Here’s What Alcohol You Should Stockpile And Why

When it comes to prepping, most people think of the basics: food, water, medical supplies, and maybe trusty survival gear they spend quite a lot of money on. But what about alcohol?

You might be surprised to learn that booze has a place in any well-rounded survival plan. It’s not just for drowning your sorrows when the world goes sideways—alcohol can be a versatile tool in your prepper arsenal. So, let’s talk about what types of alcohol you should stockpile and why.

Why Alcohol Belongs in Your Survival Kit

Alcohol isn’t just for drinking. Sure, it can lift spirits (pun intended) during tough times, but it’s also a disinfectant, a fuel source, and even a bartering item. Think about it: in a crisis, people will trade for comfort, and alcohol is one of the oldest comforts around. Plus, it doesn’t spoil, making it a reliable long-term investment.

But not all alcohol is created equal. Some types are more practical than others, and your choices should reflect your priorities. Are you stocking up for medical purposes? For trade? Or just to have a little something to take the edge off? Let’s break it down.

The Must-Have: High-Proof Spirits

Let’s get real for a second: if you’re going to stockpile alcohol, high-proof spirits are the undisputed champions of the prepper world. Why? Because they’re the Swiss Army knife of booze. Whether you’re disinfecting a wound, starting a fire, or trading for supplies, high-proof alcohol is your go-to.

Why High-Proof Spirits Are Essential

First off, let’s talk about versatility. High-proof spirits like vodka, whiskey, rum, or grain alcohol (think Everclear) are packed with ethanol, which is the magic ingredient that makes them so useful. Ethanol is a powerful disinfectant, a reliable fuel source, and, of course, a potent drink.

Disinfectant: In a survival scenario, infections can be deadly. Alcohol with at least 60% ABV (120 proof) can kill bacteria and viruses on contact, making it ideal for sterilizing wounds, medical tools, or even your hands. It’s not a replacement for proper medical supplies, but it’s a solid backup.

Fuel: High-proof alcohol burns cleanly and efficiently. You can use it in alcohol stoves, which are lightweight and perfect for cooking in the field. It can also double as a fire starter when you’re struggling to get a flame going in damp conditions.

Bartering: Let’s face it—people love their liquor. In a crisis, a bottle of whiskey or vodka could be worth its weight in gold. It’s compact, doesn’t spoil, and has universal appeal.

What to Look For

Not all high-proof spirits are created equal. Here’s what to consider when choosing what to stockpile:

• ABV (Alcohol by Volume): The higher, the better. Look for spirits that are at least 40% ABV (80 proof), but ideally, you want something closer to 60% ABV or higher for maximum utility.
• Neutral Flavor: For disinfecting or fuel, a neutral spirit like vodka or Everclear is ideal. It’s less likely to leave residue or an unpleasant smell.
• Affordability: You don’t need top-shelf liquor for your survival stash. Go for mid-range brands that offer good value for money.

Everclear: The Prepper’s Best Friend

If you’re serious about prepping, Everclear deserves a special mention. At 95% ABV (190 proof), it’s basically pure ethanol. It’s not something you’d sip casually (unless you’re feeling particularly adventurous), but it’s incredibly useful.

• Medical Uses: Everclear can be diluted to create hand sanitizer or used straight for sterilizing tools.
• Fuel: It burns hot and clean, making it perfect for alcohol stoves or fire-starting.
• Bartering: Its high alcohol content makes it a valuable trade item.

Storing High-Proof Spirits

One of the best things about high-proof spirits is their shelf life. Unlike beer or wine, they don’t spoil. However, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their quality:

Keep It Sealed: Make sure the bottles are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.

Cool and Dark: Store your spirits in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and potency.

Label and Rotate: If you’re stocking multiple bottles, label them with the date and rotate your stock to ensure you’re always using the oldest first.

A Word of Caution

While high-proof spirits are incredibly useful, they’re also highly flammable and potent. Handle them with care, especially if you’re using them as fuel or disinfectant. And, of course, drink responsibly—even in a survival situation, overindulgence can lead to poor decisions.

High-proof spirits are the backbone of any alcohol stockpile. They’re practical, versatile, and downright essential for anyone serious about prepping. So, whether you’re stocking up on vodka, whiskey, or Everclear, make sure you’ve got plenty on hand. You’ll be glad you did when the time comes.

The Practical Choice: Beer and Wine

Now, let’s shift gears for a moment. While high-proof spirits are the workhorses of your alcohol stockpile, beer and wine bring something different to the table. They’re not as versatile, sure, but they have their own unique advantages—especially when it comes to morale and bartering. Let’s see why beer and wine deserve a spot in your survival stash.

