Today, we’re diving into one of the most heated debates among outdoor enthusiasts: hammocks vs. tents.

That’s right, we’re going to pit these two camping shelters against each other and see which one comes out on top.

So grab your compass, lace up your boots, and let’s get this showdown started!

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Hammock Vs Tent: Comparison Chart

The Contenders: A Brief Overview

Hammocks

Hammocks are the epitome of laid-back camping.

They’re lightweight, compact, and offer a unique sleeping experience that keeps you off the ground and swaying gently between trees.

But don’t be fooled by their relaxed demeanor—hammocks can be a serious contender for your camping and survival gear.

Tents

Tents are the classic choice for campers worldwide.

They’ve been around for centuries, evolving from basic shelters to high-tech engineering marvels.

Tents offer a familiar and reliable way to stay protected from the elements, with plenty of room to stretch out and store your gear.

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Comfort: Rest Easy or Toss and Turn?

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors, comfort is king.

Let’s see how hammocks and tents stack up.

Hammocks: Cradle of Comfort

Hammocks are like a cozy cocoon that cradles you in comfort.

The gentle sway can lull you to sleep faster than a lullaby.

Plus, you avoid the hard, uneven ground and any creepy crawlies that might be lurking.

However, getting the perfect hang angle and finding the right trees can be a bit of a challenge.

And if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, you might find a hammock a bit restrictive.

Tents: Home Away from Home

Tents provide a flat, stable surface to sleep on, which is great for side, back, and stomach sleepers alike.

With a good sleeping pad and bag, you can achieve a level of comfort that’s hard to beat.

Tents also offer more room to move around and store your gear, making them feel like a cozy little home in the wilderness.

However, you’re still dealing with the hard ground and the potential for a less-than-perfectly-flat campsite.

Weather Protection: Battling the Elements

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so your shelter needs to stand up to whatever she throws your way.

Hammocks: High and Dry

One of the biggest advantages of hammocks is that they keep you off the ground.

This means you won’t have to worry about rain pooling under your tent or waking up to a flooded floor.

With a proper rain fly, hammocks can keep you dry in most conditions.

However, in extreme weather, like high winds or heavy snow, hammocks can be less stable and offer less protection than tents.

Tents: Fortresses of Fabric

Tents are designed to be all-weather shelters.

With a good rainfly and proper setup, tents can handle rain, wind, and even snow.

They offer more protection from the elements, especially in extreme conditions.

The solid walls also provide a barrier against cold winds and help retain warmth. However, tents require more effort to keep dry and ventilated, especially in wet conditions.

Setup and Portability: Quick and Easy or a Chore?

Nobody wants to spend hours setting up camp, especially after a long day on the trail.

Let’s see which option makes setting up camp a breeze.

Hammocks: Quick and Lightweight

Hammocks are a breeze to set up—once you get the hang of it (pun intended).

With practice, you can have your hammock and rain fly up in minutes.

They’re incredibly lightweight and pack down small, making them perfect for backpackers and ultralight hikers.

The downside is that you need trees (or something sturdy) to hang your hammock, which isn’t always available.

Tents: Versatile but Bulky

Tents can take a bit longer to set up, especially if you’re dealing with poles, stakes, and rainflies.

But once they’re up, they’re a reliable shelter that doesn’t depend on trees or other anchor points.

Tents offer more versatility in where you can set up camp, but they tend to be bulkier and heavier than hammocks.

This makes them less ideal for ultralight backpacking but great for car camping or short hikes.

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Space and Storage: Room to Roam or Cozy and Compact?

Whether you like to spread out or keep things minimal, space is a crucial factor in choosing your shelter.

Hammocks: Cozy and Compact

Hammocks are designed for one person (though double hammocks are available), and they don’t offer much room for gear storage.

You’ll need to get creative with your packing and use gear slings or hang your backpack from a tree.

This minimalistic approach is great for those who like to travel light and keep things simple.

However, if you like having space to move around or keep your gear close, hammocks might feel a bit cramped.

Tents: Spacious and Secure

Tents come in a variety of sizes, from solo shelters to multi-person palaces.

They offer plenty of room to move around and store your gear, keeping everything dry and secure.

The extra space can make a big difference in comfort, especially on longer trips.

The downside is that all this extra room comes at a cost in terms of weight and bulk.

Versatility: Multi-Use Marvels

Versatility is key when it comes to survival gear.

Let’s see how hammocks and tents can pull double duty.

Hammocks: More Than Just a Bed

Hammocks can be incredibly versatile.

Besides being a great place to sleep, they can also serve as a chair, lounger, or even a makeshift stretcher in an emergency.

Some hammock setups can be converted into ground shelters if needed.

However, their primary function is as a sleeping system, so their versatility is somewhat limited compared to a tent.

Tents: Shelter Supreme

Tents are the ultimate multi-use shelters.

Besides providing a place to sleep, they can serve as a changing room, gear storage, and a refuge from bugs and weather.

In an emergency, a tent can be used as a signal (bright colors), a rainwater collector (with the rainfly), or even a makeshift raft (in extreme cases).

Their versatility and reliability make them a staple in any survival kit.

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Cost: Budget-Friendly or Investment?

When it comes to camping gear, you often get what you pay for.

Let’s talk about the cost of hammocks vs. tents.

Hammocks: Budget-Friendly

Hammocks can be a more budget-friendly option, especially for solo campers.

You can get a decent hammock setup for less than a comparable tent.

However, you’ll also need to consider the cost of additional gear like a rain fly, bug net, and underquilt (for colder weather).

Overall, hammocks can be a great option for those looking to save money and pack light.

Tents: Investment in Comfort

Tents tend to be more expensive, especially high-quality models.

But this investment pays off in terms of comfort, space, and protection from the elements.

If you’re serious about camping or survival, a good tent is worth every penny.

Plus, tents are more versatile and can accommodate multiple people, making them a better value for group camping.

The Verdict: Which is Best for You?

Alright, folks, it’s decision time.

Both hammocks and tents have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose a Hammock If:

• You prioritize lightweight and compact gear.
• You enjoy a unique sleeping experience and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve.
• You often camp in areas with plenty of trees.

Choose a Tent If:

• You want maximum protection from the elements.
• You need more space and storage for gear.
• You prefer a versatile shelter that can handle a variety of conditions.

My Personal Take

Personally, I think there’s a place for both hammocks and tents in your camping arsenal.

Hammocks are fantastic for short trips, ultralight backpacking, and summer camping.

They’re a blast to use and add a bit of fun to your camping experience.

Tents, on the other hand, are the go-to choice for longer trips, group camping, and harsher conditions.

They offer the comfort, space, and protection you need when the going gets tough.

So why not have both?

That way, you’ll be prepared for any adventure that comes your way.

Just remember, the best shelter is the one you have with you when you need it.

So pick the one that fits your style, pack it up, and get out there!

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I am still in shock.  When I first learned that Donald Trump had been shot, I literally had difficulty processing the information.  I watched footage of the shooting over and over, and honestly I am still trying to put the pieces together.  The Secret Service is supposed to be far better at protecting our leaders than this.  If Trump had not shifted his head at the last moment, he would have almost certainly been killed.  Sadly, firefighter Corey Comperatore was not so fortunate.  He was killed by one of the bullets that the shooter fired.  Trump was hit in the ear, but we are being told that he is doing just fine.  But how long will it be before someone else tries again?

