Costco is one of those places where buying in bulk can really pay off, especially when you’re preparing for an emergency. Whether it’s a power outage, a winter storm, or a few days when you can’t get to the grocery store, having extra supplies at home can make a stressful situation a little easier.
And you don’t need to spend a fortune building an emergency stash. Many of the things worth stocking up on are everyday household essentials you already use, from pantry staples and bottled water to batteries and cleaning supplies.
The trick is buying things that store well, won’t go to waste, and can keep your household running when your normal routine gets interrupted. These 18 Costco finds are worth making room for before you actually need them.
Bottled Water
Water should be one of the first things you stock for an emergency, and Costco’s bulk cases make it easy to build a supply without buying individual bottles. Aim for at least one gallon per person per day for three days, with more if you have the storage space, and keep extra for pets.
Toilet Paper
Running out of toilet paper is inconvenient on an ordinary day, but it’s even more frustrating when stores are closed or shelves are empty. Costco’s large packs make it easy to keep a reasonable backup supply without remembering to buy it every week.
Related: Surprising Facts About Toilet Paper Most People Never Learn
Paper Towels
Paper towels are especially useful during emergencies when water is limited or washing reusable cloths isn’t practical. Buying them in bulk gives you plenty for spills, food preparation, and everyday cleanup without using up your regular supply too quickly.
Rice
A large bag of rice can form the basis of dozens of inexpensive meals, making it a practical addition to an emergency pantry. Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, and remember that you’ll need a safe cooking method and water to prepare it.
Canned Vegetables
Costco’s multipacks of canned vegetables are worth considering because they’re shelf-stable and don’t require refrigeration. You can eat corn, green beans, peas, and mixed vegetables straight from the can when necessary or add them to simple meals when cooking is possible.
Canned Tuna and Chicken
Canned tuna and chicken provide convenient protein without taking up valuable freezer space or requiring cooking. Costco’s multipacks are useful for stocking an emergency pantry, especially when paired with crackers, canned vegetables, or other ready-to-eat foods.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a pantry staple that’s especially useful when you need something filling without cooking. Costco’s larger jars or multipacks offer a convenient source of calories and protein, and unopened, shelf-stable varieties generally store well if kept as directed.
Pasta
Pasta is affordable, easy to store, and useful for putting together meals with just a few ingredients. Costco’s bulk packages can last through plenty of dinners, although you’ll need water and a safe way to cook it if the power goes out.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are useful for making soups, pasta sauces, rice dishes, and other simple meals from pantry ingredients. Buying them in multipacks means you can keep several on hand without worrying about fresh tomatoes spoiling before you use them.
Granola Bars and Protein Bars
When you can’t cook, having something you can open and eat right away makes a big difference. Costco’s bulk boxes of granola and protein bars are convenient for emergency kits, quick meals, and grab-and-go bags, as long as you rotate them before they expire.
Nuts and Trail Mix
Nuts and trail mix are compact, filling snacks that don’t require refrigeration or preparation. Costco’s larger containers and individually packaged portions can help during an emergency, but check the best-by dates and store them properly because their oils can go rancid over time.
Batteries
Flashlights, emergency radios, and other essential devices don’t help if their batteries are dead. Costco’s bulk battery packs can be a practical purchase, but check which sizes your equipment uses before stocking up on batteries you may never need.
Flashlights and Battery-Powered Lanterns
Having several working flashlights or lanterns around the house is much safer and more convenient than relying on candles during a power outage. Costco periodically carries multipacks and rechargeable lighting options, so look for models that are easy to operate and have a backup power source.
First Aid Supplies
A well-stocked first aid kit can help you handle minor cuts, scrapes, and other everyday injuries when it’s not convenient to get to a store. Costco often carries first aid kits and bulk health supplies, making it easier to keep essentials available at home and in your vehicle.
Related: 14 Emergency Supplies Every Prepper Should Keep at Home
Over-the-Counter Medications
Keep pain relievers, allergy medications, and other over-the-counter products your household regularly uses on hand before an emergency. Costco’s larger packages may save you money, but buy only what you can safely use before the expiration date, and store medications according to their labels.
Garbage Bags
Heavy-duty garbage bags are surprisingly useful during emergencies, especially when normal trash collection is interrupted, or you’re dealing with a messy cleanup. Costco’s bulk boxes provide plenty for household waste, help you separate dirty items, and contain debris without running out after a few uses.
Laundry Detergent and Dish Soap
Laundry detergent and dish soap might not be the first things that come to mind when preparing for an emergency, but they’re everyday essentials you’ll appreciate having in reserve. Costco’s large containers can reduce last-minute shopping trips, although dishwashing and laundry still depend on having enough safe water.
Disinfecting Wipes and Cleaning Supplies
Keeping extra cleaning supplies on hand can make it easier to maintain basic sanitation during storms, outages, and other disruptions. Costco’s multipacks of disinfecting wipes and household cleaners are convenient, but follow the product instructions and never mix cleaning chemicals.
