Hey friends!
Now, I bet you’re not expecting an organizer to tell you to add something to your home. Usually, when you hear from me, I’m talking about purging, editing, and creating simpler systems so your life feels lighter. But sometimes, there are a few key things worth adding—and September is the perfect reminder.
It’s National Preparedness Month, and while “disaster prep” isn’t the most fun topic, it’s one of those things that can ease so much stress and anxiety down the road. Recent natural disasters have been a sobering reminder of how quickly life can shift, and having some basics on hand can make all the difference for your family’s safety and peace of mind.
And listen—I know it can feel overwhelming to stock up all at once. So here’s my advice: start small. Add one or two of these to your grocery list or online order each week. Tiny steps today = breathing room and security later.
And to make it even easier, I pulled together links to many of the items on this list—just click below to start shopping and building your kit little by little.
Here are 10 things to have (or do) to get prepared:
1. Flashlights + Batteries
If you already have flashlights, check them to make sure they work. Order extra batteries now so you’re not scrambling later. A solar lamp or two is also a great addition.
2. Drinking Water
Plan for at least one gallon per person per day for a week. Don’t forget to include water for your pets, too.
3. Nonperishable Food
Think canned goods, peanut butter, protein bars, or foods you don’t need power to prepare. A good rule of thumb: aim for a week’s supply based on what makes sense for your family and your region. Grab an extra bag for your pet(s) too!
4. Daily Medications
Make sure you always have enough of your prescriptions on hand. If possible, request a few extra days’ supply to store for emergencies. (Again think of your pets medications too.)
5. First Aid Kit
Stock the basics: bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any specific items your family may need.
6. A Fireproof, Waterproof Box for Vital Papers
I will say this until I’m blue in the face—you need one of these. Keep birth certificates, insurance papers, and other critical documents inside. (This is the one I use, and I’ve recommended it to many clients!)
7. Phone Chargers + Power Banks
Have an extra phone charger or portable power bank tucked away in your kit. Bonus if they do multiple types of devices.
8. Extra Clothes & Warmth
Pack a spare outfit for each person, sturdy shoes, a blanket, and even a thermal blanket or two.
9. Copies of IDs + Cash
Keep copies of IDs, insurance papers, and emergency contacts in a waterproof pouch. Add some small bills—ATMs and card readers may not work during an outage.
10. Car Kit
Don’t forget your vehicle! Keep jumper cables, a small tool kit, flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and a blanket in your trunk.
Final Thoughts 💛
Preparedness doesn’t mean going overboard—it means giving your future self (and your family) a little peace of mind. Start with one or two things this week. Even that small step creates breathing room in the middle of uncertainty.
I pulled the essentials into one spot—click to start your kit today.
💛
Nicole
Stay tuned for next week’s POP Talk!
This post may include affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. Regardless, I only share products and resources I genuinely love or find helpful!
