What to Pack in an Emergency Kit
What is an emergency kit?
An emergency kit, often called a bug out bag or go-bag, is a portable collection of essential items that can help you survive during a crisis or evacuation. It’s designed to support your basic needs—like food, water, shelter, and first aid—for at least 72 hours. Whether you’re facing a natural disaster, power outage, or unexpected emergency, having a well-packed emergency kit can give you the tools and confidence to act fast and stay safe when every second counts.
What to Pack? Below I will go over the exact types of items you should be packing in your kit, why those items are important, and offer links to make it easy to purchase what you will need.
🔥 1. Core Survival Gear
Backpack- A backpack is essential for an emergency kit because it keeps all of your gear organized and ready to grab and go at a moment notice. My recommended back pack - https://amzn.to/4eeiZlh
Multitool - A multitool is important because it combines several essential tools into one compact device, saving space while helping with repairs, food prep, and other survival taks. My recommended multitool - https://amzn.to/40ikuJh
Knife - A knife is crucial for cutting, self defense, fire making, and shelter building, making it one of the most versatile and reliable tools in any emergency kit. My recommended knife - https://amzn.to/4ndQRTe
Paracord - Paracord is vital in an emergency kit because it’s lightweight yet incredibly strong, perfect for building shelters, making traps, securing gear, and more. Make sure you keep 50-100ft in your kit. My recommended paracord - https://amzn.to/4kQzk1M
Gorilla tape - Gorilla or Duct tape is important because it can repair gear, seal leaks, patch clothing, and can even be used for first aid. Try to find a smaller roll that takes up less space in your pack. My recommended tape - https://amzn.to/46dD2xY
Zip Ties - Zip tires (wire ties) are important in an emergency kit because they are lightweight, strong, and very versatile making them oerfect for securing gear, making quick repairs, or restraining things in a pinch. My recommended Zip Ties - https://amzn.to/466grU0
Survival Whistle - A survival whistle is essential because it lets you signal for help over a long distance, especially if you are lost , injured, or in low vis conditions. It’s loud, lightweight, and can save your life. My recommended whistle - https://amzn.to/3HTbZOp
Fire Kit - A fire kit is crucial in an emergency situation because it allows you to start a fire for warmth, cooking, signaling, and purifying water, one of the most important priorities. Check my Prep Shop for the best Fire Kits - Click Here!
Mylar Tarp - A Mylar tarp is important because it provides quick shelter, retains body heat, reflects sunlight, and can protect you from the wind, rain, and cold, making it a lightweight lifesaver. My recommended Mylar Tarp - https://amzn.to/3I8IOab
💧 2. Water
Water filter (like Sawyer Mini or LifeStraw)
Collapsible water bottle or canteen
Water purification tablets
Stainless steel bottle (for boiling water)
🍫 3. Food
MREs or freeze-dried meals (3 days' worth)
Energy/protein bars
Peanut butter packets or tuna pouches
Metal cup/pot (for boiling or cooking)
👖 4. Clothing
Extra socks (wool or synthetic)
Moisture-wicking underwear
Thermal base layers if applicable
Rain poncho or jacket
Hat + gloves (weather dependent)
Bandana or shemagh
Lightweight change of clothes
🩹 5. First Aid & Hygiene
First aid kit (trauma kit + meds)
Tourniquet (CAT or SWAT)
Nitrile gloves
Pain relievers / antibiotics
Personal medications (3-day supply minimum)
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Wet wipes / travel-size soap
Toilet paper (compressed or flat pack)
🔦 6. Tools & Navigation
Flashlight (with extra batteries or solar/crank) - https://amzn.to/4ldBjgp
Headlamp
Compass (and know how to use it)
Local map (waterproofed or laminated)
Sharpie or pencil
Small notebook
📻 7. Communication & Info
Hand-crank radio or emergency radio (NOAA-compatible)
USB power bank
Charging cable (and adapters if needed)
Copies of ID, insurance, and emergency contacts (laminated or in waterproof bag)
Local emergency plan (rendezvous points, routes)
🔫 8. Self-Defense (where legal)
Pepper spray
Firearm + ammo (where legally permitted)
Tactical pen or kubotan
🏠 9. Shelter
Compact tent or bivvy
Emergency sleeping bag
Ground pad or foam mat
Extra tarp and stakes
💰 10. Extras
Cash (small bills)
Lighter leash or carabiner clips
Sunglasses / eye protection
Small Bible or morale booster item
Deck of cards / small game for downtime
