Author of How to Prep When You’re Broke and Bloom Where You’re Planted online course
Prepping can be prohibitively expensive, especially in this economy. But today I want to talk about some unusual preps that cost $10 or less.
These aren’t things you’ll see in every list of prepper must-haves, but if you need them, you’ll be oh-so-glad you have them.
4 Way Silcock Key
A 4-way silcock key is a compact, cross-shaped metal tool designed to open tamper-resistant water spigots, often found in public or commercial settings. Its four different stem sizes ensure compatibility with a variety of sillcock valves, making it a versatile key for accessing water sources that are typically locked to prevent unauthorized use.
Most preppers focus on water filters or storage containers, but few consider the challenge of accessing water from secured spigots. Many water spigots, such as those on high-rise buildings, U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, rest stops, cemeteries, or industrial sites, require a specific key to operate. The 4-way silcock key is a niche tool that opens up these unconventional water sources, which are often overlooked in survival scenarios.
Binder Clips
Let’s pop into the stationery department now. Binder clips are small, metal office tools with foldable handles, typically used to hold stacks of paper together. Available in various sizes (e.g., 3/4-inch to 1-inch wide), a pack of 12 costs just a couple of bucks and can be repurposed for a surprising range of survival tasks.
- Shelter Building: Use binder clips to secure tarps or plastic sheeting to poles or ropes, creating quick shelters or rain covers. Their strong grip holds firm even in windy conditions.
- Gear Organization: Clip cords, maps, or small tools to your pack or belt to keep essentials accessible and prevent loss during movement.
- Improvised Tools: Bend the metal handles to form makeshift fishing hooks, tent stakes, or wire for snares. In a pinch, they can clamp fabric over a wound to control bleeding (with clean material).
- Food Storage: Seal opened food bags to keep contents fresh or protect them from moisture and pests, extending the usability of scavenged or stored food.
Sewing Awls
It’s ideal for gear repair. Use it to mend torn backpacks, tents, or heavy clothing (e.g., leather boots or jackets) to maintain protection from the elements.
Silica Gel Packets
Silica gel packets have uses far outside the kitchen. I live in the humid South and use them in my tool kit and in my ammo boxes to keep everything dry. For the stuff in my storage unit, I put a couple of packets in each box of clothing or electronics, just in case of moisture.
Heavy Equipment Keys
This set of 50 heavy equipment keys is a collection of universal ignition keys designed to start and operate a variety of heavy machinery, such as loaders, tractors, dump trucks, backhoes, excavators, and bulldozers. These compact, durable keys are compatible with major brands like John Deere, Caterpillar, Bobcat, Case, Komatsu, and more. Each key is precision-cut to fit specific equipment models, making them a versatile tool for accessing critical machinery.
The ability to access abandoned heavy equipment post-disaster could really make a difference. We need only look at Hurricane Helene in North Carolina to see how long it can take for the official response to happen.
I must add one caution – unless you know how to use these pieces of equipment, you should probably refrain from doing so. You or a bystander can be seriously injured if it’s used incorrectly.
What about you?
Do you have any quirky items in your bag that you think most folks haven’t thought of? Let’s hear it! Let’s talk about unusual preps in the comments section.
