Preparing for a hurricane isn’t just about boarding up windows and securing your home—it’s also about ensuring you have enough food and water to sustain your family for days, or even weeks, after the storm. Did you know that after Hurricane Katrina, over 1 million people lacked access to reliable food sources? That’s why having a well-stocked food supply is crucial when a hurricane is approaching. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to create an effective hurricane food prep list that keeps you nourished, safe, and ready to weather the storm.

1. Assess Your Family’s Needs

Before you start gathering supplies, consider your family’s specific dietary needs. Think about:

• The number of people in your household—including any expected guests.
• Special dietary needs—allergies, low-sodium diets, etc.
• Babies or toddlers—make sure you have baby food, formula, and other essentials.
• Pets—don’t forget pet food, water, and treats.

2. Water: The Most Essential Item

The CDC recommends at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, but having a week’s worth is better. Make sure to include:

• Bottled water—enough for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• Water purification tablets—for extra safety.
• Collapsible water containers—for easy storage of additional water supplies.

3. Stockpile Non-Perishable Food

Non-perishable foods are the cornerstone of any hurricane prep. Focus on foods that don’t require refrigeration, are high in nutrients, and have long shelf lives:

• Canned goods—soups, stews, vegetables, and fruits. Look for low-sodium options.
• Peanut butter and other nut butters—high in protein and energy.
• Dried fruits and nuts—great for quick energy boosts.
• Crackers and granola bars—easy to eat without any preparation.
• Instant oatmeal and cereal—no cooking needed, just add water or milk.

4. Ready-to-Eat Meals (MREs)

Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) can be a game-changer when the power is out. They offer:

• High calories—essential for keeping your energy up.
• Various flavors—from pasta dishes to rice and beans.
• Self-heating options—some come with built-in heating packs.

5. Essential Cooking Tools

Even without power, you’ll need a way to prepare meals. Include:

• Portable gas stove—compact and easy to use.
• Manual can opener—since most canned goods don’t come with pull tabs.
• Heat-resistant gloves—to handle hot cookware.

6. Don’t Forget Snacks & Comfort Foods

Snacks and treats can help lift spirits, especially if you’re stuck indoors for a while:

• Chocolate bars or candies—quick energy boosts and morale lifters.
• Tea or instant coffee—for a sense of normalcy.
• Beef jerky or dried meats—easy to store and packed with protein.

7. Baby and Pet Food Supplies

If you have little ones or furry friends, include:

• Baby formula and jars of baby food.
• Pet food—dry or canned, depending on your pet’s preference.

8. Vitamins & Supplements

Even with the best-planned food stockpile, you may not get all the nutrients you need:

• Multivitamins—to cover any gaps in nutrition.
• Electrolyte tablets—to stay hydrated in hot conditions.

9. Storing Your Hurricane Food Supply

Proper storage is just as important as having the right supplies:

• Use airtight containers to keep out moisture and pests.
• Rotate stock every six months to ensure food stays fresh.
• Keep supplies in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight.

10. Replenish & Restock

After the storm, make sure to restock and replenish your supplies as soon as possible. Use up older items first and replace any used items immediately.

Preparing for a hurricane is more than just bracing your home—it’s about having the right food and water to support you and your loved ones. By creating a comprehensive food prep list, you can reduce anxiety and focus on keeping your family safe and fed. Remember: it’s better to be over prepared than underprepared when a hurricane is on the horizon.

Looking for more tips? Explore our other articles to stay prepared! For recipes you can make with non-perishable ingredients, check out our Emergency Food Recipes page.