Food to buy for hurricane prep: the complete hurricane food list

Best foods to stockpile for hurricane preparedness

When a storm is in the forecast, focus on foods that are: 

• Shelf‑stable and safe at room temperature 
• Nutrient‑dense and not just “empty” calories 
• Easy to eat with little or no cooking 
• Family favorites, so mealtime stays simple

Here are some of the best foods for hurricane preparedness and why they’re worth the space in your pantry.

Protein‑rich hurricane foods that store well

Protein-rich foods help keep you full and provide energy, which is especially important if you’re doing physical work before or after the storm. 

• Canned tuna, chicken and salmon keep well and provide plenty of protein to your diet. Even better, they’re simple to use in sandwiches or with crackers.
• Canned beans like black beans, chickpeas and kidney beans add fiber, protein and slow‑burning carbs to your meals. They keep well, taste great in simple dishes and can be eaten straight from the can if needed.
• Nut butters, whether peanut, almond or sunflower, offer healthy fats and steady energy. They don’t need refrigeration, spread easily on crackers or bread and make a quick, satisfying snack during a storm.
   

High‑energy carbohydrate foods for hurricane prep

Carbohydrate‑rich foods give you quick, balanced energy. Foods like these can be helpful when your routine is disrupted, or if you plan on doing extra hurricane preparation before or after a storm.

• Whole‑grain crackers, rice cakes and granola are easy to portion and pair well with canned meats or nut butter for simple, filling meals.
• Instant oatmeal packets or cups are just as convenient. If you have access to a gas stove, camp stove or hot water, instant oatmeal makes a warm, comforting breakfast in just a few minutes. 
   

Long‑lasting fruits and vegetables for hurricanes

Fruits and vegetables add important vitamins, fiber and color to your meals.

• Canned fruits in juice, applesauce cups and shelf‑stable fruit cups offer sweetness and hydration without needing refrigeration.
• Canned vegetables like corn, peas, carrots and green beans are easy to mix into quick meals or eat on their own.
• Dried fruit such as raisins, apricots or banana chips provides long‑lasting energy and packs well for snacking. 
   

Best hydration supplies for hurricane prep

Staying hydrated is essential during a storm, especially in warm or humid weather or if you lose air conditioning. 

• Bottled water is the most important item to stock. Plan on having at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day. 
• Electrolyte drinks or powders help replace minerals and support hydration when you’re active or want to relieve stress. 
• Shelf‑stable milk or milk alternatives add variety and pair well with cereal, granola or other snacks.
  

Zero‑prep hurricane foods you can eat without power

Zero‑prep foods are ready straight from the package. These are especially helpful if you lose power or don’t have a safe way to cook.

• Canned ready‑to‑eat meals that you don't necessarily need to heat up to enjoy (ravioli, chili, soup, baked beans)
• Crackers, pretzels and popcorn (ready‑to‑eat, not microwave)
• Dry cereal and granola (individual boxes or bags reduce waste)
• Dried fruit and mixed nuts for nutrient‑dense snacking
• Fresh produce that keeps well (apples, oranges and citrus fruits)
• Shelf‑stable cheese or cheese spreads (check expiration dates)
• Snack bars and protein bars (look for options with at least 8-10g protein)
• Tuna or chicken pouches (no can opener needed)
   

How to store hurricane food and maximize shelf life

Choose single‑serve packages where you can, especially if refrigeration is limited once opened. Keep your hurricane foods together in a labeled bin so you can grab them quickly. And don’t forget to check expiration dates at least once a year, rotating items into your regular meals, so nothing goes to waste.
 

Minimal‑prep hurricane foods for simple hot meals during storms

If you have access to a gas stove, grill, camp stove or other safe cooking source, minimal‑prep foods give you more variety for your hurricane food menu.
 

Quick-cook hurricane food list 

• Boxed mac and cheese: Choose versions that only need water and shelf‑stable milk or powdered milk 
• Canned pasta sauces: Pair with dried pasta for simple, warm meals 
• Canned potatoes and mixed vegetables: Heat and season for a quick side or mix into soups 
• Instant noodle cups or ramen: Add canned veggies or proteins to make them more filling 
• Instant rice or couscous: Cooks quickly with boiling water
• Pancake mix that only needs water: Easy, comforting breakfast or dinner option
• Shelf‑stable tortillas and flatbreads: Great for wraps, quesadillas or quick pizzas 
   

These foods are recommended because they make it easier for you to create hot, familiar meals during a stressful time. They also combine carbs, protein and vegetables, which is helpful when you’re planning multiple meals from your pantry.
 

How to plan hurricane meals and build an emergency menu

A little planning goes a long way. Instead of only stocking random items, think in terms of simple meals for each day.
 

How much food to buy for hurricane prep 

As a general guide:

• Plan for at least 3-7 days of food per person.
• Include 2-3 snacks per person per day, especially for kids. 
• Make sure you have items that work for dietary needs or allergies in your household. 
   

3‑day hurricane meal plan (sample menu)

Keep your favorite seasonings handy for more flavor and use this sample as a template to swap in foods your family already likes. The more familiar the meals feel, the easier it is for everyone to eat well during a storm. 

Hurricane food and supply list for babies and pets

When you’re deciding what food to buy for hurricane prep, make sure your smallest family members have everything they need, starting with babies and toddlers, followed by pets.

Baby and toddler food essentials for hurricanes 

• A small first aid and comfort kit with favorite toys or blankets
• Baby food pouches or jars
• Bottles, nipples and disposable liners
• Diapers, wipes and diaper cream
• Formula (ready‑to‑feed is easiest if water quality is uncertain)
• Shelf‑stable baby snacks like teething crackers or yogurt melts
   

Check ages and stages on baby foods and formulas so everything in your hurricane prep food list works for your child’s current needs. 

Pet hurricane food list 

• Any medications, plus copies of important vet records 
• Collapsible or portable bowls 
• Extra bottled water for pets 
• Favorite treats for comfort 
• 3-7 days of pet food (dry or canned)
   

Try to keep your pet’s diet consistent during a storm. Sudden food changes can upset their stomachs, which can be especially tough to manage in a hurricane. 
 

Additional supplies for hurricane safety

Food is only one part of your hurricane plan. Round out your hurricane prep food list with key safety items and information like important regulatory messages for hurricane preparedness, so you can stay as comfortable and ready for as much as possible. 

Essential non‑food supplies 

• Battery‑powered or hand‑crank radio 
• Cash in small bills, since ATMs and card readers may be down 
• Coolers and ice packs (freeze packs and water bottles ahead of time) 
• First‑aid kit and necessary medications 
• Flashlights and extra batteries (avoid candles, if possible) 
• Manual can opener and basic utensils 
• Paper plates, cups and napkins to save water 
• Personal hygiene items (soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products)
   

It's easier to prepare for a hurricane when you know exactly what food to buy for hurricane prep and how to plan meals your family will eat. Keeping your food and supplies organized in one place helps you feel ready and confident, whether you’re staying home or heading out on short notice. For extra peace of mind, take a few minutes to review how to prepare your home for a hurricane, brush up on food and water safety, and make sure you have an evacuation plan in place, so you know exactly what to do before, during and after a storm.

Frequently asked questions