Every household needs basic emergency supplies, and getting started is easier than you might think. The key is beginning with essentials and building gradually, you don't need to transform into a pro survivalist overnight.
Your household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours, according to FEMA and the Red Cross. This might sound daunting, but it's remarkably achievable when broken down into manageable categories. Most families can build a solid foundation kit for under $150, spread across several shopping trips.
The most critical supply is water — one gallon (3.8l) per person per day for a minimum of three days. For a family of four, that's 12 gallons, which weighs about 100 pounds (45kg). Store water in food-grade containers, label them with dates, and replace every six months. The CDC recommends trying for a two-week supply if space allows, especially in areas prone to extended power outages or severe weather.
Food supplies that actually work
Non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods form your nutritional backbone during emergencies. Think beyond just canned goods, easy to find and affordable items like energy bars, peanut butter, crackers, and dried fruits require no preparation and pack efficiently. The Red Cross recommends planning for a three-day minimum, with a two-week supply ideal for home storage.
Don't forget the manual can opener — it's surprising how often this essential tool gets overlooked. Include comfort foods like cookies, instant coffee, or tea bags. During stressful situations, familiar tastes provide psychological comfort alongside nutrition.
Power, communication, and essential tools
Battery-powered or hand-crank radios keep you connected when cell towers fail, particularly NOAA Weather Radios that provide continuous emergency broadcasts. Store extra batteries for all devices, and consider combination units that include flashlight, radio, and phone charging capabilities.
Your communication plan should include local maps (paper copies), emergency contact information in waterproof storage, and a whistle for signaling help. Cash becomes critical when card readers don't work, so keep small bills readily accessible.
Essential tools include a multi-purpose tool or Swiss Army knife, duct tape and plastic sheeting for quick repairs, matches in waterproof containers, and a wrench for turning off utilities. These items serve double duty in both emergency situations and regular household maintenance.
Building your kit affordably
Start gradually rather than buying everything at once. Add one or two items during each grocery trip, shop sales for emergency supplies, and repurpose containers you already have. Military surplus stores offer durable, affordable gear, while dollar stores provide basic supplies like batteries and flashlights.
Storage locations matter tremendously. Keep supplies in easily accessible, temperature-stable areas. Apartments can utilize under-bed storage or closets, while houses might use basements or dedicated emergency spaces. Store supplies off the floor to prevent moisture damage, and ensure all family members know their location.
Maintenance makes the difference
Every six months, schedule a supply check. Replace stored water, rotate food items using the "first in, first out" method, test electronics and replace batteries, and update emergency contacts. Set smartphone reminders to make this routine automatic.
Common mistakes that cost time and money
The biggest mistake is perfectionism paralysis, waiting for the "perfect" kit instead of starting with basics. Other frequent errors include storing supplies in inaccessible locations, forgetting manual can openers, underestimating water needs, and buying inappropriate storage containers.
Many families also fail to account for pets, medications, or special dietary needs. Remember that emergency supplies should serve your specific household, not some generic family that exists only in checklists.
Your emergency kit is an investment in peace of mind. Starting with these fundamentals creates a solid foundation you can expand over time, knowing your family has the basics covered when storms, power outages, or other disruptions occur.
How Survivalist can help?
Survivalist helps you organize your supplies into caches that are categorized by purpose (pantry, bug-out-bag, vehicle-kit, etc.), it enables you to track inventory quantities, expiration dates and how many estimated provision days your cache has. It also alerts you when items in your caches are about to expire. If you haven't already, you can start your prepping with Survivalist today for free, no trials, no credit card and no user accounts.