How I Built a Complete Prepper Kit from Dollar Tree – 25 Item Life-Changing List!

When it comes to prepping for survival situations, having the right supplies can make all the difference. However, building a comprehensive prepper kit can be expensive, especially if you’re on a tight budget. That’s where the humble Dollar Tree comes in – this unassuming store is a goldmine for affordable prepping essentials that won’t break the bank.

By carefully selecting the right items, you can create a well-stocked prepper kit that covers all your bases, from first aid and hygiene to emergency lighting and storage solutions. And the best part? You can do it all for just a few dollars per item.

Introduction to Prepping on a Budget with Dollar Tree

Being prepared for emergencies and survival situations is crucial, but it can be challenging when you’re working with a limited budget. Many people assume that prepping requires a significant investment, but that’s not always the case. Dollar Tree offers a surprising array of useful items that can help you build a solid foundation for your prepper kit without breaking the bank.

The key is knowing what to look for and what to avoid. With a little bit of research and strategic shopping, you can take advantage of Dollar Tree’s low prices and stock up on essential supplies that will serve you well in any crisis situation.

25 Life-Changing Dollar Tree Prepper Items

  1. First aid supplies: Having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any prepper. The Dollar Tree offers a variety of first aid supplies like bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and more at an affordable price. Prepper Hack: Create mini first aid kits using small plastic containers or bags from the Dollar Tree and keep them in your car, backpack, and other convenient locations.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited selection
Easy to stock upQuality may vary
  1. Reading glasses: Vision problems can make survival situations even more challenging. Dollar Tree carries a range of reading glasses in various strengths. Prepper Hack: Keep a few pairs of reading glasses in your emergency kit, as they can be a lifesaver if you lose or damage your regular glasses.
ProsCons
AffordableLimited styles
ConvenientMay not be suitable for extended wear
  1. Epsom salts: Epsom salts have numerous uses beyond just relaxing baths. Prepper Hack: Use Epsom salts as a natural insecticide, fertilizer for plants, or as a laxative in case of digestive issues during an emergency.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited quantities available
Multi-purposeMay need to stock up
  1. Dental care products: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, even in survival situations. Dollar Tree offers toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and other dental care products. Prepper Hack: Keep a stash of dental care products in your emergency kit, and use baking soda as an alternative toothpaste if needed.
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ProsCons
AffordableQuality may vary
Essential for hygieneLimited selection
  1. Hand sanitizers: Proper hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of illnesses, which is crucial in emergencies. Dollar Tree carries a variety of hand sanitizers in small, portable sizes. Prepper Hack: Keep hand sanitizers in your emergency kit, car, and bug-out bag for easy access.
ProsCons
AffordableLimited sizes
ConvenientQuality may vary
  1. Glow sticks: Glow sticks are a great source of light in emergencies and can also be used for signaling purposes. Dollar Tree offers a variety of glow stick options. Prepper Hack: Use glow sticks to mark paths, entrances, or hazards in low-light conditions.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited duration
No batteries requiredCannot be recharged
  1. Large candles: Candles provide light and warmth during power outages or emergencies. Dollar Tree has a selection of large candles that can burn for extended periods. Prepper Hack: Use large candles as a heat source for cooking or boiling water in a pinch.
ProsCons
InexpensiveFire hazard
Long-lastingLimited scent options
  1. Flashlights: Having reliable sources of light is crucial in emergencies. Dollar Tree offers a variety of flashlights, including some that are solar-powered or crank-operated. Prepper Hack: Keep flashlights in strategic locations throughout your home and in your emergency kit for easy access.
ProsCons
AffordableBattery life may vary
PortableLimited brightness
  1. Home organization containers: Keeping your emergency supplies organized and easy to access is essential. Dollar Tree has a wide selection of plastic containers, bins, and baskets for organization. Prepper Hack: Use clear plastic containers to store and organize your emergency supplies, making it easy to see what you have and what needs to be restocked.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
Variety of optionsQuality may vary
  1. Plastic shoe bins: Plastic shoe bins can be repurposed for various storage needs in an emergency situation. Prepper Hack: Use plastic shoe bins to store and organize smaller emergency supplies, such as first aid kits, tools, or hygiene products.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
StackableNot airtight
  1. Over-the-door storage hooks: These versatile hooks can help maximize storage space in small areas. Prepper Hack: Use over-the-door hooks to hang and organize emergency supplies, such as backpacks, tarps, or emergency blankets, keeping them easily accessible.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited weight capacity
