For preppers, it’s always better for an item to have multiple purposes as opposed to one. Multipurpose items mean less weight to carry, less money to spend, and more options when the time comes to use the item. I am continually thinking of new ideas for consolidating my supplies and getting the most out of them, and my most recent discovery is the multiple purposes of coconut oil.

Coconut oil is a cooking oil that has some newfound found popularly. It is a preferred oil for certain specialty diets, such as Paleo, and is also trending in beauty and bath products. It has some unriveled properties that make it ideal for these purposes, but it doesn’t stop there. Coconut oil also has a myriad of uses when it comes to prepping, which is why I’ve made it one of the key supplies in my Bug Out Bag. I store an 8oz. bottle of it, which may seem like a large amount for one item, but it can do the job of many supplies combined.

Coconut Oil Uses

Cooking oil. This is coconut oil’s primary use. It has a higher smoke point than many other cooking oils at 350°F, making it better to cook with at high temperatures. Plus, it adds a mild, tasty coconut flavor to any dish without overpowering it. Food source. If a heat source for cooking isn’t available, you can always eat/drink the coconut oil. At 117 calories per tablespoon, it’s dense in calories. Hair and skin health. Coconut oil is extremely nourishing and hydrating to skin, and can be used to replenish it, either by eating it or using it externally. It can help cure skin ailments, especially those related to dry skin. It’s also an effective (and tasty!) alternative to lip balm. These benefits go for dogs too! Mild sunscreen. In my opinion, coconut oil should only be used if traditional sunscreen isn’t available. But if you find yourself starting to burn and don’t have sunscreen, coconut oil does have some SPF (about 4-6) that can help protect you from the sun. Wound treatment. Coconut oil mimics the properties of Vaseline, making it a great option for a protective coating to wounds. Plus, the fatty acids provide the added benefit of antibacterial and antifungal properites. Constipation relief. Some say that coconut oil can help keep your digestive tract running smoothly. Eat a little every day to help yourself stay regular. Sore throat relief. Eating a bit of coconut oil will soothe and coat a sore throat, protecting it from irritants. Fire starter/fuel. When traditional fuel is scarce, coconut oil can be ignited to start a fire. Spread a little bit on some tinder and light to get a fire going quickly. WD-40/lubrication replacement. This oil can lube up squeaky parts and hardware in a pinch.

Where to Get Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is not available everywhere, but more and more grocery stores are beginning to stock it. Speciality or health food stores usually carry it. However, it’s usually a lot cheaper to buy it online in bulk.

Storage

Coconut oil is typically stored in glass or plastic containers, but I recommend plastic when packing for a Bug Out Bag. I store mine in an 8oz. Nalgene bottle to prevent breaking or spillage.

Coconut oil changes from liquid to solid depending on temparature, which is normal, and has a shelf life of about 2 years. Keeping it out of extreme temperatures (if possible), extends its longevity.