The complete guide to building your emergency evacuation kit. Track your progress, get gear recommendations, and be ready for anything.
Stay hydrated with filtration and storage solutions
Portable filtration system for purifying water from any source

Backup chemical treatment for water purification
Durable containers for carrying filtered water (2-3 liters capacity)
Lightweight expandable water storage for base camp
72 hours of calorie-dense, lightweight food
3-day supply of lightweight, calorie-dense meals
High-calorie bars for quick energy on the move
Calorie-dense snacks with protein and healthy fats
Compact stove for heating water and cooking meals
Lightweight pot, cup, and spork for meal preparation
Protection from the elements and rest essentials
45-65L tactical backpack with MOLLE webbing
Compact emergency sleeping bag that reflects body heat
Waterproof tarp for overhead protection and ground cover
Multi-purpose cordage for shelter building and repairs
Insulated pad for ground insulation and comfort
Multiple fire-starting methods for any condition
Primary fire starting tool - works in any weather
Waterproof matches that burn even when wet
Backup fire source - butane or plasma lighter
Fire-starting material for wet conditions
Mylar blanket for heat retention and signaling
Essential tools for survival tasks
Full-tang survival knife for batoning, cutting, and processing
Versatile tool with pliers, screwdrivers, and more
Hands-free lighting with multiple modes
Wrapped around water bottle or lighter for repairs
Durable gloves for handling rough materials
Stay informed and find your way
Hand-crank/solar radio with NOAA weather alerts
FRS/GMRS radios for group communication
Reliable baseplate compass for navigation
Waterproof topographic maps of your area
Emergency signaling devices for rescue
Treat injuries and manage health emergencies
Comprehensive kit with trauma supplies and medications
7-day supply of any required medications
CAT or SOFT-T tourniquet for severe bleeding
Emergency trauma dressing for wounds
Ibuprofen, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal
Keep devices charged and operational
Portable power for charging devices
Spare batteries for headlamp and devices
Charging cables for your devices
Essential documents and emergency funds
Copies of driver's license, passport, insurance cards
$200-500 in small bills for emergencies
Written list of important phone numbers
Protection for important papers
Stay clean and prevent illness
Multi-use soap for body, dishes, and clothes
Body wipes for waterless cleaning
Compressed or regular TP in waterproof bag
Travel-size dental hygiene essentials
Alcohol-based sanitizer for hand hygiene
Expert advice for building and maintaining your emergency kit
Keep your total pack weight under 25% of your body weight. A 150lb person should aim for under 37.5 lbs.
Check expiration dates every 6 months. Rotate food, water, batteries, and medications regularly.
Practice using every item in your bag. A tool you can't use is dead weight in an emergency.
Add items specific to your needs: medications, glasses, pet supplies, baby items, etc.
Plan multiple evacuation routes and practice them. Know where you're going before disaster strikes.
Each family member should have their own bag. Distribute weight and ensure everyone can carry their load.
Check out our detailed gear comparison tables to find the best products for your bug out bag.
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