A week without shops
What if you couldn’t get to the supermarket tomorrow? Due to a strike, a storm or simply because the shelves are empty? Most families can’t manage beyond two days without shops. Those who want to be self-sufficient ensure they can survive at least one week with what they have at home.
Particularly if shops and other facilities are inaccessible and there are simultaneous problems with the electricity or gas network, you’d better have a number of essential items at home.
1. Long-life meals – the foundation of your emergency supplies
You need food that keeps for years and requires minimal preparation. Think of freeze-dried meals or tinned dishes.
Pro tip: choose dishes that you actually enjoy – that makes an emergency week considerably more bearable.
📎 See also: Food preservation: an essential guide
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2. Water filter or purification tablets – clean water, always
Without drinking water you’ll only last a few days. A compact filter or tablets turn rainwater into drinking water.
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📎 See also: 6 ways to make drinking water yourself
3. Solar power bank – stay connected
Your smartphone is your torch, map, compass and communication device. A power bank that works on solar panels keeps everything running without a socket. We previously selected the 5 best outdoor power banks. Below you’ll find one that works on solar energy.
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📎 Related: The 5 best outdoor power banks
4. Compact cooking device – hot food without electricity
Hot meals do wonders for your morale. A small gas or alcohol burner is inexpensive and reliable.
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5. Light without a socket – safety and peace of mind
Candles or LED lamps bring not only light, but also a sense of calm and control.
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6. Hygiene kit – staying clean is staying healthy
Water and soap are the foundation of health. Think of washing powder, toilet paper, toothpaste and wet wipes.
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7. Multi-tool or emergency equipment – one tool, a hundred solutions
A good multi-tool replaces half your toolbox. Opening tins, tightening screws, cutting or sawing – indispensable. We have our own Leatherman Wave Plus multi-tool – read the review here.
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👉 Do the test today!
Make a list of what you have at home. Can you manage a week without a supermarket? Add one category each week. After ten weeks you’ll be effortlessly prepared.
Conclusion
A week without a supermarket isn’t a doomsday scenario, but a good exercise in self-sufficiency. With these items you can calmly cook, drink, sleep and communicate — without depending on empty shelves or panic.
Self-sufficient living doesn’t begin with hectares of land, but with a well-stocked cupboard and a bit of discipline.