For many prepping has become more than just a hobby – it’s a lifestyle choice. Communities like UKSN embody the spirit of preparation, adventure, and mutual assistance. Whether you’re an experienced bushcraft enthusiast or a beginner camper, there are pitfalls that even the most seasoned preppers can stumble into.

To help you navigate your journey towards self-sufficiency and resilience, here’s a guide to the 15 common prepping mistakes that could derail your efforts and how to avoid them.

Failing to Rotate Supplies

One of the biggest oversights preppers make is stockpiling food and water supplies but forgetting to rotate them. Even non-perishables have a shelf life.

Fix: Regularly check expiry dates and use the FIFO (first in, first out) system to ensure older items are consumed before new ones.

Over-reliance on Stored Food

Stockpiling canned goods is a cornerstone of prepping, but relying solely on stored food can lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Fix: Incorporate skills like foraging, gardening, and fishing to diversify your food sources.

Not Testing Gear in Real Conditions

It’s easy to purchase a tent or water filter and assume it will work flawlessly when needed. Unfortunately, many preppers fail to test their equipment before an emergency arises.

Fix: Take advantage of UKSN’s outdoor events to test your gear in real-world conditions. Practice setting up camp, using tools, and troubleshooting issues on the go.

Ignoring Physical Fitness

Prepping isn’t just about supplies; it’s about your ability to endure challenging situations. Neglecting physical fitness can hinder your survival chances.

Fix: Start with small changes – take regular hikes, build strength through bodyweight exercises, and practise carrying your bug-out bag over distances.

Failing to Have a Community Plan

Many preppers assume they can go it alone, but teamwork and mutual assistance are vital during a crisis.

Fix: Engage with UKSN’s Charters, which are member-led groups fostering collaboration and skills sharing. A strong network can make all the difference.

Focusing Too Much on One Scenario

Whether it’s an economic collapse, natural disaster, or prolonged power outage, prepping for a single scenario can leave you vulnerable to other unexpected events.

Fix: Diversify your preparations to cover a range of potential situations. Think about short-term, mid-term, and long-term emergencies.

Overlooking Water Needs

Stockpiling water is critical, but many people underestimate how much is truly needed. A general rule is 4-5 litres per person per day, which can quickly add up.

Fix: Learn about water purification methods like boiling, filtering, and chemical treatments. UKSN often hosts demonstrations on this essential skill.

Storing Supplies in One Place

Concentrating all your resources in a single location can backfire if that area becomes inaccessible or compromised.

Fix: Distribute your supplies across multiple locations, such as your home, car, and workplace. A UKSN Charter group can provide valuable input on strategic storage options.

Neglecting Mental Preparedness

The psychological strain of emergencies is often overlooked. Stress, fear, and uncertainty can paralyse even the most prepared individual.

Fix: Build resilience through mindfulness, meditation, and scenario-based training. Regular participation in UKSN activities can also help you develop a level-headed approach to problem-solving.

Ignoring Maintenance

It’s not enough to own tools and equipment; they need regular maintenance to remain functional. Rusty knives, dead batteries, and leaky water containers can be disastrous.

Fix: Schedule periodic checks on your gear. Create a checklist and dedicate a weekend to servicing your equipment.

Not Learning Survival Skills

Stockpiles can run out, but skills last a lifetime. Relying too much on supplies without acquiring hands-on knowledge is a critical mistake.

Fix: Attend bushcraft and survival skill workshops. Learning how to build a fire, navigate without GPS, and create shelter are invaluable skills.

Overpacking Your Bug-Out Bag

While it’s tempting to include everything in your bag, an overloaded pack can slow you down and lead to exhaustion.

Fix: Focus on the essentials: water, food, first aid, shelter, and tools. Test your bag’s weight by carrying it on short hikes to ensure it’s manageable.

Overlooking Personal Security

While the UK has stringent laws on self-defence tools, personal security is still a crucial aspect of prepping.

Fix: Learn situational awareness and basic self-defence techniques.

Ignoring Seasonal Changes

Some preppers forget to adapt their plans to the seasons. Winter storms and summer heatwaves require different approaches.

Fix: Keep a seasonal rotation schedule for your gear and clothing. Test your winter sleeping bag in cold conditions, and make sure your summer kit includes adequate hydration options.

Lack of Communication Tools

In an emergency, mobile networks may fail, leaving you disconnected from your community.

Fix: Invest in alternatives like two-way radios, Project Lora nodes, or emergency signal devices. UKSN offers advice on effective communication strategies during its meet-ups.

Why Join UKSN?

Prepping doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavour. UKSN offers a supportive community for individuals and families interested in outdoor adventures, self-reliance, and preparedness. With over 3,000 members across the UK, UKSN provides a wealth of knowledge, resources, and camaraderie.

By participating in UKSN events, you can:

• Learn survival and bushcraft skills.

• Connect with like-minded individuals in your region.

• Test and improve your gear in a safe, family-friendly environment.

• Gain access to a network of Charters for mutual assistance.

Final Thoughts on Prepping Mistakes

Avoiding these common prepping mistakes will not only enhance your readiness but also give you peace of mind. Prepping is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation, and with the guidance of a community like UKSN, you’ll be well-equipped to face life’s uncertainties.

Remember, preparation isn’t about fear – it’s about empowerment, adventure, and resilience. So take the next step, whether it’s joining a UKSN Charter, testing your gear, or planting that first garden bed. The rewards of being prepared are endless.

Are you ready to elevate your prepping game? Join UKSN today and become part of a thriving community that believes in the power of self-sufficiency and mutual support!