Pre-storm checklist: 5 things you should keep on-hand when the snow hits

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The 5 snowstorm essentials every home needs

A snowstorm is coming, and you know what they say: it's always best to be prepared. While you've probably already made sure that you've stocked up on water, food essentials and medication, there may be a few items you're forgetting about.

Should your area face a loss of power or some damage, these are the things that you'll want to make sure you have at home. And if you don't end up using them, they can be stored away for next time — or even taken with you on a road trip, or a day out with the kids.

The 5 snowstorm essentials every home needs

1. Window insulation — to keep the cold out

This is a quick fix for draughty windows that let in a little too much cold air. This way, your heating won't end up working overtime! And should your power cut out, the warmth that's inside should last for a lot longer than it usually does.

2. Flashlights — and extra batteries

Flashlights during a storm are a given. But most people opt for rechargeable ones instead of battery-powered flashlights, to save $$s on batteries.

In case of a power outage that lasts longer than a day, go for a 2-pack that runs on batteries. And be sure to stock up on your AAAs or AAs.

3. A coolbox — for your refrigerator backup

The Ninja FrostVault 45QT Wheeled Cooler photographed in front of a blue background. — (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

We all know how common it is for your refrigerator to pack up during a snowstorm. Make sure you have a backup this time and invest in a cool box that you can use year-round, whether you're hosting a family barbecue or going on a day trip to the beach.

This way, should your fridge start warming up, you can transfer your food and drink into this coolbox, which keeps ice for up to 5 days.

4. A family first aid kit — just in case

You'll want one of these somewhere in your home anyway, so if you haven't already bought one, now's the time. Keep it in the warmest room of your home, in case you all end up in there because of a power failure. It's also handy for taking in the car on vacation or day trips, too.

5. Instant hand warmers — in case of a power outage

If your home is naturally quite cold, then you'll want to have some backup options should your heating cut out during the snowstorm.

Yes, blankets, layers, and hot water bottles are a given, but there's something else you might have forgotten: hand warmers.

These can be placed into gloves, socks, under layers of clothing and elsewhere to keep you warm for up to 10 hours at a time.

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Annie is a freelancer at Tom's Guide. She's been an Editor at various home magazines for 7 years — reviewing and writing about everything from cleaning products to air fryers and mattresses. Annie started her career at Real Homes as Deals Editor in 2018 and by 2020 she was the UK Shopping Editor at Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, and Ideal Home. She was in charge of the majority of eCommerce content on these sites, including reviews and buying guides. Now, as a freelancer, she writes features, reviews, and guides for several brands including BBC Good Food, Ideal Home, and Parade Home & Garden.

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