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Friday, December 5, 2025

Easy Breakfast Casserole

Easy Casserole Breakfast

Merry Christmas season to everyone! I wish I could have all of you over for breakfast this morning! Please enjoy your holidays with friends and family. This easy breakfast casserole has been in our family for over 20+ years. It’s one of those recipes that the family knows we’ll have early on Christmas morning or New Year’s Day. You prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it the night before you plan to cook it.

The day you plan to serve it, remove the cover from the cooled casserole, press the cooked bacon and sausage into the casserole, and bake as directed. It’s so good when you serve it with sour cream and your favorite salsa.

Easy Breakfast Casserole

It has bread, eggs, two different kinds of cheese, sausage, and bacon, which make it extra yummy! It makes your home smell so good while the oven is baking. There’s never much cleanup on that special day because you make the casserole ahead of time. You remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.

The History Behind Easy Breakfast Casseroles

When you think of an easy breakfast casserole, you probably picture a bubbly dish of eggs, bread or potatoes, cheese, and savory add-ins like sausage, ham, or veggies, something you can make ahead, pop in the oven, and feed a hungry crowd. It’s one of the most beloved breakfast traditions in American homes, especially during holidays and family gatherings.

But where did this comforting dish actually come from? The history of breakfast casseroles is richer (and tastier!) than most people realize.

Early Origins: The Birth of the Casserole

The word casserole comes from the French term “casse,” meaning “pan” or “dish.” By the 1700s and 1800s, the idea of cooking layered or mixed foods together in a single vessel became popular in Europe. These early casseroles often contained rice, grains, meats, or vegetables bound together with eggs or broth.

However, these were not yet breakfast dishes—that evolution came much later.

American Influence: The Rise of the One-Pan Meal

Casseroles became a staple in American kitchens in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Why?
Because life was changing fast:

  • Industrialization meant long work hours.
  • Women entering the workforce needed convenient meal options.
  • New ovens and cookware made baking easier.
  • Canned soups hit the market and revolutionized quick cooking.

By the 1930s–1950s, America was embracing the idea of one-pan layered meals. Think tuna casserole, green bean casserole, and creamy chicken bakes. These dishes symbolized convenience, thrift, and comfort.

Still, breakfast casseroles weren’t mainstream just yet.

Mid-Century Shift: Breakfast Takes Center Stage

Breakfast casseroles exploded in popularity between the 1950s and 1970s, driven by:

Church Potlucks

Midwestern church communities often created “baked breakfast dishes” that included eggs, bread, cheese, and sausage. These make-ahead recipes quickly circulated through recipe boxes and church cookbooks.

School and Community Breakfasts

Cafeterias needed a practical, affordable way to feed many people at once. Baked egg dishes fit the bill perfectly.

Weekend & Holiday Brunch Culture

As brunch grew more popular in America, easy egg-based casseroles became a go-to for hostess-friendly entertaining.

The Breakfast Casserole We Know Today

The modern breakfast casserole, mixed eggs, cheese, a starch, and a protein baked together, was fully solidified by the 1980s and 1990s. Popular variations emerged:

  • Strata (bread layered with eggs and cheese), dating back to the 1900s
  • Hash brown casseroles using shredded or cubed potatoes
  • Bisquick breakfast bakes
  • Overnight casseroles, soaked in the fridge to make mornings effortless

These dishes became holiday classics for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, Mother’s Day, and summer gatherings.

Why Breakfast Casseroles Remain So Popular

Today’s breakfast casseroles are beloved for good reason:

  • Feed a crowd easily
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Make ahead and bake later
  • Endless flavor combinations
  • Family-friendly comfort food

They’re the perfect match for modern life, just as casseroles were when they first became household staples.

Easy breakfast casseroles represent more than just a meal; they’re a reflection of simplicity, hospitality, and the desire to gather loved ones around the table. From early European casseroles to American brunch culture, these dishes have evolved into a beloved tradition passed down through generations.

