When it comes to prepping for emergencies, having the right supplies is crucial. While food, water, and medical essentials are often at the top of the list, there is one item that shouldn’t be overlooked: alcohol.
In this ultimate guide, I will explore the best alcohol for prepping, including the ones that are ideal for emergency situations.
Key Takeaways:
- Alcohol is a valuable commodity for trading in long-term SHTF situations.
- It provides a sense of normalcy in difficult times.
- Alcohol can be used for disinfecting wounds and relieving nausea.
- Factors like alcohol percentage, proof, and expiry date should be considered when stockpiling alcohol.
- Spirits such as vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, schnapps, Jägermeister, and Sambuca can be good options.
Table of Contents
How We Got Started
As a mom who abstains from alcohol, my perspective on preparedness has always been rooted in faith and family values. Yet, I’ve found that preparing for the future isn’t just about stocking up on essentials; it’s about being resourceful and adaptable.
One evening, as my family sat around the dinner table, the topic of emergency preparedness came up. We discussed the significance of having supplies on hand for unforeseen circumstances.
That’s when my husband, who appreciates a fine glass of wine from time to time, brought up the idea of using alcohol for purposes other than consumption.
While I don’t drink, I was intrigued by the notion of incorporating alcohol into our preparedness plans. We began to research and discovered that alcohol could serve various practical purposes in times of need.
It could be used as a disinfectant, a fire starter, or even as a valuable bartering item.
This revelation led to us adding a bottle of spirits to our emergency supplies. It wasn’t about indulgence; it was about being forward-thinking and resourceful.
That bottle symbolized our commitment to protecting our family, even if we never intended to drink it.
My faith remains steadfast, and I still don’t drink, but I’ve come to realize that being prepared means considering every possible resource.
It’s a reminder that preparedness isn’t about compromising one’s principles but about embracing the many ways we can ensure our family’s well-being in an uncertain world.
Why Should I Bother to Stockpile Alcohol?
Stockpiling alcohol is an essential part of emergency preparedness. Not only does it serve as a valuable commodity for trading, but it also brings a sense of normalcy during difficult times.
Additionally, alcohol can be used for first aid purposes such as disinfecting wounds and relieving nausea.
Having a stockpile of alcohol ensures that you have a valuable resource for trading in post-crisis situations. In long-term SHTF (Sh*t Hits The Fan) scenarios, where traditional currency might lose its value, alcohol remains an economic baseline. Its inherent worth is easily understood by everyone, making it a reliable medium of exchange.
Furthermore, alcohol can play a crucial role in celebrating special occasions. In times of uncertainty, being able to gather with loved ones and share a drink can provide a much-needed sense of normalcy and connection.
Recommended Prepping Alcohol Options
When considering what types of alcohol to stockpile, there are a few options that are commonly recommended. These include spirits like vodka, whiskey, rum, and tequila.
These spirits have a long shelf life, making them ideal for long-term preparedness. They also offer versatility in terms of usage for first aid purposes.
While spirits are the primary focus, it’s important to note that personal preference plays a role in selecting the best alcohol for your stockpile. Some individuals may prefer wines and beers, which can also be stored for a period of time. However, it’s important to keep in mind that wines and beers have lower alcohol percentages and shorter expiry dates compared to spirits.
| Alcohol Type | Alcohol Percentage | Proof | Expiry Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 40% – 50% | 80 – 100 | Indefinite, if properly stored |
| Whiskey | 40% – 50% | 80 – 100 | Indefinite, if properly stored |
| Rum | 40% – 75% | 80 – 150 | Indefinite, if properly stored |
| Tequila | 38% – 55% | 76 – 110 | Indefinite, if properly stored |
Ultimately, the best alcohol for prepping depends on your personal preferences, intended usage, and the specific needs of your emergency preparedness plan.
Alcohol Percentage, Proof, and Expiry
When it comes to stockpiling alcohol for long-term preparedness, it is crucial to consider the alcohol percentage, proof, and expiry date. These factors can greatly impact the utility and shelf life of the alcohol. Additionally, they play a significant role in determining the best alcohols for preppers to have in their emergency supplies.
