Diane Vuković, Author at Primal Survivor

Your 3-Day Bug Out Bag: 39 Item Checklist [PDF Download]

There are a lot of Bug Out Bag checklists out there which will tell you exactly what to pack. However, these lists ignore the fact that everyone has different survival needs.

4 Real-Life Bug Out Bags: List, Contents and Essentials

by Diane Vuković

Top Medicinal Plants for Survival Situations

by Diane Vuković

15 Best Survival Shovels Of 2024 (And Our Readers Favorite!)

by Diane Vuković

We don’t think about it much, but shovels are a big part of our survival. Without shovels, agriculture wouldn’t have been possible. Shovels were crucial for building homesteads and cities, and entrenching tools played a big part in warfare.

How to Store Batteries So They Last for Years

by Diane Vuković

The Best Mylar Bags for Long Term Food Storage – Complete Guide

by Diane Vuković

Homemade Painkillers and DIY Pain Relief (Herbal Options)

by Diane Vuković

These 8 potent natural painkillers can be grown, foraged, or found in your cupboards for homemade DIY pain relief when drugs aren’t available.

How To Freeze Dry Bananas: Instructions Plus Tips

by Diane Vuković

Best Portable Kerosene Heater for Indoor Use (Reviews+Safety Info)

by Diane Vuković

Considering a kerosene heater? All you need to know about kerosene heater safety indoors, CO2, kerosene storage, and choosing the best kerosene heater for emergency use.

Best Emergency Blankets: Which Blanket Will Really Help You Survive?

by Diane Vuković

What to Know before You Buy a Mylar Space Blanket

by Diane Vuković

Vegan Prepper: Food Options and Pantry List

by Diane Vuković

How to Store Quinoa Long Term (Shelf Life and Storage Options)

by Diane Vuković

The Best Self-Defense Weapons for Women (that really work!)

by Diane Vuković

Unfortunately, I know the world that I live in. As a woman, I have to live with the fact that 20% of women will be raped in their lifetime. A third of us women will be sexually assaulted. And then there’s assault in the form of mugging and other violence. This is why I, as a woman, choose to carry a self-defense weapon.

How to Store Cocoa Powder Long Term (Shelf Life and Storage Options)

by Diane Vuković

Best Survival Hammock – The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

by Diane Vuković

Want a survival hammock for your bug out bag or camping? Need something to rely on in the wilderness? We review the best hammocks, you make the right choice.

Water Bath Canning Instructions & Safety Tips

by Diane Vuković

Best Pocket Knife Brands: 25 Quality Blade Makers To Consider

by Diane Vuković

The Best Survival Water Filter – And How to Make the Right Choice

by Diane Vuković

When it comes to backcountry survival and bug out bags, one of the most confusing things is choosing a survival water filter. Read our in-depth guide to help you make the right choice.

The Best Throwing Knives for Beginners (No-Spin and Rotational Options)

by Diane Vuković

The Best Emergency Candles For Power Outages and Emergencies

by Diane Vuković

24 Paracord Projects So Useful That They Could Save Your Life

by Diane Vuković

Triangular Bandage Uses: 15 Techniques to Try

by Diane Vuković

Get prepared by learning these uses for a triangular bandage. The videos will give you step-by-step instructions for using a triangular bandage for treating injuries to the arm, head, shoulder and eyes as well as non-medical uses.

The Best Emergency and Shortwave Radios for Preppers

by Diane Vuković

Best Geiger Counter, Radiation Detector for Home and Personal Use

by Diane Vuković

Using a Geiger counter to detect radiation

What is a Faraday Cage and Will It Really Protect Your Devices

by Diane Vuković

The Sensible Guide to EMP Protection and Preparation

by Diane Vuković

Emergency Dental Kit For Disasters and Emergencies (and Why You Need One)

by Diane Vuković

While it seems obvious to stockpile first aid supplies for emergencies, not many people have an emergency dental kit (aka “SHTF dental kit”).

Best Infrared Medical Thermometer for Humans (FDA Approved Only!)

by Diane Vuković

Emergency Lights and Lighting: 9 Options for Surviving Power Outages

by Diane Vuković

Best Food Dehydrators of 2024 (and How to Choose the Right One for You)

by Diane Vuković

I bought my first dehydrator about 7 years ago from a thrift store. It turned out to be one of the best things that I’ve ever bought.

