Bottled water is a must-have item, especially during emergencies. Tariffs on imported plastic or aluminum could significantly raise the cost of bottled water, making it wise to stock up now. Bottled water is often the first item to vanish during natural disasters or supply chain disruptions. Tariffs can quickly increase the cost of packaging materials.
And it's not just for drinking—bottled water can be used for cooking, cleaning, or even medical needs in emergencies. Most bottled water has a shelf life of up to two years, making it ideal for long-term storage. Stock up on multipacks or larger jugs to ensure you’re prepared for any situation without overspending in the future. Prioritize space-efficient storage to keep your supply organized and easily accessible.
Keeping your pets well-fed is essential, and tariffs on imported ingredients can make pet food more expensive. Many pet food brands rely on imported grains, proteins, or packaging materials, leaving them vulnerable to price increases. Buying in bulk while prices are steady ensures your furry friends are cared for without straining your budget.
Dry pet food often lasts for up to a year, and canned food can last even longer. If your pet requires a specific diet, early stocking up guarantees you won’t have to scramble for their preferred food later. Invest in airtight containers to preserve freshness and avoid spoilage. Don’t forget to include treats or supplements that are part of your pet’s regular routine.
If you have young children, stocking up on baby supplies is critical. Diapers, formula, wipes, and baby food can all be impacted by tariffs on imported ingredients or packaging materials. Price increases can hit parents hard, especially for essentials like formula and diapers, which are already costly.
Unopened diapers, wipes, and formula can be stored for extended periods if kept in the right conditions. Focus on sizes and types your baby will use soon, and consider reusable alternatives like cloth diapers to cut costs. Buy in bulk from warehouse stores or online sales to maximize savings. Ensuring you’re well-stocked will provide peace of mind and financial relief during uncertain times.
A significant portion of the fruits and vegetables consumed in the United States, including avocados, are imported from countries like Mexico. Tariffs on these imported goods can increase the cost of food, making it less affordable for consumers.
Because produce is a staple in most households, rising costs would affect consumers across all income levels, particularly during times of inflation.
DIY projects and home repairs can get expensive if tariffs raise the cost of imported tools and materials like lumber, steel, and hardware. Tools and materials are often imported or made with imported components, making them susceptible to price increases.
Quality tools can last a lifetime, making them a worthwhile investment. Stocking up allows you to handle repairs or improvements without paying inflated prices later. Focus on versatile tools like drills, saws, and wrenches, as well as common materials like nails and screws. Organize your supplies for easy access, so you’re always ready for your next projects.
Batteries are indispensable for powering everything from flashlights to remote controls. Tariffs on imported metals like lithium and zinc could make them more expensive, so it’s smart to buy now. Batteries are essential during emergencies, and shortages often lead to price hikes.
Most batteries, when stored properly, last up to 10 years, making them an excellent item to buy in bulk. Stock up on all sizes, including AA, AAA, and specialty types like 9-volt or C batteries. Store batteries in a cool, dry place to preserve their charge. Consider rechargeable batteries and a solar charger as an eco-friendly backup option.
The production of laptops and tablets involves a complex supply chain, with components sourced from various countries, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan. Tariffs on these imported components can increase the manufacturing costs for these devices.
Since laptops and tablets are essential for work, school, and entertainment, the added expense would be felt by students, professionals, and families. The reliance on international supply chains makes it difficult for manufacturers to avoid passing these costs onto consumers.
OTC medications like pain relievers, allergy pills, and cold medicines are household staples. Tariffs on pharmaceutical ingredients could raise costs significantly. Having essential medications on hand prevents last-minute runs to the store during illness or emergencies. Many OTC medications last for several years if stored properly.
Stock a variety of items, including first-aid essentials like antibiotic ointments and bandages. Check expiration dates and organize your medicine cabinet for easy access. Buying in bulk during sales will help you save money while ensuring you’re prepared for anything.
Footwear is another category that could see rising prices due to tariffs on imported materials. From work boots to casual sneakers, having the right shoes is essential. Shoes are often made with imported leather, rubber, or synthetic materials, all of which could face tariff hikes.
Invest in high-quality, long-lasting shoes to avoid frequent replacements. Ensure you have options for all occasions, from formal events to outdoor activities. Buy during sales and consider styles that remain in fashion over time. Proper storage can help preserve shoes for future use.
