Basic Preparedness Tips: A Guide to Safety in Daily Life

March 04, 2024

In a changing world with new challenges, it is more important than ever to be prepared every day. Whether you are navigating the urban jungle, embarking on an adventurous journey, or simply going about your daily routine, staying prepared is key to ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

man wearing vertx transit sling backpack outside

In this guide, we will explore basic preparedness tips, practical safety measures, and how to seamlessly integrate these practices into your daily life. We'll also give you a daily preparedness guide you can use to build good daily habits for better preparedness. Everyday preparedness for beginners should be easy, not scary.

The Importance of Everyday Preparedness

Everyday preparedness is not just about being ready for the extreme or the unexpected; it’s about simple safety tips for daily life and being proactive in your approach to life’s challenges. From practical preparedness for adults to essential daily safety tips, it's crucial to adopt a mindset of readiness. Our goal is to provide you with practical safety tips for home and away, even if you are new to "prepping".

vertx bag loadout with bulletproof insert, extra mags, and everyday items

 

The Concept of Being Prepared

From Bomb Shelters to Everyday Readiness

Preparedness has evolved from large-scale shelters and stockpiles to personal, everyday readiness. In the past, people prepared for rare, large-scale events. Today, the focus is on being ready for anything, anytime, with practical, everyday solutions like Vertx’s line of bags.

Everyday Preparedness: More Than Just Gear

Being prepared goes beyond having the right gear. It encompasses a mindset of awareness, adaptability, and proactivity. Invest in training and education to enhance your preparedness, valuing knowledge just as much as your physical supplies. Being aware of your surroundings, preparing for situations, and communicating with family to be on the same page are all just as important as having the right gear.

dad with backpack at playground

Everyday Safety Tips for Men and Women

Practical Preparedness for Adults

Adopting a practical approach to preparedness means understanding your daily routine and identifying areas where you can enhance your safety. This can be as simple as being aware of the environment around you, keeping your phone charged, and having a plan in case of emergencies.

Easy Daily Preparedness Routine

Integrating preparedness into your daily routine doesn't have to be complicated. Start with simple habits such as checking the weather before heading out, carrying essential items like a first aid kit, and being aware of exit routes in public spaces. Check out our situational awareness series for more practical tips for common locations like gas stations and parking garages.

woman at gas pump looking alert and holding pepper spray

Staying Prepared with Vertx Bags and Custom-Fit Bulletproof Inserts

The Vertx Advantage

Vertx bags are designed with the modern individual in mind, offering a blend of functionality, style, and security. Perfect for urban professionals, adventurers, parents, and tactical enthusiasts, Vertx bags provide a reliable solution for everyday carry and preparedness.

Vertx’s range of bags, paired with a custom-fit bulletproof inserts, offers a tailored solution to personal preparedness, ensuring you are equipped for anything life throws your way.

vertx commuter sling bag with custom-fit ballistic panel

Real-Life Scenarios: Being Prepared in Action

Navigating Public Disturbances with Confidence

Imagine suddenly finding yourself amidst a chaotic public disturbance while on a shopping trip in the city. In these high-stress moments, your ability to think quickly and act swiftly is crucial. The Long Walks Multipurpose Waist Pack from Vertx becomes an invaluable asset in such situations. Designed for everyday use in everyday locations, its lightweight design means you can carry all your essentials without being weighed down, offering a discreet yet practical solution to stay prepared.

vertx green fanny pack

The multiple carrying options provide versatility, allowing you to adapt to the situation at hand seamlessly. With the Long Walks Multipurpose Waist Pack, you blend into the urban environment while ensuring quick and easy access to your gear, keeping you one step ahead in unpredictable situations.

vertx waist pack with bulletproof panel, edc knife, wallet, and medical supplies

Preparedness on the Road During a Power Outage

Now, consider a scenario where you’re traveling, and a sudden power outage leaves you in the dark. In such moments, having the right gear at hand can make a significant difference.

