As global uncertainty grows due to conflicts, supply chain instability, and extreme weather, more people across the UK are taking proactive steps to protect themselves and their families. The once niche idea of emergency preparedness has rapidly entered the mainstream.
Across Britain, thousands of people are now creating emergency kits, investing in long-life food storage, and even purchasing military-grade hazmat suits. Leading the charge is Preppers Shop UK, the largest survival store in Europe, based in Cornwall and founded by preparedness expert Lincoln Miles.
From £200 to Europe's Top Prepping Store
Lincoln started the business 10 years ago with just £200 and a vision to bring the preparedness mindset to Europe. Since then, demand has surged, with the store now processing between 200 and 400 orders daily.
"When we started, there were no other prepping stores in Europe," said Lincoln. "But events like Covid-19, the war in Ukraine, and concerns over power grid failures have changed everything. More people now understand the value of being prepared."
Why Hazmat Suits Are Selling Out
One of the fastest-moving items at Preppers Shop UK is the military CBRN hazmat suit. Designed to offer protection against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats, these suits are in such high demand that the store struggles to keep them in stock.
"They're like gold dust," said Lincoln. "As soon as we get them in, they're gone. It’s not just survivalists buying them – it’s everyday people who want an extra layer of protection just in case."
Changing Perceptions: Prepping for Realistic Emergencies
While prepping was once viewed as a fringe activity focused on apocalyptic scenarios, the UK scene has evolved. According to Lincoln and store manager Polly Tucker, today’s customers are more focused on realistic, short-term emergencies.
"It’s about convenience and peace of mind," Polly explained. "We sell to normal families who just want to ensure they’re not caught out if the power goes down or the supermarket shelves are empty again."
Essential Items for UK Emergency Preparedness
Some of the most in-demand prepping items include:
- Bug out bags – Compact kits designed to support you for 72 hours in case of evacuation
- Long-life food rations – Military-grade MREs that last up to 20–25 years
- Water filtration systems – Portable filters and jerry cans to produce safe drinking water
- Gas masks and NBC filters – For protection from airborne contaminants
- Off-grid lighting – Including oil lanterns, solar lights, and emergency torches
“When there’s talk about power outages or flooding in the news, we instantly see a rise in orders,” Lincoln said. “People are reacting to the world around them – and choosing to be ready, not caught off guard.”
Bug Out Bags: The Modern-Day Survival Kit
Polly recommends that every household keep a 72-hour bug out bag on hand. “You don’t need to overthink it,” she said. “It could be as simple as a few rations, some camping gear, a torch, and first aid items. It’s about covering the basics and being mobile if needed.”
Bug out bags have become a cornerstone of preparedness culture in the UK – especially for families who’ve seen how quickly normal life can be disrupted.
The Everyday Face of Prepping
Unlike the extreme stereotypes shown on TV, modern preppers are ordinary people with jobs, families, and mortgages – they simply don’t want to rely solely on government support or broken supply chains when things go wrong.
“You wouldn’t even know you’ve walked past a prepper,” said Lincoln. “They look just like you and me – because they are. They’re just taking smart steps to protect what matters most.”
At Preppers Shop UK, the mission is clear – make preparedness accessible, affordable and practical for everyone. Whether you’re just starting out or want to expand your kit, there’s never been a better time to start prepping.
Explore our full range of prepping gear and get your bug out bag ready today.
Read the full ITV News article on this story here.