14 Ways to Make Your Stockpile Last Longer

Efficiency is Key

In preparation for coronavirus self-quarantine, many Americans stocked up on essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, tuna, peanut butter, pasta and more. Some even went on a panic-buying frenzy, which wasn’t helpful for a number of reasons, and certain items remain scarce.

To prevent running out of the essentials, you need to strategize. “It’s important to be efficient and smart about how to ration the supplies you have on hand,” explains Vicky Nguyen, an investigative and consumer correspondent for NBC News.

Historically, rationing may be imposed during wartime when demand exceeds supply. That’s not the case today, but it’s worth considering rationing on your own to navigate supply issues (we’re looking at you, toilet paper), limit trips to the grocery store, or simply to save money. Here’s how to make the most of what you have, and find clever substitutions for items you can’t get.