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This morning started off like any other — until I flipped the light switch and… nothing. The power was out, and it was barely 6AM. Still dark outside, dogs whining to go out, and me standing there in my pajamas with a dead flashlight and no coffee. Not exactly the calm country morning I had in mind.
That’s when I realized I had a few things that saved the morning… and a few I really should’ve had ready.
If you’ve ever been caught off guard by a power outage, especially first thing in the morning, here’s what I now keep on hand (and what I recommend you have, too) to stay calm, caffeinated, and in control.
1. Let There Be Light (The Kind That Works Without Power)
That morning, only one of my battery-powered flashlights actually worked. The others? Dead as a doornail. The rechargeable ones I use when I take the dogs out? Those were lifesavers. Lesson learned.
Here’s what I keep now:
- ✅ USB rechargeable flashlights – I just picked these up and now I’ll start charging mine once a week and keep one by the back door, and one in the bedroom.
- ✅ Solar path lights – These charge outside and you can bring them in at night. Pop one in a mason jar and you’ve got a glowing lantern.
- ✅ Hand-crank flashlight or lantern – No batteries, no charging — just crank and go.
- ✅ Tea light candles and a box of matches – For soft light and calm vibes when the house is quiet.
Optional splurge: A small battery backup LED lantern for area lighting if you’re reading, cooking, or just want to feel less like you’re in a cave.
2. Making Coffee Without Electricity (Because Priorities)
If you’re like me, no coffee = no patience. We have a gas stove, so we’re lucky — I can boil water even when the power’s out. But if you don’t already have a plan for coffee in an emergency, now’s the time to fix that.
Here are my go-to options:
- ☕ Stovetop percolator – Works great on a gas stove or propane burner. It gives that classic, strong coffee taste.
- ☕ French press – Just boil water and pour it over your grounds. Easy and quick.
- ☕ Cowboy coffee – Toss grounds in a pot of hot water, let it steep, and pour carefully.
- ☕ Folgers Coffee Singles (tea bag-style) – These are a favorite of mine. I keep a jar full just for camping, guests at the cabin, and mornings like this. Just heat up water and pour it over the coffee bag. No filter, no mess — and it’s honestly pretty good!
- ☕ Instant coffee packets – Not gourmet, but they’ll get the job done.
No gas stove? Keep a small propane camp stove or butane single-burner stove on hand, along with extra fuel canisters. They’re cheap, portable, and a must-have for storm season.
3. Cooking Without Power
Our gas stove is a lifesaver during outages — I can still cook, heat water, and make a quick breakfast. But here are some things I like to keep close by:
- 🔸 Manual can opener – No electric gadgets when the power’s out.
- 🔸 Cast iron skillet or stainless pans – Safe for gas and outdoor cooking.
- 🔸 Shelf-stable meals like canned soup, chili, or rice pouches.
- 🔸 Dry mixes like pancake mix (just add water) or biscuit mix you can cook in a skillet.
And if you’re off-grid or like to be extra prepared, a rocket stove or small solar oven is great for extended outages or emergency meals.
4. Stay Charged + Stay Calm
When the power goes out, the first thing most folks check is their phone — and you’ll want a way to keep it charged if it’s out for a while.
Here’s what I use:
- 🔋 Power banks – I keep two charged at all times. I LOVE the dog print on this!
- 🔋 Solar phone charger – Great backup if you’re without power all day.
- 🔋 Small solar panel – Can charge lights, phones, or power banks directly.
5. Emergency Power Outage Kit: What to Pack in a Tote or Basket
You don’t need a big setup — just a small labeled tote or basket in the kitchen or hallway closet. Here’s what I recommend keeping inside:
| Item | Use |
|---|---|
| Hand-crank flashlight | No battery required |
| USB rechargeable flashlight | Quick access |
| Power bank | Keep your phone going |
| Coffee-making tool (like percolator or Folgers Singles) | Stay human |
| Solar phone charger | Reliable backup |
| Candles + matches | Peaceful lighting |
| Manual can opener | Open up easy meals |
| Notebook + pen | Jot notes or plans |
6. Don’t Forget the Morning Routine
Sometimes, it’s not about survival — it’s about sanity.
A few things that help me keep a normal rhythm when the power’s out:
- 📻 Battery-powered radio – For weather updates or a little music
- 🧻 Wipes and hand sanitizer – In case the water pump is down
- 📚 A book or simple craft – Keeps your mind off the clock
Final Thoughts: When the Lights Go Out, Be Ready
That early morning power outage was a good reminder — it’s easy to take the little things for granted. A working flashlight. A hot cup of coffee. A gas burner. These things make all the difference in how you handle the day.
You don’t need a bunker to feel prepared. Just gather a few practical tools, keep them in the same spot, and you’ll be ahead of the game next time the lights go out — even at 6AM.
Hi! I'm Michelle. You can find me planning, cooking, and often wrangling chickens in my spare time (who am I kidding? I have no spare time). I am the CEO and creator for homesteadingforwomen.com. All posts are reviewed and updated personally by ME - if you have any questions, feel free to contact me here.
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