Prepping Myths That Stop Beginners From Getting Started

Let’s be honest — “prepping” has gotten a bad reputation. When people hear the word, they imagine bunkers, gas masks, or selfish people who will raid you for your stuff. But in reality, preparedness is simply about being ready for everyday life disruptions — power outages, storms, job loss, medical emergencies, or supply shortages.

Unfortunately, these myths keep a lot of people from even getting started. So today, we’re busting the biggest ones and showing you the truth that makes preparedness doable for everyone.

Myth #1: Prepping Is Too Expensive

Truth: Preparedness isn’t about buying everything at once — it’s about building gradually.

It’s true that prepping does take money, just like with anything in life. But the good news is, you don’t need thousands of dollars in gear. Start small: buy a few extra cans of food, store some water, and set aside a little cash each month. Over time, your supplies will add up without breaking your budget.

It’s about making preparedness a lifestyle, not an overnight success.

Action: Challenge yourself to prep on $10 a week. You’ll be amazed how far that goes.

Myth #2: Prepping Is for “Doomsday” People

Truth: Most preppers are just regular families who don’t want to be caught off guard.

It’s true, I want a bunker. I consider myself a little ‘doomsday’, but that’s only because when I think about preparedness, if I’m prepared for the absolute worst-case, then I can be prepared for everything in between.

In saying that, the truth of the matter is, Preparedness is for the everyday person. It’s for the mom who keeps a first aid kit in her car, the dad who stores water for hurricane season, or the college student who keeps extra food in case of job loss. It’s about responsibility, not paranoia.

Myth #3: You Have to Move Off-Grid

Truth: You can be prepared right where you are — even in an apartment.

Prepping isn’t about running into the woods. It’s about making your current situation more self-reliant. Store what you can, learn practical skills, and make backup plans for water, food, and power.

Action: Even one extra shelf of supplies in a closet makes you better prepared than 90% of people.

Myth #4: You’ll Never Use Your Preps

Truth: Most people use their emergency supplies more often than they realize.

Power outages, broken pipes, medical issues, job loss — these all count as emergencies. Your preps aren’t for “someday”; they’re for any day something unexpected happens. I’ll even take my preps camping with us, or on long road trips, and of course for everyday boo-boos.

Action: Rotate and use your stored food and supplies regularly. That way, nothing goes to waste.

Myth #5: It’s Too Overwhelming to Start

Truth: You don’t need to do it all — just take one small step at a time.

Preparedness is a journey. A lifestyle. Focus on one goal per week:

• Week 1: Store extra water.
• Week 2: Build a small first aid kit.
• Week 3: Create a family communication plan.

Before you know it, you’ll be prepared — without the stress.

Take a look at my planners and other free checklists and downloads.

Myth #6: You Need Military Training or Survival Skills

Truth: Everyday people can and should prep.

There’s not some prerequisite that says you have to have military experience just to be prepared. Every single individual from any background and can should be prepared.

Knowing how to use a flashlight, cook without power, or store food safely will take you farther than you think. You don’t need to be a wilderness expert — you just need a plan and a willingness to learn.

Action: Practice one new skill each month (fire safety, water storage, off-grid cooking).

Check out this huge list of prepping skills.

Quick Checklist: Breaking the Myths

Mindset

• Stop waiting until “someday” to start prepping. Do it now. One action, one prep; just do something.
• Prep for everyday life — not just doomsday. The boo-boos, potential job loss, blackouts, regional natural disasters, etc.
• Focus on small wins, not perfection. Preparedness is a lifestyle. It’s step by step, little by little, everyday/week/month/year.

Practical Steps

• Save $10–$20 each week for supplies.
• Start a simple food and water stockpile.
• Create a family emergency plan.
• Learn one new preparedness skill this month.

Final Thoughts

If you use your fear or doubt or uncertainty and turn that into ACTION by getting prepared, you’ll find freedom in no time.

Every myth you let go of brings you closer to peace of mind and confidence in any situation.

You don’t have to go off-grid, spend a fortune, or know everything — you just have to start.

Action: Choose one myth you’ve believed and replace it with action today. Start with something small, and you’ll already be more prepared than most.