The alcohol percentage refers to the amount of pure alcohol in a given volume of the drink. Higher alcohol percentages are desirable for stockpiling, as they can be used for first aid purposes such as disinfecting wounds. Surgical alcohol, for example, typically has a higher alcohol percentage.
It is recommended to focus on spirits with average alcohol percentages above 40% for first aid purposes and above 60% for surgical alcohol.
Proof, on the other hand, is a measure of the alcohol content in a beverage. It is double the percentage of alcohol by volume. The higher the proof, the longer the shelf life of the alcohol tends to be. Spirits such as rum, whisky, and vodka generally have longer expiration dates compared to wines and beers. Therefore, when considering the longevity of your alcohol stockpile, it is advisable to prioritize spirits with higher proof.
Alcohol Percentage, Proof, and Expiry
| Alcohol Type | Alcohol Percentage | Proof | Expiry Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rum | Average of 40-50% | 80-100 proof | Several years to indefinite |
| Whisky | Average of 40-50% | 80-100 proof | Several years to indefinite |
| Vodka | Average of 40-50% | 80-100 proof | Several years to indefinite |
| Wine | Average of 12-15% | 24-30 proof | 1-10 years, depending on the variety |
| Beer | Average of 4-8% | 8-16 proof | Several months to 2 years, depending on storage conditions |
By understanding the role of alcohol percentage, proof, and expiry date in stockpiling, preppers can make informed decisions when selecting the best alcohols for their long-term preparedness.
Spirits like rum, whisky, and vodka tend to be versatile choices with longer expiration dates. However, it’s important to consider personal preferences and individual needs when building an emergency alcohol supply.
Types of Alcohol Assessed by Overall Stockpile Value
When it comes to stockpiling alcohol for survival situations, there are various types to consider. While spirits like vodka, whiskey, and rum are traditionally recommended, it’s important to choose based on personal preference and other factors. Here are some reliable prepping alcohol choices apart from spirits:
Wine and Beer:
While wines and beers have lower alcohol percentages and shorter expiry dates compared to spirits, they can still be considered for stockpiling if preferred. They offer a wider range of flavors and can be enjoyed on their own or used as mixers.
Liquors:
It’s important to note that they may have varying shelf lives compared to spirits. Consider stocking a few bottles of your favorite liquors to add diversity to your stockpile.
| Alcohol Type | Recommended Choices |
|---|---|
| Spirits | Vodka, Whiskey, Rum |
| Wine and Beer | Red Wine, White Wine, Craft Beers |
| Liquors | Grand Marnier, Cointreau |
Conclusion
In times of prepping and emergency situations, having the best alcohol options can make a significant difference. Alcohol not only serves as a valuable commodity for trading, but it also provides a sense of normalcy and has utility in first aid situations.
When stockpiling alcohol, it is important to consider factors such as alcohol percentage, proof, and expiry date to ensure the best choices for long-term preparedness.
Whether for trading, first aid purposes, or a moment of celebration, having the best alcohol for prepping can be worth considering during survival situations. Consider your preferences, stockpile accordingly, and be prepared for any challenge that comes your way.
FAQ
Why is stockpiling alcohol important for emergency preparedness?
Stockpiling alcohol is important because it serves as a valuable commodity for trading, provides a sense of normalcy, and has utility for first aid purposes.
What factors should I consider when stockpiling alcohol?
When stockpiling alcohol, it is important to consider the alcohol percentage, proof, and expiry date of the bottles. Higher alcohol percentages can be used for first aid purposes, while higher proofs tend to have longer shelf lives. Spirits like rum, whiskey, and vodka are recommended for long-term preparedness.
Which types of alcohol offer the most value for stockpiling?
Spirits like vodka, tequila, whiskey, rum, schnapps, Jägermeister, and Sambuca are recommended for their versatility and reliability in emergency situations.
