Snowed In Checklist

Here’s a practical shopping list you can use right now to make sure you and your household are set if a major snowstorm hits and you could be stuck indoors for several days or lose power. Experts generally recommend having at least three days’ worth of food and water that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking on a stove (some people go for five or more days if they can) in case you can’t get out.

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Winter Storm Grocery & Supplies Shopping List

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Water & Drinks

• Bottled water (aim for 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days)

• Shelf-stable juice

• Instant coffee, tea, hot cocoa mixes

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Non-Perishable Food (no cooking needed)

Proteins & Filling Foods

• Peanut butter or other nut butters

• Canned tuna, chicken, salmon

• Canned soups and stews (ready to eat)

• Ready-to-eat beans or chili

• Jerky or meat sticks

Carbs, Snacks & Sides

• Crackers

• Granola or energy bars

• Nuts and trail mix

• Dried fruit

• Cereal or granola

• Bread or tortillas (useable without cooking)

Comfort / Beverage Items

• Hot chocolate mix

• Tea bags

• Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives

• Cookies, chips, snacks your family likes

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Essentials & Tools

• Manual can opener

• Flashlights + extra batteries

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• Portable phone chargers / power banks

• Candles and matches or lighters

• Paper plates, paper towels, disposable utensils

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Health & Safety

• First-aid kit

• Prescription medications + over-the-counter pain relievers

• Hygiene items (toilet paper, soap, wipes)

• Hand sanitizer

• Pet food & supplies

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Warmth & Comfort

• Extra blankets or sleeping bags

• Warm socks, hats, gloves

• Board games, cards, books (for downtime)

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For Pets

• Extra food and water

• Medications and comfort items

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Optional But Helpful

• Portable camping stove or grill if you have a safe outdoor space and fuel

• Charcoal or propane for outdoor cooking (do not use indoors)

• Extra fuel for generators (if you own one)

• Ice melt rock salt or sand for entryways

• Cash in small bills (ATMs may fail)

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Tips Before You Leave the Store

1. Fill water containers and pitchers at home too (extra water for flushing toilets or washing).

2. Charge all phones, tablets, and power banks now — you may not get another chance.

3. Cook or bake something (like bread or muffins) before power goes out so you have easy food available.

4. Put together a small “go bag” with essentials (phones, chargers, flashlights) in case you need it quickly.