17. Cash
In today’s digital world, it’s easy to forget how useful plain old cash can be. But when the power goes out or card systems crash, cash is king. ATMs may be offline, banks could close, and many stores won’t accept anything but paper bills. That’s why you should stash some cash in small denominations—ones, fives, and tens—so you’re not stuck trying to break a $100 bill. Keep it in multiple safe spots: your emergency kit, a fireproof lockbox, or even a hidden jar. Avoid stashing all your money in one place in case you need to leave quickly. Don’t rely on coins or checks—they’re less useful in fast-paced situations. A small stash of cash can help you buy food, fuel, or a ride when cards won’t cut it.