Family Preparedness Checklist: Essential Supplies for Every Home

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Last updated on December 18th, 2025 at 04:08 pm

Life is unpredictable. We like to think we know what’s coming each day, but the truth is—we don’t. In just a few short minutes, everything can be turned upside down. Natural disasters, shutdowns, or other unexpected circumstances can completely change our lives. That is why I believe it is so important in these last days to have a family preparedness checklist.

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I think we all remember COVID. It was a terrible time, but for those who were prepared, it was a little less overwhelming. It’s no wonder these situations bring fear and anxiety. But God doesn’t want us to live in fear. He wants us to be prepared—physically and spiritually—so that we can take care of ourselves and help others too.

So, how do we become physically prepared?

Start small. Gather at least a week’s worth of supplies. Then work up to a month, and eventually a year. It may feel overwhelming at first, but little by little, it’s completely doable. It is far more important for your family to be prepared for a week then have nothing at all.

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What You Absolutely Need

The number one thing you need in storage is wheat.

I know—it gets a bad reputation. People say it’s high in carbs and that meat is better for you. And when it comes to processed flour from the store, I completely agree. That flour has been stripped of almost everything good, leaving you with empty calories that spike your insulin.

But freshly ground hard red wheat is a different story. It contains the entire wheat berry, packed with nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and even protein. Studies show it can actually help lower insulin levels. It’s amazing! There’s a reason God calls bread the “staff of life”—and He definitely wasn’t talking about store-bought bread.

So, the number one item for your family preparedness food storage list is:

• Hard red wheat and a grinder

Other essentials to stock up on:

• Sugars
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Vinegar
• Honey
• Canned fruits
• Canned vegetables
• Canned meat
• Powdered milk

All these supplies do not need electricity to keep and are cheaper than other options. Other options are freezing food, but be prepared to act fast if there is no power or purchase a generator. Another great way is drying food or freeze drying.

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Gardening

The biggest thing you will need to keep your food supply up are seeds and the knowledge how to grow them and save the seeds

• Seeds
• Hand tools
• Books on gardening and seed saving

Medicinal Supplies

Don’t forget about basic medicine and natural remedies. Having these on hand can make a huge difference.

• Vinegar & apple cider vinegar
• Herbs: comfrey, peppermint, echinacea, calendula, elderberry, cayenne pepper
• Medications: aspirin, Tylenol, ibuprofen
• Band-aids
• First aid supplies

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Hygiene Essentials

Cleanliness is so important, especially during stressful times.

• Soap
• Toilet paper (or plant lamb’s ear as a natural alternative)
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss
• Feminine hygiene supplies

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Household Items

• Cleaners (check out my DIY cleaner recipes!)
• Paper towels
• Laundry detergent (vinegar also works great for cleaning clothes)
• Flashlights
• Candles
• Oil Lamps/ Oil

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Having to Leave

Sometimes emergencies require us to leave our homes. Be prepared with an emergency backpack for each family member. Pack items like:

• Two outfits
• MREs (meals ready-to-eat)
• A water bottle & water filter
• First aid kit
• Blanket
• Any specific personal items needed

Keep these backpacks in a location where everyone can easily access them. Practice drills with your family so everyone knows what to do and where to go in an emergency.

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The Most Important Thing

Food is the foundation. Store enough for your family, and if possible, a little extra to trade or share. In hard times, people will barter, and if you have the right skills or supplies, you’ll be in a much better position to provide for your needs.

Family preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about peace of mind. Start small, stay consistent, and trust that as you prepare, God will guide you in how to best care for yourself and those around you.

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