7 Real-Life Examples of EDC Kits

by Diane Vuković

A major disaster strikes while you are coming home from the store. You can’t go home, the world is in turmoil, and you have to survive with just what you happen to have on you…

26 Best Emergency Foods for Your Car

by Diane Vuković

Best Tinder for Fire Starting and Ferro Rods – DIY and Natural Options

by Diane Vuković

How to Start a Fire with Wet Wood (with pictures)

by Diane Vuković

Instructions and tips for making a fire with wet wood or even if it is raining.

How Long Do Bic Lighters Last?

by Diane Vuković

How to Start a Fire without Matches or a Lighter (19 Ways)

by Diane Vuković

Grey Water vs. Black Water: What Are The Differences?

by Diane Vuković

What Is Gray Water? Definition, Uses, Laws, Systems and Treatment Methods

by Diane Vuković

Everything you need to know about grey water, its uses, laws and regulations, system design and treatment options.

The 9 Types of Lighters Explained

by Diane Vuković

WaterBrick Review: The Best Containers for Long-Term Water Storage?

by Diane Vuković

WaterBricks are stackable, portable, easy to use, and incredibly durable. But are the water storage containers worth the cost? Find out in this detailed WaterBrick review.

Antiseptic Medicinal Plants for Treating Wounds Naturally

by Diane Vuković

The top medicinal plants with natural antibacterial properties found in North America and how to make DIY tinctures, salves, and wound healing remedies.

Best Butter Powder: What It Is, Shelf Life, Uses and Brands

by Diane Vuković

States, Counties and Places with No Building Codes in the USA: Comprehensive List

by Diane Vuković

The 7 Best Trauma Kits in 2024 (IFAK – EMT Approved)

by Diane Vuković

Freeze Drying Machine at Home: How It Works and Is It Worth the Cost?

by Diane Vuković

How Does a Composting Toilet Work?

by Diane Vuković

Prepping 101 – The Sensible Guide To Getting Prepared For Disasters and Emergencies

by Diane Vuković

How to Prepare for a Heatwave: Tips and Tricks to Survive

by Diane Vuković

You’ve heard the advice about how to survive a heatwave: drink more water, avoid strenuous activity, use fans or air conditioning… While these tips are helpful for short-term heat waves, they are less useful during massive heat waves.

Urban Survival Gear: Essential Tools and Kit Checklist

by Diane Vuković

Preppers spend a lot of time talking about what gear to put in their bug out bags. By comparison, we hardly ever talk about urban survival gear beyond the obvious like food, water, and lights.

Safest Place during Martial Law? Lessons from Countries Where It Occurred

by Diane Vuković

The safest place to go during martial law is a really hot topic. Below I’ll go over some options for safe places to be or go during martial law, what preparations you need to take to get there – and also some of the worst places to go.

Best Indoor Propane Heaters for Power Outages and Emergency Preparedness

by Diane Vuković

How to Store Crackers Long-Term (Shelf Life and Storage Options)

by Diane Vuković

The Best Rice Storage Containers For Bulk and Long-Term Storage

by Diane Vuković

White rice is non-perishable and can last for 30+ years without going bad. Brown rice can last for upwards of 5 years without going bad. But even “non-perishables” can go bad if they aren’t stored correctly.

Fallout and Nuclear Bomb Shelters Near Me (Locations and Options)

by Diane Vuković

If a nuclear bomb were to hit, the blast would create a massive fireball, which would vaporize everything nearby. The fireball would shoot miles into the atmosphere – pulling dirt and debris with it. The radioactive debris then falls back to the earth, contaminating everything it touches.stu

The 7 Best Improvised Self Defense Weapons You Can Take Anywhere

by Diane Vuković

I’m a big supporter of everyone’s right to defend themselves with weapons. But it isn’t always legal or practical to carry a gun, knife, or other obvious weapons with you.

Maryland Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Want to live completely off the grid in Maryland? Before looking for a property or disconnecting from utilities, make sure you know the laws. It might not be legal to live the type of off grid life you want in Maryland!

Massachusetts Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Want to live more sustainably in Massachusetts? Before you disconnect from the utilities, here is what you need to know about Massachusetts’s off-grid laws. It might not be legal to live the type of off grid life you want in the state.

Illinois Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Even though it is best known for Chicago, most of Illinois is rural and agricultural. Many people live off grid in the state, including many Amish.

Before you start looking for property, though, make sure you know Illinois’s off-grid laws – it might not be legal to live the type of off grid life you want.

Idaho Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

While the climate and terrain don’t make it easy, Idaho is considered one of the best states for off-grid living. Compared to the rest of the USA, the laws are very relaxed.

Don’t assume you’ll be able to do whatever you want on your property though.

Here’s what you need to know about Idaho’s off grid laws.

