Covid Lockdown Prep: What You Should Stock Up On

With another outbreak making the rounds in Beijing, it feels like Spring all over again -- if this was Spring in bizarro world where, in the cases of some people we've spoken to, your compound gets locked down three days, you get out, and then get locked down for another three days or more.

Be it three days or, if you're unlucky enough, the lockdown has no seeming end date, it's important to have your pantry, fridge and freezer stocked with food and other supplies. What follows is a list of what you'll need.

Water - Probably a bit of a no brainer but make sure you’re fully stocked up drinking water as we all know that drinking Beijing tap water is a big no no! As a rule of thumb, the average adult human can survive without water for three days at most, so it's best to stock up with water that'll last beyond that point.

Medication – for anyone on daily medications make sure to have a backup supply of those and also having some common pain killers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen etc. on hand is a good idea.

Vitamins – Having access to fresh fruits and vegetables is a bit hard during a lockdown, so it's a good idea to have daily vitamins on hand as an alternative.

Toiletries – Hand soap, toothpaste, body wash, shampoo and conditioner are all good things to have a supply of to make sure you can keep clean and hygienic.

Feminine hygiene products – Ladies! No one wants to be stuck without these so make sure you are fully stocked just in case.

In Beijing it is so easy to become completely reliant on waimai deliveries so it’s a good idea to stock up on some long-lasting food that you can rely on instead. Here are some best possible options to consider:

Now these aren’t strictly “essential” items, however they can be super useful for helping you make it through lockdown with your sanity still intact. 

Coffee/tea – if you’re anything like me, a daily cup of coffee or tea is a must so keep some of this handy if you need your daily caffeine fix.

Chocolate, chips, and other snacks – Ok this might sound like a bit of a luxury to stock up on, but if you’re going to be stuck in your apartment for a week or two having some comfort food to help get you through it is a must.

Alcohol – Now we’re not encouraging anyone to spend their lockdown getting drunk alone, but just like having some chocolate in the house, being able to settle down with a drink in the evenings can be a small creature comfort to make a lockdown a little bit better. It should be noted, though, that excessive alcohol intake can lead a weakened immune system, so it's best to drink in moderation.

Activities – Sometimes there is only so much Netflix you can watch so it can be a good idea to have some other non-screen related activities on hand such as jigsaw puzzles, board games, cards etc. to help fight the boredom.

Books – Just like having some activities to hand, why not have some books too, hey if you are caught in a lockdown this could actually be a great opportunity to catch up on some reading!

Yoga mat/exercise equipment – For those of us who are gym rats, the thought of being locked up in a small apartment may feel like the ultimate punishment, so getting in some basic equipment so you can exercise at home can make all the difference.