When a crisis strikes, whether it be economic collapse, natural disaster, or societal breakdown, essential supplies vanish quickly.

Those who are unprepared often scramble to secure basic necessities, only to find that the shelves have already been cleared. Having a well-thought-out survival plan and securing these critical items in advance can mean the difference between thriving and struggling.

Below is our categorized list of crucial supplies that we believe will disappear first when SHTF (S*** Hits The Fan):

Food & Water

Access to clean water and nutritious food is the foundation of survival. When supply chains are disrupted, these essentials will be the first to vanish.

  1. Bottled water & water filtration systems
  2. Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
  3. Dried foods (rice, beans, pasta, lentils)
  4. Cooking oils and fats
  5. Powdered milk and baby formula
  6. Salt, sugar, and spices
  7. Honey and syrups
  8. MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat)
  9. Coffee and tea
  10. Pet food
  11. Yeast and baking supplies
  12. Protein powders and meal replacement shakes
  13. Canning supplies (jars, lids, pectin)
  14. Vinegar (for food preservation and cleaning)
  15. Edible wild plant identification guides

Hygiene & Sanitation

Maintaining hygiene is critical to preventing disease and infection when modern plumbing and sanitation systems fail.

  1. Toilet paper and baby wipes
  2. Soap and body wash
  3. Hand sanitizer and disinfectants
  4. Feminine hygiene products
  5. Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss
  6. Razors and shaving cream
  7. Deodorant and antiperspirants
  8. Laundry detergent
  9. Trash bags (for waste management)
  10. Diapers and baby wipes
  11. Portable toilet and biodegradable waste bags
  12. Toilet seat covers
  13. Castile soap (multi-purpose use)
  14. Eyeglasses and contact lens solution
  15. Chlorine bleach (for water purification and sanitation)

Medical Supplies & First Aid

Injuries and illnesses can become life-threatening without proper medical supplies and treatments. Start with the essentials to have on hand the best first aid kit:

  1. Prescription medications
  2. Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin)
  3. Antibiotics and antiseptics
  4. Bandages, gauze, and wound dressings
  5. Thermometers
  6. Cold and flu medicine
  7. Hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol
  8. Medical gloves and masks
  9. Vitamins and supplements
  10. EpiPens and allergy medication
  11. Eyedrops
  12. Burn cream and aloe vera gel
  13. Snake bite kits
  14. Dental emergency repair kits
  15. Electrolyte powders

Fuel & Energy

Reliable energy sources will become scarce, impacting heating, cooking, and transportation.

  1. Gasoline and diesel fuel
  2. Propane and butane
  3. Firewood and charcoal
  4. Lighters and waterproof matches
  5. Candles and lanterns
  6. Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, and rechargeable)
  7. Solar-powered chargers and panels
  8. Generator and fuel stabilizers
  9. Kerosene and lamp oil
  10. Flashlights and headlamps
  11. Hand-crank radio
  12. Solar ovens
  13. Glow sticks
  14. Thermal cooking bags
  15. Coal

Shelter & Protection

Protection from the elements and potential threats is crucial in any survival situation.

  1. Tarps, plastic sheeting, and duct tape
  2. Emergency blankets and sleeping bags
  3. Tents and camping gear
  4. Paracord and rope
  5. Heavy-duty gloves and work boots
  6. Fire extinguishers
  7. Space heaters (non-electric)
  8. Bug-out bags (pre-packed survival kits)
  9. Protective masks (N95 or better)
  10. Plastic and metal containers for storage
  11. Mosquito nets
  12. Weather-resistant ponchos
  13. Camouflage gear
  14. Heavy-duty plastic bags
  15. Snowshoes and ice cleats

Weapons & Self-Defense

In extreme situations, self-defense tools can be necessary for protection against potential threats.

  1. Firearms and ammunition
  2. Pepper spray and mace
  3. Knives and multi-tools
  4. Crossbows and arrows
  5. Self-defense batons
  6. Slingshots and steel shot
  7. Bear spray and animal deterrents
  8. Night vision gear
  9. Body armor and tactical gear
  10. Extra magazines and firearm maintenance kits
  11. Whistles
  12. Stun guns or tasers
  13. Gun cleaning kits
  14. PVC or metal pipes

Barter & Trade Goods

Items valuable for barter can provide necessary supplies in exchange for other essentials.

  1. Alcohol (whiskey, vodka, rum for disinfectant and barter)
  2. Tobacco products
  3. Coffee and tea
  4. Seeds for gardening
  5. Silver and gold (small denominations)
  6. Baking soda and vinegar (multipurpose cleaners)
  7. Fishing supplies (rods, reels, and lures)
  8. Sewing kits and fabric
  9. Writing supplies (pens, pencils, notebooks)
  10. Candies and treats for morale
  11. Playing cards and board games
  12. Non-GMO heirloom seeds
  13. Essential oils
  14. Old-fashioned hand tools
  15. Fishing nets and traps

Knowledge & Skills Resources

Having the right knowledge can be just as important as having supplies.

  1. Survival books and manuals
  2. Maps and compasses
  3. Printed survival guides
  4. HAM radios and licensing materials
  5. Fire-starting guides
  6. Basic mechanics manual
  7. Language translation guides

Final Thoughts

Preparedness is key when disaster strikes. Many of these items will be impossible to find once a crisis sets in, so acquiring them now ensures your safety and sustainability. Start building your emergency stockpile today, and remember that knowledge and skills are just as important as physical supplies.

When the SHTF, those who prepare will thrive while others struggle. Stay ready and stay safe!