Delaware Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

As a tiny state with minimal rural land, it’s no surprise that Delaware isn’t exactly popular for off-grid living. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t live off grid legally in Delaware – even in suburban areas. You just have to know these laws about disconnecting from utilities.

The 19 Types of Survival, Camping and Outdoor Knives to Know

by Diane Vuković

11 Main Survival Blade Shapes (and their Pros and Cons)

by Diane Vuković

There are a lot of different types of survival knives, like neck knives, folding knives, combat knives…

After you’ve decided on what type of knife you need, the next step is to look at the blade shape.

The blade shape is what makes a knife suitable for certain tasks.

Hawaii Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

If you overlook the many natural disasters, Hawaii is considered a paradise where you can live off the land year-round.

As a result, many people dream about moving there or living off the grid.

But, before you buy property, make sure you know Hawaii’s off grid laws — it might be illegal to live the type of life you want there.

New Hampshire Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

New Hampshire is famous for its natural beauty, waterways, and forests. There is also a thriving homesteading community in the State.

But, if you are thinking of buying property in New Hampshire and disconnecting from the grid, you need to know about New Hampshire’s off-grid laws. It might not be legal to live the type of off grid life you want.

Rhode Island Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Are you tired of paying high utility bills in Rhode Island or want to live a more self-reliant life? Before you disconnect, make sure you know Rhode Island’s laws about off-grid living. Living the type of off-grid life you want in the State may be illegal.

Connecticut Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Thinking of living off grid in Connecticut? Like its neighbor, New York, there are a lot of restrictions on how you can use your own land in CT.

Here’s what you need to know about Connecticut’s laws regarding off-grid living to get you started.

New Jersey Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Do you have a property in New Jersey and want to disconnect from the utilities completely? Living the type of off-grid lifestyle you want might not be legal. Here’s what you need to know about New Jersey’s off grid laws.

Wisconsin Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Wisconsin is primarily a rural state with a large population of Amish living off grid.

Before you decide to buy property in Wisconsin and disconnect, make sure you check the off grid laws first.

Some regulations may prevent you from living the type of off-grid life you want.

Mississippi Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Mississippi has cheap land, a low cost of living, and lots of rural land. Because of this, it might seem like a good place for off-grid living.

But before you start looking for property, be sure you know the off-grid laws of Mississippi. Living the type of off-grid life you want in the state might be illegal!

Nebraska Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

Interested in buying property in Nebraska to live off grid? Or maybe you want to disconnect your current property from the utilities. Before you do, here’s what you need to know about Nebraska off grid laws.

Off Grid Living in Michigan: Laws, Land and Permits

by Diane Vuković

Michigan has abundant water, few natural disasters, and affordable land. So, it isn’t surprising that off-grid living is becoming popular, especially in the northern part of the state.

But off-grid living isn’t always legal. Here’s what you need to know about Michigan’s off-grid living laws.

The Off-Grid Laws of Every State in America: What States Allow Off Grid Living?

by Diane Vuković

South Dakota Off Grid Laws: An In-Depth Guide

by Diane Vuković

South Dakota is not an easy place to go off grid with its harsh climate. But, with plenty of cheap land available and beautiful nature, the state is becoming more popular with people who want to disconnect.

Before you buy property, here is what you need to know about the legalities of living off-grid in South Dakota.

Israeli Bandage vs. Tourniquet: Which Is Better?

by Diane Vuković

How to Freeze Dry Eggs: How Long Does it Take?

by Diane Vuković

Freeze drying eggs is one of the best uses for your home freeze dryer. If stored properly, freeze-dried eggs can last for years and still work perfectly in recipes. Plus, they take up much less space than whole eggs.

Here’s what you need to know.

How to Make Pine Needle Spruce Tea (Hands on with images)

by Diane Vuković

Pine is one of the most valuable trees for survival. You can do many things with it, such as making pine pitch from the sap.

Many parts of pine are also edible. If you are new to pine, one of the easiest things you can do is make pine needle tea. Not only is it nutritious and free, but it also tastes good.

18 Types of Man-Made Disasters to Know

by Diane Vuković

The 19 Types of Natural Disaster You Need to Know

by Diane Vuković

Natural disasters are “unavoidable environmental events” that create significant life loss, injury, property damage, and dislocation.

There have always been natural disasters throughout human history, but natural disasters have been on the rise.

Natural disasters occur 3x more often today than in the 1970s and 1980s. In 2021, nearly 1 out of 10 homes in the USA were hit by natural disasters, and nearly 1/3 of homes in the USA are at risk of natural disasters. (1, 2, 3, 4)