Kitchen Items You May Need:

Easy Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients – Easy Breakfast Casserole

  • Bread: Holds the casserole together. Absorbs the wet ingredients in the recipe, keeping the casserole moist but not runny.
  • Velveeta Cheese: A delicious, smooth, and mild-tasting, shelf-stable cheese made of whey, milk, milk protein concentrate, modified starch, canola oil, and cheese cultures. It is known for its creaminess and unbelievable ability to melt! Please note: We usually skip the Velveeta.
  • Milk: Its fat content helps produce a moist, creamy casserole. It also helps to enrich the flavor of all of the other ingredients.
  • Eggs: Great protein source; they help bind the dough and other ingredients together, creating a moist, soft casserole. Increases browning during the cooking process. It adds a deliciously rich flavor.
  • Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • Dry Mustard: Also known as mustard powder. It is made from ground mustard seeds. It gives this casserole a delicious, savory kick!
  • Grated Cheese (mild cheddar is our favorite): A very smooth, moist, and mild cheese. It’s the perfect choice for this breakfast casserole because of its melting properties, which help combine all the ingredients.
  • Bacon (cooked): A salt-cured pork cut from the pig’s belly or back. It adds a little smoky flavor to any dish. Center-cut or thick-cut bacon is best! Adds protein to this breakfast casserole.
  • Jimmy Dean Sausage (cooked and drained): Sausage is ground meat, like pork, beef, or poultry, along with salt, spices, and other flavorings.

Delicious Breakfast Casserole

Step One: Gather Ingredients

Ingredients

Step Two: Cook The Bacon

I love baking bacon in the oven, and it’s so easy. Note how I lined my large pan with aluminum foil. It sure helps with cleanup chores. Bacon In The Oven

Bake the Bacon

Baked Bacon – Draining the Grease

Cooked Bacon

Step Three: Cook the Sausage

I fry the sausage in a frying pan until it’s thoroughly cooked. Then, I drain any leftover grease. This variety of sausage had minimal grease.

Cook the Sausage

Place the bacon and sausage in the refrigerator.

You combine the cooked bacon and sausage and place them in the refrigerator. In the morning, you bake the casserole, remove the plastic wrap, and spread the mixture on top before baking.

Bacon and Sausage

Step Four: Cut The Bread Into Cubes

The recipe calls for cutting off the crusts and then cubing the bread into bite-sized pieces. I don’t see an issue with leaving the crusts if you prefer.

Cube and Slice the Bread

Step Five: Place The Bread Cubes In The Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan, and place the bread cubes into the baking dish.

Place the Cubes in Baking Dish

Step Six: Place Velveeta Slices On the Top

Now, slice the Velveeta cheese into thin slices and layer it on the bread cubes.

Place Velveeta on Top

Step Seven: Sprinkle Grated Cheese on the Casserole

Sprinkle your favorite grated or shredded cheese on this layer.

Sprinkle Cheese on Top

Step Eight: Whisk The Egg and Milk with Spices

Whisk the milk, eggs, salt, and dry mustard until mixed thoroughly.

Mix the Egg and Milk Mixture

Pour Over Casserole

Cover the casserole with the egg, milk, and spices mixture.

Pour The Mixture Over The Casserole

Step Nine: Cover and place in the refrigerator

Cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. It gives the bread time to absorb the liquids, making for a creamy casserole.

Place the Casserole In Frig

Step Ten: Sprinkle the bacon and sausage over the casserole

You’ll need to use your fingers or a spoon to push the bacon and sausage down into the casserole so it’s mostly covered.

Ready To Bake

Step Eleven: Bake at (325°F) = (162°C) until cooked through

Baked Casserole

Finished Product

I added some sour cream and green onions for flavor. I also like mine with some salsa on the side, and I served the casserole with some extra bacon on the plate.

Easy Casserole Breakfast
Easy Casserole Breakfast
Print

Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 12 people
Author Linda Loosli

Ingredients

  • 8 slices of bread with crusts removed
  • 2/3 pound Velveeta cheese, sliced
  • 4 cups milk
  • 8 large eggs
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 2 cups of grated cheese
  • 6-8 slices of cooked bacon broken into bite-size pieces
  • 1 package of Jimmy Dean sausage, cooked, drained, and crumbled.

