What should you stockpile first?
The official Stockpile Checklist groups supplies into seven broad categories and eighteen dimensions, then reports each as low, adequate or plentiful. That makes it the safest starting point for any build because it reads the inventory you actually own.
A practical priority order
Tier 1 — stay alive through the opening pressure
Buy food and water you can actually carry and store. Mix items with different shelf lives rather than filling every slot with fragile food. Add basic medical recovery before spending on optional comfort.
Tier 2 — protect the value of what you bought
Storage racks, a refrigerator or freezer, and the power to run cold storage can be more valuable than another bag of food. Check both placement slots and electrical draw before buying an appliance.
Tier 3 — stop one failure from becoming a collapse
Doors and windows need enough durability and a clear repair path. Reserve tools or materials for the first siege instead of turning every resource into furniture before the outbreak.
Tier 4 — build the long game
Farming, cooking, traps and power generation create renewable or higher-value outputs. Choose the chain that matches your character and house. Do not attempt every system at full scale in the first hour.
The final shopping audit
- Open the Stockpile Checklist and scan every low dimension.
- Check backpack load and leave room for a truly urgent item.
- Check shelf life and whether cold storage will have power.
- Confirm every large purchase has a valid furniture slot.
- Return home with time left to unload and install equipment.