16 Items That Are Totally Worth Stockpiling (Start Buying Them Now)

You never know when you will need things at a moment’s notice. Natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, and fires can strike at any time.

That is why it makes sense to stockpile some items. Not only can you save money on essentials by buying them in bulk, but you also will have the peace of mind of knowing that the items are there when you need them.

Here are 16 items you should consider stockpiling now.

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1. Lighters and matches

While sleepaway camp and scouts taught us how to make a fire without modern tools, keeping matches and lighters stocked is a better idea.

Having these items on hand will make it easier to heat your food and home.

2. Cleaning supplies

Cleaning supplies can be a smart item to stockpile. Many antibacterial and cleansing items can sit on the shelf for a long time.

However, note that the shelf life of bleach is much shorter than that of other cleaners.

3. Peanut butter

Unless someone in your immediate circle is allergic to peanut butter, you might want to keep a jar in your stockpile. Not only does peanut butter have a long shelf life, but it is a reliable source of protein that can make you feel full pretty quickly.

Enjoy it by itself or add it to crackers, produce, breads, and desserts. Peanut butter can also be used to deodorize a space and to clean leather.

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4. Tarp

If you have never had to use a tarp during a weather emergency while camping, you might not know all the great things this waterproof blanket can do.

Use it to build shelter or as an awning, collect rainwater with it, or lay it under your tent or items to guard them from the elements.

5. White rice

White rice is a great thing to keep in stock for its high caloric value. If stored uncooked properly, some experts say it can last as long as 30 years.

Uncooked rice can be used for cleaning and absorbing moisture, and in fabric as part of a heating pad.

6. Soap

Bar soap offers an inexpensive way to keep hygiene alive and well. It is the least expensive type of soap, and stacks well.

Pro tip: Grab an unscented option so there is no question about whether it will age well.

7. Toilet paper

When stocking up on toilet tissue, buy in bulk at stores like Walmart, Costco, and Sam’s Club with coupons.

This is one item you don’t want to be caught without.

8. Dried beans and lentils

Like rice, legumes have a long shelf life. Their cooking time may increase the longer you keep them, but stocking items like beans and lentils will keep protein consistently in your diet.

Pro tip: Put baking soda into the water when you soak your legumes to help reduce intestinal gas.

9. Pasta

Pasta also has a long shelf life. It can keep for over 10 years if sealed correctly and kept in a dry area.

This is a staple food that should be in many stockpiles.

10. Feminine hygiene items

If you are a woman who has ever been stuck in a situation without feminine hygiene items, then you understand why this made the list.

Do make sure to check up on expiration dates. While feminine hygiene products have a longer shelf life, many last around five years.

11. Pet food and medications

Don’t forget your furry friends! Yes, they can eat nutritious “people food,” but dry pet food and canned items are great to stockpile.

Many of these items have longer shelf lives than you might expect. Plus, pet supplies come in budget-friendly bulk sizing. And if a hurricane or other storm is approaching, don’t forget to stock up on medications.

12. Batteries

Batteries are a great option to keep in your stockpile. You never know when a gaming system or new toy might need them. Plus, they are a great backup if you are ever in a situation where you lose power.

It is more budget-friendly to grab big packs of batteries wholesale at stores such as Target, Walmart, IKEA, and Sam’s Club.

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13. Aluminum foil

Aluminum foil can come in handy for so many different things. Not only can you prepare and store food in it, but you can use it to extend the life of a dull blade, or use it as reflective strips, patches, and more.

You can scrub items clean with it, improve radiator efficiency, and form a funnel out of it. The uses of foil are pretty far-reaching.

14. Candy

Hard candies can be a great thing to have on hand in an emergency situation.

Tasty sweets such as Jolly Ranchers, lollipops, mints, and other separately wrapped hard candies can last a long time and help relieve your hunger if you are rationing.

15. Soups and broth

Canned soups and broth are great items to keep in stock. You can use them in a hot pot as soup, pour them over other meals to add flavor and hydration, and more.

Most canned food items will last two to five years. Bouillon cubes can maintain a shelf life of more than two years if stored properly.

16. Over-the-counter medications

Over-the-counter medications are great items to keep in stock. That means everything from Tylenol to Pepto-Bismol, medical tape and bandages, saline spray, and more.

Stock up on any meds you may need, but stay aware of the expiration dates.

Bottom line

Grocery budget hacks such as using browser extensions and coupons or shopping sales can really help you save money as you stockpile.

Keep your eyes peeled for extra savings, and make sure to have a place to store your items before you purchase them.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).