What to Buy, What to Skip, and What to Stock This Hurricane Season

Fri, Jun 13th 2025, 03:52 PM

When a storm is on the horizon, the last place you want to be is in a crowded grocery store with empty shelves. But prepping for hurricane season doesn’t have to mean panic buying or blowing your budget. With a little planning, you can build a solid hurricane kit over time — and avoid the last-minute rush.

🥫 What to Stock: The Smart Essentials

Here’s what should be in every Bahamian hurricane kit:

  • Water: At least one gallon per person per day for 3–7 days
  • Canned goods: Tuna, sardines, beans, corned beef, soups, fruit — all with long shelf life
  • Crackers, cereal, peanut butter, powdered milk
  • Baby items: Diapers, wipes, formula, snacks
  • Pet food and supplies
  • Medications: Refill prescriptions early and include basic first aid items
  • Batteries: AA, AAA, D, and any needed for fans, radios, or flashlights
  • Flashlights & battery-powered lanterns
  • Manual can opener (don’t forget it!)
  • Disinfectant wipes, garbage bags, and gloves
  • Cash: In small bills, in case ATMs and POS systems are down
  • Fuel: For generators, stoves, or lanterns — but store safely

💰 On a Budget? Build Over Time

If money is tight, don’t try to get it all at once. Instead:

  • Add 2–3 canned goods or bottled waters to each weekly grocery trip
  • Watch for 2-for-1 deals or dry goods on clearance
  • Set aside $5–$10 a week for a hurricane cash stash
  • Rotate your pantry by using and replacing items throughout the season

The key is consistency, not perfection.

❌ What to Skip (Unless You’re Sure You’ll Use It)

  • Gourmet or “storm snacks” that take up space but don’t fuel
  • Perishables that won’t survive a power outage
  • Large frozen foods (unless you have backup power)
  • Duplicate gadgets — a solid flashlight is enough, no need for five

🧾 Bonus Tip: Keep a Running List

Keep your hurricane supplies list visible on the fridge or inside a cabinet. Check it weekly. That way you’re not guessing what’s missing when a storm system starts brewing.

 Sponsored Ads