About Essential Items
Most people aren't prepared. We're here to change that — one household at a time.
Why This Site Exists
A few years ago, a severe storm knocked out power across our neighbourhood for four days.
No running water. No way to cook. Flashlight batteries dead after night one. Two kids, a dog, and a pantry full of food we couldn't actually eat because everything needed the microwave.
We weren't in danger — but we were completely helpless. And the worst part? Every single thing we needed was cheap, available on Amazon, and would have taken one afternoon to put together. We just never got around to it.
That experience stuck. We started researching properly — reading FEMA guidelines, going through Red Cross recommendations, testing gear, and figuring out what actually matters versus what's just marketed at preppers with money to burn.
Essential Items is the result of that research. A straightforward, no-hype guide to the gear that genuinely makes a difference.
What We Do
We research, test, and curate emergency preparedness and survival gear — then link you directly to the best options on Amazon.
We don't sell anything. We don't ship anything. When you click through and buy, Amazon handles everything — and we earn a small commission that keeps this site running.
Every product on this site was chosen because it earns its place. We look at:
- •Real Amazon reviews — thousands of them, not just the top ones
- •FEMA and Red Cross recommendations — we cross-reference against official guidance
- •Value for money — the best gear isn't always the most expensive
- •Practical real-world use — would this actually help in an emergency, or just look good in a kit?
If a product doesn't meet the bar, it doesn't make the list.
Who We're For
You don't need to be a survivalist or a prepper in the Hollywood sense to be here.
This site is for ordinary people who want to be ready for ordinary emergencies — power outages, severe weather, a car breakdown on a remote road, a sudden evacuation. The kind of situations that happen to real families every year.
If you've ever thought "I really should put a kit together" and never got around to it — this site is for you.
Our Promise
We'll always tell you what something is actually good for — and what it isn't. We won't recommend expensive gear when budget gear does the job just as well. And we'll always be upfront that this site uses affiliate links.
It costs you nothing extra. It keeps the lights on here. That's the deal.
Stay prepared.
— The Essential Items Team
Email: info@essentialitems.com
Disclosure: This site participates in the Amazon Associates Program. We earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.