Why 14 Gallons of Emergency Water Per Person Could Save Your Future Self

When most of us think about being “prepared,” we imagine having snacks on hand for a Netflix binge or making sure our phone is charged before a road trip. But here’s something way more important: emergency water storage. Experts recommend having 14 gallons of water per person, which is enough for two weeks of hydration, cooking, and basic hygiene if something unexpected happens. Sounds like a lot? It’s not when you think about how essential water really is.

Why Water Storage Matters More Than You Think

You can survive a while without food, but without water? Not so much. FEMA and the Red Cross recommend one gallon per person, per day: half for drinking, half for cooking and cleaning. Multiply that by 14 days, and suddenly 14 gallons per person isn’t “extra”, it’s the baseline for staying safe and sane.

Emergencies don’t always look like disaster movies. It could be a storm knocking out your city’s water supply, a power outage that affects pumping stations, or just a boil-water advisory when you least expect it. Having your own stash means you don’t need to join the late-night rush at the grocery store when shelves are empty.

Breaking Down the Gallons

So what does 14 gallons actually look like in real life?

• For one person: That’s about the size of a large tote bin or a few stackable jugs.

  
  

• For a family of four: You’re looking at around 56 gallons total.

  
  

• For pets: Don’t forget them! Add extra for cats, dogs, or even backyard chickens.

It’s not about hoarding, it’s about building a buffer for when life doesn’t go according to plan.

Easy Ways to Store Water (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)

Not everyone has space for barrels in the basement. The good news? You don’t need them. Here are some simple, realistic storage options:

• Store-bought gallon jugs: Affordable, but be sure to rotate them every 6–12 months.

  
  

• Stackable containers: Great for apartments or small spaces; they fit neatly in closets.

  
  

• Collapsible jugs: Space-saving and travel-friendly.

  
  

• Water filters or purifiers: Not a replacement for stored water, but a helpful backup if tap water is questionable.

Pro tip: Distribute your storage instead of keeping it all in one spot. If you ever need to move quickly, you won’t lose your entire supply.

Preparedness Is Peace of Mind

Building a water reserve isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about making life easier if the unexpected happens. Think of it like car insurance: you hope you don’t need it, but you’ll be thankful it’s there when you do.

So while meal prepping, budgeting, and self-care all have their place, don’t forget to add emergency water prep to your checklist. Your future self will thank you.