What we just witnessed is truly, truly horrible.  No matter how you plan to vote, we should all be united in denouncing political violence.

For years, many of our political leaders and many in the mainstream media have been using extremely inflammatory language to denounce Donald Trump, and this has caused emotions to run extremely high.

It was only a matter of time before all of that inflammatory language inspired someone to commit an act of great violence.

The following are 8 things that we know about the man that shot Trump…

#1 It is being reported that the shooter is a 20-year-old male named Thomas Matthew Crooks…

Authorities have identified the gunman involved in the attack against former US President Donald Trump on Saturday as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene after the shooting.

The FBI named Crooks in a statement early Sunday morning, identifying him as a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania – about 35 miles south of Butler, where Trump was holding his rally.

Crooks fired on Trump while perched on a nearby building rooftop outside the rally’s security perimeter, before being killed by the Secret Service, according to law enforcement officials.

Just like John Wilkes Booth and Lee Harvey Oswald, Thomas Matthew Crooks has three names.

Is that just some sort of bizarre coincidence?

#2 We are being told that Crooks used “an AR-style rifle” to shoot at Trump…

Law enforcement sources told CBS News that Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had been armed with ‘an AR-style rifle’.

There are some that are claiming that this was a highly advanced rifle that was extremely expensive.  I have not been able to find any official verification of this yet.

#3 Apparently the “AR-style rifle” was originally purchased by the father of Crooks…

Two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press that investigators believe the weapon was bought by the father of Thomas Matthew Crooks, who’s been identified as the shooter, at least six months ago.

#4 The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Crooks also had “explosive devices” in his vehicle…

Authorities found explosive devices in the car of the man who officials say tried to assassinate former President Trump, according to people briefed on the investigation.

The car, which Thomas Matthew Crooks drove, was parked near the Trump rally in Butler, PA, on Saturday.

Police received multiple reports of suspicious packages around near where the shooter was, authorities said, prompting them to dispatch bomb technicians.

#5 Crooks was employed at a nearby nursing home and he successfully passed a background check when he applied…

Crooks worked as a dietary aid, a job that generally involves food preparation, at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, less than a mile from his home. In a statement provided to USA TODAY on Sunday, Marcie Grimm, the facility’s administrator, said she was “shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement.”

“Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean,” Grimm said. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence.”

Preparing food at a nursing home is kind of a dead end job for a 20-year-old that is just starting out in life.  This may have fed into any feelings of desperation and depression that he was feeling.

#6 Crooks was a registered Republican, but his only political donation was to a group “working to increase voter turnout for Democrats”…

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Federal Election Commission records show that in January 2021, Crooks made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project, a group working to increase voter turnout for Democrats.

#7 His uncle was interviewed by the Daily Mail, and he said that Crooks and his family were “very private” people…

Crooks’ uncle Mark Crooks told DailyMail.com he hadn’t seen the gunman or his parents in years, and described them as ‘very private’.

‘I haven’t seen that part of my family in years,’ he said. ‘Honestly it’s been so long I don’t think much about them

‘It’s a shame. The kid is like a stranger to me. They’re private and they don’t reach out to anybody any time.’

To me, this is an incredibly important detail.

He could have had very serious emotional problems that nobody knew about in advance.

Also, those that are detached from society are the easiest to set up if someone was inclined to do that.

Following the shooting, many liberals were extremely upset that Crooks missed his target.

For example, one young woman posted a video that rapidly went viral in which she very loudly expressed her displeasure that Trump was still alive…

‘We were a second away, we were a centimeter away from half of the problem being gone and you missed,’ Celeste, who goes by cele2t3, screamed in a TikTok video.

Driving in a car, Celeste shared her initial reaction to hearing the sudden news.

‘I just found out about this sh**, it just happened, I haven’t even had a second to process.

She screams at the top of her lungs: ‘You’re telling me somebody finally had the ba**s to bring a “pew pew” and it missed?!’

Yes, there are really people out there that think like this.

In fact, a field director for Mississippi Congressman Bennie G. Thompson was quickly fired after she suggested that Crooks should have gotten some shooting lessons before making his attempt…

Marsaw, 61, the president and vice president of a local NAACP in Natchez, Mississippi, has since deleted the post and her account, but screenshots have been reposted across social media.

She shared: ‘I don’t condone violence but please get some shooting lessons so you don’t miss next time ooops that wasn’t me talking.’

In a follow up post, she said: ‘That’s what your hate speech got you!!’

Marsaw has since been fired from her position. ‘I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,’ Thompson said.

From this point forward, Trump will need to be very careful.

I think that it is probably just a matter of time before someone else tries again.

In my entire lifetime, no politician has been hated as much as Donald Trump.

I don’t understand why the left hates him so much, but they do.

For a very long time, I have been warning that this would be the most chaotic election season in our history, and over the last few weeks things have certainly gotten really crazy.

But we still have more than three months to go until election day.

Unfortunately, I think that there will be a lot more twists and turns before this thing is over.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post 7 Things We Know About The Man That Shot Trump appeared first on The Economic Collapse.

The tremendous suffering that we are seeing all over the world right now is only just the beginning.  As I have documented repeatedly, we are in the midst of the worst global food crisis in modern history, and we haven’t seen this many countries engaged in military conflict since World War II.  In other words, this is a time of famine, and it is a time of war.  This represents a major problem for those that believe that humans are intrinsically good and that humanity is moving into a new golden era of peace and prosperity.  If humans are intrinsically good, why is there so much evil all around us?  Of course the truth is that the evil that we see all around is the product of the evil in human hearts.  Humanity is the reason why there is so much war, so much famine, so much greed, so much corruption, and so much suffering.

While billionaires in the western world live the high life, vast hordes of people on the other side of the planet are literally starving to death.

In Sudan, right now more than 25 million people “are facing high levels of acute food insecurity”…

In addition to the threat of violence, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification reported that 25.6 million people in Sudan are facing high levels of acute food insecurity, and 8.5 million people are facing emergency food shortages. The IPC also warned about the risk of famine across 14 areas, impacting residents and refugees in areas like Greater Darfur and Greater Kordofan.

There have been some nightmarish famines in Sudan before, but this is the worst.

The CEO of World Vision, Edgar Sandoval, says that people in Sudan are literally fighting over anthills because it is the only source of food available in some cases…

Sandoval also met another mother and her son, who weighed only 26 pounds. He said his heart broke as the mother wept, telling Sandoval that people in her community are fighting each other over anthills because they’re so hungry. She said they’ll eat the millets stored there by the ants.

“And they’re fighting for that as the only source of food,” Sandoval said. “I think that speaks to the level of desperation that the Sudanese people are facing. It’s the situation that children and moms in particular are facing.”

Can you imagine what it would be like to be that hungry?

And can you imagine what it would be like to watch your own children beg for food?

