Solar generator
A battery power station you recharge from the sun. Silent, no fumes, safe to run indoors. Look for at least 1,000 Wh so it can run a hot plate and keep phones and lights going.
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Power
Everything else on this page runs off this. Start here.
Folding solar panel
Recharges the generator during the day. Get one rated for your power station (most take 100–200 W panels) and keep it with the unit.
See on AmazonPower bank
A pocket-size battery for phones and a radio, so the big unit is saved for cooking.
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The quiet indoor kitchen
Cook inside, with no flame, no smoke and no smell drifting out to the neighbors.
Induction hot plate
One burner that runs off your solar generator. No flame and no fumes, so it's safe inside. Pick a model with a low-wattage setting to stretch your battery.
See on AmazonThermal cooker
Bring a pot to a boil, then it keeps cooking for hours with no power at all. Rice, beans, stews. Your battery lasts far longer.
See on AmazonInduction-ready pot
Induction only works with magnetic cookware. One good stainless pot with a lid covers almost everything.
See on AmazonManual can opener
The electric one won't help you. Keep a sturdy hand-crank opener with your canned food.
See on AmazonSafety first: never use a propane, butane or charcoal stove, grill or gas generator inside your home or garage. They give off carbon monoxide, which you can't see or smell. That's why this kitchen is electric.
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Water
Plan on one gallon per person per day. Store some, and have a way to clean more.
Gravity water filter
A countertop filter that needs no power. Pour water in the top, clean water comes out the bottom.
See on AmazonWater storage containers
Stackable food-grade containers so you have water on hand before anything happens.
See on AmazonPersonal water filter
A straw or squeeze filter for each person in your go-bag.
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Food
Long shelf life, easy to make with hot water.
Emergency food supply
Freeze-dried meals in a bucket that keep for years. Add hot water from your hot plate and eat.
See on AmazonRice and beans storage
Cheap, filling and perfect for the thermal cooker. Store in sealed buckets with oxygen absorbers.
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Light & radio
See inside, stay informed, and keep your home from standing out on a dark street.
Hand-crank emergency radio
NOAA weather alerts and AM/FM when the internet is down. Crank or solar charging, plus a flashlight and phone charger.
See on AmazonRechargeable LED lanterns
Safer than candles. Keep one per room.
See on AmazonBlackout curtains
When the whole street is dark, yours shouldn't be the one house glowing. These also hold in heat.
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First aid
If help can't get to you, you need to be able to take care of your family.
First aid kit
A complete family kit, plus a few weeks of any medications your household depends on.
See on AmazonGo-bag
A backpack packed and ready by the door, in case you have to leave fast.
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