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Build your outage kit around two needs: a way to receive reliable information when phone service is down, and a way to keep essential devices powered. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, charged phones with compatible backup charging, and a written family communications plan are the core. Add lighting, safety supplies, and household-specific items, then keep the kit somewhere accessible.
Start with a radio, charged devices, and a paper plan
A phone is useful during an outage, but it depends on both a working device and available networks. FEMA recommends keeping a battery-powered or hand-crank radio that can receive NOAA Weather Radio tone alerts, with extra batteries. A radio provides another way to hear information if mobile service or internet access is unavailable.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Anker SOLIX C1000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station | $639.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station,292Wh | $259.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Anker SOLIX C300 Portable Power Station, 288Wh Solar Generator for Camping | $329.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh,1500W | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Choose a radio based on its power options, NOAA Weather Radio alert capability, and whether it can receive signals where you live. Reception and alert coverage vary by location, so check local availability rather than assuming any radio will receive every alert.
Keep phones and other essential electronics charged when severe weather is expected. FEMA’s power-outage information sheet, FEMA P-2143, says: “Keep mobile phones and other electronic equipment charged. Plan for alternative power sources that you can use to charge devices.” A spare phone battery, charger, or compatible external battery can help; confirm that charging accessories match the devices and connectors you need. The appropriate capacity depends on your household’s devices and use, and FEMA does not give a universal number of phone charges or runtime.
#1 Best Overall
- 49 Min UltraFast Recharging: With upgraded HyperFlash tech, fully recharge at 1,600W—for outage prepping, camping trips, or tailgating events. Enable it in the Anker app.
- 2,000W Output via 10 Ports: Delivers 2,000W (3,000W peak) and 1,024Wh capacity. Power up to 10 devices—ideal for emergency backup, remote work setups, tiny homes, and off‑grid living.
- Compact and Portable: Easily carry, store, and move from room to room, your RV, or even on beach and park outings. C1000 Gen 2 is 14% smaller and 11% lighter than similar models.
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FEMA also advises: “Create a communications plan and keep a paper copy.” Write down key phone numbers and agree how household members will contact one another and where to meet if separated. Do not rely on a plan stored only on a phone.
Assemble a practical home kit
FEMA’s emergency supply checklist presents its items as a starting point, not a fixed kit for every household. Alongside outage-specific equipment, it recommends broader emergency basics such as water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, sanitation items, and local maps. Keep supplies together in a place household members can reach, and consider smaller portable kits for a vehicle or workplace.
Rank #2
- Ultra-Lightweight: At only 7.5 lbs, the Explorer 300 delivers a robust 292Wh capacity while remaining 17% lighter than the industry average. The sleek, integrated handle makes it effortless to carry on long hikes or pack with your camping gear, providing reliable off-grid power without adding bulk to your load.
- Versatile Power for 6 Devices: Equipped with 2 AC outlets, a 100W USB-C PD port, 2 USB-A ports, and a 120W car port. With a 300W rated output (600W peak surge), it easily handles laptops, drones, and cameras, while also serving as a dependable cpap battery for camping or a robust solar powered generator when paired with panels.
- Built to Last: Upgraded with premium LiFePO4 chemistry, this portable generator delivers over 4,000 charge cycles before reaching 70% capacity. This ensures more than 11 years of reliable service life, making it a sustainable and durable energy partner for a decade of exploration.
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- WHAT YOU GET: 1* Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station, 1*AC adapter, 1* car charger cable, 1* user guide (𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐝.)
| Need | What to include | Practical check |
|---|---|---|
| Information | Battery-powered or hand-crank radio with NOAA Weather Radio tone-alert capability; extra batteries | Check power options and reception where you live. |
| Phone power | Extra phone battery, charger, or compatible external battery | Confirm connector compatibility and keep the backup charged or ready. |
| Lighting | Flashlight and extra batteries; a battery-powered lantern can also help | Test lights periodically and store spare batteries with them. |
| Emergency basics | Water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, sanitation items, and local maps | Adjust quantities and contents to household needs and local guidance. |
| Household safety | Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup | FEMA recommends alarms on every level and near sleeping areas. |
Before an outage, identify which devices matter most and choose charging equipment accordingly. If using a generator, decide which loads take priority; a generator may not be able to run everything simultaneously.
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Keep more than one route to alerts
Sign up for local alerts where available and keep radio access as a complementary route. FEMA’s app page says the FEMA App can provide real-time National Weather Service alerts for up to five locations and help users find nearby shelters. The page was last updated October 29, 2024; check the current app details and local alert options. App alerts require a working device and connectivity, so an app should not be the only way your household expects to receive information.