Many products sold on online marketplaces like Amazon and Temu are sourced from overseas manufacturers, primarily in China. Tariffs on these imported goods can increase the cost of shipping and the final price for consumers, from electronics to clothing and household goods.
Consumers drawn to these platforms for bargains might feel the pinch as prices rise across categories.
(GoToVan/The first Amazon Go Store, Downtown Seattle/CC BY 2.0/Flickr; Trong Khiem Nguyen/Temu/PDM 1.0/Flickr)
Clothing prices often fluctuate with tariffs on textiles and manufacturing. Seasonal items like winter coats or summer wear may see price spikes due to increased import fees. Buying off-season can save money before tariffs and seasonal demand drive up prices.
Focus on quality items that will last multiple seasons to get the most value. Ensure everyone has the essentials, from jackets to swimsuits, for the year ahead. Shop during clearance sales and store items properly to extend their lifespan. Prioritize versatile pieces that can be layered or adapted for different weather conditions.
The automotive industry is deeply intertwined with global supply chains. Numerous components, ranging from engines and transmissions to tires and electronics, are sourced from countries like Mexico, Canada, and Japan.
This affects everything from everyday sedans to luxury vehicles, as well as repair parts like tires and engines. For consumers, the cost of owning and maintaining a car could rise sharply due to these added expenses.
The global smartphone industry heavily relies on a complex supply chain, with key components often sourced from countries like China, South Korea, and Taiwan. Tariffs on electronics mean production and shipping costs increase, making these already pricey gadgets even more expensive for U.S. consumers.
These days, smartphones are more of a necessity than a luxury, and tariffs only make the barrier-to-entry more difficult for low-income citizens.
Video game consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch are often manufactured in countries like China and imported to the U.S. Tariffs on electronic goods mean higher costs for importing these consoles, which manufacturers typically pass on to consumers.
With gaming being a booming industry, even a small price hike can significantly impact gamers and families looking to purchase consoles for entertainment. Key components like semiconductors, processors, and specialized electronic parts often originate from nations like Japan, South Korea, and China.
Similar to laptops and tablets, the production of PCs and monitors relies on a global supply chain. Tariffs on imported components, such as display panels, processors, and memory modules, can increase the overall cost of these products.
As work-from-home setups and gaming continue to drive demand, higher prices for these devices could be a significant burden, particularly for budget-conscious buyers.
Flat-screen TVs and smart TVs are commonly produced in countries like South Korea and China. Tariffs on imported TVs can directly impact their retail prices.
As manufacturers face higher costs due to tariffs, they may adjust their pricing strategies to maintain profitability, ultimately leading to increased costs for consumers.
A wide range of computer accessories, including keyboards, mice, webcams, and headphones, are manufactured in countries like China. Tariffs on these imported accessories can increase their retail prices, making them more expensive for consumers.
Consumers and businesses relying on affordable tech tools may feel the impact, especially in industries where these accessories are used in bulk.
High-end headphones often incorporate premium components sourced from various countries. Headphones, from budget earbuds to premium models like AirPods, are often manufactured in countries like China.
For music lovers and remote workers who rely on headphones for communication, the price hikes from tariffs will be a noticeable expense. Tech products are already outrageously priced, and tariffs only make it worse.
Many cleaning products rely on imported chemicals or components, making them vulnerable to tariff-driven price surges. Stocking up on items like disinfectants, glass cleaners, multi-surface sprays, sponges, and paper towels ensures you won’t be caught off guard by price hikes. Tariffs on chemical imports or plastic packaging can lead to sudden increases in cost for everyday cleaning products.
Most cleaning supplies can be stored safely for years without losing effectiveness, so buying in bulk now makes sense. Popular products like disinfectant wipes and sprays can disappear from shelves quickly during crises, making them even harder to find at a reasonable price later. Stocking up now ensures you’ll have what you need to keep your home clean and safe without overpaying later. If you find sales or discounts, prioritize buying large quantities of high-use items like dish soap, laundry detergent, and bathroom cleaners.
Personal hygiene products like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine care items are everyday essentials that can become costly when tariffs raise manufacturing costs. Many personal care products contain imported ingredients, and tariffs on raw materials can quickly inflate prices.
Keeping extra hygiene products on hand ensures you’re prepared for unexpected shortages or price increases. These items are often cheaper when purchased in bulk and have long shelf lives. Focus on stocking up on multipurpose items like all-in-one shampoos or body washes to save both space and money. Proper storage in cool, dry areas will keep these items usable for months or even years.
