21 Survival and Crisis Preparedness items to look for at every flea market and antique shop

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👉 The key facts from this guide

Have you ever wondered how you can prepare for unexpected situations and emergencies without breaking your budget?

A great way to find cost-effective survival prepping items is by visiting flea markets and thrift stores.

The problem is that many people don't know what items they need and where to find them.

But don't worry, I have the solution for you!

In this article, I will introduce you to 21 survival prepping items that you can find at any flea market or thrift store, without breaking your budget.

Not everything at the flea market is really necessary

Flea markets often offer you all sorts of things at low prices. However, even small amounts of money are still money.

Therefore, it is advisable to make a list of the necessary items and go on a search for them.

This way, you don't buy any rubbish that may tempt you with a cheap offer, but you don't really need it.

Here, I want to compile my list of survival items that you can purchase at a flea market.

Buying used is sustainable

In addition to saving money, you can also do something for the environment.

Buying used is an important part of my sustainable lifestyle.

An important aspect is the extension of the lifespan of products. This saves resources that are needed to produce new products.

You are surely aware that every year, tons of resources are used worldwide to produce new products - including water, energy and raw materials such as metals, plastics and wood.

By buying used products, you can help reduce the demand for new products and save resources.

In addition, you contribute to the reduction of waste. This is an important factor in a world that is struggling with growing landfills and environmental problems.

Ultimately, buying used products also saves energy. Because if you don't buy new equipment, the demand doesn't increase either.

Therefore, no new product needs to be produced for you with energy. By reducing energy consumption, we can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change.

And now here's my list of survival-prepping items to find at flea markets!

1. Books

If there's one thing there are plenty of at flea markets, it's books. Everything can be helpful here, whether it's about growing vegetables, wilderness education, camping, or nature guides.

Don't let the flood of books overwhelms you, but ask the sellers specifically about the topics. This will save you valuable time.

Reading tip: Find here 5 great books about bushcraft

2. Camping equipment

I have often found flawless tents, tarps, or stoves at flea markets.

Typically, the items were only used once and then the hobby was discontinued.

Here too, a short exchange with the seller helps to get a feel for the condition of the equipment. Just doesn't let yourself be taken for a ride.

Ideally, I would set up a tent at home shortly after purchasing it to check for any significant damage. This way, you can return to the flea market and reclaim your money in case of an emergency.

Here are some more ideas for camping gear:

• Backpacks
• Sleeping bags
• Camping furniture
• Camping dishes
• Cooking equipment

3. Knives

I highly recommend doing research beforehand. Look for relevant brands for good knives in the Bushcraft- and Survival areas.

It's best to make a list of brands and bring it with you when searching.

4. Winter clothing

There used to be clothing that would last a lifetime. At flea markets, you have good chances of finding some unbreakable boots, coats, or good leather gloves.

You have to develop an eye for it. Just because something looks old doesn't necessarily mean it's inferior.

5. Tools

In the city and at flea markets, I had little luck finding good tools.

However, in villages, there are often markets with house clearances. Here, I found almost my entire range of good tools.

An excellent axe, shovels, machetes, hammers, wedges, and everything else that makes a craftsman's heart beat faster.

The sticking point is price and quality. At markets, I paid only a fraction of the hardware store price and usually got higher quality equipment.

6. Battery-operated devices

If there is ever a blackout, and we have no electricity, we can stock up on devices that run on batteries. Naturally, I think of flashlights first, but there are also regular room lamps that run on batteries.

Of course, an ideal solution would be a solar panel, but I have not yet seen one at a flea market. But as panels become more and more popular, you will soon find them at flea markets as well.

7. Mason Jars

Make sure to check the lids and know the price for new jars in your area. My limit is less than 50 cents because I can buy almost new jars with rings and lids for this price.

8. Fishing Gear

I have often spoken with sellers who want to get rid of their old fishing gear because they have bought new ones. Ideal for you to start with.

9. Electric Light Sources

Smart survivalists do not rely on one light source, but have several options. We have already mentioned flashlights, but headlamps or good lighters are also good alternatives.

10. Navigation

Although I have rarely seen maps at a flea market, you can keep an eye out for them. On the other hand, you have good chances of finding a compass. It should definitely not be missing from your gear.

11. Portable Radio

To stay in contact with the outside world during a blackout or SHTF situation, a radio is indispensable. Ideally, you should have batteries on hand and test the radio on site.

A two-way radio is also useful. This way, you can directly contact other people.

12. Material for Home-Schooling

In a crisis, schools will absolutely be closed if they even still exist.

Education, however, is a cornerstone of our society and should not be neglected in children for a long time.

You know best what your children are interested in. Seek books on the topics. In addition, stationery and small boards, or similar, can make homeschooling more interactive.

13. Durable Children's Clothing

You don't need to rely on well-known brands here. A good pair of jeans, a good coat or sturdy shoes can be purchased inexpensively at flea markets.

Keep in mind that your children will outgrow the clothing. If you want to store clothing, you unfortunately have to buy new clothing every few years or months, depending on their age. The wallet will be happy with inexpensive offers.

14. Sewing Kit

Clothing is affected by use. That's why it's important to fix damage caused to it and maintain your clothing.

If you can sew, then also look for a treadle sewing machine, as it operates without electricity.

15. Garden tools and accessories

If you're looking for garden tools and accessories, you can probably find everything you need by visiting yard sales and thrift stores.

Especially in urban and suburban areas, gardening is often a trend that comes and goes - and many people then decide to pass on their used garden tools.

If you already have gardening tools, you should consider buying replacement options for them.

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