Instructions

  • Gather all of your ingredients and any kitchen items that you will need.
  • Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and place the bread pieces in the bottom.
  • Next, place the sliced Velveeta over the bread.
  • Put the grated cheese on top.
  • In a large bowl, blend or whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard until smooth.
  • Pour this egg mixture over the pan filled with bread, Velveeta, and grated cheese. Cover and place in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Combine the cooked bacon and sausage in a bag when cooled and place in the refrigerator overnight. You will use this mixture in the casserole in the morning.
  • The next morning, preheat the oven to (325°F) = (162°C) degrees.
  • Remove the cover from the 9 by 13-inch pan and sprinkle the bacon and sausage over the casserole.
  • You will need to use your fingers or a spoon to push the bacon and sausage down into the casserole so it's mostly covered.
  • It's very moist so it makes it easy to press the meat down into the pan. Bake uncovered for 1-1/2 hours or until the eggs are set.*
  • *The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking egg mixtures until the center reaches  (160°F) = (71°C).

Is a casserole the main dish?

What I love about this easy breakfast casserole is that it is a great stand-alone dish or can be served with a side dish or two. It’s very hearty and filling!

What can be served with a breakfast casserole?

What ingredients can I add to a breakfast casserole?

I love this easy breakfast casserole recipe! If you’re interested in adding additional ingredients, I would recommend any of the following:

  • Red, yellow, or green bell peppers
  • Sautéed onions
  • Frozen hash browns, breakfast potatoes, or tater tots
  • Mushrooms (steam to remove excess moisture)
  • Ham
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli and/or Cauliflower (steam to remove excess moisture)
  • Cream – in place of milk
  • Any other veggies that you and your family enjoy

Why do you have to refrigerate it overnight?

Refrigerating the breakfast casserole overnight allows the bread to absorb the eggs, milk, and cheese. This will help the casserole to be moist and delicious but not too liquid or runny in texture.

How do you know when an egg casserole is done?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking egg mixtures until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).

How do you store this after baking it?

I store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, although it’s best eaten within 2 days because the texture may change.

How can I reheat this the next day?

You can wrap the baking dish tightly in foil, then reheat it in the oven or air fryer.

What cheese is best to use in a breakfast casserole?

We like the flavor of the cheddar cheese! It has a mild taste and melts well. If you want to try a different cheese, I recommend Swiss cheese for a slightly stronger flavor or pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice. Mozzarella would be delicious as well!

Is this casserole healthy for my family?

I can’t provide detailed nutritional information, but as I review the ingredients, I can share a few observations from my perspective.

The milk and cheeses provide protein, Vitamin D, and calcium, all essential to daily nutrition. Interestingly, milk is also a good source of potassium.

Bacon and sausage are also good sources of protein, but for those watching their cholesterol, they may be a concern. The meats and added salt make for a reasonably high sodium level, but surely add to the overall flavor.

The bread adds to the casserole’s texture but also increases its carbohydrate content.

Final Word

Let me know if you decide to try my easy breakfast casserole recipe! The smell and taste of this casserole are genuinely amazing! I love how the bread absorbs the milk, eggs, Velveeta, and grated cheeses, which then melt together to create a moist, cheesy, and flavorful dish. The bacon and Jimmy Dean sausage taste establishes a savory flavor in your mouth like no other! My mouth is watering just thinking about it! You?

Easy breakfast casseroles represent more than just a meal; they’re a reflection of simplicity, hospitality, and the desire to gather loved ones around the table. From early European casseroles to American brunch culture, these dishes have evolved into a beloved tradition passed down through generations.

I love how easy it is to put this breakfast casserole together the night before and have it ready to cook in the morning! This easy breakfast casserole is great for brunch, Christmas breakfast, family reunions, and New Year’s Day festivities! May God Bless The World, Linda

The post Easy Breakfast Casserole appeared first on Food Storage Moms.



from Food Storage Moms

How to Care for Chickens in the Winter

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

How to Care for Chickens in the Winter

Raising chickens in the winter can seem challenging, especially for new chicken owners. Cold mornings and less daylight make the wintertime unenjoyable for most people. You walk outside to tend to your chickens and feel frozen immediately.