It is being reported that 730,000 children in Sudan are at “imminent risk of dying”…

In June, the United Nations Children’s Fund announced that nearly 9 million children in Sudan face acute food insecurity and access to safe drinking water. More than 3,800 children have been killed since the fighting escalated in April 2023, and almost 4 million children under the age of 5 are suffering from acute malnutrition, with 730,000 projected to be at an “imminent risk of dying.”

When I try to explain what is happening in Sudan to clueless people here in the western world, they look at me like I am from outer space.

Many of them have never heard about the hordes of people starving on the other side of the planet because the mainstream media is absolutely obsessed with talking about Donald Trump and Joe Biden.

But this is really happening.

As I discussed in a previous article, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations is warning that over 2.5 million people could starve to death in Darfur and Kordofan alone by the end of September…

The Ethiopian famine killed a million people between 1983 and 1985, according to UN estimates. Thomas-Greenfield said that in a worst-case scenario, a famine in Sudan could become even more lethal.

“We’ve seen mortality projections estimating that in excess of 2.5 million people, about 15% of the population in Darfur and Kordofan – the hardest hit regions – could die by the end of September,” the ambassador said.

“This is the largest humanitarian crisis on the face of the planet. And yet, somehow, it threatens to get worse,” she added.

Meanwhile, military conflicts all over the world just continue to intensify.

The Russians continue to gain ground in several areas of eastern Ukraine, and this is making a number of Ukraine’s neighbors very nervous.

In fact, the head of the Polish military just stated that his forces need to prepare for “full-scale conflict”…

Poland needs to prepare its soldiers for all-out conflict, its armed forces chief of staff said on Wednesday, as the country boosts the number of troops on its border with Russia and Belarus.

Poland’s relations with Russia and its ally Belarus have deteriorated sharply since Moscow sent tens of thousands of troops into neighboring Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, starting a war that is still being fought.

“Today, we need to prepare our forces for full-scale conflict, not an asymmetric-type conflict,” army chief of staff General Wieslaw Kukula told a press conference.

Of course Poland is a member of NATO, and so if Poland ends up fighting Russia we will be fighting Russia too.

This week, Chinese forces are engaged in very alarming military exercises that are taking place just miles from the Polish border…

Belarus and China kicked off 11-day joint military training exercises Monday, Belarus’ defense ministry said – with activities taking place just miles from the border of Poland, a NATO and European Union member.

The joint anti-terrorist training “Attacking Falcon” exercises in Belarus would see military personnel from both countries “act together” as one unit in certain stages, Maj. Gen. Vadim Denisenko of the Belarusian military said in a Telegram post.

I think that Chinese forces are there to ward off a potential invasion of Belarus.

Ukraine has been building up large numbers of troops and vast quantities of equipment near the border with Belarus for quite some time, and there had been fears that Ukraine may try to do something really stupid.  In fact, officials in Belarus were so concerned that they were publicly warning that they would use tactical nuclear weapons if they were invaded.

Meanwhile, NATO has started delivering F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine…

NATO allies on Wednesday announced they had started transferring F-16 jets to Ukraine and stepped up promises to Kyiv on eventual membership in the alliance at a 75th anniversary summit clouded by political uncertainties in the United States.

In response, Russia has been bombing the daylights out of the airfields where those F-16 fighter jets were supposed to be based.

I really wish that leaders on both sides would sit down and try to find a peaceful way out of this mess.

But that isn’t going to happen.

In the Middle East, western powers are desperately trying to avert a full-blown war between Israel and Hezbollah…

Israel and the Lebanon-based Hezbollah militant group have been exchanging near-daily fire along the Israel-Lebanon border since Oct. 8. The US and France are attempting to broker a diplomatic solution that would end the fighting. Should those negotiations fail, Israeli officials anticipate a full-blown war with the Iran-backed militia.

Sadly, I am entirely convinced that such a full-blown war could be just months away.

This war in the Middle East is still only in the early stages, and the utter carnage that we will eventually witness will shock the entire world.

We really are living in a time of “wars and rumors of wars”, and famines will intensify as global conflict spreads.

So no, a new golden era of peace and prosperity is not on the way.

Instead, our future will be filled with war, famine and a tremendous amount of pain.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post A Time Of Famine, And A Time Of War… appeared first on End Of The American Dream.

Abortion should be one of the central issues during this election season, because it has enormous implications for our future.  Last year, more than a million abortions were performed in the United States.  That was the first year since 2012 that we have surpassed the one million abortion mark.  Many people thought that the number of abortions would go down once Roe v. Wade was overturned, but that didn’t happen.  One of the primary reasons why the number of abortions is going up is because of the widespread availability of abortion pills.  It has become so easy to get abortion pills through the mail, and that includes states where abortion is otherwise restricted or banned.  If we don’t do something about all of these abortion pills that are flying around, the number of abortions in this country will almost certainly continue to go up.  Unfortunately, it does not appear that anything will be done to restrict abortion pills on the national level any time soon.

According to the Guttmacher Institute, 1,026,690 abortions were performed within the U.S. health care system last year…

The study also found that, in 2023, there were an estimated 1,026,690 abortions in the formal U.S. health care system and a rate of 15.7 abortions per 1,000 women of reproductive age. This represents a 10% increase in the number of abortions from 2020 and is the highest number and rate of abortions measured in the country in more than a decade. It’s the first year since 2012 that there were more than one million abortions provided in the formal health care system.

Of those abortions, approximately 63 percent of them were medication abortions…

Medication abortion accounted for 63% of all the abortions performed in the U.S. in 2023, according to a new study from the Guttmacher Institute.

In the first full calendar year following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade in July 2022, approximately 642,700 medication abortions took place within the health care system, according to Guttmacher’s Monthly Provision Study.

When we have debates about abortion, most of us imagine a woman walking into an abortion clinic to have her baby terminated.

But today most abortions are performed by taking pills.

Medication abortions accounted for just 6 percent of all abortions in 2001, and now that figure is up to 63 percent.

Sadly, there are six U.S. states that have passed “shield laws” that actually protect those that “prescribe and send abortion pills to people living in states that ban or severely restrict abortion”…

More than a dozen states have laws shielding medical providers and others from out-of-state investigations and prosecutions regarding abortions and gender affirming care. But six states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New York, California, Vermont and Washington — have gone even further.

Those shield laws offer protection for doctors, nurses and other practitioners who prescribe and send abortion pills to people living in states that ban or severely restrict abortion.

On top of that, two of the largest pharmacy chains in the entire nation have decided to make abortion pills available to their customers…

In early March, CVS and Walgreens, the two largest pharmacy chains in the nation, said they planned to make the medication available to patients as soon as within the month. Both pharmacies told CBS News they had become certified to dispense the pills following regulatory changes the FDA made last year that allow retail pharmacies to sell the pills.

Needless to say, Joe Biden was absolutely thrilled by what these two pharmacy chains decided to do…

The pharmacies’ moves, which came at a time when abortion access has been restricted across parts of the U.S., drew praise from President Biden.

“The stakes could not be higher for women across America,” Mr. Biden said in a statement earlier this month. “I encourage all pharmacies that want to pursue this option to seek certification.”

Everyone knows that the Democrats are radically pro-abortion and that is not going to change.

