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10 Items To Get Before the Tariffs Kick In

Robert Shea's avatar
Robert Shea
Apr 29, 2025
Cross-posted by The Prepper's Journal
"In case you haven't seen this yet, I believe it is important to know. Thank you Robert Shea for compiling this list. Bob"
- Bob Lewis

Stock up now before prices skyrocket! Let’s identify some essential items likely to see significant price increases when the new tariffs hit.

Personal Hygiene Products

Your clean routine is about to get dirty expensive. Many hygiene products rely on imported materials and manufacturing, making them prime targets for tariff impacts. Stock up now on these daily essentials before your wallet takes the hit.

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  • Toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash (12-18 month supply)

  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (bulk containers)

  • Razors and replacement blades (look for multi-packs)

  • Feminine hygiene products (consider reusable alternatives)

Generic Medications & First Aid Supplies

OTC Medications

Pain relievers, allergy meds, and cold/flu treatments manufactured abroad could jump 15-25% in price. Buy generic versions now in bulk bottles rather than name brands. Check expiration dates and store properly.

First Aid Essentials

Bandages, antiseptics, and wound care items often come from overseas manufacturing. Create a comprehensive kit now with 6-month supplies of each essential. Don't forget specialty items like eye wash and burn treatment.

Prescription Preparations

Talk to your doctor about 90-day supplies for maintenance medications. Consider mail-order pharmacy options that offer bulk discounting before prices increase. Some insurance plans may allow early refills before policy changes.

Electronics & Accessories

Those gadgets you've been eyeing? Buy them yesterday. Electronics are about to get stupid expensive with components coming primarily from tariff-targeted regions. Focus on items with long useful lives rather than soon-to-be-obsolete tech.

Computing Necessities

Laptops, tablets, and peripherals face 20-30% increases. Prioritize business-critical equipment and replacement chargers.

Mobile Accessories

Grab extra charging cables, power banks, protective cases, and screen protectors while they're still affordable.

Audio Equipment

Headphones, earbuds, and speakers will see substantial markups. Quality models are worth securing now.

Vehicle Parts & Maintenance Supplies

Your car is about to become WAY more expensive to maintain. Nearly 60% of replacement parts come from overseas markets, with prices expected to jump 15-35% post-tariffs.

Priority Purchases:

  • Oil filters and motor oil for 3-4 changes

  • Air filters (engine and cabin)

  • Wiper blades (silicone from Amazon lasts years)

  • Brake pads if replacement needed within 18 months

  • Belts and hoses if vehicle is aging

Durable Clothing & Footwear

Your wardrobe is about to get a whole lot more expensive. With 97% of clothing sold in the US made overseas, expect 20-40% price hikes across the board. Focus on practical, long-lasting items rather than fast fashion.

Work & Utility Wear

Invest in quality work boots, durable jeans, and weather-appropriate outerwear that can withstand years of use.

Everyday Essentials

Stock up on socks, underwear, and basic layering pieces that wear out regularly.

Activity-Specific Gear

Prioritize specialty items for hobbies and activities that would be painful to replace at higher prices.

Household Cleaning Supplies

Multi-Surface Cleaners

All-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, and sanitizing wipes will see 15-25% increases. Consider concentrate formulas that dilute with water for maximum value.

Laundry Essentials

Detergent, stain removers, and fabric softeners are prime tariff targets. Look for mega-size containers or powder formulations with longer shelf lives.

Cleaning Tools

Mops, scrub brushes, sponges, and microfiber cloths will see dramatic price jumps. Purchase durable versions now rather than disposables.

Disposable Items

Garbage bags, paper towels, and aluminum foil will face substantial increases. Store in cool, dry places to prevent degradation.

Consumable Tools & Hardware

Power Tool Accessories

Drill bits, saw blades, and sanding materials will jump 20-30% in price. Buy complete sets now rather than individual pieces later.

Fasteners & Connectors

Screws, nails, bolts, and wire will see substantial increases. Purchase variety packs for common household sizes.

Adhesives & Tapes

Glues, epoxies, duct tape, and electrical tape rely heavily on imported chemicals. Stock up on project essentials now.

Shelf Stable Food Staples

Your grocery bill is about to make you lose your appetite. Many shelf-stable foods rely on global ingredients or packaging that will be hit by tariffs. Focus on versatile items with 1-2 year shelf lives.

Canned Goods

Vegetables, fruits, proteins, and soups with 18+ month expiration dates. Rotate based on use.

Grains & Legumes

Rice, pasta, dried beans, and lentils with 2+ year shelf lives. Store in airtight containers.

Cooking Essentials

Oils, vinegars, and shelf-stable condiments facing 15-30% price increases.

Power Backup & Energy Resilience Gear

Portable Power

Power banks and USB battery packs for mobile devices will jump 25-40% in price. Prioritize higher capacity models.

Solar Options

Portable solar chargers and panels rely on imported components facing substantial tariffs. Buy now for emergency preparedness.

Backup Systems

Small generators and power stations will see dramatic increases. Consider fuel storage needs alongside purchases.

Adaptors & Extenders

Extension cords, power strips, and adaptors contain tariff-vulnerable components. Stock extras of frequently used types.

Light Bulbs & Home Essentials

Those little necessities you never think about until you need them? They're about to cost stupid money. Home essentials rely heavily on imported materials, with price increases of 15-35% expected post-tariffs.

Stock Up Now On:

  • LED light bulbs (all sizes used in your home)

  • Batteries (especially AA, AAA, and 9V)

  • Air filters for HVAC systems

  • Basic plumbing supplies (washers, tape, small parts)

  • Smoke detector batteries and replacements

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