We prep one bite at a time. In my case, wife and I are retired and on Social Security. We stock up on food, when it is on sale. We buy a few extra cans of food each month. We paid off all but one debt and that ends in two years. Prepping is a marathon event, not a sprint to the finish line. Yes I am also one of those talking about monoculars --- no katana, too close and personal --- research to save money and get what is the best for the price point. List and then budget items. AND yes a few more batteries always helps. We got most of our batteries free, when we bought a tool at Harbor Freight. There are ways to save on most purchases, just keep your eyes open for sales. House brands vs. Name brands, is an example.