So if something is going to be done about abortion, it is up to the Republicans to do it.

When he was asked about abortion pills at the recent presidential debate, Donald Trump told the country that he will not block them…

Former President Trump said he “will not block” abortion pills or abortion medication should he be elected president.

During CNN’s Presidential Debate Simulcast, Trump was asked about his stance on abortion, and whether or not he would block abortion medication for women.

“First of all, the Supreme Court just approved the abortion pill and I agree with their decision to have done that, and I will not block it,” Trump said.

On Sunday, J.D. Vance made it abundantly clear that he stands with Trump on this issue…

On NBC’s Meet the Press Sunday morning, Ohio Senator and vice presidential hopeful J.D. Vance said he supports access to the abortion pill mifepristone—echoing what Donald Trump said just over a week ago on the debate stage.

“On the question of the abortion pill,” Vance began, “the Supreme Court made a decision in saying that the American people should have access to that medication, Donald Trump has supported that opinion, I support that opinion.”

That pretty much settles it.

There will be no national restrictions on abortion pills.

And that is really bad news, because that is how most abortions are performed in America.

If we do not stop killing children on an industrial scale, we are not going to have a country.

I wish that I could get more people to understand this.

Unfortunately, our neighbor to the north has even less respect for life.

In fact, the number of medically-assisted suicides in Canada is absolutely exploding…

Canada is on track to break euthanasia records once again with 15,280 doctor-assisted suicide deaths in 2023 — a 15 percent jump on the previous year, a campaign group warns.

The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition says growing numbers of people who are not terminally ill now use the government’s doctor-assisted suicide program, known locally as MAiD.

They include sufferers of autoimmune conditions, diabetes, and chronic pain who may be able to live for many more quality years, if they had better healthcare.

Any society that is anti-life is not going to last for long.

Since Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973, more than 60 million American children have been killed.

It is a crime against humanity on a scale that I do not even have words to describe, and there is no end in sight.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post The Truth About Abortion In America appeared first on End Of The American Dream.

Today, we’re diving into one of the most heated debates among outdoor enthusiasts: hammocks vs. tents.

That’s right, we’re going to pit these two camping shelters against each other and see which one comes out on top.

So grab your compass, lace up your boots, and let’s get this showdown started!

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Hammock Vs Tent: Comparison Chart

The Contenders: A Brief Overview

Hammocks

Hammocks are the epitome of laid-back camping.

They’re lightweight, compact, and offer a unique sleeping experience that keeps you off the ground and swaying gently between trees.

But don’t be fooled by their relaxed demeanor—hammocks can be a serious contender for your camping and survival gear.

Tents

Tents are the classic choice for campers worldwide.

They’ve been around for centuries, evolving from basic shelters to high-tech engineering marvels.

Tents offer a familiar and reliable way to stay protected from the elements, with plenty of room to stretch out and store your gear.

Want a free 104 item bug out bag checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Comfort: Rest Easy or Toss and Turn?

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors, comfort is king.

Let’s see how hammocks and tents stack up.

Hammocks: Cradle of Comfort

Hammocks are like a cozy cocoon that cradles you in comfort.

The gentle sway can lull you to sleep faster than a lullaby.

Plus, you avoid the hard, uneven ground and any creepy crawlies that might be lurking.

However, getting the perfect hang angle and finding the right trees can be a bit of a challenge.

And if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, you might find a hammock a bit restrictive.

Tents: Home Away from Home

Tents provide a flat, stable surface to sleep on, which is great for side, back, and stomach sleepers alike.

With a good sleeping pad and bag, you can achieve a level of comfort that’s hard to beat.

Tents also offer more room to move around and store your gear, making them feel like a cozy little home in the wilderness.

However, you’re still dealing with the hard ground and the potential for a less-than-perfectly-flat campsite.

Weather Protection: Battling the Elements

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so your shelter needs to stand up to whatever she throws your way.

Hammocks: High and Dry

One of the biggest advantages of hammocks is that they keep you off the ground.

This means you won’t have to worry about rain pooling under your tent or waking up to a flooded floor.

With a proper rain fly, hammocks can keep you dry in most conditions.

However, in extreme weather, like high winds or heavy snow, hammocks can be less stable and offer less protection than tents.

Tents: Fortresses of Fabric

Tents are designed to be all-weather shelters.

With a good rainfly and proper setup, tents can handle rain, wind, and even snow.

They offer more protection from the elements, especially in extreme conditions.

The solid walls also provide a barrier against cold winds and help retain warmth. However, tents require more effort to keep dry and ventilated, especially in wet conditions.

Setup and Portability: Quick and Easy or a Chore?

Nobody wants to spend hours setting up camp, especially after a long day on the trail.

Let’s see which option makes setting up camp a breeze.

Hammocks: Quick and Lightweight

Hammocks are a breeze to set up—once you get the hang of it (pun intended).

With practice, you can have your hammock and rain fly up in minutes.

They’re incredibly lightweight and pack down small, making them perfect for backpackers and ultralight hikers.

The downside is that you need trees (or something sturdy) to hang your hammock, which isn’t always available.

Tents: Versatile but Bulky

Tents can take a bit longer to set up, especially if you’re dealing with poles, stakes, and rainflies.

But once they’re up, they’re a reliable shelter that doesn’t depend on trees or other anchor points.

Tents offer more versatility in where you can set up camp, but they tend to be bulkier and heavier than hammocks.

This makes them less ideal for ultralight backpacking but great for car camping or short hikes.

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Space and Storage: Room to Roam or Cozy and Compact?

Whether you like to spread out or keep things minimal, space is a crucial factor in choosing your shelter.

Hammocks: Cozy and Compact

Hammocks are designed for one person (though double hammocks are available), and they don’t offer much room for gear storage.

You’ll need to get creative with your packing and use gear slings or hang your backpack from a tree.

This minimalistic approach is great for those who like to travel light and keep things simple.

However, if you like having space to move around or keep your gear close, hammocks might feel a bit cramped.

Tents: Spacious and Secure

Tents come in a variety of sizes, from solo shelters to multi-person palaces.

They offer plenty of room to move around and store your gear, keeping everything dry and secure.

The extra space can make a big difference in comfort, especially on longer trips.

The downside is that all this extra room comes at a cost in terms of weight and bulk.

Versatility: Multi-Use Marvels

Versatility is key when it comes to survival gear.

Let’s see how hammocks and tents can pull double duty.

Hammocks: More Than Just a Bed

Hammocks can be incredibly versatile.

Besides being a great place to sleep, they can also serve as a chair, lounger, or even a makeshift stretcher in an emergency.

Some hammock setups can be converted into ground shelters if needed.

However, their primary function is as a sleeping system, so their versatility is somewhat limited compared to a tent.

Tents: Shelter Supreme

Tents are the ultimate multi-use shelters.

Besides providing a place to sleep, they can serve as a changing room, gear storage, and a refuge from bugs and weather.

In an emergency, a tent can be used as a signal (bright colors), a rainwater collector (with the rainfly), or even a makeshift raft (in extreme cases).

Their versatility and reliability make them a staple in any survival kit.

