7 Must-Have Items for UK Blackouts (And Where to Get Them Fast)

Be ready for the next power cut before it hits your home.

⚡ Why UK Blackouts Are on the Rise

Power cuts are no longer rare in the UK. With increased pressure on the national grid, extreme weather events, and aging infrastructure, many households are facing unexpected outages that last hours—or even days.

But here's the good news: you don’t need to be caught off guard.

Below are 7 must-have blackout essentials every UK household should keep on hand, plus direct links to reliable gear you can get fast. ✅

🔦 1. LED Lantern (Safe & Long-Lasting)

Forget candles — they’re risky and don’t provide much light. A solid battery-powered LED lantern is brighter, safer, and lasts for days on a single charge.

✅ Safer than candles ✅ Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens & bedrooms ✅ Hang or carry anywhere

🔋 2. High-Capacity Power Bank

No electricity means no phone, no contact, no updates.

Grab a portable charger with at least 20,000mAh — enough to charge your phone 3–5 times.

📻 3. Battery-Powered or Wind-Up Radio

Your phone won’t help if it’s dead and there’s no Wi-Fi. A simple AM/FM radio keeps you connected to emergency broadcasts.

✅ Bonus: choose one with a built-in flashlight and solar panel for extra utility.

🍱 4. Non-Perishable Food & Water

Stock at least 72 hours of food and water per person.

👉 Think:

• Tinned meals
• Granola bars
• Crackers + peanut butter
• 2 litres of water per person per day

Pro tip: Store in your Blackout Box (see below).

🧰 5. Your Grab-and-Go Blackout Box

Every UK home needs a Blackout Box – a small, ready-to-go kit that you can grab in seconds.

What to include:

• Lantern
• Batteries
• Radio
• Power bank
• First aid kit
• Emergency contacts
• Snacks + water

🛌 6. Warm Blankets + Sleeping Bags

If it’s a winter blackout, indoor temperatures can plummet.

Keep insulated blankets or old sleeping bags ready. Bonus: no electricity required.

🩹 7. Basic First Aid Kit

Power cuts often lead to accidents: tripping over things, slicing a finger in the dark…

Have a basic first aid kit that includes:

• Plasters
• Bandages
• Antiseptic wipes
• Painkillers

You can find compact kits online or at your local chemist.

✅ Be Ready Before the Next One Hits

Blackouts don’t warn you before they happen — and by the time they do, it’s too late to scramble for supplies.

👉 Be the one who’s already prepared.