Organizing a Survival Cache in Remote Locations: A Step-by-Step Guide for Preppers
Organizing a Survival Cache in Remote Locations: A Step-by-Step Guide for Preppers
When it comes to survival, preparation is more than a mindset—it’s a lifestyle. One of the most effective yet overlooked ways to boost your long-term readiness is organizing a survival cache in remote locations. Whether you're bracing for natural disasters, civil unrest, or simply planning a bug-out strategy, having a hidden reserve of supplies can be a literal lifesaver.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about organizing your remote survival cache: from selecting the best location, choosing the right container, what to include, how to hide it, and maintenance tips to keep it usable when it matters most.
---
What Is a Survival Cache?
A survival cache is a hidden or buried stash of essential items designed to support survival when access to regular supplies is disrupted. Think of it as a backup plan to your backup plan. These caches can range from small waterproof containers with a few essentials to large barrels filled with food, gear, and weapons.
Caches are typically stored in remote locations to provide support when you're away from home or if your primary residence becomes compromised.
---
Why Use Remote Locations?
Remote areas offer several advantages for cache storage:
Security: Reduced chance of discovery or theft.
Bug-out Support: Strategically placed caches along bug-out routes offer vital resupply points.
Redundancy: A single storage location can be risky. Spreading your supplies increases resilience.
Ideal remote spots include:
Wooded areas
National or state parks (with caution)
Privately owned rural land
Abandoned properties
Near landmarks that are easy to find but not heavily trafficked
---
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location
Location is everything. Here’s what to consider when picking your cache site:
Accessibility
Must be reachable in various weather conditions.
Avoid areas prone to flooding or seasonal inaccessibility.
Secrecy
Avoid heavily trafficked public land.
Use natural markers (not GPS) to relocate the cache.
Legal Considerations
Avoid placing caches on restricted or private land without permission.
Tip: Mark a discreet “X” on a map and memorize visual indicators like odd trees, rock formations, or compass bearings.
---
Step 2: Selecting the Right Container
A proper container can make or break your cache. You need durability, waterproofing, and camouflage. Some of the best survival cache containers include:
PVC Pipe: Widely used, watertight, easy to bury.
Ammo Cans: Rugged and rust-resistant, great for shallow concealment.
Bear-Proof Food Containers: Built to withstand animal interference.
Plastic Barrels or Drums: Excellent for large caches with multiple supplies.
Pelican Cases: Hard-shell, waterproof, lockable containers.
Ensure:
It seals tightly
It resists rust, corrosion, and pests
You test it before burying (submerge to check water resistance)
---
Step 3: What to Include in Your Survival Cache
Your cache's contents should reflect your anticipated needs and environment. The goal is to include essentials that would aid you in surviving short- or long-term emergencies.
Basic Survival Items:
Non-perishable food: Freeze-dried meals, protein bars, rice, beans, MREs
Water purification: Tablets, filter straws (e.g., LifeStraw), small bottle of bleach
Fire starters: Waterproof matches, lighters, flint and steel
Shelter: Mylar blankets, tarps, paracord
Tools: Multitool, hatchet, folding knife, small shovel
First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, basic meds, and medical tap
Light source: Flashlight, glow sticks, solar lantern
Advanced or Optional Items:
Ammunition/firearms (only where legal and safe)
Extra clothing: Seasonally appropriate gear, socks, gloves
Cash or silver coins
Maps and compass
Personal hygiene: Toothbrush, feminine products, soap
Notebook & pen: For tracking supplies or communication
Pro Tip: Vacuum-seal individual item groups (e.g., fire kit, first aid) for extra protection.
---
Step 4: Packing and Sealing the Cache
Packing your survival cache properly is critical to its longevity and usability.
Layer your contents: Place items that degrade quicker (e.g., batteries, food) on top for easy swapping.
Use desiccants: Prevent moisture damage with silica gel packs.
Wrap electronics: Protect with anti-static and waterproof bags.
Vacuum seal perishables: This adds another layer of moisture protection.
Label contents: Use waterproof, coded labels (in case someone else finds it).
---
Step 5: Concealing Your Cache
The goal is to make your cache invisible to others but accessible to you. Popular methods include:
Buried Caches:
Dig at least 3 feet deep to avoid detection and animal interference.
Use a tarp or heavy plastic under and over the container to help with waterproofing.
Camouflage the surface using natural materials (dirt, leaves, pine needles).
Leave no obvious signs of digging.
Above-Ground Caches:
Use hollowed-out tree stumps, rock piles, or decoy containers.
Secure in weather-resistant bags or boxes and camouflage thoroughly.
Secure with chains or locks in areas where theft is a concern.
---
Step 6: Documenting Your Cache
Without documentation, you risk forgetting where your cache is or what’s inside. Keep the details in your prepper binder or a hidden, encrypted digital document.
Record:
GPS coordinates (optional and risky)
Physical description of location
Container type and contents
Date placed and next inspection date
Pro Tip: Create a coded legend for your family or trusted group.
---
Step 7: Maintenance and Rotation
Just like your home food storage, remote caches need scheduled maintenance.
Inspect annually: Look for rust, damage, or tampering.
Rotate perishables: Replace expired food, water filters, and batteries.
Update seasonally: Adjust clothing and gear to match upcoming seasons.
Check seals: Ensure waterproofing hasn’t failed.
Bonus Tip: Create a printable cache tracker to log maintenance and contents.
---
Safety and Security Tips
Only trusted individuals should know about the cache.
Never place all your supplies in one cache—spread the risk.
Avoid discussing your caches publicly or on social media.
Carry a small digging tool or cache access kit in your bug-out bag.
---
Final Thoughts
Organizing a survival cache in a remote location is one of the most practical ways to enhance your preparedness. While it takes planning, the payoff can be enormous during a crisis. By following the steps above—choosing the right site, container, contents, and keeping up with maintenance—you’ll be equipped to face emergencies head-on with confidence.
As with all survival strategies, consistency and discretion are key. A well-placed, well-stocked cache could mean the difference between survival and struggle.