Enter the Gamut from Vertx, a bag designed to hold more than just your daily essentials. With its ample storage and easy-access design, the Gamut ensures that your emergency supplies are organized and accessible, offering peace of mind in critical moments.

vertx gamut backpack

Having a flashlight, nonperishable food, and some extra socks and a jacket can make a power outage on your weekend mountain trip a little bit more bearable (and comfortable).

gamut vertx bag with ballistic insert, med pouch, tourniquet and edc knife

Ensuring Safety During Extreme Weather

Lastly, consider a scenario where you are stuck in your vehicle because of a natural disaster. Or consider vehicle safety during extreme weather if you live in locations with flash floods or sudden snowstorms.The conditions outside are perilous, and you need to stay put until it's safe. Having a car emergency kit is crucial, and including a Vertx bag with a bulletproof insert adds an extra layer of preparedness.

vertx transit sling with truck

The Transit Sling not only offers ample space for these essentials but also ensures they are secure and easily accessible, helping you stay prepared and resilient on the road. With its versatile and efficient design, the Transit Sling becomes a reliable travel companion, ready for whatever comes your way.

With many situations, having a ballistic panel can give you an advantage. Made in the USA, our inserts offer Level IIIA protection, capable of stopping rounds up to .44 magnum. Thin, lightweight, and discreet, these inserts provide a layer of safety in your daily life without compromise.

vertx transit sling bag with bulletproof panel, medical gear, and other everyday items

Adapting Preparedness to Your Lifestyle

City Dwellers vs. Suburban Residents vs. Rural Inhabitants

Preparedness looks different based on where you live. City dwellers need to focus on blending in, staying mobile, and having quick access to their essentials. Vertx’s stylish yet functional bags are perfect for urban environments.

Suburban residents might prioritize having a more comprehensive kit at home, with a bag like the Gamut Backpack for on-the-go preparedness.

Meanwhile, those in more rural areas require durability and versatility to handle a variety of situations, making the Transit Sling a reliable choice.

transit sling vertx bag with cooler in rugged environment

Tailoring Your Readiness Approach

Making everyday preparedness a habit ensures that staying safe becomes second nature. Integrate preparedness into your everyday activities, turning tasks like checking your emergency bag and updating your supplies into routine practices. Adopting a preparedness mindset and making it a part of your daily routine means it becomes second nature.

The Community Aspect: Sharing Knowledge and Skills

Join the Community

Stay informed and engaged by joining our community, where we share everyday safety tips, practical preparedness advice, and exclusive offers. We'd love to hear some of your simple ways to stay prepared every day in the comments!

Discover the full range of Vertx bags and our custom-fit bulletproof inserts by visiting our collection. Bundle and save, ensuring you have the right gear for everyday preparedness.

vertx bag with body armor panel outdoors

Learning how to stay safe every day is a journey, not a destination. By integrating practical safety measures, adopting preparedness habits, and equipping yourself with the right gear, you are taking proactive steps toward a safer, more prepared life. 

Download your daily preparedness guide here!


100 Responses

Ksoles
Ksoles

March 11, 2024

First aid kit, flashlight, water bottle

Lisa
Lisa

March 11, 2024

Rose p365, modular crossbreed mag holder with a mag & a leathermen multi tool.

Ariel
Ariel

March 11, 2024

Knife, matches, GPS

SHONSEARA JOHNSON
SHONSEARA JOHNSON

March 11, 2024

Knife, medical kit, and water.

Lesa
Lesa

March 11, 2024

Gun , knife , phone

Katie P.
Katie P.

March 11, 2024

First aid kit in case of injury, weapon for protection, water to stay hydrated

Crystal
Crystal

March 11, 2024

Extra ammo. First aid kit. Extra water bottle.

