Long-term supplies ensure survival during prolonged crises. This article shows how to systematically build supplies for 3, 6, and 12 months.
🎯 The 3-Stage Strategy
| Stage | Duration | Focus | Cost approx. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 14 days | Water, canned goods, medications | 50-100 € |
| 2 | 3 months | Basic food, hygiene, warmth | 300-500 € |
| 3 | 6-12 months | Long-term storage, self-sufficiency, sustainability | 1000-3000 € |
📦 Category: Food
- Grains & Legumes (rice, lentils, beans) – 10+ years shelf life with dry storage
- Dried milk & cheese – 2-5 years, important for calcium
- Oils & fats – 1-2 years, store dark and cool
- Honey – practically unlimited shelf life
- Salt & sugar – unlimited, also for preservation
- Dried fruit & nuts – 1-2 years, energy source
💧 Water & Beverages
- Minimum: 3 liters/person/day
- 30-day supply: 90 liters/person
- Glass bottles better than plastic (no plasticizers)
- Water purification tablets and filters as backup
🏥 Medicine & Hygiene
- 3-month supply of prescription medications
- Bandage materials, disinfectants, painkillers
- Soap, toothpaste, toilet paper (huge amounts!)
- Lighters, candles, flashlights with batteries
🔥 Warmth & Energy
- Gas/petroleum stove with 30 cartridges
- Candles (100+ pieces), waterproof matches
- Sleeping bags, wool blankets, warm clothing
- Solar panel + power bank
🔄 Rotation Principle
Consume the oldest supplies first and replace them immediately. Mark every item with purchase date. Keep an inventory list – Excel or simple paper.
📍 Storage
- Basement: Cool, dark rooms ideal for grain, canned goods
- Attic: Only for dry, heat-resistant items
- Multiple locations: Never everything in one place
- Pest-free: Storage cans with lids, silica gel