Emergency preparedness does not require expensive gear. The basics are affordable, and building gradually makes costs manageable. This checklist focuses on high-value, low-cost essentials.

Free: No Cost Required

  • Write emergency contact list
  • Identify meeting points for family
  • Learn location of utility shutoffs
  • Download emergency apps (FEMA, weather)
  • Know evacuation routes
  • Sign up for local emergency alerts
  • Fill empty bottles with tap water
  • Identify shelter areas in home

Under $10

  • Flashlight and batteries ($5)
  • Candles and matches ($3)
  • Manual can opener ($3)
  • Whistle for signaling ($2)
  • First aid supplies (basic bandages, antiseptic) ($5)
  • Duct tape ($4)
  • Plastic sheeting ($5)
  • Bleach for water treatment ($3)

Under $25

  • Battery or crank radio ($15 to $25)
  • Basic first aid kit ($15)
  • Water containers (food-grade buckets) ($5 each)
  • Portable phone charger ($15)
  • Emergency blankets, multi-pack ($8)
  • Work gloves ($8)

Budget Food Storage

  • Rice (25 lb bag: $15, provides many meals)
  • Dried beans (bulk bags: $2 to $5)
  • Oats (large container: $5)
  • Peanut butter ($4)
  • Canned vegetables (stock sale items)
  • Canned meat/fish (stock sale items)
  • Salt and basic spices ($5)
  • Honey (never spoils) ($8)

DIY Solutions

  • Water storage: Clean 2-liter bottles (free)
  • Emergency toilet: 5-gallon bucket with pool noodle seat ($5)
  • DIY air filter: Box fan + furnace filter ($20)
  • Fire starters: Dryer lint + cardboard egg cartons (free)
  • Emergency lighting: Solar garden lights (bring inside) ($10)

Building Gradually

  • Add $5 to $10 of supplies per shopping trip
  • Buy one extra of shelf-stable items you use
  • Watch for sales on canned goods
  • Check dollar stores for basics
  • Thrift stores for camping gear
  • Set small monthly prep budget

Priority Order (If Funds Are Very Limited)

  1. Water storage and treatment capability
  2. Basic food for 3 days
  3. Flashlight and batteries
  4. First aid basics
  5. Communication (radio, charged phone)
  6. Cash on hand
  7. Important documents copied
  8. Everything else

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does basic preparedness cost?
A minimal kit can be assembled for $50 to $100. Building over several months makes it very affordable.

What is the single most important thing?
Water. You can survive weeks without food but only days without water. Prioritize water storage and treatment.

Are dollar store supplies adequate?
For many items, yes. Batteries, candles, first aid supplies, and many basics work fine. Quality matters more for tools and electronics.

Should I buy premade kits?
Usually not the best value. Building your own costs less and you get exactly what you need. Pre-made kits often include low-quality items.

About the Author

Mike The Rock writes practical emergency preparedness guides for Ready Atlas.

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by location and time. This checklist provides general guidance for budget-conscious preparedness.