Ange
Ange

March 11, 2024

Weapon, Medical Kit, Water

Jenny
Jenny

March 11, 2024

My Sig Rose 9mm. Extra magazine and first aid kit

Sharon Tobert
Sharon Tobert

March 11, 2024

I would take a sweatshirt, bleeding kit and a backpack.

Alayna Welch
Alayna Welch

March 11, 2024

Chapstick, water, and a loaded p365 XL 9mm rose!

Breana
Breana

March 11, 2024

Handgun, first aid kit and provisions

Kristina
Kristina

March 11, 2024

First aid kit, water, and snacks.
Already carry my firearm and knife on me.

L. Perez
L. Perez

March 11, 2024

Weapons, first aid kit, water filtration straw

Melonie
Melonie

March 11, 2024

In town I’d carry P365, CAT tourniquet, chest seal/compression bandage. In the mountain, my sidearm is holstered so I’d add water straw.

Cierra
Cierra

March 11, 2024

Water, handgun, first aid kit

Amanda N
Amanda N

March 11, 2024

First aid, spare mags, flashlight. I carry my firearm, knife, wallet and phone on me.

Haleigh
Haleigh

March 11, 2024

Food, water, amo

Stacey
Stacey

March 11, 2024

My Rose P-365, extra mags and a flashlight

Mary
Mary

March 11, 2024

9mm, knife, first aid kit

Mary
Mary

March 11, 2024

9mm, knife, first aide

Lisa R-B
Lisa R-B

March 11, 2024

Firearm (with light), knife, first aid kit

Stephanie L
Stephanie L

March 11, 2024

Gun/ammo, knife, IFAK

Michelle
Michelle

March 11, 2024

Sig P365xl, medic kit, utility knife

Jennifer
Jennifer

March 11, 2024

Weapon, mags with ammo flashlight

BWilk
BWilk

March 11, 2024

Weapon, first aid kit, food/water

Crystal
Crystal

March 11, 2024

Pistol, extra mag, knife

Itzel
Itzel

March 11, 2024

In an urban environment, three items in my armored vertex bag will be my 9mm rose, phone, keys

Marlene
Marlene

March 11, 2024

Firearm, First Aid kit, Phone

Malissa
Malissa

March 11, 2024

Weapons (spare mag and knife), medical, food/water

Lacey
Lacey

March 11, 2024

9mm, first aid and phone

Vicky Cuthbertson
Vicky Cuthbertson

March 11, 2024

If I could only have 3 items in my bag in case of an emergency, they would be as follows:
1. Flint striker for starting fires for warmth, drying clothing, and/or cooking food.
2. Multi-tool axe for cutting wood, prepping food, and/or building a shelter.
3. First aid kit in case of accident or injury.

Steve
Steve

March 11, 2024

Firearm, tactical knife, flashlight.

Wink
Wink

March 11, 2024

3M: Multi-tool, med kit, mags/ ammo.

Tyler Reece Holmes
Tyler Reece Holmes

March 11, 2024

All of this insight is truly appreciated.

RL Wold
RL Wold

March 11, 2024

ammo, first aid, FIRE STARTER

Brittani Hoffman
Brittani Hoffman

March 11, 2024

Firearm, water bottle, knife

Eric
Eric

March 11, 2024

Extra mags, multi-tool, and rope

James Fitzpatrick
James Fitzpatrick

March 11, 2024

First aid kit, phone. Knife

Ali
Ali

March 11, 2024

This is tough. So many options. Pistol and mags on my person. Knife, Firestarter, Headlamp in my bag.

Harper Ottaway
Harper Ottaway

March 11, 2024

Water, first aid kit and handgun

TwinCitiesTransplant
TwinCitiesTransplant

March 11, 2024

I see a lot of responses here—presumably in response to a giveaway—listing three items but not actually answering the question: “In an urban environment, if you could only have three items in your armored Vertx bag, what would they be, and why?” I understand the reasoning behind some of the choices respondents have stated, an I also understand that there are differences in motivation and practice. Since my firearm, extra ammunition, and knife are already going to be on my person, I’d have a first aid kit, some kind of environmental protection (umbrella and/or jacket), and a water bottle in the bag. The water and jacket or umbrella are things I think I’d be likely to use in a number of scenarios, but I wouldn’t necessarily want to wear them or carry them in a hand. I think having a small first aid kit readily available speaks for itself.

