Emergency situations happen when you least expect them, so keeping a stash of long lasting food on hand brings real peace of mind. Whether I’m preparing for storms knocking out the power, natural disasters hitting my area, or just wanting to avoid last minute grocery runs, building an emergency food supply has always felt pretty smart.
If you’re wondering what should go into your emergency kit, or what to stockpile for emergencies, you’re definitely not alone. I’ve spent plenty of time researching, testing, and even taste-testing (yes, some freeze dried meals are actually pretty good!) to figure out the essentials.
In this guide, I’ll share my top 10 emergency food storage essentials. These basics have saved me from getting caught off guard, and they make prepping super approachable—even if you’re just getting started.
1. Clean Drinking Water
Water always comes first for me. You can have a pantry full of food, but without safe water, you’re in trouble in just a couple of days. Experts usually recommend at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene. I like to keep a mix of factory sealed water bottles and a couple of sturdy water storage containers. For longer emergencies, water purification tablets or a filtered pitcher can help tackle questionable water sources.
- Store at least three days’ worth, but aiming for two weeks feels a lot safer.
- Include purification tablets or a portable filter for unexpected situations.
2. Shelf Stable Canned Goods
When I think of what to put in emergency food storage, canned foods are at the top. They’re ready to eat, last for years, and you can get almost anything in a can: beans, veggies, fruits, meats, even pasta or soup. Grab a variety that covers protein, carbs, and vitamins. My go to picks? Canned black beans, chili, chicken breast, corn, peaches, and hearty soups.
- Rotate your stock so the oldest gets used first.
- Don’t forget a manual can opener. It’s one of those little things that’s easy to overlook.
3. Ready to Eat Meals (MREs or Freeze Dried)
Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) and freeze dried meals have come a long way. They’re lightweight, super portable, and require little to no prep. I keep a few just in case I need a hot meal with minimal fuss. Most options just need water—hot if you want it tasty, but cold works in a pinch. A good mix covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Check expiration dates; they usually last 5–10 years.
- Some come with warming packs, so you don’t even need a stove.
4. Dry Staples: Rice, Pasta, and Oats
I always stock up on these because they make great bases for all sorts of meals. Rice, pasta, and oats last for ages in airtight containers and help stretch other foods further. Instant rice and quick oats mean faster cooking when you’re short on time or heat. For extra variety, throw in some dry lentils or split peas to add more options and nutrients to simple meals.
- Store in airtight containers to keep bugs away.
- Add a container of salt for flavor and food preservation.
5. Nut Butters and Nuts
Energy dense, packed with healthy fats and protein, nuts and nut butters are incredibly handy. I keep jars of peanut butter and bags of almonds or mixed nuts in my kit because they fill me up fast and don’t need refrigeration. Check labels for “no stir” or shelf stable options for the longest life. Don’t forget that nut butters work great as spreads on crackers or bread, making meals feel more satisfying, especially if the days get long.
- Peanut, almond, and sunflower butters work great.
- Portion out nuts into sealed bags or containers for freshness.
6. Dried Fruits and Jerky
For snacks that last and keep you energized, I reach for dried fruits and meat jerky. Dried mango, raisins, apples, and turkey or beef jerky store easily, taste good, and add variety. I like having a healthy, portable snack if I need to move or ration my main meals. Trail mixes that combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits offer a quick way to mix in some variety and extra nutrients.
- Choose low sugar and low sodium options for better health.
- Try dehydrated fruit blends or trail mixes for extra flavor.
7. Powdered Milk and Meal Replacement Drinks
Most fresh dairy just doesn’t last, but powdered milk or shelf stable alternative milks (like soy or almond) are good for drinking, cereal, or even baking. I also add some meal replacement shakes or protein powders for extra nutrition; especially if I can’t prep regular meals, they fill nutrition gaps quickly. These can double as snacks or breakfasts when the situation isn’t ideal.
- Store dry mixes in a cool, dry spot.
- Check that you have enough water to mix them up.
8. Crackers, Granola Bars, and Shelf Stable Bread
Crackers and granola bars are my “grab and go” emergency foods. Look for high calorie, nonperishable options like whole wheat crackers, graham crackers, and nutrition bars. Some specialty stores carry bread that’s good for months unopened. It’s worth checking out if you want even more options to round out your meals.
- Pick varieties with at least some fiber and protein.
- Rotate snacks every few months to keep them tasty.
9. Instant Soups and Bouillon Cubes
Soups and broths are super comforting when you’re stressed, cold, or not feeling your best. Instant soup packets or bouillon cubes take up almost no space and can turn plain rice, pasta, or canned veggies into something much tastier. I keep chicken and veggie bouillon cubes in my kit at all times. Even just warm broth can lift spirits and help you stay hydrated on tough days.
- Watch sodium levels; hydrate more if you’re eating lots of salty foods.
- If you have special dietary needs (like gluten free), check labels carefully.
10. Cooking and Eating Supplies
This category is all about the stuff that makes emergency meals possible. Disposable plates, bowls, cups, and utensils take a lot of stress out of cleanup when there isn’t running water. I also stash a small camping stove or portable burner (with extra fuel), waterproof matches or a lighter, and sturdy trash bags. A few hand wipes or sanitizer bottles and some heavy duty foil come in handy more often than you think.
- Manual can opener, plus scissors and a basic knife.
- Paper towels, soap, and a few clean cloths for easy cleanup.
- A camp stove and portable burner, with lighters or matches for cooking.
What to Put in Your Emergency Kit: Quick Checklist
Still not sure which 10 items should go into your emergency kit? Here’s a direct list that covers the bases:
- Drinking water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
- Shelf stable canned goods (variety of proteins, veggies, and fruits)
- Ready to eat meals (MREs or freeze dried meals)
- Rice, pasta, or oats
- Nut butter and nuts
- Dried fruit and jerky
- Powdered or shelf stable milk, meal replacement drinks
- Crackers, granola/nutrition bars
- Instant soups, broth cubes
- Manual can opener (X2 one is none, two is one), basic utensils, and a camp stove or portable burner
Add a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, essential medications, and any personal items to round it off. Rotate items every 6 to 12 months to keep things fresh and safe to eat. If you have pets, make sure you have food and supplies for them, too.
Extra Tips on Stockpiling and Storing Emergency Foods
I always try to keep my food storage in a cool, dry, and dark place; heat and moisture are the main reasons things spoil quick. Organize by putting the oldest food at the front so nothing gets forgotten or wasted. Storing foods in airtight containers or vacuum sealed bags gives an extra layer of protection, and you can even label with the dates so you know when to use them. Check labels for allergens or sensitivities in your household and, if possible, make list of everything in your kit to make planning easier when stress and time are tight.
To give yourself even more peace of mind, occasionally run a quick drill by pretending there’s no power for a day and only using your emergency kit foods. It’s a great way to spot gaps, check what’s missing, and see what needs refreshing.
Final Thoughts
Storing emergency food isn’t about panic. It’s about feeling secure and ready for whatever comes up. By sticking to these core essentials, I know my family will have plenty to eat and drink, even if the power’s out or stores are closed. Start with just a few items, and you’ll be surprised how quickly your emergency kit builds up. Got a favorite prep item or tip I didn’t mention? I love hearing new ideas, so drop your favorites below!