Want a free camping essentials checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Cost: Budget-Friendly or Investment?

When it comes to camping gear, you often get what you pay for.

Let’s talk about the cost of hammocks vs. tents.

Hammocks: Budget-Friendly

Hammocks can be a more budget-friendly option, especially for solo campers.

You can get a decent hammock setup for less than a comparable tent.

However, you’ll also need to consider the cost of additional gear like a rain fly, bug net, and underquilt (for colder weather).

Overall, hammocks can be a great option for those looking to save money and pack light.

Tents: Investment in Comfort

Tents tend to be more expensive, especially high-quality models.

But this investment pays off in terms of comfort, space, and protection from the elements.

If you’re serious about camping or survival, a good tent is worth every penny.

Plus, tents are more versatile and can accommodate multiple people, making them a better value for group camping.

The Verdict: Which is Best for You?

Alright, folks, it’s decision time.

Both hammocks and tents have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose a Hammock If:

• You prioritize lightweight and compact gear.
• You enjoy a unique sleeping experience and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve.
• You often camp in areas with plenty of trees.

Choose a Tent If:

• You want maximum protection from the elements.
• You need more space and storage for gear.
• You prefer a versatile shelter that can handle a variety of conditions.

My Personal Take

Personally, I think there’s a place for both hammocks and tents in your camping arsenal.

Hammocks are fantastic for short trips, ultralight backpacking, and summer camping.

They’re a blast to use and add a bit of fun to your camping experience.

Tents, on the other hand, are the go-to choice for longer trips, group camping, and harsher conditions.

They offer the comfort, space, and protection you need when the going gets tough.

So why not have both?

That way, you’ll be prepared for any adventure that comes your way.

Just remember, the best shelter is the one you have with you when you need it.

So pick the one that fits your style, pack it up, and get out there!

Why Trust Skilled Survival…

Go here now to review a full breakdown of:

Who We Are

Our Credentials

Our Mission

& Product Recommendations…

Here are a few highlights of our teams credentials & certifications:

• Certified Member of a Mountain Search & Rescue Organization
• Plant Emergency & Safety Leader for a Major Food Manufacturer
• Member of the 10TH Mountain Division Hut Association
• Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR, CPR
• Official Gear Tester for Numerous Outdoor Gear Companies
• Countless Multiday Backpacking trips into Remote Wilderness
• Bachelor’s Degree In Mechanical Engineering 
• Bachelor’s Degree In Civil Engineering
• Bachelor’s Degree In Biomedical Engineering

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” – Warren Buffett

We’re fully aware that trust is NOT something you GET but is EARNED.

And we’ll continue to earn YOUR trust through our forthright and honest approach with each new Blog Post, Guide & Product we create…

Prepare, Adapt & Overcome,

Cofounder Of Skilledsurvival.com & TheResilientLife.com

Born & Raised On A Rural Farm In The Midwest

Mechanical Engineering Grad From A Major University

Engineer With A Major Food Manufacturing Company

10+ Years Researching, Writing, & Teaching Preparedness

Mission: Help Folks Stop Living A Life Fragile To The Future

The post Hammock vs Tent: Which Is Best For Camping & Survival? appeared first on Skilled Survival.

We are being told that it is just a matter of time before there is a bird flu pandemic among humans.  We are also being told that the death rate during such a pandemic could be “somewhere between 25 and 50 percent”, and that should deeply alarm all of us.  We have already seen the intense fear that a pandemic with a death rate of far less than 1 percent can cause.  Can you imagine what a pandemic with a death rate of “somewhere between 25 and 50 percent” would look like?

Many of us don’t even want to think about going through another major pandemic.

But one may be coming anyway.

Right now, many among the elite are deeply focused on the threat that the bird flu poses.  An “International Bird Flu Summit” will be held in Washington D.C. from October 2nd to October 4th, and according to the official brochure for the event they will be discussing “a highly virulent strain of bird flu affecting both cattle and humans”…

Welcome to the International Bird Flu Summit, where we address the pressing concerns surrounding the recent developments in avian influenza. With the emergence of a highly virulent strain of bird flu affecting both cattle and humans, it is imperative that we come together to discuss preparedness, response strategies, and the future implications of this evolving situation.

A bird flu pandemic would be far worse than anything that we have been through so far.

On the list of topics for this summit, the very first one is “mass fatality management planning”…

• Mass Fatality Management Planning
• Surveillance and Data Management
• Preparing Communities Strategies
• Local Partnership & Participation
• Delivery of Vaccine and Antiviral Medication
• Medical Countermeasures
• Socio-Economic Impact on Poultry and livestock Industries
• Benefit-Risk Assessment: Public Health, Industry and Regulatory Perspectives
• Prevention Education Efforts and Risk Communication
• Command, Control and Management
• Emergency Response Management
• Business-Based Planning
• School-Based Planning
• Community-Based Planning

Personally, I have never heard a talk on mass fatality management planning.

I don’t suppose that such a talk would be especially cheerful.

Unfortunately, if H5N1 starts spreading widely among humans, there will be a lot of deaths.

Former CDC director Robert Redfield recently told NewsNation that he believes that a bird flu pandemic is coming and that the death rate will be “somewhere between 25 and 50 percent”…

A bird flu pandemic is inevitable – and it’s only a matter of time before it strikes, according to former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield.

Redfield’s comments come amid mounting concerns over the detection of the virus in dozens of cattle herds across the United States and the first reported human death in Mexico.

In a recent interview with NewsNation, Redfield expressed his belief that a bird flu pandemic is a high likely. “I really do think it’s very likely that we will, at some time,” he said. “It’s not a question of if; it’s more of a question of when we will have a bird flu pandemic.” He emphasized the significant mortality rate associated with the virus, with an estimation of a mortality rate of “somewhere between 25 and 50 percent,” in contrast to the 0.6 percent death rate observed in the Covid-19 pandemic.

Over the past two years, we have already seen more than 100 million birds get wiped out.

And now mammals all over the planet are getting infected in large numbers.

So far, very few humans have caught the disease, and we should be very thankful for that.

But in early July we did learn that a farm worker has become the fourth confirmed case here in the United States…

A Colorado dairy farm worker is the nation’s fourth person to test positive for the highly contagious H5N1 bird flu virus, the Centers for Disease Control announced Wednesday.

The infected worker is employed on a dairy farm where cows tested positive for H5N1 and is the first person in Colorado to be infected by the bird flu.

The other three people who also have tested positive for the bird flu also work on dairy farms where cows tested positive for the virus.

Should we start bracing ourselves for the worst?

I don’t know.

One recent study that was conducted on “humanized mice” and ferrets produced some very chilling results…

Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, and two Japanese universities studied how H5N1 has evolved since the March outbreak by infecting humanized mice and ferrets in experiments funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Ferrets develop similar respiratory tract infections to humans and develop similar clinical symptoms, making them good models for understanding flu transmission patterns.

When infected by directly inserting virus particles into their noses, both mice and ferrets developed respiratory symptoms.

But even though H5N1 has mutated in alarming ways, right now there is no evidence that human to human transmission is taking place.

