People panic, and the essentials vanish in hours. If you want to be ready, you need to stockpile the right items now, before the rush.

Below, I've listed 10 things that disappear first during emergencies, along with tips on where to find them affordably and how to store them properly.

Scarcity creates urgency, so let's dive in and talk about what you need to prioritize.

1. Non-Perishable Food

Why it disappears

Food is the first thing people grab when a crisis looms.

Canned goods, pasta, rice, and freeze-dried meals fly off shelves as everyone scrambles to secure calories.

What to stock

Focus on shelf-stable staples like canned beans, vegetables, fruits, and meats (think tuna or chicken). Rice and dried lentils are cheap and last years. Freeze-dried meals or MREs are great for long-term storage.

Sourcing tips

Buy in bulk at warehouse stores like Costco or Sam's Club for deals on rice, beans, and canned goods. Dollar stores often have canned food for under $1.