You ever blink and suddenly eggs are $9, sunscreen costs more than brunch, and your favorite patio chair cover is backordered ‘til September? Yeah, welcome to the modern-day Hunger Games: Inflation Edition. With summer creeping in like that one friend who always “forgets” their wallet, prices on seasonal staples are about to do their annual skyrocket. But guess what? You don’t have to play victim to the surge.
Stockpiling sounds intense—like something your prepper uncle does in his basement—but it can actually be your low-key superpower. Think of it as future-proofing your chill. Whether you’re hosting backyard BBQs, dodging hurricanes, or just trying to keep your pool from turning into a frog spa, a little planning now = major savings (and smug satisfaction) later. So grab a cart—real or virtual—and let’s talk about the 15 items you should absolutely scoop up before summer turns them into luxury goods.
1. Lumber
If you’ve ever tried a DIY project during a price spike, you know that a single 2×4 can command a small fortune. According to Reuters, fresh tariffs on imported wood are slated to land any day now, which means builders and weekend warriors alike will face sticker shock soon. Buying early not only saves cash, but it also scores you prime wood before shortages hit.
Plus, lumber is basically the Swiss Army knife of materials—build a deck for summer BBQs, whip up some fun planters, or even craft an impromptu cat fort for Fluffy. And hey, nothing says “adulting” like knowing your future treehouse won’t cost more than your rent.
2. Gasoline
Picture this: you’re planning an epic road trip to the beach, only to find pump prices so high you consider hitchhiking. Don’t let that happen. Experts at AP News warn that inflationary pressures—and summer demand—could spike gas costs by mid-June. Securing a pre-paid gas card, filling up your jerry cans, or even investing in a couple extra rounds of premium before the crush hits means you’ll be cruising for less.
And let’s be real: nothing kills a vacay vibe faster than sabotaging your budget before you leave town. By hedging against pump-price panic, you get to keep your disposable cash for actual fun—think roadside diner pancakes instead of a meltdown over $5-a-gallon.
3. Pantry Staples
Peanut butter, rice, pasta, canned beans—these pantry MVPs are about to trend upward thanks to recent tariff-driven grocery cost hikes. A Yale Budget Lab report, via Food & Wine, predicts an uptick in annual grocery bills by up to $4,900 for the average household if you don’t pivot to bulk buys now. Stashing staples isn’t just frugal—it’s practically a survival strategy when inflation decides to gate-crash your next pasta night.
Plus, pantry items have the slowest expiration dates this side of a fine wine, making them perfect for long-term stockpiling. Raid the bulk bins, embrace the resealable bags, and channel your inner “organized AF” chef—because there’s nothing more satisfying than a well-curated shelf of future banh mis.
4. Sunscreen
UV rays aren’t the only thing scorching this summer—the price tags on SPF gear are heating up, too. Beauty insiders at Forbes are buzzing about the viral SPF-infused drop that’s already flying off shelves. When supply gets tight, you’ll be paying luxury-brand levels for the basics. Score your favorite SPF lotion and those cheeky lip balms with SPF before the masses catch on.
Not only will your skin thank you, but you’ll look like the cool, sun-safe friend who anticipated the rush. Pro tip: travel-size tubes make for cute stocking stuffers later—yes, you’re already planning for the holidays, and no, you don’t have to explain why.
5. Rechargeable Batteries
You might not realize it, but summer vibes = battery hack: outdoor speakers, handheld fans, LED party lights—you name it. Thankfully, rechargeable packs are getting cheaper, but analysts at BloombergNEF predict that looming tariffs on imported battery components will reverse those gains. Load up on high-capacity cells and a quality charger now, and you’ll stay lit—literally—when demand spikes.
Beyond party mode, rechargeable batteries are eco-friendly (and wallet-friendly over their lifespan), so you’re basically saving the planet one power cycle at a time. Whether it’s a camping trip or a backyard movie night, you’ll be the host with the most—juice, that is.
6. Bulk Ice Melt
Stick this one in the back of your mind for those August hurricane surprises—or unexpected winter chills if you live where seasons actually happen. Buying now means cheaper per-pound rates and a stash ready for any “weather, am I right?” moments.
Consider multi-use ice melt too: it can double as a traction aid for muddy summer hikes. Store in a cool, dry spot and thank yourself later when conditions go from chill to thrilling. Plus, bulk packaging often comes with moisture-proof seals to keep clumping at bay, so you won’t end up with a single solid brick. And did we mention you can sprinkle some around your doorstep to keep critters from slipping in? Having an extra bag on hand means you’ll never be caught off-guard when the first frost (or flash flood) strikes.
7. Patio Furniture Covers
Your outdoor oasis deserves protection, and summer storms love to wreck your chairs. Stockpile sturdy covers before DIY retailers jack up prices once hurricane season hype starts.
