It might be prudent to have at least 3-6 months supply of food (12 months is even better) put aside (if you don't already) before the beginning of the August as a little insurance against events where there is clear actionable intelligence as to the possibilities of what may occur as the US Federal Government runs out of cash.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2011-06-28-debt-limit-impasse-Congress-O bama-Social-Security_n.htm

Quote:
Although the Treasury Department likely could avoid delaying Social Security checks, the analysis by the Bipartisan Policy Center points up the depth of the cuts that would be needed if the $14.3 trillion debt ceiling isn't raised.

It shows that in August, the government could not afford to meet 44% of its obligations. Since the $134 billion deficit for that month couldn't be covered with more borrowing, programs would have to be cut.

If Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment benefits, payments to defense contractors and interest payments on Treasury bonds were exempt, that would be all the government could afford for the month. No money for troops or veterans. No tax refunds. No food stamps or welfare. No federal salaries or benefits.

Fiat currency may get a little unfashionable (requiring the trade/transactions in precious metals to be made illegal) as the austerity measures would truly get that 1930s depression feeling full on. Trading some paper for some chow, while you still can, makes sense even as a hedge against potential inflation as canned goods have a 3-5 year shelf life.

Last week at the supermarket the price of a can of spotted dick increaed by 20% (used to be £0.99 now £1.19)