Just because you are cold and don’t want to be outside doesn’t mean your chickens are too cold. Chickens have a much higher body temperature than humans, ranging from 105 to 107 degrees F. That means they can withstand colder temperatures than humans. In fact, keeping chickens in the summer is actually harder.

Still, chickens do require some special care in the winter, and making sure they are happy is worth it. They will reward you with year-round egg production, although it will decrease. Preparing for winter starts in the summer or fall, and some breeds are hardier than others. So, here are some tips for keeping chickens in the winter.

1. Chickens Don’t Need a Heater

Some people consider adding a heater to their chicken coop. While this may work, it's important to understand the risk. Heaters are a fire hazard. I understand the urge! I live in Ohio, and our winters can be extremely cold. However, chicken coop heaters are a fire hazard. Firefighters respond to chicken coop fires every winter.

Chickens flap around their coop and heaters can accidentally burn their wings. All of the bedding is a fire hazard, so steer clear. Chickens are quite intelligent, and they know to huddle together for warmth. A roost up in the air, where the warm air rises to, combined with appropriate insulation and body heat is all chickens really need.

2. Add More Insulation to Your Chicken Coop

Instead of adding heat, insulation is a better and safer choice. Insulation should be added when you build your chicken coop, but there are ways to add more afterward. You can add cardboard to your coop walls. Another option is placing fitted sheets of insulation to your coop walls. Make sure you cover them with cardboard or something that will stop your chickens from pecking at it.

At the same time, you don’t want to add so much insulation that lack of ventilation becomes a problem. Ventilation is essential for a healthy chicken coop. Without proper air circulation, moisture builds up, leading to ammonia in your coop, and that leads to sick chickens. Never close up the coop completely.

Remember that there is a difference between ventilation and drafts. You don’t want drafts. To avoid this, place any ventilation area above where your chickens roost, ensuring your chickens don’t feel drafts while roosting. At the same time, it ensures air can enter and escape properly.

The best place for these ventilation areas is the space between the walls and roof, covered with hardware cloth. Covering these openings is important because it prevents predators from entering. Raccoons and other predators are intelligent and crafty.

Hens Eating Food

3. Skip the Straw and Hay

Some chicken owners, in hopes of adding more insulation or litter, use bales of straw or hay inside their chicken coop. Regular straw isn’t absorbent, so using straw increases the risk of mold. Mold in your coop can lead to respiratory disease, and no one wants that.

The inside of bales and inside of straw provide the perfect breeding ground for mold and fungus, which endanger the health of your chicken flock. Farmer’s lung is a disease YOU can catch by inhaling mold spores from straw or hay that got wet and dried, causing mildew. It can even harm your health.

4. Watch Their Combs and Wattles

Some chickens have larger combs and wattles, and those breeds are more prone to frostbites. We had a lovely rooster who loved to stand outside, even in the negative temperatures, to crow. Unfortunately, I realized he had frostbite on the tips of his comb when they turned black and eventually fell off. They never grew back either.

Most people have no idea that chickens can get frostbite just like humans. Spread petroleum jelly over their combs and wattles each day when you check their food and water. Frostbite typically won’t kill your chickens, but it can be uncomfortable. Some chickens are smart enough to stay in their protected coop during those excessively cold days, but others are determined.

Rooster in the Snow

5. Add Boredom Busters

Winter can be boring for everyone, humans and chickens. Chickens need things to do because they spend more time in their coop throughout the winter. Some chicken owners like to hang heads of cabbage from the ceiling as a toy.

Try providing a dust bathing area. Put a tub of sand or wood ash inside the coop. Or you can just put it on the ground inside the coop so the chickens can scratch it up. Add logs, stumps, or branches in your coop and run space for your chickens to hop up on and roost throughout the day.

Spread scratch grains throughout the coop. Try giving your birds treats! There are many different recipes you can try for homemade chicken treats.

6. Keep Their Water Fresh and Unfrozen

The most important and difficult part of taking care of your chickens in the winter is ensuring that they also have fresh unfrozen water. Chicken owners have limited options. You can either buy heated waterers or carry out warm water twice a day, at least.

