If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the universe has a way of making sure you run out of medicine at the worst possible time. Headache? Of course it shows up when the last Advil in the bottle is gone. Stomach issues? Always seem to happen late at night. Kids with a fever? Somehow the Tylenol bottle is empty exactly when you need it most.

That’s why it pays to have a few basics on hand. Nothing complicated, just the over-the-counter staples that make life easier when something pops up out of nowhere. Here are five that every home should keep in the cupboard — whether you’re a family with kids or just looking after yourself.

1. Pain Relief (Tylenol or Advil)

This one’s a no-brainer. Headaches, sore muscles, that random back pain that comes out of nowhere — you don’t want to be scrambling to the pharmacy at 9 p.m. Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil (ibuprofen) are the classics. Most households keep at least one, some keep both. They work slightly differently, but the point is: don’t let yourself run out.

2. Cold and Flu Medicine

Colds have a way of showing up right before a busy week. Stocking up on basic cold and flu remedies — decongestants, cough syrups, lozenges — means you can actually rest instead of dragging yourself to the store while sick. It’s even more important if you’ve got kids, because those fevers always hit in the middle of the night. Having Children’s Tylenol or something similar ready saves a lot of stress.

3. Antacids and Digestive Relief

We’ve all had that meal that didn’t sit right. Heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach — it happens. Keeping an antacid or something like Zantac on hand makes a huge difference when it does. Nobody wants to deal with stomach pain while waiting in line at the drugstore.

4. Allergy Medication

Allergies don’t always announce themselves ahead of time. Sometimes it’s seasonal, sometimes it’s dust, sometimes it’s just random. Either way, having antihistamines at home is a lifesaver. Even if you don’t use them often, when you need them, you really need them.

5. First Aid Basics

Not technically one product, but it deserves a spot on the list. Bandages, antiseptic cream, maybe a thermometer — the little things that help when someone scrapes a knee or spikes a fever. It doesn’t have to be a fancy kit, but keeping the basics in one spot saves time when you’re in a rush.

Why This Matters

It sounds simple, but keeping these five categories covered saves so much hassle. Instead of panicking when something happens, you already know you’ve got what you need. And the truth is, most of this stuff has a long shelf life, so it’s not going to waste.

If you’d rather not keep running to the store, that’s where ordering online makes sense. Sites like We Supply let you grab all the essentials at once — pain relievers, cold meds, antacids, allergy tablets, and first aid basics — and have them delivered. It’s cheaper, it’s easier, and it means you won’t be caught empty-handed when life throws a curveball.

👉 Stock up once, and you’re set for months. Check out We Supply and keep your home ready for whatever comes your way.