The concept of prepping has been gaining ground in mainstream society due to being featured on a particular television show called Doomsday Preppers on the National Geographic channel. Now, when the term "prepper" is being thrown about, most people's minds would wander toward the Nat Geo show and give off strange looks. Some individuals may even judge or scoff at preppers for adopting that kind of lifestyle.
What people fail to understand is that the individuals featured in that show can be considered extremists of the craft. Not all preppers go through extreme measures to prepare for disasters – most are just sensible souls, just like everyone else. Unfortunately, this representation and the interaction between preppers and non-preppers have created quite a few unsavory myths about preppers. (h/t to Survivopedia.com)
Myths about preppers
You may receive different kinds of reactions if you ever mention following the prepper lifestyle. These reactions could range from interest to total disdain, mainly because of the influence of a TV show. But most preppers are just regular people who want to ensure their survival if and when SHTF. Below is a list of common myths about preppers.
Being well-prepared means having enough supplies
While stockpiling supplies is indeed an essential part of being a prepper, just having all these things with you is not enough to keep yourself alive. You could have the most expensive gear that money can buy, but it won't be of any help to you if you don't know how to use it.
Prepping is not only about gathering supplies, but also about gathering knowledge. Skill ultimately trumps even the best gear in any survival situation. The best way to deal with an emergency and get yourself through even the roughest of patches is to combine skills, experience and the right equipment. (Related: 10 Survival skills everyone needs to know.)
Preppers are rich hoarders
People often think that preppers have rooms filled to the brim with supplies like dried food, toilet paper, first aid supplies and even ammo. This impression may stem from the preppers featured on Doomsday Preppers, but it is quite far from reality. Most people can't afford a year's supply of toilet paper or fill a room from floor to ceiling with food that will last for months at a time. Many preppers are simple folk, the same as most anyone else. The beautiful thing about prepping is that you don't need to hoard to be prepared. Even something simple as packing a bugout bag can make a big difference in survival.
Preppers are against the government
What people fail to grasp is the idea that preppers can come from vastly different backgrounds, each with their own belief systems and opinions, just like the rest of society. While it is possible that many preppers believe in a limited government, but it's unwise to brand all preppers as anti-government. Most preppers' mantras involve being responsible for their own lives, their personal safety and their family's safety during times of disaster and crisis.
Preppers are heavily armed
If you have been watching Doomsday Preppers, you may remember one episode wherein one of the featured guys showed off a grenade launcher. It's these sorts of people that give preppers a bad rap. When defending yourself and your family, there are other efficient ways of doing so without arming yourself to the teeth. In fact, being subtle is often the best defense against any threat.
Being a prepper is simply being a person who thinks well in advance, so they won't be caught off guard in case SHTF. Learn more about the prepper lifestyle at Preparedness.news.
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