One of the best options is to use black rubber tubs, which are readily available at any farm and fleet store. The black rubber attracts the sunlight, warming up the tub, which slows the freezing process.

Despite what your neighbor might stay, DON’T keep waterers inside of the coop if possible. Moisture is your enemy during the winter months, and moisture inside a chicken coop can cause health issues.

7. Provide Covered Outside Areas

Chickens want to head outside, but walking in snow isn’t something they enjoy. Most chickens will just stare outside longingly but never step foot in the snow. Give them a covered area outside, so they can go outside, even for the snow haters.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to cover part of the run with a tarp. Unless you want to shovel their run every day, a tarp is the cheapest choice. You can also lay hay and straw on the ground to cover up the snow. If you think about this ahead of time, you can create the entire run with a permanent sheltered area in the run. Chickens like the shade in the summer too.

As the temperatures increase, chickens may start to venture outside without snow protection. Any temperatures below 30 degrees F will be a hard sell for most chickens.

8. Provide Roosting Space

Each chicken needs enough roosting space to stay warm. If you enter a chicken coop at night, you’ll see your entire flock fluffed up together. Roosting together is how chickens stay warm. Warm air rises, so the roost needs to be up off the ground.

Make sure all of your chickens have roosting space. If you see anyone on the ground, it’s a sign you quickly need to add more. The chicken on the ground will be cold and vulnerable to any predators that may be able to enter your coop.

Another important thing to remember is that your chickens’ feet need to stay warm to help them regulate their body temperature, quite like how we need to cover our ears. Make sure you use wide roosts so that the hen can cover her entire feet while roosting.

Chickens Roosting On A Perch

9. Block Wind in the Run

Even hardy chickens won’t stay active if bitter winds are blowing through their outdoor run. Use clear plastic sheeting or old shower curtains to block the wind on at least two sides of the run. This helps retain warmth and gives your flock a more comfortable space to move around without being blasted by cold air.

10. Watch for Signs of Illness

Cold stress can weaken a chicken’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to respiratory issues and other illnesses. Check daily for signs like coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or huddling in odd places. Early intervention makes a big difference. Quarantine any sick birds and keep their area extra clean and dry.

11. Give Greens

Free ranging chickens enjoy fresh greens throughout the summer, but greens are scarce during the winter months. They are unable to forage for anything substantial. Give them safe kitchen scraps as often as you can.

Some chicken owners learn how to grow fodder inside. Fodder is a great supplement for the winter months. Plus, fresh greens boost the quality of your eggs. Here are some other foods to feed your chickens.

12. Give Ample Food

Winter is NOT the time to put your chickens on a diet, not that you ever should do so. Chickens need more food as the temperatures get colder. A full crop keeps them warm when it’s freezing outside. Winter is a good time to increase their feed ration.

You might want to try adding some more high-energy food such as cracked corn and black oil sunflower. These foods will keep your chickens’ crops full.

Keeping Chickens Happy

Chickens handle the winter time fine if they have a properly winterized coop. A well-designed coop with insulation, ventilation, and wide roosts are the basics of what keep your chickens healthy and happy.

Remember to provide access all day to fresh, unfrozen water and ample food all day. Your chickens will survive winter with ease and be excited to face the spring and summer.

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The post How to Care for Chickens in the Winter appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.



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Does Peanut Butter Go Bad?

Peanut butter seems like the perfect survival food: cheap, dense, calorie heavy, rich in protein and fat, and able to keep you moving when everything else runs out. Every prepper knows one thing. When shelves go empty, fats become worth more than gold. Carbs are everywhere. Protein and fat are what keep you alive. So […]

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50 Emergency Preparedness Gift Ideas

Goal Zero Flashlights Power Banks

Below is a fully expanded guide to 50 Emergency Preparedness Gift Ideas, ideal for holidays, birthdays, care packages, housewarmings, and more.

