27 Essential Disaster Items You Can Find at Walmart

Walmart offers a variety of affordable and accessible items you can use to build your emergency supply. Below are 27 must-have items for surviving a disaster, all of which can be found at Walmart.

GEAR & TOOLS

9/17/20247 min read

27 Essential Disaster or SHTF Items You Can Find at Walmart

In a disaster or SHTF (Sh*t Hits the Fan) scenario, preparedness is key to survival. While there are specialty stores that cater to preppers, Walmart offers a variety of affordable and accessible items you can use to build your emergency supply. Below are 27 must-have items for surviving a disaster, all of which can be found at Walmart.

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As someone who's spent years consulting with individuals and families about disaster preparedness, I’ve seen the spectrum—from those who are deeply entrenched in the prepping lifestyle to those just realizing they’re not ready for the unexpected. One particular client, a single mother living in Florida, came to me in the wake of a near-miss hurricane. She’d always thought she’d have time to prepare, but as the storm closed in, grocery shelves emptied, and she realized how quickly things can unravel. It was a wake-up call that stayed with her and shaped how I now approach the basics of prepping. Even if you understand what happens during the first 60 minutes of SHTF, there is still a chance you won't have time to execute your plan fully. So having multiple diverse storage and bug-out methods in place, is critical .Starting with what you can do today, even on a single shopping trip to Walmart, can make a world of difference.

When you’re building a starter 72 hour prepper kit, speed and practicality matter. Walmart, with its wide selection and accessibility, is a great place to begin. The first priority should be water. FEMA recommends at least one gallon per person per day, and you’ll want to stock enough for three days at a minimum. Look for affordable, stackable jugs in the bottled water aisle. While you’re there, grab a few sports bottles with built-in filters. These can help extend your water supply if you need to tap into less-than-pristine sources.

Next, you’ll need food that’s non-perishable and easy to prepare. Head to the canned goods section and pick up protein-packed items like beans, tuna, and chicken. Don’t forget some canned fruits and vegetables for balance. You’ll also want to grab peanut butter, granola bars, and instant oatmeal. These items are lightweight, calorie-dense, and require minimal preparation. Don’t forget a manual can opener—there’s no use in having a pantry full of cans you can’t open. As you save up more money and get comfortable, you can start to develop a long-term 30 year food storage system.

Lighting and power are critical in emergencies. The camping and outdoor section at Walmart is a treasure trove for this. Look for LED flashlights and lanterns; they’re energy-efficient and provide bright, reliable light. Pick up a pack of extra batteries to keep them running. If you can, invest in a hand-crank flashlight-radio combo. The hand-crank feature means you’re not dependent on batteries, and the radio function can keep you updated on emergency alerts.

First aid supplies are non-negotiable. Walmart’s pharmacy section has ready-made first aid kits that are a solid foundation. Make sure yours includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Supplement it with additional items like tweezers, scissors, and a thermometer. For families with specific needs, add necessary prescription medications or allergy remedies.

Personal hygiene is another area you can’t afford to overlook. In the travel-size toiletries section, pick up hand sanitizer, bar soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and baby wipes. These items don’t take up much space but can significantly improve morale and health during stressful times. If space allows, include a roll of heavy-duty garbage bags. They’re versatile—use them for waste disposal, waterproofing, or even makeshift rain ponchos. The surplus can also be added to a barter box for disasters, something that acts as a financial prepping tool when a disaster such as inflation hits us.

While Walmart’s hunting and camping aisles cater to more advanced preppers, beginners will find essential tools there as well. A multi-tool or Swiss Army knife is a compact option that offers versatility. Grab some waterproof matches and a basic fire starter kit. Even if you’re not planning to venture into the wilderness, having the ability to start a fire can be invaluable in a power outage for warmth or cooking.

Finally, don’t forget about storage. Clear plastic bins with secure lids are perfect for keeping your supplies organized and protected from moisture. Label each bin to make it easy to grab what you need quickly. Keep these bins in an accessible location—a closet near the front door or a corner of the garage works well. If you’re building a bug-out or get-home kit for your vehicle, consider a durable backpack that’s easy to carry.

Getting a starter prepper kit together doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on essentials—water, food, light, first aid, hygiene, and basic tools—you can assemble a reliable kit in a single trip. The key is to act now, before you need it. The difference between having the right supplies and being caught unprepared isn’t just peace of mind; it can be survival.

