Your ability to think ahead is key to creating a successful and comprehensive emergency plan and survival kit. Although water and batteries are important items to have, there is so much more to creating a survival plan. In the event your house is destroyed, knowing what you need to survive outside of your home for an extended amount of time is essential to your survival.
Survival shelters are not a one size fit all project. They are as varied as the people that create and inhabit them. The most popular right now are the huge underground luxury bunkers, however many shelters are so simple you can keep all your construction supplies in a small bag. Regardless of the kind of survival shelter you create, there are some factors to consider.
How Many People are in Your Group?
Planning a survival shelter for a family of three is a bit less complicated than a family of fifteen. While you, your spouse, and your child might be able to live comfortably in a tent, it’s unlikely that your extended family could fit in there with you. This is something to keep in mind when you are choosing a survival shelter.
How Long will you Need this Type of Shelter?
The length of stay is up to you. Most survival manuals and experts recommend planning from 72 hours to two weeks at the very least to allow time for rescue teams to locate you after a disastrous event. However, many people prefer to build or purchase a survival shelter that they could live in for an extended period of time. So, this is something that I highly recommend that you take the time to seriously consider as a simple tent is a temporary option that will only last so long.
Mobility Choices
As previously mentioned, survival shelters come in many forms. Would you prefer to be able to take your shelter on the road with you, or would you prefer it be built underground where you will remain stationary?
Where will you Build It?
If you are planning to build a stationary shelter, deciding on the location matters as well. You might decide to build a shelter right on your home property, or you might choose a secluded area so that you are hidden from any potential wanderers or other dangers.
Creature Comforts
What you want or need inside your survival shelter will help to determine the type and size of shelter that will meet your needs. Some people only need the very basics, with enough space for everyone and a small stockpile of supplies. Others prefer a true home away from home, with bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Types of Survival Shelters
1. Basic Shelter
Tarp: A relatively basic structure can be built with a tarp and some rope. It might not be fancy, but it will provide some cover from the wind and rain and it is portable.
Tent: A decent tent will protect you quite a bit more than just a tarp, and it can easily be broken down and put back up. It is portable and can be carried with you. This feature allows you to stay on the move.
2. Secondary Options
Storm shelter: This inexpensive structure can be above or below ground and can be installed just about anywhere on your property. Most of these shelters are basic, with a sitting room for a few people and a small area for supplies. This type of shelter is created for short-term use but could potentially sustain you for a few days if you have enough supplies.
Small bunker: Whether near your home or in a secret location, bunkers can be built underground and provide a few more comforts than a basic storm shelter. Most bunkers are built with bathroom facilities and more than one room.
3. Luxury Comfort
Some bunkers go all out, really providing you with a home away from home feel. These bunkers can range from small apartments to large living facilities for several people. This shelter is designed to have all the amenities you are used to in your daily life, including plumbing, electricity, cable, and internet hookups.
Only you know what shelter is right for you and your family. However, the major factor for most is budget and timing. Do your research before deciding which survival shelter is best for you to invest in and remember to cover all of your bases so that you are ready when an emergency strikes.
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