When you’re choosing a gift, nothing says “I care” quite like helping someone become more prepared, more resilient, and more confident in their ability to handle unexpected emergencies. From power outages and winter storms to road trips and everyday accidents, these preparedness items are gifts that people actually use, and often don’t think to buy for themselves.

Various Flashlights which are Battery and Solar

50 Emergency Preparedness Gift Ideas

1. Solar Emergency Lantern

A solar lantern charges using sunlight and provides bright, dependable lighting without needing batteries. It’s perfect for power outages, camping, and nighttime emergencies.

2. Portable Water Filter

A compact water filter, like a LifeStraw or a Berkey Water Bottle Filter, can turn unsafe water into drinkable water within seconds. This is a must-have for emergency kits, hikers, and travelers.

Life Straw and Water Bottle Filter

3. Hand-Crank Weather Radio

NOAA emergency radios provide critical weather alerts even when the grid is down. Hand-crank models don’t require electricity, making them reliable during storms.

4. Fully Stocked First Aid Kit

From bandages to antiseptic wipes and medications, a complete first-aid kit can treat injuries quickly when urgent care isn’t available. First Aid Kit

5. Mylar Emergency Blankets

Lightweight and heat-reflective, Mylar blankets help retain body warmth. They’re essential in winter weather or shock situations.

6. 72-Hour Emergency Food Kit

Shelf-stable meals provide peace of mind and security during evacuations or short-term emergencies. Mountain House MREs

7. High-Capacity Power Bank

When the power goes out, a strong backup charger keeps phones working for communication and updates.

What to Decide Based on Your Needs

Here’s a quick guideline on what to prioritize based on how you plan to use the power bank:

Use Case What to Prioritize
Mid-size capacity (15,000–20,000 mAh), at least two ports, decent wattage output Compact size, ~5,000–10,000 mAh, USB-C + fast charging (≈ 18–20W), portability
Multi-device charging (phone + tablet / multiple devices) Mid-size capacity (15,000–20,000 mAh), at least 2 ports, decent wattage output
Laptops / Freelance work / Long travel / Emergencies High capacity (20,000 mAh+), high wattage output (30W+ or PD support), durability, multiple ports
Outdoors / Camping / Emergency Kits Rugged build, safety protections, maybe solar or high-capacity, reliable output, compact enough for your gear

8. Home Fire Extinguisher

One of the most practical gifts you can give. Perfect for kitchens, garages, and vehicles.

9. Water Storage Containers

Durable containers ensure families have access to clean drinking water. Great for people in storm-prone regions.

10. Emergency Car Kit

Often includes jumper cables, reflectors, a flashlight, gloves, a blanket, a tire inflator, and roadside safety tools.

11. LED Flashlights

Bright, long-lasting, and reliable. Always needed in a home, a car, a garage, or a backpack.

12. Multi-Tool

A single tool with pliers, blades, screwdrivers, and more. Perfect for everyday tasks and emergencies.

13. Fire Starters / Waterproof Matches

Reliable fire-starting tools for camping, warmth, and emergency cooking. Types of Fire Starters to Stock.

Various Fire Starters and Matches

14. Emergency Whistle

Loud signal whistles can save lives during search-and-rescue situations to find you or others you’re looking for.

15. Compact Camping Stove

Small and lightweight, it allows families to boil water or cook meals when the power is out.

16. Manual Can Opener

Simple but essential, especially when using canned emergency food stores.

17. Hygiene Kit

Includes soap, wipes, toothpaste, deodorant, a washcloth, and sanitizer. Important for evacuations or extended outages.

Various Personal Hygiene Items

18. Cold-Weather Sleeping Bag

Designed to retain heat in freezing temperatures. Critical for car kits and winter emergencies.

19. Waterproof or Fireproof Document Bag

Protects passports, birth certificates, titles, and insurance papers from water, fire, and smoke. CIOEY Fireproof Document Bags – Fireproof Box.

Fire Proof Bag and Emergency Binder

20. Heavy-Duty Work Gloves

Great for cleanup, repairs, firewood, and protecting hands during emergencies.

21. Battery Organizer + Batteries

Keeps batteries of all sizes neatly stored and ready for flashlights, radios, and devices.