Space-savingMay damage doors
  1. Vacuum storage bags: Vacuum storage bags can help reduce the space taken up by bulky items like clothing or bedding. Prepper Hack: Use vacuum storage bags to compress and store emergency supplies like warm clothing, blankets, or sleeping bags, saving valuable space in your emergency kit or bug-out bag.
ProsCons
Space-savingRequires a vacuum or pump
Protects contentsNot airtight
  1. Bungee cords: Bungee cords are incredibly versatile and can be used for securing loads, creating shelters, or even as makeshift tools. Prepper Hack: Keep a variety of bungee cords in your emergency kit for securing tarps, tents, or creating makeshift carriers or stretchers.
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ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
VersatileMay degrade over time
  1. Paper products: Having a supply of paper products like plates, cups, and napkins can be helpful in emergency situations. Dollar Tree offers a variety of disposable paper products. Prepper Hack: Use paper plates as makeshift bowls or containers for cooking, storing, or serving food in an emergency.
ProsCons
InexpensiveNot eco-friendly
ConvenientLimited quantities
  1. Shower curtains: Shower curtains can serve various purposes in an emergency, from temporary shelters to water catchment systems. Prepper Hack: Use shower curtains as a makeshift tarp or ground cover to create a temporary shelter or to collect rainwater.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
VersatileNot waterproof
  1. Microfiber towels: Microfiber towels are highly absorbent, lightweight, and quick-drying, making them ideal for emergencies. Prepper Hack: Pack a few microfiber towels in your emergency kit for cleaning, personal hygiene, or as a makeshift bandage or sling.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
VersatileMay need frequent washing
  1. Spray bottles: Spray bottles can be used for a variety of purposes, from cleaning to gardening. Dollar Tree offers a selection of spray bottles in different sizes. Prepper Hack: Fill spray bottles with water and store them in your emergency kit for easy access to water for drinking, cleaning, or first aid.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
VersatileQuality may vary
  1. Damp Rid: Moisture and humidity can be problematic in emergency situations, leading to mold and mildew growth. Dollar Tree carries Damp Rid products for moisture absorption. Prepper Hack: Use Damp Rid in your emergency storage areas or bug-out bag to help control moisture and prevent damage to your supplies.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited effectiveness
Helps prevent moldNeeds to be replaced regularly
  1. Puppy pads: Puppy pads can be a lifesaver in emergency situations when access to proper sanitation facilities is limited. Prepper Hack: Keep a supply of puppy pads in your emergency kit for use as makeshift toilet facilities or for absorbing spills.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
AbsorbentMay need frequent replacement
  1. Office supplies: Having a basic supply of office essentials like pens, pencils, notebooks, and scissors can be useful in an emergency. Dollar Tree offers a variety of affordable office supplies. Prepper Hack: Use notebooks to keep a journal or log important information during an emergency, and scissors can serve multiple purposes, from cutting bandages to prepping kindling.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited selection
VersatileQuality may vary
  1. Plastic tote bags: Sturdy plastic tote bags can be invaluable for carrying and organizing supplies during an emergency. Dollar Tree has a range of reusable tote bags. Prepper Hack: Use plastic tote bags to create makeshift water carriers, storage containers, or even as a makeshift rain poncho.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
VersatileNot waterproof
  1. Zip ties: Zip ties are incredibly versatile and can be used for securing, bundling, or even improvising tools in an emergency situation. Dollar Tree offers packs of zip ties in various sizes. Prepper Hack: Keep a supply of zip ties in your emergency kit for securing supplies, creating makeshift handles or tools, or even as makeshift handcuffs if necessary.
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ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
VersatileMay need to stock up
  1. Tablecloths: Tablecloths can serve multiple purposes in an emergency, from makeshift curtains or shelters to ground covers or even clothing. Dollar Tree has a selection of inexpensive tablecloths. Prepper Hack: Use tablecloths as makeshift tarps or ground covers to create a temporary shelter or to collect rainwater.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited durability
VersatileNot waterproof
  1. Socks (as backup): Having extra socks on hand can be a lifesaver in emergencies, especially in cold or wet conditions. Dollar Tree offers a variety of sock options at a low cost. Prepper Hack: Pack extra socks in your emergency kit or bug-out bag for warmth, makeshift insulation, or even as makeshift mittens or water filters.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
VersatileQuality may vary
  1. Band-Aids (test before relying on): While not the highest quality, having a supply of basic bandages can be helpful in an emergency. Dollar Tree offers a variety of adhesive bandages. Prepper Hack: Test the adhesive bandages before relying on them for emergencies, and consider using them for minor cuts or as tape for other purposes.
ProsCons
InexpensiveLimited sizes
ConvenientQuality may vary