Unfortunately, authorities in some countries are not taking any chances and have started to implement measures that are quite dramatic…

Workers at poultry and fur farms in Finland will, in the coming days, receive vaccines against bird flu. Fourteen other eu countries have signed up to procure bird-flu vaccines through a programme set up by the European Commission. America’s government has also bought vaccines in anticipation of a pandemic. And it recently commissioned Moderna, a pharmaceutical company, to create an mrna bird-flu vaccine using a technology that was effective in protecting against covid-19.

Hopefully nothing will happen.

Hopefully there will not be a bird flu pandemic.

Because after all of the pain and suffering that the last one caused, most of us don’t want to ever go through something like that ever again.

Sadly, we live at a time when scientists are playing around with the most deadly bugs ever known to humanity in secret labs all over the planet.

And once a bug gets loose, it can spread across the globe in the blink of an eye.

As my regular readers already know, I believe that worldwide pestilences will be a major theme during the years that are ahead of us.

I don’t know if the bird flu will be one of those pestilences, but I will be watching it very carefully.

Because once widespread human to human transmission of the bird flu is confirmed, everything will change.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post During The “International Bird Flu Summit” In Washington D.C. In October They Will Discuss “Mass Fatality Management Planning” appeared first on End Of The American Dream.

If you’re serious about camping, survival, or just ensuring you have the purest water possible, you’ve likely come across two titans in the water filtration world: Alexapure Vs Berkey.

These two brands are like heavyweight champions, each boasting their own unique strengths.

But which one deserves a spot in your gear arsenal?

Grab a seat and your favorite beverage (filtered, of course), and let’s dive into the ultimate showdown: Alexapure vs. Berkey.

Why Water Filtration Matters

First things first, let’s talk about why water filtration is so crucial.

Whether you’re out in the wilderness, dealing with a natural disaster, or just ensuring your tap water is safe, clean water is essential for survival.

Waterborne contaminants can wreak havoc on your health, leading to illnesses that can knock you out of commission.

So, investing in a reliable water filtration system is non-negotiable for any serious prepper or outdoor enthusiast.

Alexapure Vs Berkey: Comparison Chart

The Contenders: Alexapure vs. Berkey

Alexapure: The New Kid on the Block

Alexapure might be a newer name in the water filtration arena, but it’s quickly making waves.

Known for its sleek design and impressive filtration capabilities, Alexapure has positioned itself as a strong contender against more established brands.

Key Features:

• Filtration Technology: Alexapure uses gravity-fed filtration with a powerful filter that removes up to 99.9999% of contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and pharmaceuticals.
• Capacity: The Alexapure Pro can hold up to 2.25 gallons of water, making it ideal for small families or solo adventurers.
• Flow Rate: It boasts a decent flow rate, allowing you to filter up to 5,000 gallons per filter.
• Portability: With a compact and lightweight design, the Alexapure Pro is easy to transport, making it a favorite among campers and RV enthusiasts.

↓ Discover the Secret Benefits of the Alexapure

Berkey: The Established Champion

Berkey has been the gold standard in water filtration for decades.

With a reputation for reliability and durability, Berkey systems are trusted by preppers, campers, and health-conscious households worldwide.

Key Features:

• Filtration Technology: Berkey uses a combination of gravity-fed filtration and advanced carbon filters to eliminate up to 99.9999% of contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and pharmaceuticals.
• Capacity: Berkey offers a range of sizes, from the travel-friendly 1.5-gallon Travel Berkey to the family-sized 6-gallon Crown Berkey.
• Flow Rate: Berkey filters are known for their longevity, capable of filtering up to 6,000 gallons per filter pair.
• Portability: While larger models are less portable, the Travel Berkey and Big Berkey are great for on-the-go use.

↓ I tested a Berkey

Alexapure Vs Berkey: Head-to-Head Comparison

Now, let’s break down these features in more detail and see how Alexapure and Berkey stack up against each other.

Filtration Performance

Both Alexapure and Berkey excel in filtration performance, removing an impressive array of contaminants.

However, Berkey’s filters have a slightly higher capacity for total contaminants removed, giving it a slight edge in this category.

But honestly, both systems provide top-tier filtration that will keep you hydrated and healthy.

Capacity and Size

When it comes to capacity, Berkey takes the crown with its wide range of sizes.

Whether you’re a solo camper or have a large family, there’s a Berkey model that fits your needs.

Alexapure’s Pro model is perfect for small groups or individuals, but if you need more capacity, Berkey offers more options.

Flow Rate

Both systems have efficient flow rates, but Berkey’s longer-lasting filters mean you’ll be changing them less frequently.

This could be a deciding factor for those who want minimal maintenance and maximum convenience.

Portability

Alexapure shines in portability due to its compact design.

It’s easy to pack up and take on the road, making it a favorite among campers and RV enthusiasts.

While Berkey’s Travel and Big Berkey models are also portable, the larger sizes are better suited for home use.

Ease of Use

Both systems are user-friendly, but Alexapure might have a slight edge for beginners due to its straightforward setup.

Berkey’s multiple components can be a bit intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s smooth sailing.

Cost

Let’s talk dollars and cents.

Alexapure systems tend to be more affordable upfront, which is great if you’re on a budget.

Berkey systems, while pricier, offer better long-term value due to their larger filter capacity and longevity.

So, it’s a matter of whether you prefer saving money now or investing in a system that will last longer.

Practical Use Cases

Camping and Backpacking

For the intrepid adventurers who love hitting the trails, portability and ease of use are paramount.

The Alexapure Pro, with its lightweight design, is perfect for backpacking and camping trips.

It’s easy to pack and set up, ensuring you have clean water without weighing down your gear.

The Travel Berkey, while slightly bulkier, is also a solid choice for camping.

Its robust build can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, and its superior capacity means fewer refills.

Emergency Preparedness

In a survival situation, reliability and capacity are key.

Berkey’s larger models, like the Royal Berkey or the Crown Berkey, offer the capacity and filtration power needed to sustain larger groups or families during emergencies.

Their ability to filter a high volume of water makes them invaluable in a crisis.

Alexapure’s Pro model is also a strong contender for emergency preparedness, especially for smaller households or individuals.

Its excellent filtration performance ensures you have access to safe drinking water when it matters most.

Everyday Use

For everyday use, both systems excel at providing clean, great-tasting water.

The choice comes down to personal preference and household size.

If you have a larger family or entertain often, a larger Berkey model might be the best fit.

For smaller households or those new to water filtration, the Alexapure Pro offers a user-friendly and effective solution.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Alright, folks, it’s decision time.

Both Alexapure and Berkey are stellar choices, but the right one for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Choose Alexapure If:

• You need a budget-friendly option without compromising on filtration quality.
• Portability is a top priority for camping and travel.
• You prefer a simpler setup and straightforward maintenance.

Choose Berkey If:

• You require a larger capacity system for a big family or long-term use.
• You value long-term cost savings and less frequent filter replacements.
• You need a versatile system that can handle both home use and outdoor adventures.

My Personal Take

If you twisted my arm and made me choose, I’d say the Alexapure Pro is a fantastic option for those who need a more portable solution or are just starting their water filtration journey.

