covering transportation costs if banks or ATMs are unavailable.

You should have small bills and coins because larger denominations could be challenging to break in emergencies.

#5. Alternative Cooking Methods

Having diverse cooking methods is crucial to meal preparation during emergencies without depending solely on canned goods. 

You can go for options like a camping stove, a solar oven, or a DIY fire pit, but remember to store fuel for these methods before any crisis.

#6. Fire Starter

Access to a heat source and means of cooking is essential, and having a reliable fire starter on hand can make all the difference.

Consider including waterproof matches and lighters, or make your own with cotton balls or dryer lint soaked in petroleum jelly.

#7. Survival Skills

In addition to stockpiling supplies, having the knowledge and skills is crucial to survive.

Consider taking classes or practicing basic survival skills like building a shelter, growing a garden, finding and purifying water, and foraging for food. 

These skills can increase your chances of survival in a crisis.

#8. A Bug Out Plan

Having a bug-out plan is vital for any emergency readiness strategy. 

Just ensure you have a spot and route planned for a quick home getaway. 

Have different exit plans ready, sort out transport, and get your bug-out bag of supplies ready for a speedy departure.

#9. Batteries

During a power outage, extra batteries and power banks are invaluable, so make sure you have a range of sizes and types for various devices like flashlights, radios, and cell phones.

You should consider having solar-powered or hand-crank chargers as backups to power up smaller devices like phones and radios.

#10. First Aid Kit

Imagine a societal collapse without essential medications or a first aid kit. 

It is essential to have a well-supplied first aid kit containing basics like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and prescribed medications for you and your family. 

Additionally, stock up on extra quantities of medications your family uses regularly, such as diabetes medication, asthma inhalers, birth control, or allergy pills.

#11. Farm Animals

A self-sufficient food source is crucial in any disaster scenario, so it’s a good idea to consider keeping farm animals like chickens, goats, or rabbits if you have enough space and resources.

They can provide fresh eggs, milk, and meat, and you can use their manure as fertilizer for your garden.

#12. Communication Devices

In times of crisis, communication can become challenging, if not impossible. 

Investing in walkie-talkies or a satellite phone can be invaluable during emergencies when conventional communication methods are unreliable.

#13. Blankets and Warm Clothing

If society collapses, so will our access to modern heating systems, making it important to have enough blankets and warm clothing to stay comfortable during cold weather.

It’s also a good idea to keep some waterproof options in wet conditions or if you have to leave your home in harsh weather conditions.

If you need to leave your home, having warm clothing will be crucial for survival in harsh weather conditions.

#14. Personal Hygiene Supplies

You may not think that maintaining personal hygiene is a top priority, but it is crucial for staying healthy during a disaster.

Make sure to stock up on plenty of essentials like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, and diapers (if needed).

#15. Self Defense Items

In times of societal breakdown, chaos may ensue, leading to potential risks like looting and violence. 

It is crucial to have self-defense tools readily available, such as pepper spray, a taser, or a firearm (if you possess the necessary training and license). 

Remember to equip yourself with proper training and expertise in safely and effectively using these resources.

#16. Solar Chargers and Power Banks

In the event of a society collapse, there could be a power outage, and it is essential to have alternative means of charging your electronic devices. 

Solar chargers or power banks are a great option as they use renewable energy, making them reliable and sustainable.

#17. Important Documents

In a crisis, it is important to have copies of your essential documents, such as identification cards, birth certificates, and insurance policies. 

In the case of a societal breakdown, having these documents can help you access resources and services more easily and prove your identity and ownership.

#18. Generator

During a crisis, a generator can be a true lifesaver. 

Powered by fuel, it can supply electricity to operate vital appliances and devices. 

However, it’s paramount to ensure a sufficient fuel supply in advance and understand the correct operation procedures for safety purposes.

#19. Light Sources

Having reliable light sources such as candles and flashlights is crucial in a power outage.

Consider investing in solar-powered lights or hand-crank lanterns and learn how to make your own candles for a more sustainable and long-lasting option.

#20. Hand Tools

You will find a basic set of hand tools invaluable if society collapses.

This includes hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, garden tools, and wrenches to help with minor repairs, planting a garden, or building necessary structures for shelter.

Remember to include tools with multi-purpose to save storage space and a sharpening stone to keep the blades in top condition.

#21. Seeds

Getting fresh produce might be challenging in a societal collapse situation. So, having a garden is vital to survival. 

Make sure to stock up on various non-GMO seeds for fruits, veggies, and herbs that grow best for your area, and learn how to preserve your food long-term.

#22. Survival Books

Knowledge is power, and in a society collapse situation, having survival books on hand can be life-saving. 

These books can teach you various skills, such as wilderness survival, foraging for food, first aid, and self-defense techniques.

Make sure to have hard copies of these books, as electronic devices may not be accessible during a societal breakdown.

#23. Community

In times of crisis, having a solid community is essential, so reaching out to your neighbors and building relationships based on trust and support before a crisis happens is necessary.

Discuss potential emergency plans and resources, such as sharing tools, food supplies, and skills to make all the difference in surviving and rebuilding after a collapse.

#24. Bartering Goods

In a post-collapse world, traditional forms of currency may no longer hold value so bartering will come in handy.

Stocking up on items you can use for trade, such as extra food and supplies, tools, or even basic medical supplies, can be highly beneficial in survival.

Additionally, consider investing in precious metals, gems, or valuable commodities that can serve as alternative currency forms.

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