You should have these.
When a crisis hits, whether it’s a natural disaster, economic collapse, or something else, store shelves empty fast.
People panic, and the essentials vanish in hours. If you want to be ready, you need to stockpile the right items now, before the rush.
Below, I’ve listed 10 things that disappear first during emergencies, along with tips on where to find them affordably and how to store them properly.
Scarcity creates urgency, so let’s dive in and talk about what you need to prioritize.
1. Non-Perishable Food
Why it disappears
Food is the first thing people grab when a crisis looms.
Canned goods, pasta, rice, and freeze-dried meals fly off shelves as everyone scrambles to secure calories.
What to stock
Focus on shelf-stable staples like canned beans, vegetables, fruits, and meats (think tuna or chicken). Rice and dried lentils are cheap and last years. Freeze-dried meals or MREs are great for long-term storage.
Sourcing tips
Buy in bulk at warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club for deals on rice, beans, and canned goods. Dollar stores often have canned food for under $1.
Storage advice
Keep food in a cool, dry place, ideally below 70°F.
Use airtight containers for rice and grains to prevent pests. Rotate your stock by eating and replacing items to keep them fresh.
Aim for at least a 30-day supply per person.
2. Water Filters
Why it disappears
Clean water becomes a priority when taps run dry or get contaminated. Portable water filters and purification tablets sell out fast.
What to stock
Get a high-quality portable filter like a Sawyer Mini or LifeStraw.
Purification tablets or a gravity-fed system like a Berkey are also solid choices.
Sourcing tips
Sawyer Minis are around $20 on Amazon or at outdoor stores like REI.
Purification tablets are cheap at Walmart, Amazon or camping supply websites.
For larger systems, check Berkey’s website for discounts or eBay for used units in good condition.
Storage advice
Store filters in their original packaging in a dry place. Keep tablets in a waterproof container.
Test your filter before a crisis to ensure it works, and have a backup for redundancy.
3. Medical Supplies
Why it disappears
Pharmacies get cleaned out when people worry about injuries or illness without access to hospitals. Bandages, antiseptics, and medications go first.
What to stock
Build a robust first-aid kit with bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, burn cream, and pain relievers. Include prescription meds (talk to your doctor about extra supplies). Don’t forget basics like thermometer, tweezers, and gloves.
Sourcing tips
Dollar stores have bandages and antiseptics for cheap. Buy generic over-the-counter meds at Walmart or CVS during sales.
Storage advice
Store in a waterproof, portable container in a cool, dry spot.
Check expiration dates yearly and replace as needed. Keep a list of contents to stay organized.
4. Batteries
Why it disappears
Power outages make batteries critical for flashlights, radios, and devices. AA and AAA batteries are the first to go.
What to stock
Stock up on AA, AAA, and D batteries, plus any specific sizes for your devices.
Rechargeable batteries with a solar charger are a smart long-term option.
Sourcing tips
Buy bulk packs at Costco or Amazon for the best price per battery.
Look for sales around holidays.
Solar chargers are affordable on sites like Goal Zero or Amazon, starting at $30.
Storage advice
Store batteries in their original packaging in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme heat to prevent leakage.
Check expiration dates and test devices periodically.
5. Fuel
Why it disappears
Gas stations shut down or run dry during crises. People hoard fuel for generators, vehicles, or heating.
What to stock
Gasoline, propane, and kerosene are key. Get enough for your car, generator, or camp stove. Stabilized gasoline lasts longer.
Sourcing tips
Buy fuel cans on Amazon, at Home Depot or Walmart (5-gallon cans are around $15). Purchase fuel stabilizer at auto stores for under $10. Propane tanks are cheapest at hardware stores or gas exchanges.
Storage advice
Store fuel in approved containers in a well-ventilated, cool area away from your home (like a shed).
Use stabilizer to extend gasoline life up to a year. Rotate stock every 6-12 months. Follow local laws on storage limits.
