Preppers and survivalists share many of the same philosophies and goals, but there are some key differences between the two that can help you decide which path is right for you. While both preppers and survivalists are focused on preparing for future disasters and disruptions, preppers are more focused on the long-term and actively preparing for potential emergencies and disasters, whereas survivalists are more interested in living “off the grid” and being self-sufficient in the short-term. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between preppers and survivalists and how you can decide which is right for you.
When it comes to planning for the future and preparing for emergencies, there is often confusion around the difference between a prepper and a survivalist. While both are typically focused on survival and preparedness, there are key differences between the two.
Preppers are those who typically focus on being prepared for any type of disaster or emergency, such as natural disasters or man-made catastrophes. Preppers are usually focused on stocking up on supplies and creating plans of action that will help them survive in any situation. This includes things like having a well-stocked pantry, maintaining a backup power source, and having a plan for communication in the event of an emergency. Preppers often have a positive outlook and are focused on creating a preparedness lifestyle.
On the other hand, survivalists are usually focused on more extreme circumstances. Survivalists are typically more focused on preparing for the worst-case scenario and often have a negative outlook on the future. This often includes things like stockpiling weapons, cultivating survival skills, and mastering survival tactics. Unlike preppers, survivalists are often more focused on short-term, rather than long-term preparedness.
At the end of the day, both preppers and survivalists have valid reasons to focus on preparedness. Both have the same goals of being equipped to handle any situation and staying alive. But, their methods of preparing for the future can vary considerably, so it is important to understand the differences between the two.
What do you call a survivalist?
Being prepared for an emergency or calamity can be very helpful in surviving, or at least thriving after it happens. These people do not call themselves “survivalists” because they want to know if there will be food after a catastrophe. They are looking forward to that!
Mostly, these individuals prepare by stocking up on foods that will last longer than one year. Some stockpile larger quantities of food, while others focus more on having enough meat and vegetables to survive one month. Either way, they make sure their supplies are sufficient to meet their family’s nutritional needs.
Some stockpile medical supplies as well, such as first aid kits and pain relievers. A few research and gather information about potential disasters and how to help those in need.
Lastly, many survivalists have trained in basic skills like hunting, fishing, first aid, and navigation. Some even take advanced courses like firearms training and sterilization techniques.
What Is A Prepper?
Preppers are individuals who take the initiative to prepare for potential future disasters or emergencies. They are people who strive to be self-sufficient and self-reliant, and develop various strategies and methods to ensure their own safety and security in the event of a disaster.
Prepping is an increasingly popular lifestyle choice for those who view the uncertainties of the future with an eye toward planning for it. Preppers are not necessarily “doomsday preppers” seeking to survive the end of the world; rather, they are individuals with a wide variety of motivations and backgrounds who have chosen to take responsibility for their own well-being through preparation for possible future events.
Prepping can involve anything from having a plan for an evacuation to having a stockpile of food and supplies to last for months. Prepping can also involve developing specific skills such as learning wilderness survival, first aid, and self-defense. Preppers often build relationships with other preppers or experts in the field to expand their knowledge and resources.
The goal of prepping is to ensure that an individual or family is able to survive and thrive in the face of any kind of emergency or disaster. Preppers strive to equip themselves with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to survive and even thrive in the aftermath of a disaster.
Prepping is an ever-evolving practice, but it is rooted in a few core principles: self-reliance, adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience. Preppers strive to become as self-sufficient as possible, as well as be able to respond to changing situations that could arise in a disaster. Prepping is a lifestyle choice and a commitment to being prepared for whatever the future may bring.
The Differences Between Preppers and Survivalists
As the world becomes increasingly unpredictable and dangerous, people have begun to take steps to protect themselves from the potential of disaster and other catastrophes. Preppers and survivalists are two groups of people who have taken a proactive approach to prepare for the worst. While both groups are focused on preparing for the potential of an unpredictable future, there are several key differences between preppers and survivalists.
First, preppers tend to focus more on creating stockpiles of supplies, such as food and water, that can be used in the event of an emergency. Preppers also often focus on creating sustainable systems, such as gardening, canning, and food preservation, that can be used to help sustain a family in the event of a disaster. Preppers also often focus on creating alternative sources of energy, such as solar or wind power, that can be used to provide power in the event of a power outage.
