11 Items To Buy From Costco for Your DIY Emergency Kit

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The new year opened with mass devastation in the U.S. as huge swaths of Los Angeles were wiped out by deadly fires. More than 100,000 people were displaced, thousands of structures (including many homes) burnt to the ground and, most tragically, some people lost their lives. 

Though natural disasters are, well, natural, they’re becoming more and more common as the repercussions of climate change intensify. So, perhaps more than ever, it’s really important that you have an emergency plan ready if you need to evacuate your home. You also need a DIY emergency kit that you can easily access should things get gnarly. 

GOBankingRates put together a list of 11 items to buy at Costco for your DIY emergency kit. Seriously, don’t think twice about getting these, even if you decide to buy from another retailer. At the end of the day, none of us are impervious to danger or devastation. Hopefully you will never need to use any of the items on this list, but go about your life as though one day, possibly soon, you will. 

First-Aid Kit 

Having a packed first-aid kit in your emergency to-go bag is an absolute must. At Costco, there are a few first-aid kits available. This is the least expensive one, currently priced at $17.99. It comes with tons of essential items including bandages, scissors, alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment and so much more. This purchase alone will take care of so many of your potential needs in an emergency; don’t skip it. 

Flashlight

Even if you’re not in danger during a disaster such as a fire or hurricane, you may lose power. And power outages can last for days. Additionally, if forced to evacuate, you may need something to help you see your way in the dark of night. Be sure you have at least one quality flashlight on hand. Check out the Duracell 1200LM Hybrid LED Flashlight, 3-pack at Costco for $34.99. 

Battery-Powered Candles  

On the note of power outages: Stock up on candles. You can go the traditional route with basic candles that require lighting or you can step up your game with battery-powered candles, which will never go out so long as you have batteries on hand. They also can be safer if there’s risk of a gas leak in your home. At Costco, the LumiPur Signature 15-piece Flameless LED Candles Centerpiece Collection with Remote costs $59.99.  

Battery-Powered or Crank Radio 

In our increasingly Wi-Fi-connected digital age, most of us aren’t used to relying on radios for information; however, when disaster strikes, you may not have internet access. A battery-powered or crank radio is a must-have item to have in your emergency kit. Unfortunately, there appears to be no crank radio at Costco and there’s only one battery-powered option listed on the Costco site; that’s the Motorola Solutions T600 35 Miles Waterproof Two-way Radio Green, 2-pack for $99.99. 

Extra Batteries

A few of the items on this list require batteries. Make sure you have plenty extra. Which ones you need depend on your devices. Costco sells many different types of batteries, including some under the Kirkland brand. 

Portable Charger for Cellphone 

Even if your phone is fully charged when an emergency strikes, it won’t stay that way for very long, particularly not if you’re using Wi-Fi. Get a portable charger for your phone. The least expensive portable charger currently available at Costco is the myCharge PowerMax All-in-One Portable Charger, which costs $39.99; it provides up to 90 hours of additional power.  

Nonperishable Foods  

In the event that you are forced to shelter in place, you’ll need some nonperishable foods, including canned or packaged food. Costco has a ton of nonperishable foods, though prices vary. Buy in bulk if you have the space. Remember to check expiration dates so you don’t end up buying something that’s close to its expiration date. 

Manual Can Opener 

So, you have all those cans of chili and soup now, but how will you open them if the power is out and you have an electric can opener? Don’t let this tragic irony befall you. Have a manual can opener in your emergency kit. Costco sells the Winco Portable Can Opener with Crank Handle, Chrome Plated for $12.99. 

Bottled Water 

In an emergency, your water could be turned off or be dangerous to drink. Have an arsenal of bottled water on hand. You may not be able to fit gallons in your emergency kit, but at least keep a few smaller bottles ready to go. Costco sells the Pure Life Purified Water 24-count for $4.99. 

Pliers

Keep a pair of pliers in your emergency kit. These can be used to turn off utilities in a pinch. As of the time this article was written, Costco only had one option for pliers available, and they’re part of a larger kit containing other tools. The Hoto Tool Set with 12v Brushless Drill, Hammer, Wrench, Pliers and more costs $99.99. If you only want pliers, you’re better shopping with another big retailer such as Walmart or Target, given Costco’s lack of affordable options.    

Blankets 

If you’re forced to evacuate your home, you need not only extra clothing on hand, but blankets for each member of your family. Consider the Berkshire PrimaLush Throw 2-pack at Costco, priced at $14.97, which appears to be the least expensive option on the Costco site.  

3 Other Things To Buy Elsewhere 

Please bear in mind that this is not a complete list of everything you need in an emergency kit; this is only a list of the items you can currently purchase at Costco. You will also need a whistle, a local map (GPS will likely not be an option in a widespread disaster) and N-95 masks.  

Editor’s note: Pricing is accurate as of Jan. 14, 2025. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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