Dollar Tree is a goldmine for budget preppers. At $1.25 per item, you can build a basic emergency kit for under $20. For a more complete budget strategy, see our 10 essential survival items guide. Here’s exactly what to grab.

Water & Food

  1. 1-gallon water jugs — Cheap and stackable. Buy 4-6 and stash them. For serious water storage, see our under-bed water storage guide.
  2. Canned goods (beans, corn, fruit) — They carry a small but decent selection.
  3. Peanut butter crackers — High calorie, long shelf life.
  4. Hard candy bags — Instant sugar/energy during stress.

Light & Fire

  1. LED flashlights — Surprisingly bright for $1.25.
  2. Batteries (AA/AAA) — Stock up. Always stock up.
  3. BIC-style lighters — Reliable and essential.
  4. Emergency candles (2-pack) — Last resort light source (use with caution).

First Aid & Hygiene

  1. Bandages and gauze pads — Basic wound care.
  2. Antibiotic ointment — Small tubes, perfect for a mini kit.
  3. Hand sanitizer — When water is scarce, hygiene matters.
  4. Baby wipes — The #1 most underrated prep item. Full-body “shower” without water.

Miscellaneous Essentials

  1. Duct tape (mini roll) — Fixes everything. Seal windows, patch leaks, makeshift bandage.
  2. Zip-lock bags — Waterproofing for documents and electronics.
  3. Trash bags — Rain poncho, ground cover, window seal, debris bag.

Total Damage: $18.75

For less than the cost of a pizza delivery, you’ve got the bones of a functional emergency kit. Combine this with one quality purchase (like a Sawyer Mini filter), and you’re genuinely prepared.

The Dollar Tree Run Challenge

Next time you’re at Dollar Tree, grab these 15 items. Post your haul to our community. We’ll feature the best kits on our Instagram.