Why Prepping Matters -And Why Every Aussie Should Be Doing It.

Why Prepping Matters -And Why Every Aussie Should Be Doing It.

Prepping often gets a bad rap, usually thanks to doomsday headlines or conspiracy-fuelled content that gives it a fringe reputation. But let’s be honest: being prepared isn’t extreme. It’s common sense.

If the last few years have shown us anything, it’s that Australia isn’t immune to sudden changes. Fires, floods, blackouts, food shortages, cyber-attacks, they’re no longer “what ifs.” They’re part of life. And prepping? It’s just another word for being ready.

So, let's break down the different ways you can prep for your family and go over what we believe is essential in every Australian house. We will cover the basics from a go bag, EDC, first aid to even having an essential car kit.

 

Prepping Isn’t Paranoia, It’s Practical

Prepping doesn’t mean building a bunker or stockpiling ten years of freeze-dried meals (although if that’s your thing, power to you). Realistically, it can be as simple as having:

  • A go-bag with the basics
  • A backup power solution
  • A few extra days of food and water
  • A plan with your family in case things go sideways

Life is busy and most of the time we have that mentality of ‘she’ll be right’ but when shit hits the fan we panic and that’s when having these plans and resources ready to go can make a massive difference.

 

Australia’s Conditions Are Changing Fast

We’ve seen entire towns cut off due to floods. We’ve had bushfires move faster than people could evacuate. Power grids have gone down during heatwaves, and global events have impacted the shelves in our supermarkets.

In a country as vast and unpredictable as Australia, the idea that “someone else will sort it out” just doesn’t cut it anymore. Being able to look after yourself and your loved ones even just for 72 hours, makes a real difference.       



Preparedness Is for Everyone

Whether you’re in the suburbs, the bush, or an apartment block, here’s the truth:

  • Prepping doesn’t have to be expensive.
  • It doesn’t have to be complicated.
  • And it doesn’t mean you’re expecting the end of the world.

It just means you’re smart enough to think ahead. Just like if you live in a fire prone area you have a plan, why not have a plan for every threat.


Start Simple: Our Basic Preparedness Kit for Aussies

Here’s what we believe every Australian should have ready. Now you could have two of these for either in your car, home, or packed in a go-bag: (Preppers rule: 2 is 1 – 1 is none)

  • First Aid Kit – Include trauma essentials, not just band-aids (will give a more in-depth kit later in the blog)
  • Flashlight or Headlamp – Preferably rechargeable or battery-powered
  • Back-up Power Bank – For phones, GPS, torches, or radios
  • Multi-tool or Fixed Blade Knife – Practical for a thousand small tasks
  • Water Purification methods – Safe water = survival
  • Non-Perishable Food – Think protein bars, canned meals, dehydrated packs (there is so many amazing aussie brands suppling great food option)
  • Fire Starting Gear – Lighters, ferro rods, or matches in waterproof containers
  • Basic Shelter – Emergency blanket, poncho, or compact tarp
  • Spare Medications – If you need it daily, make sure it’s covered
  • Important Documents – In waterproof bags: ID, insurance, contact numbers
  • Tactical Pen or Glass Breaker – Emergency tool disguised as everyday carry
  • Whistle – For signalling, especially in remote or loud environments
  • Map of Your Area – GPS isn’t guaranteed when the power’s out

TrustFire MINIX5 | Multi-Funtional EDC Flashlight: A great EDC Flashlight, it's our pick for keeping one in the car or go bag. check out its features. 



First Aid Break down- Aussie essential. 

Ok let’s break down what we pack in our First aid kits. This is what we believe you should have, we have a first aid kit in each of our cars, one at home and one in our go bag or backpack if we are heading out for a hike. 

