Quick Answer
A prepper should aim to have at least $1,000 to $3,000 in cash, easily accessible and dispersed among multiple locations, to ensure they can cover essential expenses during an emergency or disaster.
Cash Stash Allocation
When allocating cash to your stash, consider dividing it into three categories: short-term, mid-term, and long-term. Allocate 30% to 50% for short-term expenses (less than 30 days), 30% to 50% for mid-term expenses (30-90 days), and the remaining 20% to 30% for long-term expenses (beyond 90 days). For example, if you aim for a $3,000 stash, allocate $900 to $1,500 for short-term expenses, $900 to $1,500 for mid-term expenses, and $300 to $600 for long-term expenses.
Location and Security
Disperse your cash stash across multiple locations to minimize loss in case of a robbery or natural disaster. Consider dividing your stash among three to five secure locations: a home safe, a secure off-site storage facility, and a hidden cache (such as a buried container or a hidden compartment in a vehicle). Use a combination lock or a digital safe to secure your stash, and avoid keeping large amounts of cash in a single location.
Cash Types and Denominations
When building your cash stash, include a variety of denominations to make it easier to use in different situations. Include a mix of small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20), medium bills ($50), and larger bills ($100) to accommodate various expenses. Also, consider including some coins, such as quarters and dollar coins, for vending machines and parking meters.
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