Top 10 Power Outage Supplies for Disasters

When a long-term disaster strikes, power outages are often inevitable. Here's a top 10 list of essential supplies to keep you powered and safe during extended outages.

GEAR & TOOLSPOWER & EMP

9/10/20246 min read

a couple in the basement during a storm with a generator

Top 10 Power Outage Supplies for Long-Term Disasters

When a long-term disaster strikes, power outages are often inevitable. Whether caused by natural events like hurricanes, earthquakes, or man-made incidents like cyberattacks or grid failures, being prepared for prolonged power loss is crucial for survival and comfort. Here's a top 10 list of essential supplies to keep you powered and safe during extended outages:

When you’ve spent as much time as I have working with individuals and families to prepare for the unexpected, you start to notice patterns. Emergencies don’t announce themselves politely. They don’t give you time to debate whether you’re ready. Time and again, I’ve seen how something as seemingly mundane as a power outage can escalate into a full-blown crisis when people are unprepared. Conversations with clients often circle back to the same realization: the most underestimated threat in modern households is the loss of electricity. It’s more than just an inconvenience; it’s a wake-up call for why power outage preparedness is non-negotiable.

Electricity drives almost every aspect of daily life. It powers the refrigerator that keeps your food safe, the devices that connect you to the outside world, and even the systems that heat or cool your home. Yet, the grid is vulnerable. Whether from storms, infrastructure failures, or other causes, power outages are inevitable. Without proper preparation, you’re at the mercy of the dark. The good news? With the right supplies and a solid checklist, you can turn chaos into manageable discomfort.

Start with the basics: light and power. Flashlights and lanterns should be within arm’s reach in every major room. Batteries are essential, but think long-term. Battery-powered devices have their limits, so consider a hand-crank or solar-powered option. And don’t overlook the importance of a portable power bank for your phone. If you have medical equipment, such as a CPAP machine, a backup battery or generator is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity.

Food and water storage is another cornerstone of preparedness. The fridge and freezer can only keep perishables safe for about four hours and 48 hours, respectively, if unopened. A supply of non-perishable food that doesn’t require cooking can make all the difference. As for water, aim for at least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of three days. If space is an issue, compact water purification tablets or water filtration systems are excellent alternatives.

Communication such as satellite phones and communicators is often the most fragile thread during a power outage. The moment the lights go out, so do most forms of communication. A battery-operated or hand-crank radio can keep you updated on developments. Many of these radios also double as flashlights or phone chargers, offering multiple layers of utility in one compact device.

Heating your home during a disaster and cooling it can’t be ignored, especially if you live in areas prone to extreme weather. Blankets, sleeping bags, and portable hand warmers can stave off the cold, while battery-powered fans and cooling towels can provide relief during a summer outage. If you’re using a generator, ventilation is critical to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Position it outdoors, away from windows and doors, to keep your family safe.

First aid should never be an afterthought. A well-stocked first aid kit is indispensable, with enough supplies to handle minor injuries or illnesses. Include a week’s worth of medications for each family member, stored in a waterproof container. For families with infants or pets, add formula, diapers, and pet food to your checklist. Details like these are often overlooked but can make all the difference when the lights go out.

Lastly, organization is key. Your checklist should be more than a scribbled note on the fridge. Create a physical or digital inventory of your supplies, and update it regularly. Test your flashlights, check the expiration dates on food and batteries, and ensure your generator is in working order. This isn’t paranoia; it’s practical planning. Emergencies don’t wait for convenience, and a well-prepared home is your best defense against the unpredictable.

1. Portable Solar Generator

A portable solar generator, like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro, provides an eco-friendly and renewable power source during long-term outages. Unlike traditional gas-powered generators, solar generators run silently, require no fuel, and can keep essential electronics like refrigerators, phones, and medical devices running. Pairing the generator with portable solar panels allows continuous recharging as long as sunlight is available.

2. Power Banks and Rechargeable Batteries

Backup power banks are essential for charging small electronics, such as cell phones and radios. Look for high-capacity options like Anker PowerCore or Goal Zero power stations. Stock up on rechargeable AA and AAA batteries for flashlights, radios, and other battery-operated tools. Solar-powered chargers for these batteries can extend their lifespan indefinitely.

3. LED Lanterns and Flashlights

Lighting is crucial during a power outage, especially at night. Invest in high-quality LED lanterns and flashlights. LED lights are more energy-efficient and provide longer-lasting brightness compared to incandescent bulbs. Models like Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 or Black Diamond Apollo Lantern are excellent for extended outages, offering reliable light without draining power quickly.

4. Emergency Radio

An emergency radio is vital for receiving news and weather updates during disasters when the internet and TV may be down. Look for a radio that has multiple power options—battery, solar, and hand-crank capabilities. The Kaito KA500 or Midland ER310 are top choices, offering AM/FM and NOAA weather channels along with built-in flashlight functions.

5. Non-Perishable Food and Water

Even with ample power supplies, food and water are essential for survival. Stockpile at least two weeks' worth of non-perishable food items like canned goods, freeze-dried meals, and protein bars. A supply of bottled water or large water storage containers is also crucial. If you plan on collecting water, include a high-quality Berkey water filter or LifeStraw to purify unsafe water sources.

6. Wood Stove or Propane Heater

For warmth and cooking in cold climates, a wood stove or Mr. Heater F232020 propane heater can be lifesaving. These off-grid heat sources provide warmth, boil water, and allow for simple cooking. Make sure you have adequate ventilation, especially with propane heaters, and stockpile firewood or propane tanks before an emergency strikes.

7. Manual Kitchen Tools

With no electricity, your modern kitchen appliances will be useless. Stock up on manual kitchen tools like a hand-crank can opener, manual coffee grinder, and cast iron pans for cooking over open flames or a gas stove. A rocket stove or small outdoor grill is a great option for cooking without power.

8. Water Storage and Purification

Water is essential during a power outage, as you may not have access to running water. Store large containers of water or use rainwater collection systems to capture and store clean water. Ensure you have a water filter system like Sawyer Mini or Katadyn Hiker Pro to purify contaminated sources. A supply of purification tablets or bleach can also provide emergency backup for ensuring water safety.

9. First Aid Kit

In any emergency, medical care may be difficult to access. A well-stocked first aid kit is necessary to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and emergencies. Include essential items like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, tweezers, scissors, and any prescription medications you or your family may need. An additional survival first aid manual can also guide you through more advanced care if professional help is unavailable.

10. Personal Hygiene Supplies

Maintaining hygiene in a long-term power outage helps prevent illness and discomfort. Stock up on essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, soap, and disposable gloves. In situations where water is limited, having alternatives like dry shampoo, waterless body wash, and bucket toilets can ensure you remain sanitary. Keeping trash bags and bleach handy can also help manage waste safely.

Bonus Considerations

Fuel Storage

If you plan on using gas-powered generators or propane heaters, storing extra fuel is vital. Make sure to keep it in a safe, well-ventilated area and rotate your stock periodically to prevent spoilage.

Communication Devices

In case of complete grid failure, having backup communication methods like walkie-talkies or satellite phones can keep you connected with others.

Insulation and Weatherproofing

Preparing your home for long-term outages also involves ensuring proper insulation and weatherproofing to maintain comfortable temperatures without electrical heating or cooling. Heavy-duty blankets, plastic window coverings, and draft stoppers can be invaluable.