Survivalists, on the other hand, are primarily focused on survival skills such as fire making, trapping, and bushcraft. Survivalists are also often interested in learning about self-defense, weapons, and evacuation procedures. Survivalists also often focus on creating networks of like-minded individuals who can help in the event of a disaster or other emergency.
Another key difference between preppers and survivalists is their attitude. Preppers tend to have a more optimistic outlook, believing that with the right preparations, they can survive any disaster. Survivalists, on the other hand, tend to have a more pessimistic outlook, believing that the worst is bound to happen and that they must be prepared to survive it.
Finally, the tools and techniques used by preppers and survivalists are often quite different. Preppers tend to use more technology-based tools, such as communication devices, medical supplies, and lighting systems. Survivalists, on the other hand, often rely more on traditional survival tools, such as knives, fire starters, and other primitive tools.
In the end, preppers and survivalists are both focused on preparing for the worst, but they approach it in very different ways. While preppers tend to focus more on stockpiling supplies and creating sustainable systems, survivalists focus more on learning survival skills, creating networks of like-minded individuals, and having a more pessimistic outlook. Regardless of the approach, both groups are essential for ensuring the safety and security of those who wish to be prepared for whatever the future may bring.
Different Ways that Preppers and Survivalists are the Same
There is no clear definition of what it means to be a “prepper” or a “survivalist.” This can cause confusion as to why some people may consider you more dedicated than others!
Most people refer to being a prepper as having supplies and equipment for potential disasters, but this seems to be the only defining feature. Some will even include living off the grid as part of their definition.
This isn’t necessarily wrong, but then what does living off the grid mean? Does it exclude electricity? Food? Shelter?
Having adequate supplies and knowledge about how to use them effectively is definitely a good start, though. A lot of people who describe themselves as prepared also say they lived beyond their means, which sometimes creates a perception that they are not really serious about preparing.
Thinking about how to improve your own preparation is an excellent way to determine if someone else’s definitions matter to you.
Several Ways that Preppers and Survivalists are Different
Being prepared is a smart thing to do, and preppers and survivalists are two groups of people who are actively engaged in being prepared for emergencies. But are these two groups actually the same?
Preppers and survivalists both strive to be prepared for natural disasters, economic collapse, and other catastrophic events, but the way in which they go about it is a bit different. Here’s how preppers and survivalists differ.
1. Scope of Preparedness
Preppers typically focus on being prepared for the worst-case scenario, while survivalists focus on being prepared for the everyday. Preppers tend to focus on long-term, large-scale scenarios, such as a pandemic or a major natural disaster. Survivalists, on the other hand, are more likely to focus on everyday scenarios, like power outages, home repairs, and other minor emergencies.
2. Level of Preparation
Preppers prepare in a very detailed and comprehensive manner, aiming to cover all of their bases and account for every possible outcome. Survivalists prepare more for short-term emergency situations, often having just enough supplies and knowledge to get by in the short-term.
3. Equipment
Preppers tend to stock up on a wide range of equipment and supplies that can be used for a variety of emergency scenarios. Survivalists, on the other hand, often focus on a few key pieces of equipment that can be used for multiple tasks.
4. Level of Expertise
Preppers often have a great deal of experience and expertise in the area of preparedness, while survivalists may not have the same level of experience. Preppers are more likely to be well-read on the subject and have a good understanding of the types of supplies they need and how to use them. Survivalists, on the other hand, may only have a basic understanding of the topic.
5. Mental Attitude
Preppers tend to approach the idea of preparedness from a more serious, practical mindset. They view it as a way to protect themselves and their families in the event of an emergency. Survivalists, however, may have a more light-hearted attitude about preparedness, viewing it as an exciting hobby or adventure.
While preppers and survivalists may have some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two. By understanding how preppers and survivalists are different, you can better determine which group is more suitable for you. Whether you’re a prepper or a survivalist, being prepared for any situation is a smart thing to do.
Preppers Stockpile Supplies
A lot of people confuse being a “survivalist” with stockpiling supplies. They believe that by stocking up, they have entered the realm of survivalism. However, this isn’t quite right!
Stocking up is great if you are trying to prepare for a disaster or even traveling with enough food for an extended period of time, but it is not directly related to surviving in a crisis situation.
