What’s One Prep You Always Forget Until It’s Too Late?

[CeruleanScribe]

Every time I review my supplies, I realize I’ve overlooked spare batteries for headlamps and radios—usually after I actually need them. It’s such a basic thing, but somehow they slip my mind until the power’s already out. Anyone else have a “blind spot” prep like that, something you always forget until it’s too late? Would love to hear tricks for remembering the little essentials.

 

[MeadowWhisperer]

Toilet paper, every single time—doesn’t matter how many lists I make. Anyone have a clever trick for remembering the basics that aren’t batteries or food?

 

[MarigoldBreeze]

Always socks for me. I prep food, batteries, meds, and then when it gets cold or wet—no dry socks anywhere. I swear they multiply and vanish at the same time. I started stuffing a few pairs into every go-bag or kit, but still end up short sometimes. Anyone have a way to keep track of stuff that moves around the house so much?

 

[BlueSkyWanderer]

Anyone have a clever trick for remembering the basics that aren’t batteries or food?

Honestly, MeadowWhisperer, I’m always kicking myself about first aid basics—not fancy trauma kits, just things like extra tape, tweezers, or even band-aids. I keep a decent kit, but every time I actually need a splinter out or a quick bandage, I realize I’ve used up the good stuff and forgot to restock. My memory trick is sort of old-school: I keep a running list on the fridge, but I ALSO put a sticky note inside each kit or go-bag that lists the small essentials. When I use something up, I jot it down on the sticky. Then, every few months when I rotate supplies (or find that old kit buried under camping gear), I’ve got a reminder right there.

Seems simple, but it’s saved me from being stuck with only gauze and expired ointment more than once. And I totally relate about the non-food, non-battery basics being so forgettable. If anyone else has a trick for keeping track of other random necessities—like nail clippers or safety pins—I’d love to hear it, too!