When the lights go out unexpectedly, the very first thing I reach for is my hand-crank radio/flashlight combo. Over the years I’ve tried a few battery lanterns and candles, but I like having light and being able to catch all the emergency weather reports at the same time. I keep one charged up in the kitchen, and it’s saved me more than once.

Curious what others lean on first. Is it something for light, communication, or maybe you go straight to powering essentials with a generator or solar setup? I do have a small solar power bank for my phone, but bigger backup systems are a lot more expensive, and sometimes you just need something right that minute.

Has anyone found a multi-function device that really holds up and doesn’t let you down after a year or two? And if you keep a “power outage bag” or kit, what gets used most? I’m always looking to fine-tune my setup, especially for those longer outages we seem to be having more lately. Would love to hear real-world experience on what actually works when the grid’s down, not just on paper