Power Supply

A power outage hits modern households hard: heating, refrigerator, lighting, internet, and chargers all go down simultaneously. Those who are prepared can get through such periods without major disruptions. The good news: for solid emergency coverage over 48-72 hours, you don't need expensive generators or solar systems — the most important basics are affordable.

The key is redundancy: have at least two independent methods for every critical function. For light: flashlight plus candles plus headlamp. For communication: crank radio plus charged smartphone. This way you are protected even when one method fails.

Power Storage & Charging

• Large Power BankEssential

  A large power bank (at least 20,000 mAh) is the first line of defence against losing communication. It charges your smartphone multiple times and can also supply tablets or small devices with energy. Charge the power bank regularly — check and recharge every three months, as it self-discharges. Models with USB-C Power Delivery (PD) charge modern smartphones significantly faster. For particularly long outages, a 40,000+ mAh power bank or a solar panel combination makes sense.

• Solar ChargerRecommended

  A solar charger allows you to recharge power banks and smartphones even during extended outages. Foldable solar panels with 20-40 watt output are compact enough for an emergency backpack and robust enough for continuous use. Place them in a window in sunlight or on a balcony. In winter or overcast weather, charging output is reduced — factor this in. Solar chargers are a useful addition but not a complete replacement for pre-charged energy storage.

• Batteries (Various Sizes)Essential

  An adequate supply of batteries in various sizes (AA, AAA, 9V) ensures the operation of all battery-powered devices. Buy quality batteries with long shelf life (up to 10 years for alkaline batteries from Energizer or Duracell). Inventory your battery-powered devices and make sure you have spare batteries for each one. Store batteries cool and dry, not inside devices — this avoids corrosion damage from leaking batteries.

• Extension CordOptional

  A long extension cord allows you to distribute a single outlet — for example from a generator or a vehicle with an inverter — to multiple consumers. In an emergency you may depend on a power source that is not directly where you need it. A 10-15 m cable with a multi-socket cover most scenarios. Important: do not overload the cable — observe the wattage of connected devices.

Lighting

• Crank Radio with Charging FunctionEssential

  A crank radio with built-in charging function is one of the most important emergency preparedness items. It delivers current information from authorities and emergency services via radio waves without any external power source. Crank radios receive AM, FM, and ideally DAB+ as well as weather channels. The built-in smartphone charging capability via USB is a valuable bonus. Test the radio annually and make sure you know which stations in your area broadcast emergency information.

• Camping LanternRecommended

  A camping lantern illuminates an entire room evenly — unlike a flashlight, which produces only a beam. During shared meals, games, or reading in an emergency, a lantern is far more practical. Modern LED camping lanterns with rechargeable batteries or batteries hold up comfortably for 20-50 hours. Hanging systems or foldable hooks allow hands-free operation. A dimmed lantern in the bedroom also gives children a sense of security.

• LED HeadlampEssential

  An LED headlamp keeps both hands free — an enormous advantage when working, cooking, or providing first aid in the dark. It is the most practical light source for active use. Choose a model with at least 200 lumens and several modes (red light preserves dark adaptation of the eyes). Adjustable headband and waterproof housing (IPX4) are important features. Keep the headlamp easily accessible — ideally on the nightstand, so you can find it in the dark immediately.

• CandlesRecommended

  Candles are the oldest and most reliable light source without electricity. They also generate heat and have a calming effect in stressful situations. Keep a supply of at least 20 candles (preferably pillar candles or tea lights). Use tipproof candleholders and never leave them unattended. Ventilate regularly when burning candles in closed rooms. Candles are an important supplement to electric light sources, but not a complete replacement.

Heat & Cooking

• Lighter / MatchesRecommended

  Lighters and matches are essential for igniting candles, the gas stove, and fires. Always keep several lighters on hand — they fail in cold or wet conditions more quickly than expected. Waterproof matches are a useful addition. Store lighters in multiple places in your home and in your emergency backpack. Check gas lighter fill levels regularly — a half-empty lighter is useless at a critical moment.

• Gas StoveRecommended

  A gas stove allows you to prepare meals and boil water even without electricity. Cooking with electricity is impossible in an emergency — a gas stove makes you independent of the grid. Choose a model with a stable base and compatible screw-on gas cartridges (EN417 standard). Use gas stoves exclusively outdoors or with windows wide open — carbon monoxide is deadly. A camping stove with a wind shield is more fuel-efficient.

• Gas CartridgeRecommended

  Gas cartridges are the fuel for your gas stove and must be compatible with it. Store at least three to five cartridges for several days of emergency cooking. Check storage life regularly — gas cartridges last very long when stored dry. Important: never store open or used cartridges, and protect them from heat and direct sunlight. Use only cartridges from the same manufacturer as your stove to avoid leaks.