11 Things You’ll Need If There’s a Societal Collapse in Missouri
To be clear: we really hope society doesn’t collapse. No one wants that. We like working plumbing, grocery stores, and being able to charge our phones.
But let’s say things go a little sideways in Missouri and the United States as a whole. We’re not necessarily talking about bunkers and gas masks (unless that’s your thing). We’re more talking about, “Hey, the power’s out for days,” or “Stores are closed for longer than usual.”
In the spirit of being prepared without turning into a doomsday prepper, here are some handy things you might want to have on hand… just in case.
Clean Water and a Way to Get More
You can go weeks without food, but only a few days without water. If taps stop running or water gets contaminated, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
Bottled water is good to have, but it runs out fast. So having a way to get clean water is even better.
Something like a LifeStraw or a water filter pump can clean up water from a stream or pond so it’s safe to drink. These things are small and don’t take up much space. Some even fit in your backpack.
Boiling water works too, but you’ll need a fire or stove for that.
And yes, collecting rainwater is an option. Just make sure you use a clean container and maybe filter it before drinking.
Basically, you want to be ready to stay hydrated even if the kitchen faucet stops cooperating.
Food That Doesn’t Go Bad
You don’t need a bunker full of military rations. Just some simple food that lasts a long time and doesn’t need a fridge. Think peanut butter, canned beans, instant noodles, granola bars, and canned fruit.
If it’s something you already like eating, even better.
Canned food can last years, and things like rice and pasta last a long time if you keep them dry. Just be sure you have a manual can opener—electric ones won’t help if the power’s out!
Bonus points for foods that give you energy and don’t require cooking.
You can also find freeze-dried meals at camping stores. They sound weird, but a lot of them are actually tasty. Just add hot water, stir, and boom—chili mac in the middle of nowhere.
A First Aid Kit That’s Not Just Band-Aids
A good first aid kit is way more than just a few Hello Kitty bandages and a dried-up packet of ointment. You want the real stuff—gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and maybe even some basic meds for allergies or stomach issues.
If you take prescription medicine, try to keep a little extra around (talk to your doctor about that). In an emergency, pharmacies might not be open, and you’ll want to have what you need.
It’s also a good idea to learn a few basic first aid skills.
You don’t need to be a doctor, but knowing how to clean a wound or stop bleeding could seriously come in handy if help isn’t right around the corner.
Flashlights, Batteries, and Backup Lights
If the power goes out, you’ll need a way to see in the dark that isn’t your phone flashlight (because that battery will die fast).
A few regular flashlights are great, and headlamps are even better—they let you keep both hands free.
Make sure you’ve got extra batteries for everything. And not just one type—some devices use AA, some use AAA, and your radio might use something else.
Also, those little camping lanterns? Super handy. They light up a whole room and run for hours.
You can even get solar-powered ones that recharge in the sun. No cords, no problem.
A Way to Stay Warm (or Cool)
If things go sideways in winter, staying warm becomes super important. Even if you’re indoors, it can get cold fast without heat.
Blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothes will help you a lot. The good kind—wool socks, layers, and maybe a cozy hoodie.
Hand warmers, like the kind you toss in your gloves, are awesome in a pinch. And if you have a fireplace or wood stove, you’re golden. Just make sure you have enough wood to last you a while.
If it’s the middle of summer, heat can be just as dangerous. Open windows, stay in the shade, and drink water like it’s your job.
Battery-powered fans or small solar fans can give you some relief when things get sweaty.
A Basic Tool Kit
Even if you’re not super handy, a basic tool kit can save the day.
Think hammer, screwdriver, wrench, duct tape, and maybe a multi-tool like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman. You don’t need a full garage—just the basics.
You might need to patch a leak, fix a door, or open something that’s stuck. Having tools gives you options. It also feels good to be able to fix stuff when things go wrong—something that older generations often know first-hand about compared to younger generations.
And don’t forget zip ties. Seriously. Those things are little miracle workers.
Need to hold something together? Zip tie it. Problem solved.
A Way to Cook Without Power
No microwave? No problem. If the power’s out, you’ll still want a way to heat up food or boil water. A small camping stove with propane or a grill outside can do the trick.
If you’ve got a charcoal grill, stock up on charcoal and lighter fluid. Got a propane one? Check the tank.
And if you’re really into prepping, some folks build rocket stoves out of bricks or metal cans. They’re small, efficient, and run on sticks.
Cooking without electricity can be kind of fun. Just avoid cooking inside with a gas stove or grill unless you know what you’re doing.
A Way to Stay in Touch and Get News
If the internet goes down and your phone dies, how are you going to know what’s going on? A battery-powered or crank radio is your new best friend.
You can hear news updates, weather alerts, or emergency messages.
Two-way radios (walkie-talkies) are great too, especially if you’re with family or neighbors and need to keep in touch. Just make sure everyone knows how to use them.
Our advice? Practice once in a while so it’s not confusing if or when it counts.
Also, write down important phone numbers and addresses. If your phone’s dead and you’ve relied on speed dial forever, you might realize you don’t know your cousin’s number by heart.
Pen and paper still work—even when the Wi-Fi doesn’t.
Stuff for Staying Clean
Nobody wants to be smelly and sticky during a crisis. Having some hygiene supplies can make things feel a lot more normal, even if everything else is chaotic.
Stock up on things like soap, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
If water is limited, dry shampoo and no-rinse body wipes are lifesavers. They’re not fancy, but they get the job done.
And brushing your teeth with a travel toothbrush and a little water can make you feel human again.
Toilets might not flush if there’s no water, so think about having trash bags, a bucket, and some kitty litter on hand for emergencies.
It’s weird, yes, but it works. And it beats not having a plan at all.
Cash (Because ATMs Might Not Work)
Most of us barely carry cash anymore, but in a situation where power or internet is down, credit cards and apps like Venmo won’t do you much good.
A small stash of cash—like small bills—can help you buy stuff if stores are still open but can’t take cards.
Keep it in a safe, waterproof place, and don’t go overboard. You’re not starting your own bank, and inflation is real—just have enough to grab some food or supplies if needed.
Also, having coins can help if you need to use vending machines or laundromats.
It’s old-school, but still useful in the right moment.
Something to Do So You Don’t Go Nuts
If society goes downhill, even for a little while, boredom might be your biggest enemy. No internet, no Netflix, no scrolling TikTok?
What are we supposed to do—talk to each other?
Seriously, though, having a deck of cards, books, puzzles, or games can make a big difference. It helps pass the time, calms you down, and gives your brain something to think about that isn’t just “What if things never go back to normal?”
Grab some notebooks and pens too. You can write, draw, or even keep a little journal.
It sounds cheesy, but it helps you stay focused and remember that you’re alive. And that’s what matters.
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