What’s One Item You Regret Not Stockpiling Earlier?

[MarigoldBreeze]

Wish I’d started putting back more OTC meds and antibiotic ointment before prices shot up. Ran low quicker than expected last year. What’s the one thing you wish you hadn’t overlooked or waited too long to add to your long-term stores?

 

[GarnetDusk]

Rain gear, hands down. Thought I could just improvise with what I had, but a real waterproof jacket and decent boots make a world of difference when you're out in the elements for days. Got soaked more than once before I finally wised up and stocked extra. Funny how it's usually the basics that get overlooked! Anyone else find themselves scrambling for something they thought was “optional” at first?

 

[GarnetDusk]

Should’ve stocked way more seeds for the garden—prices sneaked up and some varieties just vanished last spring. Anyone else notice how fast heirloom seeds dry up lately?

 

[PrepperLinda65]

Absolutely agree on the seeds—thought I had plenty, but I ran out of green bean and tomato seeds fast with the grandkids helping in the garden. Anyone found a reliable source lately?

 

[GarnetDusk]

Wish I’d started putting back more OTC meds and antibiotic ointment before prices shot up.

OTC meds really are one of those things you don’t realize you’ll need in bulk until you’re staring at an empty box when you’re under the weather. I’ve definitely noticed how much more expensive everything’s gotten lately—pain relievers, allergy meds, even simple bandages. The ointments especially, those little tubes don’t last long when you’re actually using them for cuts and scrapes from the garden or woods. I regret not tucking away a couple extra boxes of ibuprofen and burn cream back when they were on sale.

Looking back, I always figured I could just run out and grab what I needed, forgetting that supply chain hiccups can hit the simplest stuff. Was there a particular brand or type you wish you’d focused on, MarigoldBreeze? I’ve started rotating my stash more carefully now and checking expiration dates, but seems like those price hikes aren’t slowing down

 

[TeaTimeTalisman]

Kicking myself for not putting up more canning lids—ran out fast during the rush. Anyone else notice how tricky wide-mouth lids are to find lately?

 

[AquaFern1028]

Funny, canning lids were my big regret too—thought I had enough, but ran out halfway through last year’s harvest and couldn’t find more for weeks. It’s always the little things you just assume will be on the shelves. Ended up reusing a couple old lids (not ideal, I know) just to get by. Do you think reusable lids like Tattlers are worth investing in, or just stick with regulars and double up next time?