Survivalists vs Preppers: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Approach for You

More and more people are turning to survivalism and prepping as a way to be ready for whatever life throws at them as society becomes more unpredictable. But what distinguishes a prepper from a survivalist? Which one are you, then?

Self-sufficiency and the ability to survive in the face of adversity are the main goals of survivalists. They frequently emphasize knowledge of how to build shelters and start fires as well as how to hunt, trap, and forage for food. Additionally, they frequently place a high priority on having the tools and supplies they will need to survive in the wilderness, such as a good knife, a dependable water filter, and a method of purifying water.

On the other hand, preppers emphasize being ready for a variety of emergencies and disasters, including natural disasters, economic collapses, and pandemics that could affect large populations. They place a high priority on having a well-stocked pantry, water, a backup generator, as well as an evacuation and communication plan. In addition, first aid, emergency preparedness, and self-defense are frequently prioritized by preppers.

Being ready for emergencies is a goal that both preppers and survivalists share, but their methods and concerns are different. A prepper may prioritize being able to survive in an urban setting, whereas a survivalist may prioritize being able to survive in the wilderness.

So, which one are you? Are you someone who focuses on being able to survive in the wilderness, or are you someone who focuses on being prepared for a wide range of emergencies?

It's important to note that there's no right or wrong answer here. Both survivalists and preppers have valuable skills and knowledge that can be useful in a crisis. The key is to identify your own priorities and goals, and then to build a plan and a set of skills that align with those priorities.

For example, if you live in an area that is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, then you may want to focus on prepping for those specific hazards. This might include having a stockpile of non-perishable food, a water supply, and a plan for evacuation.

On the other hand, if you live in a more rural area, you may want to focus on survival skills such as hunting, trapping, and foraging for food. This might include learning how to track and hunt wild game, as well as how to identify and harvest wild edible plants.

Regardless of which approach you take, there are a few key principles that are important for both survivalists and preppers. These include:

Having a plan: Whether you're a survivalist or a prepper, it's important to have a plan for dealing with emergencies. This might include a plan for evacuation, a plan for communication, and a plan for dealing with specific hazards.

Building a stockpile of supplies: Having a stockpile of supplies is important for both survivalists and preppers. This might include non-perishable food, water, medicine, and other essential items.

Gaining knowledge and skills: Both survivalists and preppers need to have a wide range of knowledge and skills in order to be prepared for emergencies. This might include knowledge of first aid, emergency management, and self-defense.

Building a support network: Both survivalists and preppers need to have a support network of family, friends, and neighbors. This might include joining a local community group or church, or forming a neighborhood watch.

Survivalism and prepping are both about being prepared for emergencies, but the approach and priorities are different. A survivalist may prioritize being able to survive in the wilderness, while a prepper may prioritize being able to survive in an urban environment. Ultimately, it's important to identify your own priorities and goals, and then to build a plan and a set of skills that align with those priorities. Whether you're a survivalist or a prepper, having a plan, building a stockpile of supplies, gaining knowledge and skills, and building a support network are all essential for being prepared for emergencies.

It's also crucial to understand that being a survivalist or prepper doesn't entail living in constant fear or expecting the worst; rather, it means being ready for any eventuality and having the skills necessary to handle it. Being a survivalist or prepper entails being self-sufficient, self-reliant, and equipped with the knowledge and tools you'll need to take care of your family in an emergency.

In conclusion, being prepared is crucial whether you identify as a survivalist or prepper. You can be better equipped to handle whatever emergencies may arise by taking the time to plan and assemble a stockpile of supplies, acquire knowledge and skills, and create a support network. Being a survivalist or prepper can give you peace of mind and the capacity to exert control over any circumstance. It is better to be safe than sorry.