We’re all for protecting our peace and avoiding doomscrolling, but taking simple steps to feel prepared can help calm anxiety.
If things do go sideways – like power outages, supply chain issues, or even just a gnarly storm – having an emergency kit to get you through a few days indoors is just smart.
Emergency preparedness kit essentials
Earlier this year, the European Commission advised to have 72 hours of essentials on hand in case of unexpected emergencies. Among the list? Bottled water, a Swiss Army knife, a portable phone charger — and yes, playing cards (because what better way to boost morale?).
While being constantly plugged in can spike our worries, they also underline something important: in today’s world – whether you're living alone, in shared flats, or heading off to uni – knowing how to hold your own in a crisis is a majorly underrated life skill. Think of it as self-care, but instead of running a bubble bath and painting your nails, you’re investing in a battery-powered torch and multi-use tool kit...
Building your own emergency kit doesn’t mean stockpiling or prepping for the apocalypse (even if the latest instalment of 28 Days Later had us slightly shook). It just means thinking ahead, so if anything unexpected happens, you’re sorted. Because let’s be real — not everyone has a ready-made support system nearby.
With Prime Day underway, there’s no better time to get organised. This year, the hotly anticipated sale is running from Tuesday, 8 July at 12:01 a.m. to Friday, 11 July 2025 at 11:59 p.m. – hint, hint it's happening right now – We’ve done our research and trust us, from wellness deals to homeware steals, you’re not going to want to miss this.
To avoid making a supermarket dash in a panic, here’s our go-to list of everything to have at home to feel safe, calm and in control.
Emergency kit essentials
The must-haves you actually need — from drinking water and back-up lighting to the tools that will make you feel like Lara Croft meets Girl Scout.
KIRKLAND Signature Spring Still Water 500ml, 40 Bottles
Duracell Plus AAA Batteries (36 Pack)
ReadyWise Freeze Dried Emergency Food 28 Servings
Personal hygiene and feminine care
Running out of tampons mid-blackout is not the vibe, so stock up on these handy hygiene essentials to make sure you’re never left in the lurch.
Method Lavender Hand Wash, 4 Pack
DAYE Organic Tampons Super
The Cheeky Panda Bamboo Biodegradable Baby Wipes
Recreational bits and bobs (Yes, really.)
Whopping your flatmate at a three-hour game of monopoly or crashing out over a puzzle you’ve been working on for 36 hours can definitely take the edge off. These low-tech, high-morale heroes (books! board games! art sets!) help pass the time, soothe the nerves, and keep spirits high.
Shuttle Art Art Kit
wowlink Mini Projector
Mattel Games UNO Deluxe