David
David

March 11, 2024

Most preparedness goes back to the saying of “It is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it”.

Fawn
Fawn

March 11, 2024

Such a great reminder to be prepared!

Venus
Venus

March 07, 2024

Handgun, fire starter, first aid kit

Robert Macnabb
Robert Macnabb

March 07, 2024

This is not a bugout bag! Firearm, tactical knife, phone. If the first two won’t help mem the third can get me someone who can… I always carry a lighter, utility knife and wallet on my pockets.

Des
Des

March 07, 2024

First aid kit,water, and my sigp365

Justin Pietersz
Justin Pietersz

March 07, 2024

9mm handgun, a solid knife, and a first aid kit

Maggie
Maggie

March 07, 2024

Spare mags with ammo, first aid, flashlight

Briana
Briana

March 07, 2024

My three items would be choice of weapon, first aid kit and snacks!

Kato
Kato

March 07, 2024

I am going to assume that if I were to say, compact ambidextrous 9 mm pistol with 4 extended capacity magazines, that counts as one item.
A good multi-tool like the Leatherman wave or signal, because they provide an array of basic tools for a variety of jobs. Note that both my choice of multi-tools and my pistol are built in such away as to allow for ambi -dexterous use, in the event my dominant hand becomes injured. The multi-tools allow for deployment of the blades with one hand as well.

I would not take water and food because water can be heavy and can be easily procured in an urban environment. As a former 18D and TCCC instructor, If i am limited in what i Can carry in a pack, i don’t feel a need to carry Med gear because I can treat most injuries I might encounter (that I would treat with a TQ or basic Med gear), with whatever I am wearing. The 3rd item would be a toss up between ($300.00 cash—because I think all “go bags” should have “pre-staged” cash, a 500 lumen or greater flashlight with clip [for my hat], or 25’ of 1” tubular nylon with a heavy duty asymmetrical “D” carabiner that has a non-locking bent gate type.) I would probably go with the $300.00 cash (for fuel, and any emergency purchase needs).

DMC
DMC

March 07, 2024

Med pouch, comms, weapon

John Sheets
John Sheets

March 07, 2024

Night Vision, to move at night under cover of darkness. Telescopic fishing rod, got to eat and if its fresh it is not spoiled. Tactical Survival knife that come with fire starter, aids in survival, crafting of traps and butchering food.

Ryan Carter
Ryan Carter

March 07, 2024

Weapon, medical, food/water

Emily
Emily

March 07, 2024

Pistol
Spare mag
Knife

Van F
Van F

March 07, 2024

Weapon, water, flashlight

Dave
Dave

March 07, 2024

Weapons, medical, and provisions.

Allan MacDonald
Allan MacDonald

March 07, 2024

My starter 3 items for bag would be IFAK, water, and fire starter to provide the basics for survival.

Nicole H
Nicole H

March 07, 2024

Weapons, medical, food/water

David Violette
David Violette

March 07, 2024

I would have my Sig 9mm, my Streamlight and SOG automatic knife.

Coz
Coz

March 07, 2024

Cold Steel Recon Tanto : Many uses
Survival straw water filter : can drink literally almost anything through it!
Nova Light: Bad things happen at night! This is solar rechargeable, so it always has light

Theodore
Theodore

March 07, 2024

I’d carry a med kit, utility knife/Leatherman and extra ammunition

Shannon aleria
Shannon aleria

March 07, 2024

Medical in case I’m or someone else is injured.
Rifle for protection, potential hunting (depending on if I’m fleeing danger or just stranded.
Provisions, vital to living

JP
JP

March 07, 2024

I keep everything in my car, but short list – knife, gun, extra mags, first aid, fire starting, fishing kit, tarp, rain coat, radio in Faraday bag…

Nat
Nat

March 07, 2024

Packing a pistol (why) for security, safety and sport
Packing that pistols ammo (why) what good is the gun without it?
Packing extra socks (why) so many useful reason, let us count the whys…

Candace
Candace

March 07, 2024

I’d have the body armor, snacks, and a first aid kit. My gun would already be on my body.