22. Waterproof Flash Drive for Documents

Digitally stores essential documents, photos, and medical info in a secure format.

23. Emergency Cash Envelope

Stores small bills for situations where ATMs or card readers aren’t working.

24. Smoke Alarm + CO Detector

A perfect home safety upgrade, especially for older homes or rental properties. 10 Essential Ways to Prepare for Carbon Monoxide as a Prepper

25. Family Emergency Binder

A customized binder that helps families organize emergency contacts, documents, plans, and checklists.  Free Emergency Binder Kit 

26. Portable Solar Charger

Power small devices using the sun. Great for hikers, campers, and extended outages at home.

27. Emergency Ponchos

Compact, waterproof, and perfect for go-bags or glove compartments.

28. Gas Shut-Off Tool

Allows homeowners to safely shut off gas lines after an earthquake or strong storm.

How To Turn Off The Gas And Water To Your House

29. Glow Sticks

Safe light sources are invaluable for kids. Great for outages and nighttime emergencies.

30. Dry Bag

Keeps phones, documents, clothing, and gear dry during floods, storms, and outdoor activities.

31. N95 Masks

Protect lungs from wildfire smoke, dust, debris, and airborne particles.

32. Water Purification Tablets

Backup water purification when filters aren’t available. Lightweight and inexpensive. Water Purification Tablets

33. Collapsible Camp Cookware

Space-saving pans and pots are used for emergency cooking or camping.

34. Emergency Road Flares / LED Beacons

Improves visibility during roadside breakdowns at night or in bad weather.

35. Reflective Emergency Blanket Sleeping Bag

Thicker and warmer than Mylar blankets, offering zippered protection from wind and rain.

36. Pepper Spray or Personal Alarm

Helps improve safety during walks, travel, or emergencies. Personal Alarm

37. Emergency Ration Bars

High-calorie food bars with long shelf lives, perfect for go-bags.

38. Whistle + Compass Tool

A great stocking stuffer for hikers, families, and emergency kits. Emergency Whistle

39. Waterproof Notepad + Pencil

Useful for communication, writing instructions, or tracking emergency supplies.

40. Paracord Bracelet / Rope

Strong, versatile rope with endless uses, from shelter-building to repairs.

41. Freeze-Dried Meal Packs

Lightweight, long-lasting, and delicious, perfect for emergency storage.

42. Hard-Shell First Aid Case

More durable than soft kits and ideal for outdoor use or car storage.

43. Foldable Water Bucket

Useful for sanitation, washing, carrying water, and campsite tasks.

44. Hand Warmers

A simple, inexpensive comfort item for cars, winter kits, and emergencies.

45. Folding Shovel

Useful for snow removal, digging out cars, camping, or clearing debris.

46. Pocket Survival Manual

Instructional guides that cover water sourcing, shelter building, fire-starting, and more.

47. Compact AM/FM Radio

Simple, battery-powered communication when Wi-Fi and cell towers fail.

48. Window Breaker + Seatbelt Cutter Tool

A life-saving car tool designed for quick escape after an accident.

49. Small Home Tool Kit

A basic set of screwdrivers, a hammer, pliers, and tape, perfect for home emergencies.

50. Emergency-Ready Go Bag / Backpack

A durable, comfortable bag to hold all survival essentials, making evacuation faster and easier.

35 Items Every Prepper Should Have When Traveling

Final Word

Every item on this list makes life safer, easier, and more manageable when the unexpected happens. These gifts show thoughtfulness, love, and a deep desire to help someone feel secure and confident. Preparedness isn’t about fear; it’s about peace of mind. And that’s a gift worth giving any time of the year. May God bless this world, Linda

The post 50 Emergency Preparedness Gift Ideas appeared first on Food Storage Moms.



from Food Storage Moms

Your Home is a Fortress – But it is Also a Sanctuary

The Need for a Sanctuary Your home is your castle, but it is also a sanctuary of peace, dignity and order amidst the chaos, uncertainty and overstimulation of the modern world. Personality Ethic vs Character Ethic How did we get this way? Stephen R. Covey did a bicentennial study of American success literature and published […]

from Survivopedia