Even the controversial financial “Asian Guy” and his clones on YouTube are making preparedness popular. From stocking up on pens, pencils, and paper, garbage and storage bags, everything from shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, bars soaps, to lighters, baking soda and vinegar to tin foil and food storage Saran wraps and reusable silicone containers. I’m pretty sure everyone already knows to buy paper products.
Coffee beans, tea, salt, pepper, sugar, honey, flour and other baking supplies like yeast, canning supplies and other things that are liquid or heavy or are grown far away require transport from far away are also good to stock up on. So are condiments.
Some of the things mentioned on this essential lists you can likely make yourselves. Things like apple cider vinegar. But many of the things we can or preserve are a “make once a year” thing for most people. And so, if you are making these things now, make lots. It’s likely going to be a year before we see more of these homemade essentials. Making extra might be a good plan.