Basic Wound Care

  • Adhesive bandages (various sizes) – for minor cuts and blisters
  • Sterile gauze pads (multiple sizes) – to dress larger wounds
  • Crepe/elastic bandages – to wrap sprains or secure dressings
  • Adhesive wound dressing strips – for medium cuts or abrasions
  • Non-adherent dressings – for burns or wounds that shouldn’t stick
  • Alcohol or antiseptic wipes – for disinfecting skin and tools
  • Antiseptic solution or spray (e.g. Betadine or saline)
  • Medical tape – to secure bandages or splints
  • Hydrogel burn dressing or burn gel sachets – for treating burns
  • Blister pads – for friction injuries during hiking or work

Emergency Tools

  • CPR face shield or mask – for safe mouth-to-mouth
  • Tweezers – to remove splinters, ticks, or debris
  • Scissors (blunt tip, trauma shears preferred)
  • Splinter probes or safety pins
  • Instant cold packs – for sprains, bites, or swelling
  • Emergency space blanket – to treat shock or cold
  • Notebook and pencil – for recording vitals or incident details Waterproof
  • Whistle – to signal for help

Medications & Treatments

(Always check expiry dates and consult with a doctor before carrying meds long-term)

  • Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen – pain, fever, inflammation
  • Antihistamines – for allergic reactions, hayfever, or bites
  • Hydrocortisone cream – for bites, stings, or rashes
  • Antiseptic cream/ointment
  • Electrolyte tablets or sachets – dehydration recovery
  • Antidiarrheal tablets – useful during travel or bush trips
  • Motion sickness tablets
  • Burn gel
  • Saline eye wash
  • Insect bite relief (roll-on or cream)
  • vinegar wipes – for jellyfish or stinger reactions
  • Children’s mediation
  • Asthma puffer/Spacer

Extras for Australian Conditions

Australia is home to: Over 140 species of land snakes, of these, around 100 are venomous and about 12–15 are considered potentially deadly to humans. So having a separate kit for snakes and other animal bites is important.

  • Pressure immobilisation bandage (with markers) – essential for snake and spider bites
  • Tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers – especially in coastal and bushland areas
  • Snake bite treatment guide – small, laminated card for quick reference
  • Sunscreen (small tube or sachets)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Insect repellent wipes – more compact than bottles

Extra Personal Items

  • Personal medications (e.g., asthma inhaler, EpiPen, insulin)
  • Medical ID or emergency contact card
  • Gloves (nitrile or latex-free) – for hygiene when treating others
  • Hand sanitiser

 

Ready When You Need It: Smart Storage Tips

It might seem like a lot to store, but having the right gear ready when an emergency hits is what makes all the difference.

Use a clearly labelled, water-resistant pouch or bag so it’s easy to grab and go in a hurry. Store your kit in a cool, dry place and check it regularly — replace any used or expired items to keep it ready.

We also recommend making up smaller kits for each vehicle. Keep them in the glovebox or boot, along with essentials like a poncho for each family member and a rechargeable torch.

If you’re heading into the bush or building a bug-out bag, pack a compact but durable version of your kit. Most importantly, make sure you and your family know how to use everything in it — even consider taking a first aid course. A little preparation now can save lives later.

Maxpedition have a great range of Backpacks and Pouches to help organise everything so you can grab and go.



Preparedness Is an Act of Responsibility

You’re not a conspiracy theorist for preparing. You’re someone who understands that modern life is fragile, and the more you can do to reduce your reliance on broken systems, the better off you and your family will be.

Prepping isn’t about fear — it’s about freedom.

And here at Iron Wolf Tactical, we’re not here to sell fear. We’re here to equip you with real tools for real life, whether you’re heading into the wild or just want to be ready when the lights go out, we have you covered.

 

Want help building your bug out bag?

Check out our EDC gear, emergency tools, and survival essentials or drop us a message and we’ll help you build your loadout from scratch.

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for everything EDC ,from gear reviews and how-to videos to real-world adventure content. Whether you’re into knives, flashlights, survival kits, or just love the outdoors, we’ve got something for you.

Stay sharp. Stay ready.

 

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