Items to Avoid at Dollar Tree for Prepping

While Dollar Tree offers a wealth of affordable prepping supplies, there are some items you should avoid to ensure you’re getting the most value for your money.

  • Tape: The tape sold at Dollar Tree may not be of the highest quality, so it’s best to avoid it for important tasks.
  • Dollar Store meat: For food safety reasons, it’s advisable to steer clear of any perishable meat products from dollar stores.
  • Dollar Store chargers: Cheap chargers and electronics may not be reliable or safe to use, so it’s better to invest in higher-quality options.
  • Batteries: While the batteries at Dollar Tree can be used as backups, they may not have the longest lifespan or best performance.
  • Socks: While socks can be useful as backup options for wet feet or natural disasters, you shouldn’t rely on them as your primary footwear.
  • Band-Aids: Some Dollar Tree Band-Aids may have poor adhesive quality, so it’s worth testing them before relying on them for first aid.

Tips for Building Your Prepper Kit at Dollar Tree

Building a comprehensive prepper kit at Dollar Tree requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your dollar store shopping trips:

  • Prioritize essentials first, such as first aid supplies, hygiene products, and emergency lighting.
  • Check expiration dates and quality of items before purchasing, especially for food and medical supplies.
  • Compare prices with other stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal on certain items.
  • Rotate and replenish your supplies regularly to ensure they’re always fresh and ready to use.

Going Beyond the Basics – Long-Term Prepping Resources

While the items you can find at Dollar Tree can help you build a solid foundation for your prepper kit, it’s important to plan beyond the initial 72 hours or a few weeks. For long-term prepping, you’ll need to stock up on food, water, and other supplies that can sustain you and your family for an extended period.

Check out our comprehensive guide in the description below for resources and tips on long-term prepping. This guide will help you assess your current preparedness level and plan for situations that may last weeks, months, or even longer.

Remember, prepping is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to continuously evaluate and adjust your supplies and strategies to ensure you’re ready for any eventuality.

With the right mindset, a strategic approach, and the help of budget-friendly stores like Dollar Tree, you can build a comprehensive prepper kit that will give you peace of mind and keep you and your loved ones safe in any crisis situation.

Here are the 25 life-changing Dollar Tree prepper items covered in the article:

  1. First aid supplies
  2. Reading glasses
  3. Epsom salts
  4. Dental care products
  5. Hand sanitizers
  6. Glow sticks
  7. Large candles
  8. Flashlights
  9. Home organization containers
  10. Plastic shoe bins
  11. Over-the-door storage hooks
  12. Vacuum storage bags
  13. Bungee cords
  14. Paper products
  15. Shower curtains
  16. Microfiber towels
  17. Spray bottles
  18. Damp Rid
  19. Puppy pads
  20. Office supplies
  21. Plastic tote bags
  22. Zip ties
  23. Tablecloths
  24. Socks (as backup)
  25. Band-Aids (test before relying on)

Whether you’re just starting to build your prepper kit or looking to expand your existing supplies, Dollar Tree can be an invaluable resource. With a little bit of know-how and strategic shopping, you can create a well-rounded kit that will help you navigate any emergency or survival situation with confidence.

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