As the world continues to face uncertain times, more people are waking up to the importance of being prepared. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or a local emergency, knowing how to "bug in" — staying safe and self-sufficient at home — is a crucial aspect of emergency preparedness. However, many newcomers to prepping make several common mistakes that can hinder their ability to effectively bug in when the time comes.

At UKSN, we believe in fostering a community of like-minded individuals who are ready to face any challenge together. Whether you're part of our mutual assistance groups (Charters), attending our events, or just starting your prepping journey, we want to help you avoid these pitfalls and be as prepared as possible.

In today's blog article we explore the 10 common mistakes new preppers make when bugging in, and how you can avoid them.

Not Having a Clear Plan When Bugging In

One of the most significant mistakes new preppers make is not having a clear, well-thought-out plan for their bug-in strategy. It's easy to think that you’ll just “figure it out when it happens,” but that approach can quickly lead to panic and confusion when an emergency strikes.

How to Avoid It:

Take the time to create a detailed plan for every possible scenario. Your plan should cover things like food and water storage, medical supplies, communications, and security. Be sure to include contingencies for different levels of emergency — from temporary power outages to long-term disruptions. Share your plan with your family and anyone who will be part of your bug-in, so everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.

To help you get started, we’ve created a plan that UKSN members can access for FREE. If you prefer a printed version, you can also purchase a copy in a dedicated folder. This will ensure you have a tangible, easy-to-follow guide when it’s needed most.

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Ignoring Water Storage and Filtration Needs

Water is essential for survival, yet many new preppers neglect to properly store and filter enough water. In a prolonged emergency, water supplies can quickly become contaminated or unavailable, leaving you vulnerable.

How to Avoid It:

Aim to store at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for a minimum of three days — but ideally, aim for more. Additionally, invest in water filtration systems like a Lifesaver or Berkey filter, which will allow you to purify water from non-potable sources. Having a backup water source is crucial, especially in rural or isolated areas.

Not Investing in Reliable Power Sources

When you’re bugging in, the last thing you want is to be left without power. However, many new preppers fail to adequately plan for power needs and backup systems, assuming that things like solar panels or generators will work flawlessly when the time comes.

How to Avoid It:

Start with a basic power plan. Solar generators, like those from EcoFlow, are a great starting point for keeping essential devices charged. If you go with a petrol or diesel generator, make sure you have a long-term fuel plan and a way to maintain the generator. Battery-powered devices, torches, and backup chargers are also valuable additions to your bug-in supplies.

Overlooking Security and Self-Defence

While many people focus on food, water, and shelter when bugging in, security often takes a backseat. In times of crisis, crime rates can rise, and your home could become a target for looters. Without adequate security, you risk losing your supplies or, worse, your safety.

How to Avoid It:

Fortify your home by reinforcing doors, windows, and entry points. A good security system, including motion-sensor lights and outdoor cameras, can also act as a deterrent. It's also crucial to have a self-defence strategy, whether it’s knowledge of hand-to-hand combat, a means of non-lethal defence like pepper spray, or even a community security plan if you're part of a Charter group.

Failing to Rotate Supplies

New preppers often make the mistake of storing large quantities of food and supplies without considering their shelf life. Over time, some foods will spoil or lose their nutritional value, which could leave you with unusable supplies when you need them the most.

How to Avoid It:

Rotate your food and medical supplies regularly to ensure they remain fresh. Implement a first-in, first-out system for your food storage. Also, don’t forget to check expiry dates on things like batteries, medications, and water filters. Make sure to update your stocks at least once a year to avoid potential issues.

Not Practicing Your Skills

You might have all the gear in the world, but if you haven’t practiced using it, you’ll struggle when you need it most. New preppers often make the mistake of focusing on collecting supplies rather than honing the skills required to use them effectively.

How to Avoid It:

Practice regularly with your gear. Learn how to start a fire without matches, use a first aid kit, purify water, and cook meals on a camping stove. Join local workshops, attend UKSN events, or even practice your skills at home. The more confident and skilled you are, the more prepared you’ll feel during an emergency.

Neglecting Mental and Emotional Preparedness

Many new preppers focus entirely on physical preparedness, such as gathering food and supplies, but neglect to consider their mental and emotional state during a crisis. High-stress situations can lead to poor decision-making, panic, or even mental exhaustion.

How to Avoid It:

Mentally prepare for potential emergencies by considering various worst-case scenarios. Discuss these situations with your family and develop strategies to cope with stress. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help you manage anxiety during difficult situations. Don’t forget that emotional preparedness is just as important as physical preparedness.

Relying Too Heavily on One Source of Food

Some preppers make the mistake of relying solely on canned goods or freeze-dried meals as their primary source of food. While these are great for storage, relying entirely on them can lead to nutritional deficiencies and boredom in an extended emergency.

How to Avoid It:

Diversify your food storage by incorporating a mix of non-perishable items such as rice, pasta, canned fruits and vegetables, and dehydrated meals. Additionally, consider adding long-term food storage options like freeze-dried meats and bulk grains. You might also want to start a garden or join a local seed exchange, as fresh produce can provide important vitamins and nutrients.

Forgetting About Hygiene and Sanitation

In emergencies, hygiene becomes a crucial part of staying healthy. Many preppers overlook sanitation supplies, which can result in the spread of illness or disease in confined living conditions.

How to Avoid It:

Store essential hygiene products like soap, disinfectant, toilet paper, and baby wipes. If you're using a composting toilet or any alternative sanitation methods, make sure you have enough bags or other necessary materials to handle waste. Practicing good hygiene can go a long way in preventing illness during an extended bug-in situation.

Underestimating the Importance of Communication

When bugging in, it’s essential to have a reliable communication plan. Many new preppers fail to establish ways to stay in touch with loved ones or members of their Charter group during a crisis. Whether it’s a power failure, internet disruption, or a full-scale emergency, having backup communication options is vital.

How to Avoid It:

Invest in alternative communication tools such as two way radios, and Project LoRa nodes. Consider setting up a group messaging system with friends and family, so you can easily check in and coordinate efforts during an emergency. Ensure you have a backup power source for communication devices as well.

Conclusion

Bugging in can be an effective way to ride out a crisis, but only if you’re well-prepared. Avoid these common mistakes by making sure your home is secure, your supplies are rotated and well-planned, and your skills are honed. At UKSN, we believe that through community support, shared knowledge, and mutual aid, we can all be better prepared for whatever life throws our way. Whether you’re just starting out or have been prepping for years, there’s always more to learn — so take action today and start building your bug-in plan with confidence.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and always be ready for the unexpected!