Blackout kit checklist: what you need for 72 hours in Spain

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Information The first thing you miss when the internet goes

Wind-up or battery radioThe most reliable way to hear official updates if mobile coverage goes down. Ideally with a built-in torch and USB output.View on Amazon

Spare batteriesIn the sizes your radio and torches use. Check the expiry dates once a year.View on Amazon

Key phone numbers on paperFamily, neighbours, your health centre, your home insurer and 112, the EU-wide emergency number. With a flat battery, your phone won't remember them for you.

Light To move around the house without candles

Head torchKeeps your hands free for cooking or helping someone. One per person.View on Amazon

Rechargeable LED lanternLights up a whole room. Much safer than candles.View on Amazon

Power To charge phones and whatever can't be switched off

20,000 mAh power bankCharges a phone about four times. Keep it charged and check it every three months.View on Amazon

Portable power stationIf you need to keep the fridge, the router or a medical device running. Work out the capacity before you buy.See comparison

Spare charging cablesOne for each type of connector used in your home.View on Amazon

Water and food For three days without an electric hob

Water: 3 litres per person per dayFor drinking and some basic hygiene. Nine litres per person covers 72 hours.

Food that doesn't need a fridgeTinned food, ready-cooked pulses, nuts and biscuits. And a manual tin opener.View on Amazon

Camping stove with gas cartridgesTo heat food or water. Only use it in well-ventilated areas.View on Amazon

Health What you can't do without

Basic first aid kitPlasters, gauze, antiseptic, painkillers and a thermometer.View on Amazon

A week's supply of medicationIf anyone at home takes daily medication, always keep a reserve.

Cash and documents In case card payments stop working

CashIn small notes. During the 2025 blackout, many shops in Spain could only take cash.

Copies of documentsPassport or NIE, health card (SIP/TSI) and your insurance policy, in a waterproof pouch.View on Amazon

Does someone at home use an electrical medical device? Ask their doctor how much runtime they need and use our calculator to size the battery.

What to put in a blackout kit to last 72 hours at home