Having trouble finding essential everyday and emergency supplies, especially during shortages? Use this quick reference list and practical tips to help you source those items in short supply. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a global pandemic, knowing how to find what you need can make all the difference.
Have you ever noticed how, whenever a big storm is predicted, people start rushing to stores to clean them out of every food item and supply they have on the shelves? There’s a predictable list of things that disappear in emergencies. With this in mind, a group of Facebook readers was asked to submit their own lists of the most important things for stocking up and what they’ve seen fly off store shelves when a storm or other emergency is on its way. Here is that compiled list of their responses.
Items that Disappear First
Foods
- Bread
- Butter
- Cereal
- Coffee
- Eggs
- Flour
- Fruit, canned and fresh
- Honey
- Meats, canned
- Milk
- Peanut butter
- Pet food
- Salt
- Sugar
- Vegetables, canned and root vegetables
- Water
- Yeast
Sources of power & light
- Batteries
- Candles
- Charcoal
- Coolers
- Flashlights
- Gasoline
- Generators
- Glow sticks
- Ice
- Lamp oil and oil lanterns
- Lighter fluid
- Matches
- Propane, propane stoves
Fun & Diversions
- Alcohol, drinking
- Beer
- Cigarettes
- Condoms
- Candies and other sweets
First Aid & Medicines
Hygiene Supplies that Quickly Disappear
- Feminine hygiene products
- Paper plates/napkins
- Shampoo
- Soap (Learn how to make basic soap.)
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Bleach
Baby Supplies
Supplies for Improvising Shelters and Repairs
- Duct tape
- Plastic bags
- Plywood
- Radios
- Rope
How to Use This List
Don’t just read this list and forget about it. Take action now! Compare it to your current emergency supplies and identify any gaps. Remember, this is just a starting point – there are countless other items that can disappear during emergencies.
Think back to the COVID-19 pandemic. What items were difficult to find that aren’t on this list? Consider adding these to your emergency kit.
Alternative Sources for Hard-to-Find Items
Online Retailers
- Amazon: Offers a wide range of emergency supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, and tools.
- Walmart: Another major online retailer with a vast selection of emergency supplies.
- eBay: Can be a good source for finding used or refurbished items, such as generators or camping equipment.
- Specialized Online Stores: There are many online stores that specialize in emergency preparedness and survival gear, hygiene items, home maintenance and repair supplies, etc.
Discount Stores
- Dollar Stores: Can be a great place to find affordable items, such as batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, hygiene items, even eggs and boxed, shelf-stable milk.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: You never know what you’ll find here but household items and building materials are pretty sure bets.
- Join Local Groups: Look for Facebook groups, Nextdoor communities, or other online forums that are specific to your area. These groups often have members who share information about local stores, pharmacies, and other businesses that may have essential supplies in stock.
- Barter with neighbors: If you’re unable to find essential items, consider offering to trade goods or services with your neighbors.
Related Basic Prepping Content
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Final Thoughts
Preparing for emergencies doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you choose to take action on your own or go through the Fast Track Prepping course, the important thing is to start. By following the simple guidelines and using the provided resources, you’ll be well-equipped to handle unexpected challenges. Remember, preparedness is an ongoing process, so continue to review and update your plans as needed.
Originally published 4/22/2013 and has been updated.