Rank #3
- 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿: It's portable power that moves as freely as you. Give your devices 300W (600W Surge) and 288Wh. Fast charge with 140W two-way USB-C ports.
- 𝟴 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀: Keep your essential devices powered (e.g., laptops, phones, cameras, drones) with 3x AC outlets (300W total), 1x car socket (120W), 2x USB-C (140W each), 1x USB-C (15W), and 1x USB-A (12W).
- 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹-𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻: Attach the strap(sold separately) or simply carry this power station. It's 15% smaller than similar designs and perfect for spontaneous adventures.
- 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿-𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘀: When your journey needs endless charging, do so seamlessly and sustainably with a 100W solar panel. We recommend 100W or 60W Anker Solar Panel. This power station is not compatible with Anker SOLIX PS30 (or other 5V~3A USB-C panels), PS200, PS400.
- 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴: Recharge to 80% in just 50 minutes with a wall outlet, or use solar panels, your car, or the PD 3.1 USB-C port. Stay charged, no matter where you are.
Check in advance whether your phone service will work during an outage. A landline may also fail if its lines are damaged. Keep written contact information with the paper plan, and decide how household members will reconnect if they cannot reach one another.
Adapt supplies for medical and household needs
If someone relies on an electricity-dependent medical device, plan with their doctor for how to use the device during an outage and what backup power arrangements are appropriate. For medication that requires refrigeration, ask a doctor or pharmacist about that specific product’s temperature limits and what to do if power is lost; storage requirements vary.
Rank #4
- Powerful yet Compact: Boasting a 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 can power multiple appliances, including AC units, fridges, and electric pots. With a 1,070Wh capacity and a lightweight build of only 23.8 lbs, along with a foldable handle, it makes an excellent companion for outdoor camping, road trips, or emergencies.
- One Hour Fast Charging: Charge your Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station from 0% to 100% battery level in just one hour with emergency charging activated via the Jackery App. It defaults to 1.7 hours for a full charge to optimize battery health. Engineered with advanced ChargeShield 2.0 technology, this power station charges safer, faster, and smarter.
- 10 Year Lifespan: The Explorer 1000 v2 portable power station is equipped with a durable LFP battery, maintaining over 70% of its original capacity even after 4,000 charge cycles, offering longevity exceeding 10 years.
- Tailored for Versatility: Featuring two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three pure sine wave AC ports, along with LED lights, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 is capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, meeting power needs in various scenarios. PD 100W fast USB-C charging ensures a rapid charging speed, even without power adapters.
- Smart App Control: Effortlessly switch between different charging modes with Jackery’s App—including one hour emergency charging from 0 to 100%, 30 dB quiet overnight charging mode, and energy efficiency mode. Maximize the freedom to adjust the power station to meet your needs.
Include pets and other household members in supply planning. Account for their food, water, medication, and other necessary care, and make sure the communication and meeting plan works for everyone who may need to use it.
Use backup power and lighting safely
- Generators: Use them outdoors, at least 20 feet from building openings such as windows, doors, or garages, as FEMA advises. Never run a vehicle in a garage.
- Indoor heating: Never use a gas stovetop, oven, grill, or dryer to heat the home.
- Lighting: Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns rather than relying on candles.
- Alarms: Keep smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup on every level and near sleeping areas.
Protect food during a power outage
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed and monitor food temperatures when possible. FEMA’s power-outage information sheet says a refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours when kept closed, and a full freezer will stay at a safe temperature for about 48 hours when kept closed. FEMA says to discard refrigerated food held at 40°F or above for more than four hours. Follow current food-safety guidance if the outage lasts longer or you are unsure whether food stayed cold enough.
Make the plan usable before an outage
- Write and share the plan. Record key contacts, how household members will communicate, and where to reconnect if separated. Keep a paper copy with the kit.
- Check the equipment. Confirm that radios receive local signals, test flashlights, and verify that chargers fit the devices you intend to power.
- Keep backups ready. Charge devices and external batteries when severe weather is expected; store spare batteries where they are easy to find.
- Review household-specific needs. Discuss powered medical devices and refrigerated medications with a doctor or pharmacist, and include pets in supplies and plans.
- Know local alert routes. Check local signup options and current app availability, while retaining radio and written information as alternatives.
FEMA’s emergency supply checklist covers the kit baseline. Its power-outage information sheet (FEMA P-2143) covers outage safety and food handling, and the FEMA App page describes app alerts and shelter information.
Quick Recap
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