Prep Planner · Where to start

    Prep Planner: What to Buy First, and When

    Preparedness can feel overwhelming. Pick what you're preparing for and where you live, and the planner lays out the steps in order — water and first aid before extra gear — with a kit list and a savings plan to match your budget.

    The 2-week framework follows common federal guidance, such as storing at least a gallon of water per person per day. Already know your weak spots? Use “Make this a priority” to move any area to the top.

    Free interactive tool

    Prep Budget & Kit Planner

    Choose a framework, tell us about your home, and check off steps as you go. Everything is saved on this device.

    What this calculator returns

    • Step-by-step plan ordered by risk
    • Progress for each area
    • Your next step
    • Rough cost left to finish
    • Recommendations for renters, owners, apartments and acreage
    • Kit timeline based on monthly savings

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