Surviving means living through times of trouble, which usually requires limiting your needs and resources. By having plenty of things, you may be spending too much money keeping yourself busy instead of investing in needed items.
Also, many of these products could help facilitate social interaction after a catastrophe, making them more than just a piece of equipment – they can also be used as communication tools or as materials to create something else.
There is no wrong way to stock up, but make sure you know what types of preparations belong under each category. Also, remember that buying cheap does not mean good quality! You will need to invest in durable goods that will last until future seasons.
Survivalists Depend on Skills and Surrounding Resources
There is a lot of confusion about what defines a “survivalist” or a “prepper.” Some people use these terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. A person who depends on practical skills and surrounding resources to survive is considered a survivalist by some.
On the other hand, someone who has limited access to those things is labeled as a prepper.
They may have all the supplies and tools needed for a short period of time, but they lack the underlying knowledge to effectively use them. The average person who calls themselves a “prepper” probably doesn’t know how to properly sew a seam, for example.
There is no good reason to call yourself one if you don’t truly understand the meaning of the term, nor do you need to have all the accessories that others claim to make you worthy of the label. Being a prepper simply means having enough preparedness materials to get through a temporary crisis. It does not require more than that.
Preppers Prefer Groups While Survivalists Would Rather Be on Their Own
Some people feel that being called a “prepper” makes them out to be weird, paranoid, or even militarized. They believe that by calling themselves that, they are implying that they want to spend their time in a group setting with other people.
While having community support is very important in times of need, this isn’t always the best way to prepare for an unexpected event.
Prepping can easily become a hare-brained obsession if you add groups to it. It takes away from more practical skills like self-sufficiency, home repair, and knowledge of how to survive as a lone individual.
You also run the risk of getting too focused on gathering supplies rather than learning how to use them properly. This could make you vulnerable during an emergency situation when you’re not sure what things mean.
Survivalism is a Lifestyle While Prepping is a Lifeline
A few people get confused about what defines a “survivalist” or a “prepper.” They believe that being either of these things makes you more prepared for disasters. This isn’t always the case, however.
Being a survivalist doesn’t make you more prepared for a crisis. It can even be said that being a survivalist is inherently un-prepared. You wouldn’t spend money to buy groceries if there was no food shortage!
Likewise, while prepping is an excellent way to prepare for potential disasters, it shouldn’t be seen as an end goal. Sure, having a supply of water, food, and medicine is important, but only because we as humans need those things to survive.
So why are they sometimes used interchangeably? Because both concepts share similar goals — increasing your overall personal preparation level. But none of this matters unless you know how to use all of your resources effectively during a disaster.
Hopefully, you’ll never have to use what you’ve gathered, but if you’re ever surrounded by them — go ahead and take advantage of everything anyone offers. Who knows, maybe someone will learn something from yours too.
Which Is Better, Being A Survivalist Or A Prepper?
When it comes to being prepared for any catastrophes or disasters, some people tend to focus on either being a survivalist or a prepper. But which is actually better? Well, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Both survivalists and preppers are valuable to have in any situation, but there are some distinctions that can be made between the two.
For starters, survivalists are those who are prepared for any kind of situation, no matter how dire. They typically focus on long-term survival abilities, such as knowing how to find food and shelter in the wild. Survivalists often take a very hands-on approach to be prepared, and they tend to have a wide array of skills and supplies at their disposal.
On the other hand, preppers are those who are focused on short-term preparation. Preppers might have some of the same skills and supplies as survivalists, but they tend to be more focused on preparing for specific disasters. They often build and stockpile food and supplies, and they might even have an escape plan in case of an emergency.
So which is better? Well, that largely depends on the situation. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters or civil unrest, then being a prepper is likely the best option. This way, you’ll have supplies and a plan in place if something were to happen. However, if you live in an area that suffers from more common issues, such as power outages or extreme weather, then being a survivalist might be more beneficial. This way, you’ll have the skills to handle any situation and the ability to find food and shelter.
At the end of the day, the best option is to be both a survivalist and a prepper. That way, you’ll have the best of both worlds and be prepared for any situation. And while it might take some extra time and effort to be prepared as both a survivalist and a prepper, the peace of mind it brings is well worth it.