Its performance and ease of use make it a worthy contender in any prepper’s gear lineup.

Alexapure Vs Berkey: Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best water filtration system is the one that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Whether you go with Alexapure vs Berkey, you’re investing in a crucial piece of survival gear that ensures you have access to safe, clean water.

So, take the plunge, make your choice, and rest easy knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

Stay hydrated, stay safe, and, as always, stay prepared.

Why Trust Skilled Survival…

Go here now to review a full breakdown of:

Who We Are

Our Credentials

Our Mission

& Product Recommendations…

Here are a few highlights of our teams credentials & certifications:

• Certified Member of a Mountain Search & Rescue Organization
• Plant Emergency & Safety Leader for a Major Food Manufacturer
• Member of the 10TH Mountain Division Hut Association
• Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR, CPR
• Official Gear Tester for Numerous Outdoor Gear Companies
• Countless Multiday Backpacking trips into Remote Wilderness
• Bachelor’s Degree In Mechanical Engineering 
• Bachelor’s Degree In Civil Engineering
• Bachelor’s Degree In Biomedical Engineering

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” – Warren Buffett

We’re fully aware that trust is NOT something you GET but is EARNED.

And we’ll continue to earn YOUR trust through our forthright and honest approach with each new Blog Post, Guide & Product we create…

Prepare, Adapt & Overcome,

Cofounder Of Skilledsurvival.com & TheResilientLife.com

Born & Raised On A Rural Farm In The Midwest

Mechanical Engineering Grad From A Major University

Engineer With A Major Food Manufacturing Company

10+ Years Researching, Writing, & Teaching Preparedness

Mission: Help Folks Stop Living A Life Fragile To The Future

The post Alexapure vs Berkey: The Ultimate Water Filtration Showdown appeared first on Skilled Survival.

If you are really struggling with the high cost of living, I want you to know that you aren’t alone.  In recent months, I have been hearing from so many people that feel like they are drowning financially.  Have you experienced a palpable sense of panic when you compare your rising bills to the level of income that you are currently bringing in?  So many people out there are stressed out of their minds because it has become such a struggle to pay the bills each month.  As I discussed a few days ago, a typical U.S. household must now spend $1,069 more a month just to buy the exact same goods and services that it did three years ago.  Over the course of an entire year, that is almost an extra $13,000 dollars.  Month after month, prices just keep going higher, but those that are running things continue to insist that everything is just fine.

No, everything is not just fine.

Last week, a TikTok video about rising grocery prices at Walmart quickly garnered more than a million views.  The person that made the video found a grocery order that he had placed two years ago, and he decided to hit the “Reorder All” button to see what that same order would cost today…

A recent TikTok video has gone viral, showing a user’s surprising experience with Walmart’s grocery prices. The user explained in his video that he tried to use the “Reorder All” button for an order he placed two years ago, which originally cost $126.67. To his shock, the same order would now cost $414.39.

I was quite stunned by this video.

Many of the things that I regularly purchase at the grocery store have doubled or more than doubled in price, but in this case the total cost of the grocery order had more than tripled…

The TikTok (@sewerlidd) explained that the original $126.16 purchase was for a month’s worth of groceries, which included 53 items.

“A whole month of groceries just for me,” he said in the video.

The total was updated to $414.39, almost quadrupling.

“I feel like I’m going to be sick,” he said.

Needless to say, this video has generated a ton of discussion online.

When Walmart was asked about this, they responded by saying that the primary reason there was such a difference is because the person that made the video was attempting to order “discontinued items”…

Walmart representatives have responded, stating that the claims in the video are not accurate. According to them, the discrepancies in prices are due to discontinued items rather than actual inflation.

But this explanation certainly did not satisfy everyone.

Another person hit the “Reorder All” button on an old order, and that order went from $180 back then to $430 today…

Viewers expressed both shock and frustration in the comments.

“Now I feel a little less gaslit about grocery prices because it has gone crazy, and it’s not just me!” wrote one person.

“Walmart, can you explain yourself, please,” added another.

A fellow shopper said they used to spend $180 for two weeks’ worth of groceries and are now spending over $430 for the same amount.

If you think that the price of groceries is not a problem, I have a challenge for you.

Fill up a grocery cart all the way to the very top with items that you typically eat, and try to keep the final bill under 300 dollars.

If you are smart, you can do it, but it won’t be easy.

In the old days, you could buy a used vehicle for 300 dollars.

Now, many people burn through more than 300 dollars in just one trip to the grocery store.

This is just one of the reasons why inflation has become such a huge political issue.

According to Gallup, inflation was not really considered to be an important issue at all prior to 2022…

For the third year in a row, the percentage of Americans naming inflation or the high cost of living as the most important financial problem facing their family has reached a new high. The 41% naming the issue this year is up slightly from 35% a year ago and 32% in 2022. Before 2022, the highest percentage mentioning inflation was 18% in 2008. Inflation has been named by less than 10% in most other readings since the question was first asked in 2005.

The last three years have been an inflationary nightmare, and no matter how much our leaders try to deny it, a lot more inflation is on the way.

Things are particularly bad in our major cities.  In fact, it is being reported that Manhattan is the most expensive place to live in the United States by a wide margin…

The New York borough of Manhattan is the most expensive place to live in the U.S. — and the cost of living in the No. 2 place isn’t even close.

The cost of living in Manhattan is more than twice the national average. The second- and third-most expensive places are Honolulu and San Jose, California, but in comparison, they are much more affordable. Manhattan is 24% more expensive than Honolulu and 30% more expensive than San Jose.

It isn’t a big mystery why this is the case.

When our leaders pumped trillions upon trillions of dollars into the system, the financial markets benefitted greatly.

So Manhattan is swimming in cash, and prices there have gone into the stratosphere.

Many of us relentlessly warned about what would happen when our leaders flooded the system with cash, and now we are facing economic distortions that are extremely painful.

For most Americans, prices have been rising much faster than their paychecks.

As a result, our national standard of living has been steadily declining.

And now we have entered a time when it appears that economic conditions are really slowing down.

For example, it is being reported that Ford is preparing for yet another round of layoffs…

Ford Motor is preparing for a new round of layoffs for its salaried workers in the United States, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company in March last year announced plans to reduce structural costs of up to $3 billion at its gas-powered vehicle unit. In August, Ford said it would cut a total of 3,000 salaried and contract jobs, mostly in North America and India.

Over the past several years, our politicians in Washington have borrowed and spent trillions upon trillions of dollars, and the “experts” at the Federal Reserve have pumped trillions upon trillions of dollars into the financial system.

All that did was buy us a little more time.

All that did was delay the inevitable.

Now we are facing a crisis of absolutely epic proportions, and the economic suffering that we are currently experiencing is nothing compared to the economic suffering that is ahead of us.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post If The High Cost Of Groceries Makes You Feel Sick, You Are Not Alone appeared first on The Economic Collapse.

