The NOAA predicts a below normal hurricane season for 2026, but that doesn't mean you should wait until a storm hits to prepare - It only takes one catastrophic storm to do a lot of damage.
Hurricanes bring unpredictable weather, extended power outages, and limited access to supplies. The best time to prepare isn't when a storm is on its way - it's before hurricane watches and warnings begin.
With hurricane season quickly approaching, here's a guide and checklist to help pack your emergency kits - no matter what the season may bring.
1. Water
Human bodies are nearly 75% water, and is your most important emergency supply. Plan for at least one gallon of water per person, per day for a minimum of 3 days, though more is even better if you have space.
Don't forget water for pets, infant formula, cooking, and basic hygiene, in addition to hydration.
Check out these reusable and collapsible water storage jugs in different sizes to fit your family's needs
2. Food
You might lose power to your fridges and freezers, so its important to stock up on food that is shelf stable and non-perishable. Additionally, you might not have access to traditional cooking methods so choose foods like canned soup, granola bars, ready-to-eat meals, or other non-refrigerated foods.
Even though they won't expire for a while, be sure to check any packaging for dents, broken seams, or damage that may affect quality of the food.
Here is a great option for emergency food that will last years:
3. Power Sources
Power outages are extremely common during and after hurricanes due to downed and damaged lines. Your emergency kits should have multiple flashlights and extra batteries, plus power banks to charge your phones, radios, or personal devices to stay connected and informed.
Battery powered lanterns are also great alternatives to igniting candles, which should be avoided to reduce fire risk.
Any flashlights and battery packs will work, but we think these are the best value:
Shop battery powered flashlights!
4. First Aid and Medications
Keep a fully stocked first aid kit in an easy-to-access location, with common items like band aids, antiseptic, pain reliever, and gloves. Refill prescription medications before a storm if possible to avoid running out.
You can either build your own, or check out this pre-made kit with everything you need below.
5. Important Documents
Store important documents in a waterproof container or digitally back them up in a secure cloud service.
Consider including driver 's licenses and IDs, insurance policies, bank and medical records, birth certificates, etc.
If you're on a budget, you can definitely use a sandwich baggie to store your important documents - or check out these waterproof bags for extra security.
6. Fuel & Cash
Make sure to fill up your gas tank in case you need to evacuate, and keep a secure emergency cash fund as power outages may also affect ATMs and card readers.
If you have a generator, consider filling up extra gas canisters to have on hand if outages last several days. Here's a great option for small tanks below.
7. Don't forget your pets!
Pets are family too, and many of them sadly are left behind during hurricanes. Be sure to pack their essentials too, including food, water, medications, leashes/carriers, and vaccination records. Here's a guide to start packing today:
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
No one can predict exactly where the next storm will go, but taking time to prepare today can provide peace of mind tomorrow.
Build your emergency kit, review your family plan, and stay informed throughout hurricane season. When you're prepared, you can focus on what matters most—keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
