In the face of an emergency, having a pre-packed, ready-to-go bag can make all the difference. This bag, often called a Go Bag, Bug Out Bag, or Grab Bag, contains essential supplies to help you and your family survive and stay safe for at least 72 hours following a disaster or during an evacuation. When minutes count, you won’t have time to search your home for necessities. Preparation is key to resilience.
This guide will walk you through selecting the right bag, assembling the core supplies, and customizing your kit to meet the unique needs of your household.
Part 1: The Basics of a Go Bag
What is a Go Bag?
A Go Bag is a portable emergency kit designed to be quickly grabbed when you need to evacuate immediately. It is distinct from a larger home emergency kit, which typically stores enough supplies for longer periods and is less portable. The Go Bag should be light enough to carry easily, even by the most vulnerable member of your family.
The 72-Hour Rule
Most disaster relief and emergency management agencies recommend packing enough supplies to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours (three days). This timeframe accounts for the possibility that it may take this long for emergency services to reach you or for basic services like water, power, and communication to be restored.
Choosing the Right Bag
The container for your Go Bag is just as important as its contents. It needs to be durable, easy to carry, and accessible.
- Type: A sturdy backpack or duffel bag is generally the best choice. For families, consider a bag for each person or a system of clearly labelled, easy-to-carry containers.
- Durability: Choose a water-resistant or waterproof bag made from robust material that can withstand rough handling and the elements.
- Visibility: While some prefer tactical, low-profile bags, ensuring your bag is recognizable and easy to spot in an emergency is paramount.
Storage and Maintenance
A Go Bag is only useful if you can access it quickly.
- Location: Store your Go Bag in an easily accessible place known to all family members, such as a hall closet, near an exit door, or under a bed. Consider keeping smaller kits in your car and at your workplace as well.
- Maintenance: Emergency kits must be maintained regularly. Check your bag every six months, or at least once a year, to ensure supplies are not expired and that clothing still fits. Update medications and documents as needed. A good practice is to check the bag when you change the clocks for daylight savings time.
Part 2: Essential Go Bag Contents Checklist
The contents of your Go Bag can be categorized into five core areas: Water and Food, Communication and Safety, First Aid and Health, Clothing and Shelter, and Personal and Financial Documents.
1. Water and Food
The most critical elements for survival.
| Item | Details |
| Water | One gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation (72-hour supply). Store water in strong, sealed bottles. |
| Water Filter/Tablets | Water purification tablets or a portable filter for treating non-potable water. |
| Non-Perishable Food | A 72-hour supply of calorie-dense, ready-to-eat food. Energy bars, dried fruit, jerky, canned food (with a manual can opener). Choose foods with a long shelf life. |
| Utensils | Paper plates, cups, plastic utensils, and paper towels. |
Export to Sheets
2. Communication and Safety
Tools to get information and signal for help.
| Item | Details |
| Flashlight | A bright, waterproof flashlight or headlamp. |
| Radio | Battery-powered or hand-crank AM/FM radio, ideally with a NOAA Weather Tone Alert function, to receive emergency broadcasts. |
| Batteries | An ample supply of extra batteries for your flashlight and radio. Consider a portable power bank for charging electronics. |
| Whistle | To signal for help. A whistle carries farther than the human voice. |
| Multi-Tool/Knife | A quality multi-purpose tool or survival knife. |
| Duct Tape and Plastic Sheeting | For improvised shelter, repairs, or to “seal the room” if instructed to shelter in place. |
| Dust Mask | To help filter contaminated air from dust and debris. |
| Matches/Lighter | Waterproof container of matches or a lighter. |
| Compass and Maps | Physical, up-to-date local maps in case GPS or cellular service is unavailable. |
Export to Sheets
3. First Aid and Health
This section is about immediate medical needs and hygiene.
| Item | Details |
| First Aid Kit | A comprehensive kit including bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and medical tape. |
| Prescription Medication | At least a one-week supply of essential prescription medications. |
| Medication List | A paper list of all medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors. |
| Personal Hygiene | Soap, hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. |
| Glasses/Contacts | An extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses and solution. |
Export to Sheets
4. Clothing and Shelter
Protection from the elements is crucial for survival.
| Item | Details |
| Clothing | A complete change of durable clothes for each person, suitable for your local climate. Include long sleeves, long pants, and warm socks. |
| Sturdy Footwear | Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential for evacuation. |
| Sleeping Bag/Blanket | A warm blanket or lightweight emergency sleeping bag (space blanket) for each person. |
| Rain Gear | A waterproof jacket or poncho. |
| Work Gloves | To protect hands from debris and glass. |
Export to Sheets
5. Documents and Finance
Crucial papers and access to money. Keep all documents in a portable, waterproof container or plastic bags.
| Item | Details |
| Identification | Copies of driver’s licenses, passports, and other photo ID. |
| Vital Documents | Copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and social security cards. |
| Insurance Papers | Copies of home, auto, health, and life insurance policies. |
| Financial Records | Copies of bank account information, credit card numbers, and a small amount of cash in small bills, as ATMs may not work. |
| Contact List | A paper list of emergency contacts, out-of-area family, doctors, and a family communication plan. |
| Keys | Spare set of home and vehicle keys. |
Export to Sheets
Part 3: Customizing Your Go Bag
The “basic” checklist is a starting point. Your Go Bag must be tailored to the specific needs of your family members.
For Infants and Young Children
- Formula and Food: Ready-to-feed formula is preferable, along with baby food.
- Diapers and Wipes: A generous supply of diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream.
- Bottles and Sterilization: Bottles and sterilization tablets if needed.
- Comfort Items: Small books, games, or toys to reduce anxiety.
For Seniors and People with Disabilities
- Medical Equipment: Backup assistive devices, such as a cane or walker.
- Extra Batteries: Spares for hearing aids or other medical devices.
- Special Dietary Items: Shelf-stable foods that meet specific dietary restrictions.
- Medical Information: A detailed list of medical history and known allergies.
For Pets and Service Animals
- Food and Water: At least a three-day supply of pet food and extra water.
- Leash and Carrier: Sturdy leash, harness, and a comfortable, secure pet carrier.
- Medication and Records: Any prescription medications and a copy of vaccination and vet records.
- Identification: A recent photo of you with your pet for identification.
Special Considerations
- Seasonal Items: Adjust clothing and bedding based on the expected weather conditions. For cold climates, include thermal layers, hats, and gloves.
- Regional Hazards: If you live in a specific hazard zone, consider adding specialized items. For earthquake zones, include work gloves and dust masks. For flood-prone areas, include rain gear and insect repellent.
- Potassium Iodide (KI): If you live within a designated emergency planning zone near a nuclear power plant, you may be advised to include this medication in your kit.
Conclusion: Make Preparedness a Priority
Building a Go Bag is not about fear; it is about empowerment. It is an act of responsibility that provides peace of mind, knowing that you have taken concrete steps to protect your loved ones. By following this guide, you can assemble a comprehensive, customized bag that ensures your family’s safety and comfort during the critical 72 hours following an emergency evacuation. Don’t wait for a disaster to happen; start building your Go Bag today.