Best Low-Cost Ways to Build Your Emergency Food Supply

[AquaFern1028]

Canned goods and bulk rice/beans seem like staples, but prices keep creeping up. What are your best tips for stocking up without breaking the bank? Any overlooked shelf-stable items you've had success with, especially for long-term storage?

 

[EchoTangoFox]

Oats are cheap, versatile, and last ages if you keep ‘em dry. Ever tried vacuum-sealing pasta for longer storage? It’s worked pretty well for me.

 

[BlueHarborTea]

Bulk lentils are another great option—super cheap at my local store and last forever if you keep ’em dry. I also keep a stash of powdered milk on hand; not exactly delicious, but it stretches out a lot of recipes and lasts ages. Can’t forget peanut butter either, especially when it’s on sale. Anyone try storing nuts?