---
title: "12 Things You Need at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out"
description: "Prepare for a power outage with this checklist of essentials. See our picks for the best generators, flashlights, emergency radios, and more."
date: "2026-09-14"
modified: "2026-09-14"
authors:
  - name: "Alexa Erickson"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/alexa-erickson.md"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/things-you-need-at-the-ready-in-case-the-power-goes-out/"
categories:
  - "Energy & Power"
  - "Exterior"
  - "Generators"
  - "Reviews"
  - "Safety & Security"
tags:
  - "Commerce"
  - "MPR"
  - "storm"
  - "Storms & Disasters"
---

# 12 Things You Need at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out

![Things You Need at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Lights.jpeg>)

When the power goes out, life comes to an abrupt halt. Whether it shuts off in the middle of the day while you’re trying to work, or eerily snuffs out in the evening during dinner or TV time, losing power changes everything in a second. To make dealing with a power outage both safe and manageable, it’s important to keep emergency supplies close at hand. Here’s a checklist of essential items like generators, flashlights, and solar-powered portable chargers that will help you [stay safe](<https://www.bobvila.com/category/safety-security/>), connected, and comfortable amid scarcity.

## 

- **Prepare for power outages with essential supplies.** Keep items like generators, flashlights, and portable chargers ready to stay safe and connected.
- **Save on winter storm essentials.** Get up to 50% off on snow blowers, flashlights, and more.
- **Explore our tested reviews for reliable gear.** Find the best emergency radios, inverter generators, and LED lanterns.
- **Stay comfortable during outages.** Essential items help manage safety and connectivity amid scarcity.

**Bottom line:** Be ready for power outages with essential supplies and take advantage of current deals to stay prepared and safe.

***Read our tested review:* [Best Emergency Radios](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-emergency-radio.md>)**

***Read our tested review:* [Best Inverter Generators](<https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-inverter-generators-2026.md>)**

***Read our tested reviews:* [Best Power Strips](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-power-strip.md>)**

***Read our tested reviews:* [Best Hand-Crank Radios](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-hand-crank-radio.md>)**

***Read our tested reviews:* [Best LED Lanterns](<https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-led-lanterns-2026.md>)**

***Read our tested reviews:*** [**Best Portable Power Stations**](<https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-portable-power-station-2025.md>)

## Author
Alexa Erickson is a lifestyle writer and former BobVila.com staff member. Her areas of expertise include travel, food and drink, home decorating, home improvement, health and wellness, and beauty.

### Author social links  
[Instagram](<https://www.instagram.com/living_by_lex/>)