1. Water Storage Containers

Water is crucial for survival. Look for 5-gallon jugs, water bricks, or stackable water storage containers at Walmart. Having enough clean water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene is critical.

2. Water Purification Tablets

In the event that you run out of stored water, water purification tablets can make untreated water safe to drink by killing harmful pathogens.

3. LifeStraw of DIY Personal Water Filter

A LifeStraw is an inexpensive, portable water filter that allows you to drink directly from lakes, rivers, or contaminated water sources, filtering out bacteria and protozoa.

4. Canned Food

Walmart has a vast selection of canned meats, vegetables, fruits, and soups. These non-perishable foods can last for years and provide essential nutrition in a crisis.

5. Rice and Beans for Longterm

Dried rice and beans are shelf-stable, long-lasting, and provide a lot of calories for their cost. They’re a staple for any survival pantry.

6. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is high in calories and protein, making it an excellent food for energy in an emergency situation. It also has a long shelf life.

7. Portable Gas Stove

A portable propane stove allows you to cook food and boil water when electricity is unavailable. Don’t forget to stock up on propane canisters as well.

8. Propane Tanks

Small propane tanks for camp stoves, lanterns, and heaters can be found at Walmart. They provide a versatile fuel source for cooking, heating, and light.

9. Flashlights and Lanterns

Walmart offers a variety of flashlights and LED lanterns to keep your environment lit when the power goes out. Opt for battery-operated or solar-powered versions for extended use.

10. Batteries

Stock up on AA, AAA, and other sizes of batteries to keep your flashlights, radios, and other devices operational in a power outage.

11. Solar Chargers

You can find solar-powered phone chargers at Walmart that allow you to keep essential devices charged when there is no power. Many models can also charge flashlights and radios.

12. First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries during an emergency. Walmart sells comprehensive kits that include bandages, antiseptics, and other medical supplies.

13. OTC Medications

Stock up on over-the-counter medications like pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antacids, allergy meds, and cold and flu remedies to keep on hand in case pharmacies are closed.

14. Multivitamins and Electrolytes

In a long-term disaster, nutrition might become scarce. Multivitamins can help ensure you're still getting essential nutrients even with a limited food supply.

15. Emergency Blankets

Mylar emergency blankets reflect body heat and are compact, making them ideal for cold weather situations. These are great for your bug-out bag or vehicle emergency kit.

16. Sleeping Bags

Walmart carries a range of sleeping bags rated for different temperatures, which can provide warmth and comfort if you’re forced to sleep outdoors or in an unheated shelter.

17. Tarps

A tarp is an invaluable multipurpose tool in an emergency. It can be used for shelter, water collection, or ground cover. Walmart offers durable, waterproof tarps in various sizes.

18. Duct Tape Survival Uses

Duct tape is versatile and can be used for repairs, sealing, and making temporary shelters. It’s a must-have in any disaster prep kit.

19. N95 Masks

In situations involving wildfires, pandemics, or airborne pollutants, N95 masks provide protection by filtering out harmful particles from the air.

20. Hand Crank or Solar Radio

A hand crank or solar-powered radio lets you receive important emergency broadcasts without relying on batteries. Many models also include flashlights and phone chargers.

21. Multitool

A good multitool is like having a toolbox in your pocket. Whether it’s a Leatherman or Gerber, a multitool can help with repairs, cutting, or even food prep in the field.

22. Rope and Paracord

Strong paracord or nylon rope can be used to build shelters, secure items, or even as a makeshift clothesline. It’s lightweight and incredibly durable.

23. Lighters and Matches

Stock up on lighters and waterproof matches to ensure you can start a fire for cooking or warmth. Walmart also offers fire starters, which are great for wet or windy conditions.

24. Plastic Sheeting

Plastic sheeting can be used to create a temporary shelter, seal windows, or collect rainwater. It’s lightweight and packs easily, making it a versatile survival tool.

25. Hygiene Supplies

Personal hygiene is important in a disaster. Grab toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products to ensure cleanliness.

26. Trash Bags

Large, heavy-duty trash bags have multiple uses. They can serve as emergency ponchos, makeshift shelters, or as containers for waste management in an emergency.