Invest in UV-resistant covers that also beat mildew—two birds, one cover. Keep them rolled and ready; your future self, sipping margaritas under a pristine lounge, will send you a mental high-five. These covers also tend to come with adjustable drawstrings or elastic hems, so they’ll hug your furniture like a glove and not blow away in gusts. Stash a couple extras for your neighbor or for those surprise porch parties—you’ll be everyone’s hero. And when you’re cosplaying as the “host with the most,” you’ll owe it all to your foresight.
8. Reusable Water Bottles
Plastic jug hoarding is so 2020. The future is sleek stainless steel—especially when water-bottle makers hike prices on the classic Hydro Flask once festival season kicks off. Grab extras for guests, gym sessions, and those “forgot my bottle” emergencies.
Stylish, sustainable, and a subtle flex: you’ll never resort to overpriced concession-stand water again. Plus, buying in packs usually triggers discounts. Win-win. Many brands even offer insulated options that keep your drinks icy cold for up to 24 hours—hello, sweat-free selfies. And if you snag one with a built-in infuser, you can make spa-worthy citrus or berry water in seconds. Toss a few in your bag, and you’ll be hydrating like a boss all season long.
9. Outdoor Lighting (Solar & LED)
Summer nights = magic. But smart lighting tech can surge in price when garden trends spike. Snap up solar string lights and LED lanterns now—your Instagram aesthetic depends on it.
Many kits come with app control, so you can change colors to match your mood. Stocking a few spares ensures your soirée stays lit, rain or shine. Solar-powered options also cut down on your electricity bill—so you’re basically throwing eco-friendly glow parties. And since LEDs have lifespans measured in tens of thousands of hours, you’re investing in glow for many summers ahead. Trust us, when your yard is the coziest spot on the block, you’ll look like a lighting legend.
10. Insect Repellent
Mosquito season and price hikes go hand in hand as demand swells. Bulk-buy proven DEET or picaridin sprays now to dodge the “I’m paying $20 for this” sticker shock later.
Pro tip: get travel-size sticks for handbags—they’re pricier per ounce but perfect emergency backups. You’ll thank yourself mid-mosquito-piñata. Consider grabbing some mosquito-repelling candles or coils too—bundling them often saves more money than buying singles. Keep a few aerosol cans in the pantry and a couple pocket sprays in your car, and you’ll be prepared for backyard BBQs, hikes, or alfresco concerts without a single itchy red bite.
11. Grill Accessories
Think spare grill grates, tongs, and heavy-duty gloves. When backyard barbecues hit peak season, hardware stores up their prices faster than you can say “smoked brisket.” Buy extras now so you’re never left with charred fingers or a sad half-grilled steak.
Quality gear lasts years—this is the kind of adulting we can all get behind. Don’t forget a reliable meat thermometer to nail the perfect doneness every time. And if you grab a silicone basting brush now, you’re future-proofing against replacing melted plastic deals mid-flip. With everything at hand, you’ll be flipping, saucing, and serving like the neighborhood grill master.
12. Portable Fans
Whether handheld or clip-on, these pocket-sized lifesavers always spike when temps soar. Snag a few before your office or car transforms into a sauna.
Rechargeable versions mean fewer disposable batteries (but don’t forget to stock up on those, too). Look for models with misting functions or USB-C rechargeability—so versatile, they’ll feel like little personal air conditioners. Keep one in your beach bag, one at your desk, and one in your glovebox—you’ll breeze through heatwaves without breaking a sweat (or the bank).
13. Pool Chemicals
Summer’s pool party staples—chlorine tabs, shock treatment, pH balancers—they all get pricier once local stores realize every backyard is a resort. Buy early and mix yourself the perfect swim environment without paying premium.
Store sealed in a dry, cool place, and you’ll be ready to dive in from May through Labor Day and beyond. Consider investing in a floating dispenser or chemical feeder now, too; these accessories often sell out when pool season peaks. And if you snag some test strips in bulk, you’ll keep that crystal-clear clarity without pawning your sneakers for just one pack.
14. Frozen Fruit
This one’s an ice breaker, literally. Bulk up on frozen berries, mango chunks, and smoothie-ready blends before café and grocery prices hitch a ride on smoothie bowl trends.
Great for DIY soft-serve, popsicles, or smoothie jars—frozen produce keeps longer than fresh, so freezer space is your best friend. Buy mixed packs to experiment with new flavor combos without blowing your snack budget. And if you line your freezer door with a few resealable bags of fruit, you’ll have smoothie ingredients at the ready for those “I really need caffeine but also vitamins” moments.
15. Camping Supplies
Tents, sleeping pads, and portable stoves—all of these sneak up in price when everyone decides to #optOutside simultaneously. Autumn forecast not looking good? Beat the rush by grabbing your camping essentials now.
Stash in a garage corner, inflate and air out before storing to avoid mold, and you’ll be the envy of every weekend warrior when fall’s golden weekends roll around. Don’t forget a quality headlamp and a compact first-aid kit—those often sell out when every hiker is packing up. And if you grab a few extra ground tarps or repair kits now, you’ll stay dry and patched-up no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Consult a financial professional before making investment or other financial decisions. The author and publisher make no warranties of any kind.
