Will a pandemic hit the USA? Hopefully not, but the odds are the highest in our lifetime. Prepare now in case it happens. If it happens, there will likely be empty grocery store shelves, long lines at gas stations and hospitals. 1). Food Stockpiling food is essential. Suggestions: Rice, oat meal, canned/dry beans, ramen noodles, canned tuna, sardines, summer sausage, potatoes. Fill up the pantry. Much of this food is CHEAP. $200 will buy so much rice, oat meal and beans. In the freezer, pack it solid with meats. Also, stock up on disinfectants (alcohol, bleach, Lysol), TP, hand soap....