EMERGENCY ITEMS TO STOCKPILE
In case you haven’t heard, there’s a thing called the Coronavirus going around the world.
This means social distancing, stocking up on essential items, and avoiding people.
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Unfortunately, a lot of people are freaking out and buying up all the toilet paper, baby wipes and water.
They’re waiting in long lines and hanging around lots of people, which is a big no-no.
So…
What important items should you actually stock up on when in quarantine or other emergencies?
SURVIVAL FOODS TO STOCK UP ON
#1 CEREAL
Cereal is great because it’s cheap, has a long shelf life, and comes in a wide variety.
Try to get cereals rich in grains.
If they come in big bags you should store in smaller tupperware containers or bags so they don’t go stale as fast.
#2 FRUITS/VEGGIES (FROZEN/CANNED)
People do not think clearly when they’re in a panic.
This was quite obvious to me when I went to the supermarket to pick up a few things and most of the fresh produce was gone!
The savages bought up all the carrots, butternut squash, and cucumbers before things got real.
Yes fruits are vegetables are important, but in an emergency you want items that will last a long time.
Get canned and frozen fruits and vegetables.
#3 EGGS
Eggs are versatile and offer a good source of protein.
You can have them baked, boiled, scrambled, fried, and more.
I personally enjoy baking with them the most, but in a pinch you can make a very quick meal.
#4 PASTA
Another super cheap, shelf stable food.
If you’re worried about having too many cards you can get the gluten free, chickpea, spinach, or lentil kind.
#5 OIL
Unless you plan on boiling all of your food, you need some oil to cook with.
We use vegetable oil and coconut oil, but use what you prefer. A little bit goes a long way.
#6 RICE, GRAINS, OATS
You can make large batches that can be frozen for later and buy in bulk to save more money.
#7 BEANS
Canned beans last forever and are a good source of protein.
#8 CANNED MEAT (TUNA, CHICKEN, TURKEY)
My husband is NOT a fan of canned meats, but the truth is they last a long time and are another great source of protein.
Get creative.
You can make casseroles, sandwiches, enchiladas.
If that doesn’t sell it for you, buy fresh meats and individually freeze them.
We do this already when the sales come up.
#9 FLOUR, SUGAR, YEAST, PANCAKE MIX
Back to basics.
You don’t need many ingredients to make your own bread at home. Here’s a simple recipe for your own white bread.
Breakfast for lunch or dinner is a cheap meal replacement.
#10 CONDIMENTS
Salt and pepper are as simple as you can get to spice up a meal.
Salt is also a great preservative.
#11 CANNED SOUP
One of the simplest meals in a can.
Just heat and serve.
#12 DRIED FRUIT, NUTS, CRACKERS
Just because you’re hunkered down it doesn’t mean you can’t make yourself a nice spread.
These food items last and even though they aren’t full of nutrients, they are a nice quick snack.
# MULTIVITAMINS
Most of the food items in this post are a good source of vitamins, but to ensure you’re getting all the ones you need you should buy your favorite multivitamin and head outside for some Vitamin D.
# 14 NUTS
Get different nut butters or an assortment of nuts for a dose of protein.
My son loves peanut butter sandwiches and my daughter likes it with pretzel sticks.
Nut butters usually last 2 to 3 months once opened. Store in a cool place.
# 15 DRINKS (WATER, GATORADE, PEDIALYTE, POWDERED MILK)
Unless drinking water suddenly goes bad or is contaminated, it’s not necessary to hoard bottled water.
Buy your favorite drinks and get some Gatorade or Pedialyte, which is great for hydration should you experience fever or diarrhea.
Powdered milk lasts a long longer than fresh milk and is the perfect substitute in an emergency. It lasts about 2 years.
# 16 FIRST AID KIT
Everyone should have a first aid kit at home in case of an emergency.
This one is great because it is stocked with bandages, gauze, gloves, pain medicine, etc.
#17 SOAP
Washing your hands with soap and water is the preferred method of getting rid of germs.
Hand sanitizer is good when you’re on the go and can’t wash.
Laundry detergent is not a must (see my post on saving money doing laundry), but is good for your extremely soiled clothing.
#18 HYGIENE PRODUCTS, DIAPERS, PERSONAL
Restock your personal products, feminine hygiene, and essential baby items.
#19 MEDICINE
Get 30-60 days worth of your regular medicine.
With the Coronavirus going around it wouldn’t be a bad idea to buy fever reducing medicine and some Theraflu.
I have my allergy medicine for the year as well.
CHEAP NON-PERISHABLE FOODS
Here are a few more non-perishable items you may want to stock up on:
Ramen noodles: These things last forever and are super cheap. Not the healthiest meal, but if you don’t have a big budget you may want to buy a few packages.
Beef jerky: Easy to store and good protein source.
Protein/Granola Bars: Has lots of vitamins and can serve as a meal substitute.
Miscellaneous:
Pet food/Medications
Flashlight
Batteries
Generator
Radio
Matches
Next time you go to the supermarket go with a game plan.
Make your list and buy the necessities. Everything else is extra.
People get worried during emergencies and that’s understandable.
Reduce your worry by being prepared.
What are your must-have items in an emergency? Share below!
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