If you have done any research on how to be a prepper or create your own prepper pantry, you’ve probably seen hundreds of pages of material for people that already seem to know what to do. This can be a bit overwhelming for the beginner prepper; but don’t be discouraged! Starting a prepper pantry doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think. You can easily start and maintain your own prepper pantry.

What is a prepper pantry

Prepper pantries are the backbone of the prepper life. It’s basically like your normal pantry, but more well thought out and made to last. It’s the place where you store all the food you need in the event of a disaster that may keep you from being able to live normally.

These foods should be shelf-stable for long periods of time; like dry rice and beans, canned goods, dehydrated or freeze-dried foods, etc. Having all of these types of foods stored up can help you through several different types of emergencies.

Who can benefit from a prepper pantry

Everyone benefits from creating their own prepper pantry. You never know what could happen; and if you live in a particularly high risk or turbulent area, you will definitely not regret stocking one up.

Prepper pantries are perfect for anyone that wants to be prepared for getting themselves and their family through a potential catastrophe. This is especially true if you have a large family with children, or elderly family members.

You’ll want to make sure any dietary restrictions are met, as well as having foods any picky little ones will eat enough of. It is always a good idea to stock up on non-perishable foods that are also enjoyed by you and your family. It is not necessary to only prepare with MREs and bland calories. You can be creative with your shopping, as long as you make sure to have the supplies needed to prepare the things you get.

When will you need a prepper pantry

Emergency situations of all kinds are good times to have a well-stocked pantry. You’ll have supplies you need for virtually any situation that comes about the more thought you put into your prepper pantry.

Your pantry is the lifeline your family may need in the event of a life-altering situation that impacts you or your entire town, state, province, or country. From an unexpected job loss, to a natural disaster, long-term power outage, or epidemic; your prepper pantry will be there to get you and your family through safely without starving. These five steps will help you get started.

Number one: Start small

Don’t try to buy out the whole canned goods aisle at once. Or paper products, or whatever. Instead, buy a few extra cans of what you would normally buy. Grab a few gallons of water to store.

Just getting a few extra things every time you shop can really add up in terms of supplies without costing a lot of money. Just make sure you have enough space to store the extras you get.

Number two: Choose the right space

A prepper pantry should be in a cool, dry area. Avoid garages and attics, since these places can get really humid and hot as temperatures fluctuate outside (but in a pinch, do what you need to do). Choose a place that has plenty of room for shelving, and is safe from vermin or pests that can destroy your food storage.

Number three: Experiment

Try out some easy recipes with shelf stable foods you haven’t tried yet. Don’t just save your preps for an emergency. Try new things, and add extras to your pantry as you discover things you and your family enjoy.

Using the things you have in storage ensures that your stock is rotated and not expired in an emergency situation. Consider your prepper pantry to be just a pantry that has enough food to last for a while.

Number four: Remember the Basics

Water, rice, pasta, beans, peanut butter, canned fruits and veggies, vitamins, and supplements can seem like no-brainers.

However, sometimes the most basic supplies can be forgotten because they are so obvious. You will want to be sure you have plenty of foods with lots of protein and nutritional value. Empty calories have no place in a prepper pantry.

Number five: DIY shelf stable foods

Pickling, canning, and drying foods are actually very easy processes thanks to modern technology and appliances. One of the best parts about this is that you can preserve your favorite things all by yourself!

With a little bit of practice and the right tools, you can preserve meats, fruits, and vegetables for your daily AND prepper pantry. With good planning you can preserve enough food to feed your family for a whole year, or even longer.

Now that you know the five easiest ways to start your very own prepper pantry, go forth and prep! Once you take that first step and give it a try, you will see just how easy it can be to prepare for anything that comes your way.