According to a stunning new survey that was just released, an annual income of at least $186,000 a year is required in order to feel financially secure in the United States today.  Unfortunately, only 6 percent of U.S. adults make that kind of money.  So we have a major problem on our hands.  The cost of living has become extremely painful, and millions of Americans are stressed out of their minds because their finances are such a mess.  Over the past several years we have witnessed an economic shift of epic proportions.  The ultra-wealthy have gotten a lot wealthier, the ranks of the poor have exploded, and the middle class has been absolutely eviscerated.  In this current economic environment, only a very small segment of the population is living comfortably.  The following comes from CBS News…

Americans have a specific annual income in mind for what it would take to feel financially secure, according to a new survey from Bankrate. The magic number? $186,000 per year.

Currently, only 6% of U.S. adults make that amount or more, Bankrate said. The median family income falls between $51,500 and $86,000, according to the latest federal data. Achieving financial security means being able to pay your bills while having enough left over to make some discretionary purchases and put money away for the future, the personal finance site said.

When I was growing up, I thought that anyone that earned more than $100,000 a year was wealthy.

But now it takes an income about five times that size in order to be considered “wealthy”…

Americans have an even higher yardstick for feeling rich. The survey found they believe they would need to earn $520,000 a year to qualify as wealthy — up from their $483,000 response during the same survey last year.

Much of the population is trying as hard as they can, but they will never make the kind of money that they would like to make.

Meanwhile, the cost of living just keeps going higher and higher and higher.

As a result, the percentage of Americans that admit that they are experiencing financial stress just continues to go up…

Many inflation-weary consumers continue to experience financial stress, with a new Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia survey finding that 35% of Americans are worried about making ends meet, up from 29% a year earlier.

That gap between what the typical American earns and what they aspire to earn means “Americans have their eyes set on this high income, and they think they need to make more money even if they know it’s unrealistic they’ll never make that amount,” Sarah Foster, an analyst at Bankrate, told CBS MoneyWatch.

At this point, even many that are considered to be in “upper-income groups” feel forced to take on extra jobs just to make ends meet…

Americans in upper-income groups are concerned about their ability to pay bills, with more than 15 percent of this demographic taking up additional jobs over the past year, according to a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.

As of April 2024, 32.5 percent of respondents earning over $150,000 annually were worried about making ends meet over the next six months, up from 21.7 percent in April of last year, the June survey showed.

This percentage is higher than for those in the income groups of $100,000 to $149,999, $70,000 to $99,999, and $40,000 to $69,999. Only individuals who earned less than $40,000, the lowest income group, were more worried than the $150,000-plus group.

I have never seen numbers like this before.

People are feeling so much anxiety about their finances, and that helps to explain why economic issues are playing such a prominent role in this election cycle.

Some Americans are trying to make ends meet by cutting back anywhere that they can.

For example, the following comes from an NPR article about how Americans are cutting back on charitable giving…

Robert Lang, a longtime cabinetmaker in Cincinnati, used to feel good about giving money to less-fortunate people. These days, however, he’s being forced to be less generous.

“I’m no great humanitarian,” says Lang. “But I feel really good if I can give a homeless guy 20 bucks. And we can’t do that anymore.”

The reason? Rising prices, which have forced Lang to dial back his giving as the 69-year-old tries to make ends meet with Social Security benefits and a part-time job with a furniture-making journal.

When times get tough, people become less generous.

I wish that wasn’t true, but that is just the way that it is.

So what will happen when economic conditions become extremely harsh?

BCA Research chief global strategist Peter Berezin is warning that another recession is coming and that stock prices could soon fall by 30 percent…

There may be trouble looming on the horizon for the U.S. stock market, according to BCA Research.

In a note to clients last week, BCA Research chief global strategist Peter Berezin warned that, contrary to popular belief, the economy will fall into a recession either this year or in early 2025.

Should that happen, the S&P 500 could tumble to 3,750, which marks a 30% drop from current levels.

Will he be proven correct?

I don’t know.

But I do know that it feels like a recession has already arrived to many Americans.

Every day, we get even more bad economic news.  For instance, Fox Business just published an article about how major drug store chains are in the process of closing down locations from coast to coast…

Just this week, Walgreens announced that it would close a “significant” number of under performing stores across the U.S. due to ongoing challenges with profitability and declining margins.

Earlier this month, Rite Aid announced that 27 locations in Michigan and Ohio have been added to the growing number of stores it plans to close while it restructures under Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

In large cities all over the nation, thousands upon thousands of commercial properties are now sitting empty.

Of course this is just the start.

As the globe is rocked by one chaotic crisis after another, things will get a whole lot worse.

A “perfect storm” is now upon us, and most people have absolutely no idea how harsh conditions around us will soon become.

Michael’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com, and you can subscribe to his Substack newsletter at michaeltsnyder.substack.com.

About the Author: Michael Snyder’s new book entitled “Chaos” is available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon.com. He has also written seven other books that are available on Amazon.com including “End Times”, “7 Year Apocalypse”, “Lost Prophecies Of The Future Of America”, “The Beginning Of The End”, and “Living A Life That Really Matters”.  When you purchase any of Michael’s  books you help to support the work that he is doing.  You can also get his articles by email as soon as he publishes them by subscribing to his Substack newsletter.  Michael has published thousands of articles on The Economic Collapse Blog, End Of The American Dream and The Most Important News, and he always freely and happily allows others to republish those articles on their own websites.  These are such troubled times, and people need hope.  John 3:16 tells us about the hope that God has given us through Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  If you have not already done so, we strongly urge you to invite Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior today.

The post It Now Takes An Annual Income Of $186,000 A Year For Americans To Feel Financially Secure appeared first on The Economic Collapse.

The United States ruling class has vowed to send more weaponry to Ukraine. This $2.3 billion weapons package will include more air defense interceptors and other “critical munitions” from the Pentagon.

According to a report by RT, the contents of the shipment have not been made public, however, it will include a “significant number” of air defense missile interceptors.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin met with his Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, at the Pentagon on Tuesday, where he said Washington would soon announce a further $2.3 billion in military aid for Kiev. Austin also received an update on the “dynamics on the ground” in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, and reassured Umerov of Washington’s “unwavering support.”

During the meeting, the US official highlighted American efforts to fulfill Ukraine’s “most urgent” military requirements, including $2.3 billion in additional security assistance that “will be announced soon,” according to press secretary Pat Ryder.

“I am proud that the U.S. will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine. This package under presidential drawdown authority will provide more air defense interceptors, anti-tank weapons, and other critical munitions from US inventories,” Austin said.

Russia Issues Another Warning, This Time To Israel

Russia has repeatedly warned that foreign military supplies to Ukraine will not prevent Russia from achieving its goals and will merely prolong the conflict. It claims the only thing the weapons have achieved is stretching out the war. Moscow has stressed that the delivery of arms, sharing of intelligence, and training of Ukrainian soldiers means that Western nations are directly involved in the fighting.

Russia has proven itself to be quite good at issuing warnings and threats, but terrible at following through with consequences. The U.S. seems to understand this and continues to be a proxy in this war, prolonging it, funding it, and continuing to throw Moscow’s warnings back in its face.

Another Empty Threat? Russia Tells U.S. It Will Retaliate Over Sevastopol Missile Strike

Russia’s continued empty threats are only emboldening the U.S. and its Western allies. But those same empty threats are all that stand between the slave class and World War III.