You've probably heard of the saying: "It's better to have and not need it than need it and not have it." Doomsday bunkers fall under that category, and even though we never want the day to come when we'll need it, having one would offer a certain level of relief. Here are some things you might want to add to your bunker.
1. Solar-Powered Generator
Assuming that you have access to the outside after the cataclysmic event that forced you to use your doomsday bunker, having a solar-powered generator will be very important, especially since your bunker will need a lot of electronics that will help you survive. Preferably, you might want to install the solar panels outside beforehand.
2. Hand-Crank Generator
In the spirit of preparedness, you should also have a backup generator in case solar charging is not an option. There are hand-crank generators that will allow you to recharge them by rotating the handles. Some models already come with radios and flashlights, which can be useful when you have a limited light source and need news from the outside.
3. Flashlights/Lamps
Since the hand-crank generator, which may come with a flashlight, is reserved for emergencies, you should have battery-powered light sources. It would be better if they are rechargeable, or use batteries that can be charged. Depending on the kind of bunker you have, you might not have an outside light source to depend on even during daylight hours.
4. Satellite Phone
If whatever doomsday event took down land-based cell towers and the internet, your smartphones will essentially be useless in terms of communication. A satellite phone, however, uses Earth-orbiting satellites for data transmission. Be sure to have a copy of all the important contacts you'll use the phone for.
5. Ham Radio
While satellite phones are easier to use, ham radios might provide you with more communication options, especially since there are still existing ham radios in many areas, especially those dealing with disasters and medical aid. You should also make a list of important contacts and learn as much as you can on how to operate the radio.
6. Portable Hard Drive
Depending on the storage capacity of the portable hard drive, you can store a lot of files in there including documents, videos, and images. Firstly, you should immediately have soft copies of important paperwork within the drive, in case you can't gather them in time. You can also use it to store entertainment content like movies and shows to pass the time.
7. Media Player
The point of a doomsday bunker is to have a place to survive as you wait the disaster out, but that doesn't mean you have to wait it out in silence and boredom. Having a media player will allow you to watch videos, play music, and even view documents you might need. You can use an old computer or laptop for this, or purchase a new one just for the bunker.
8. E-Reader
This could come in handy when you want to save up power. Media players like computers or TVs use a lot, while e-readers can last for hours or even days, depending on how frequently you use them. You can store a lot of books in one device, which will save you some space, and you can even add guides and instructions for certain doomsday protocols.