Shawn T.
Shawn T.

March 07, 2024

Weapon, medical, and essentials

María Olivero
María Olivero

March 07, 2024

Fist aid kit, gun, knife

Maria Olivero
Maria Olivero

March 07, 2024

Absolutely love this!

George S
George S

March 07, 2024

My Pistol extra mags and a good flashlight. The Pistol of course for protection extra mags for faster Reloading, the flashlight to see better.

Robin Courser
Robin Courser

March 07, 2024

Pistol, extra clip, Food,water

James
James

March 07, 2024

Gun, knife and lighter

Richard Hyde
Richard Hyde

March 07, 2024

My three thing would be a firearm, extra mag, and phone

Benjamin
Benjamin

March 07, 2024

First Aid, Medical, self defense!

Daniel Custodio
Daniel Custodio

March 07, 2024

My gun, ifak and phone. Pretty much self explanatory.

Darrell Whitmer
Darrell Whitmer

March 07, 2024

Pocket knife, compress, matches, and food

Evan Connor Harbin
Evan Connor Harbin

March 07, 2024

IFAK, 5.56 pistol with ammo, GPS

Ashley
Ashley

March 07, 2024

Water, IFAK, compass

John Warzybok
John Warzybok

March 07, 2024

Firearm, medical kit, knife

Derek Hoffmann
Derek Hoffmann

March 07, 2024

MRE
Multitool
IFAK

Dave R
Dave R

March 07, 2024

Water, firearm, multi-tool

Mandy
Mandy

March 07, 2024

M&P 2.0, knife, flashlight

Blake Fillingim
Blake Fillingim

March 07, 2024

Gun
Magazines
Ammo

Nate
Nate

March 07, 2024

My PDW for defense. First Aid kit for medical needs. Emergency ration for if I need to stay in place.

Rus
Rus

March 07, 2024

Sat Phone for Comms
Warm Hoodie
Fire starter

greg
greg

March 07, 2024

pistol, knife & flashlight

Blanca A Hernandez
Blanca A Hernandez

March 07, 2024

P320, Nutrient Survival, and IFAK

Ken
Ken

March 07, 2024

Pistol, extra ammo, as much beef jerky as fits

J
J

March 07, 2024

Water
First aid
Knife

Ryan
Ryan

March 07, 2024

I would bring a pistol, ifak, and a Cana provisions personal water decon kit

Mike
Mike

March 07, 2024

Rifle, spare mag, medical kit (at least a tourniquet)

Ryan
Ryan

March 07, 2024

Weapon, med kit, and water

E.Bishop James
E.Bishop James

March 07, 2024

3 items
1. My WCP320
2. 200 9mm
3. Trauma kit

D.H.
D.H.

March 07, 2024

IFAK, ARpistol, handheld GPS

Jay
Jay

March 07, 2024

Firearm
Medical kit
Water bottle

Debbie C
Debbie C

March 07, 2024

Flashlight, emergency kit, food

NV
NV

March 07, 2024

Hmm. If I could only have three things, I’d have an IFAK, a bottle of water, and some sour gummies. You know, the essentials. ;)

Cody
Cody

March 07, 2024

Reliable, durable and trusted. Great bags!

Alan Lovins
Alan Lovins

March 04, 2024

Weapons
Medical
Food / Water

Amanda
Amanda

March 04, 2024

Pepper spray, tourniquet and snacks

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