ES SOS

Shopping list

Essential gear

The minimum worth having at home, in order of priority. For each item we first say which features it needs, then name a best-selling model that has them. If you already own something equivalent, don't buy anything.

How we chose

We looked for the most-reviewed products in each category on Amazon and dropped the ones that fail where it counts in a blackout: they must work without a wall socket, on common batteries or their own power, and be simple. Prices change often: compare before you buy.

Water

Water comes first. You need to store it (about 3 litres per person per day) and to purify doubtful water. Use the provisions calculator.

  • Container: food-grade plastic, with a tap, in a size you can move (20 litres weigh 20 kilos).
  • Filter: removes bacteria and protozoa (0.1 microns or less) and needs no pump or power.
  • Tablets: for what a filter misses, such as viruses. They take up almost no space.

Light

A headlamp beats a handheld torch: it leaves both hands free. Pick one that runs on AAA or AA batteries, not only a built-in battery: batteries keep for years and are sold everywhere. Keep spares.

Information: radio

When the internet goes down, radio keeps broadcasting official alerts. Look for one that charges several ways: hand crank, solar panel and batteries. (SW) is a plus: it reaches further. More in the emergency radio guide.

Short-range communication

To talk to your family around the neighbourhood without a phone network. In Europe, PMR446 walkie-talkies need no licence (in the US, look for FRS radios). Make sure they run on common batteries. For more range, see Meshtastic.

Power

To charge phones, radio and lights for days. A with a battery lasts thousands of cycles and is the safest chemistry. Add a foldable solar panel to recharge it off-grid. More options in power stations.

Heat and cooking

A gas stove to heat water and food. Always use it with ventilation, never indoors in a closed room. Space blankets weigh almost nothing and keep body heat in. More in cooking without power.

First aid

A complete kit is a good start, but add your own medicines and what the first aid kit guide explains, especially gear for heavy bleeding.

What you don't need to buy

None of this replaces a plan. Before spending, go through the kit checklist: much of what you need is already at home. And be wary of hundred-piece survival kits: they are usually padded with low-quality filler.

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