20 Everyday Prepping Hacks You Can Start Today
Why didn't I (you) think of that?
We are all about prepping economically. It doesn't have to be expensive, just laid out and fulfilled. Here's a few prepping hacks to get started today:
1. Save Those Condiment Packets
We covered this—free flavor bombs with long shelf lives. Your pantry deserves them.
2. Keep Empty Peanut Butter Jars
Rinse, dry, and boom—you’ve got a waterproof container for rice, beans, trail mix, or even matches.
3. Repurpose Coffee Tins
They’re sturdy, seal well, and make great mini storage bins for dry goods, tools, or even first aid supplies.
4. Use Dryer Lint for Fire Starter
Collect it in a jar—add a little petroleum jelly, and you’ve got instant fire starters that light like magic.
5. Stock Up on Free Salt & Sugar Packets
Restaurants hand these out like candy, and both are essential for survival cooking and electrolyte balance.
6. Reuse Takeout Containers
Strong plastic ones can store dry foods, batteries, or medical supplies. Free “prep tubs.”
7. Turn Old Socks Into Rag Stash
No need to buy shop rags. Old socks = cleaning cloths, filters, or even emergency gloves.
8. Save Silica Gel Packs
Those “do not eat” packets? Perfect for keeping moisture out of your stored food or gear.
9. Keep Toilet Paper Rolls for Fire
Stuff with shredded paper or lint—instant DIY fire starters.
10. Save Empty Prescription Bottles
Waterproof, pocket-sized, and perfect for matches, pills, or mini first aid.
11. Reuse Water Bottles
Don’t toss them—refill, freeze, and use as ice packs in a blackout or bug-out bag.
12. Stock Twist Ties & Rubber Bands
These little guys can fix gear, reseal food bags, and organize wires. Tiny but mighty.
13. Turn Old Pillows Into Insulation
Rip them open—use stuffing for dog beds, draft stoppers, or even an emergency pillow in the car.
14. Reuse Candle Jars
Once the wax is gone, they’re great for storing small gear or making new candles.
15. Keep Your Bacon Grease
Don’t toss it! Strain and save—it’s shelf stable for a while, can cook food, and doubles as emergency fire starter.
16. Repurpose Egg Cartons
Fill each cup with dryer lint + wax = perfect little fire starters.
17. Reuse Bread Bags
Strong and waterproof—great for lining shoes in wet conditions or packing food.
18. Save Gallon Jugs
Milk or juice jugs can be cleaned and used for water storage, scoops, or even DIY weights.
19. Collect Hotel Toiletries
Those mini shampoos, soaps, and lotions are perfect for bug-out bags and travel kits.
20. Stock Those Free Napkins
Takeout napkins? Toss them in your car, bag, or prep stash. They’re multi-purpose: TP backup, tissues, fire starter, cleaning rags.
👉 These are the kinds of “why didn’t I think of that?” prepping tips that cost zero extra money and instantly build your stash.