posted on Aug, 21 2009 @ 07:16 AM
If you're on a budget, a definitely recommend checking out the evil wal-mart. Sure, they're evil, but they also sell some very cheap camping
supplies. I got a decent hatchet for camping there for $7. It's sharp and hefty enough to work well, and I'd far rather have that than nothing, if
that's my option. Same thing, I got a simple pocket knife there for 99c. Again, better than nothing, if that's your option. Yes, there are a lot
better knives out there, and when you have the budget for one, that's important, but emergencies don't necessarily wait on your budget, and having
something now is better than nothing.
I also grocery shop slowly - stores often have great deals periodically if you pay attention, rather than just running around the store to get
everything you want. Personally, I've been stocking up on things like cold and flu medicines and first aid items as they've been on sale. Even the
"seasonal" type stuff stores have, you can often find some clearance items that are stupidly cheap, but things that would be good to have in your
at-home preparedness kit.
I very much advocate having a personal (altoids size) kit in your purse or on you at all times, followed by a BOB, an at-home kit, and a car kit. Even
if your car kit is mostly tailored to things you might need should you break down or get stuck somewhere overnight. My car has my tent, a tarp,
blankets, very warm jacket, sweater, and emergency socks/shoes/underwear, as well as jumper cables, flashlight, map book, random reading books, water,
tools. Do I use this stuff often? Occasionally, especially the socks/shoes/sweater.. It's all very basic stuff, though, that you probably already
have around your house. I'd also recommend a shovel and salt if you're in any area prone to snow/ice, or a bag of cheap cat litter.
My home kit has a lot of food, more water, medicine, water purifiers.. My bob has the most basic stuff, though.. The stuff that adds to any of the
other kits.