Why Beer and Wine Matter

You know what? Sometimes, survival isn’t just about practicality. It’s about maintaining a sense of normalcy, comfort, and even joy in the face of adversity. That’s where beer and wine come in. They’re not just drinks; they’re experiences. A cold beer after a long day of hard work or a glass of wine shared with loved ones can make a world of difference when times are tough.

But it’s not all about comfort. Beer and wine also have practical uses, especially when it comes to bartering. In a crisis, people will trade for things that make life feel a little less bleak, and alcohol is at the top of that list.

Beer: Lightweight and Universally Loved

Let’s start with beer. It’s one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world, and for good reason. It’s refreshing, relatively low in alcohol content, and easy to drink. But why should preppers care about beer?

Morale Booster: There’s something about cracking open a cold beer that just feels good. It’s a small luxury that can lift spirits and provide a sense of normalcy.

Bartering Power: Beer is universally loved, making it a great item for trade. In a crisis, people will be willing to part with valuable supplies for a taste of their favorite brew.

Cooking and Trapping: Believe it or not, beer can be used in cooking to add flavor to soups, stews, or bread. It can also be used to trap pests like slugs if you’re growing your own food.

However, beer does have its drawbacks. It’s relatively heavy and bulky compared to spirits, and it has a shorter shelf life. Most beers are best consumed within 6-12 months, though some craft beers can last longer if stored properly.

Wine: A Classy Comfort

Now, let’s talk about wine. It’s often associated with sophistication and relaxation, but it’s also a practical choice for preppers.

Long Shelf Life: Unlike beer, wine can last for years if stored properly. Red wine, in particular, has antioxidants that help preserve it.

Bartering Gold: Wine is a luxury item, and in a crisis, people will trade a lot for a taste of something special. A bottle of good wine could be worth its weight in gold.

Cooking and Medicinal Uses: Wine can be used in cooking to add depth and flavor to dishes. It can also be used medicinally—red wine, for example, has been used historically for its antiseptic properties.

Choosing the Right Beer and Wine

Not all beer and wine are created equal, especially when it comes to long-term storage. Here’s what to look for:

• Beer: Opt for cans over bottles—they’re lighter, more durable, and less likely to break. Choose beers with higher alcohol content (like IPAs or stouts) as they tend to last longer. Avoid beers with a lot of sediment, as they can spoil faster.
• Wine: Stick to red wines for long-term storage—they have a longer shelf life than whites. Look for wines with higher tannin content (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah), as tannins act as natural preservatives. Screw-top bottles are more practical than corked ones, as they’re less likely to spoil.

Storing Beer and Wine

Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of your beer and wine. Here are some tips:

Keep It Cool: Store your beer and wine in a cool, dark place. Heat and sunlight can degrade the quality and flavor.

Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Constant changes in temperature can cause beer and wine to spoil faster. Aim for a stable environment.

Store Bottles Horizontally: For wine, storing bottles on their sides keeps the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and letting air in.

Let’s not underestimate the emotional value of beer and wine. In a survival situation, mental health is just as important as physical health. A cold beer or a glass of wine can provide a moment of relaxation, a break from the stress of survival. It’s a reminder of better times and a way to connect with others.

The Wildcard: Fortified Wines and Liqueurs

Fortified wines like port or sherry, and liqueurs like Baileys or Kahlúa, are a bit of a luxury, but they have their uses.

Long Shelf Life: Fortified wines last longer than regular wine because of their higher alcohol content.

Calories: Liqueurs are often high in sugar, making them a quick source of energy in a pinch.

Bartering Power: These are comfort items, and in a crisis, comfort is priceless.

Honestly, they’re not essential, but they’re nice to have. And sometimes, “nice to have” can make all the difference.

The DIY Option: Homebrewing

If you’re serious about prepping, why not learn to make your own alcohol? Homebrewing beer, wine, or even moonshine is a skill that could pay off big time in a long-term crisis.

• Cost-Effective: Once you have the equipment, making alcohol is relatively cheap.
• Self-Sufficiency: You won’t have to rely on stores or trade.
• Fun Project: Let’s face it, brewing your own booze is just cool.

You’ll need some basic supplies—yeast, sugar, and a fermentation vessel—but the process is simpler than you might think. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra fruit or grains.

Final Thoughts: What’s Your Why?

At the end of the day, the alcohol you stockpile depends on your priorities. Are you preparing for medical emergencies? For trade? Or just for a little comfort when things get rough?

Here’s the thing: no matter your reason, alcohol is a smart addition to any prepper’s stash. It’s practical, versatile, and, let’s face it, kind of fun to think about. So, what’s in your survival liquor cabinet?