Zombies are a popular worst-case scenario. While prepping for zombies isn’t always practical, it can be a motivating and fun way to build general preparedness skills. As a former U.S. Air Force Emergency Manager, I’ve found that using the idea of a zombie apocalypse can be an eye-catching and effective teaching tool. In this guide, I’ll break down the ideal zombie survival kit and share a checklist you can use to prepare for any worst-case scenario.
The Zombie Survival Kit: Weapons & Tools
In a zombie apocalypse, weapons with consumable supplies are not ideal. You need tools that are reusable and effective.
- Shovel: The Cold Steel Spetsnaz shovel is a great option because you can sharpen its edges and use it for digging, but any durable shovel will work. The book World War Z suggests a long-handled shovel is the most efficient weapon against hordes of zombies.
- Machete: A machete provides more reach than a knife and is effective in close-quarters combat. A Gerber Gator Machete is a good choice.
- Kukri Knife: A curved slashing blade like the Ka-Bar Kukri is better than a straight blade because it is less likely to get stuck in a target.
While guns require consumable ammo, they are still valuable for dealing with human threats and for hunting. A pistol, rifle, or shotgun are all good options. Other useful tools include a bow and arrows for silent kills, and a spear for added reach.
Zombie Clothing
In a zombie outbreak, covering up is essential, whether the virus is airborne or spread by bites.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt and Pants: Wearing a long-sleeved shirt and pants, like jeans or rip-stop, can protect your skin from bites.
- Boots: A sturdy, bite-proof boot is crucial. The 5.11 A/T 8″ Waterproof Boots are an excellent choice.
- Gloves: Padded gloves like the Mechanix Wear Material4X Impact can protect your hands.
- Helmet: A helmet can protect your head from bites and blunt force.
- Gas Mask: A Mira CM-6M gas mask is a good option if you suspect the virus is airborne.
Defensive Supplies
The first thing you should do in a zombie outbreak is secure your home.
- Wood Planks: Like in old-school zombie movies, you’ll need to board up doors and windows to keep zombies out.
- Sandbags: Sandbags are a cost-effective and efficient way to barricade your home.
- Building Materials: Any building materials you have on hand can be used to reinforce entry points.
- Welder: If you have the skills, a welder and some steel can be used to seal off entry points.
Other Essential Kits
This gear and list are meant to augment your main home survival kit. You should already have the following kits and supplies prepared:
- Home Survival Kit: Your main stockpile of food, water, and other supplies.
- Bug Out Bag: Your emergency kit for when you need to evacuate.
- Everyday Carry: The essential items you carry with you every day.
- First Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit to handle injuries and illnesses.
- Bug Out Vehicle: A reliable vehicle to get you out of a dangerous area.
- Emergency Plan: A pre-made plan for your family to follow in a disaster.
Military Zombie Plans: A Story of Asymmetrical Threats
I used to be an Emergency Manager in the U.S. Air Force, where I was responsible for creating emergency plans and training personnel. In 2008, we found that using the idea of a zombie apocalypse was an engaging and effective way to teach general preparedness. We even developed official, classified zombie mitigation plans to teach new Emergency Managers how to create and manage response plans for asymmetrical threats. The plans themselves were sealed in the same safe as more practical response plans, so the Air Force actually had classified zombie response plans on file.
Types of Zombie Threats
The type of zombie threat you face will have the largest effect on your survival odds. They can be slow and shambling or fast and furious. The source of the outbreak can also vary, from a viral infection to supernatural reanimation.
- Rage Virus: Unreasonably angry and fast-moving zombies.
- Airborne Virus: A virus that is airborne rather than transmitted through bites.
- Reanimation Virus: A virus that reanimates dead bodies, usually spread by bites.
- Magic: Voodoo, witchcraft, or necromancy that raises the dead.
- Cordyceps: A fungal infection that controls humans.
The best approach to prepping for a zombie apocalypse is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
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