Over 20 Unique Items to Consider for Your Stockpile That Might Not Be on Your Radar

Looking for unique items to add to your emergency stash? We’ve reached out to various survival experts to create a list of their top picks. We’ve also included some clever suggestions from our readers. Let’s dive in!

Unique Emergency Supplies

1. A compact stove made using an Altoids tin and a small container of denatured alcohol. (Shared by Jim Cobb)
2. The Land Shark Bag, designed for instant shelter, is sadly no longer in production. Know more? Share in the comments. (Rob Hanus)
3. Sealed jar of Cheetos. Because, why not? (Jamie Smith)
4. Meat tenderizer for quick relief from ant stings. (Jamie Smith)
5. Activated charcoal for toxin absorption, especially important in emergencies. (Helen Cates)
6. Binder clips for a multitude of uses. (Karen Lynn)
7. Vicks VapoRub has various uses including masking odors and fueling fires. (Jim Acosta)
8. Dried prunes for digestive health. (Sarah Anne)
9. Sillcock keys to access water spigots in public areas. (Amy Van Riper)
10. Pantyhose for water filtration, makeshift bandages, and other uses. (Kris Alford)
11. Popcorn as a versatile food source. (Christy Jordan)
12. An ample supply of coffee for comfort. (Christy Jordan)
13. A Bible for spiritual solace. (Melissa K. Norris)
14. Cash, because electronic payments won’t always be available. (Paula Tobey)
15. Items that help maintain daily routine, especially for kids. (Paula Tobey)
16. Different types of gloves for various tasks. (Liz Long)
17. Haircare items, especially if you have a house full of long-haired individuals. (Charley Cooke)
18. Thieves essential oil for germ-fighting. (Julie Behling-Hovdal)
19. Paracord for a variety of survival needs. (Patrice Lewis)
20. Jalapenos in various forms to spice up meals. (Lisa Bedford)

Top Picks from Our Readers

1. Use Vicks for athlete’s foot treatment. (Jan)
2. Paper clips can repair a multitude of items, including zippers. (James B.)
3. Drawing salve for infections and splinters. (Teri R.)
4. Diapers in different sizes for emergencies. (Olga N.)
5. Chains and padlocks for temporary security. (Edie)
6. Improvised weapons like chain and lock or sock and rock. (Gregg & Rick)
7. Cheetos as fire starters. (Lisa)

Editors’ Unique Choices

• Chewing gum: A normalcy item that can also keep you alert.
• Super Glue: Not just for repairs, but an alternative to bandages in a pinch.
• Dental floss: Use it as thread, fishing line, and more.

We hope this list sparks your interest and gives you some fresh ideas for your own emergency supplies. Have any uncommon items you swear by? Please share them in the comments!

If you’re new to emergency preparation, consider enrolling in The Survival Mom’s Prepping 101 course to ensure your family’s safety and readiness for any situation.