When it comes to emergency preparedness, we all want to be ready for anything. A 72-hour kit (also called a \u201cgo-bag\u201d or \u201cemergency kit\u201d) is essential for keeping you and your loved ones safe if you have to hunker down or make a quick exit. But let\u2019s face it: building a 72-hour kit can be overwhelming. And with all the strange products out there, it can get confusing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fear not\u2014here\u2019s a straightforward list of the first 10 things you actually need<\/em> in your 72-hour kit. No fluff, no nonsense\u2014just the essentials. And, hey, if you feel like grabbing some of these items along the way, I\u2019ve linked a few handy products. They\u2019re affiliate links, so if you buy something, I might earn a small commission\u2014enough to keep my own 72-hour kit stocked with snacks, at least.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 1. Water (and More Water)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The general rule is a gallon of water per person per day. That\u2019s three gallons each for a 72-hour period. You can go fancy with water pouches or get stackable water storage containers. Don\u2019t forget a portable water filter or water purification tablets in case your supply runs out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: Check out these long-lasting water storage containers<\/a>. They\u2019re leak-proof, BPA-free, and stack nicely in your kit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water purification tablets<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sawyer water filter (the best)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Non-Perishable Food<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019re not aiming for gourmet here. Think canned goods, protein bars, nuts, and even freeze-dried meals (keep weight in mind with this). Just make sure you have enough calories to keep your energy up. Choose foods that don\u2019t require much cooking (or any, ideally).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: Try these emergency food packs<\/a> that offer a mix of carbs, proteins, and fats to keep you fueled when times get tough, all you have to do is add hot water<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. First Aid Kit<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Accidents happen, especially when you\u2019re in survival mode. A good first aid kit should have bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, gauze, scissors, tweezers, and any necessary personal medications. For serious preparedness, throw in a trauma kit too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: Get this all-in-one first aid kit<\/a>, perfect for emergencies and compact enough for your 72-hour bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Portable Phone Charger (and Batteries)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Keeping your devices charged can be a lifesaver, especially if you need to call for help, check the news, or simply keep your phone flashlight on. A solar charger is a bonus if you\u2019re outdoors or if the power is out for long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: This solar-powered phone charger<\/a> is rugged, waterproof, and perfect for emergencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Multi-Tool<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A multi-tool is the Swiss Army knife of emergency kits. From cutting, opening cans, screwing, and more, it\u2019s like bringing a toolbox in your pocket. Choose one with pliers, a knife, screwdrivers, and maybe even a saw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: Check out this highly-rated multi-tool<\/a> that\u2019s fit for most survival needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here is a more budget friendly<\/a> option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 6. Flashlight and Glow Sticks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Power outages in emergencies are more common than we\u2019d like, so a reliable flashlight is crucial. Glow sticks are a great backup\u2014they\u2019re cheap, long-lasting, and they don\u2019t require batteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: This flashlight set<\/a> includes both disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries to help ensure you always have light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 7. Whistle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Whistles are excellent for alerting rescuers, especially if you\u2019re in a tough spot. A whistle can carry sound farther than your voice and can save precious energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: This emergency whistle<\/a> is loud, durable, and comes in a handy pack of three (one for each family member, maybe?).<\/p>\n\n\n\n 8. Emergency Blanket<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether it\u2019s cold or raining, an emergency blanket will keep you warm and dry. They\u2019re compact, waterproof, and can reflect body heat back to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: These emergency blankets<\/a> are compact and lightweight, also reflective to help get rescuers attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 9. Emergency Radio<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Staying updated on weather conditions and emergency broadcasts is vital, especially if phone service is spotty. Look for a crank or solar-powered radio so you\u2019re not dependent on batteries. Many models also have USB charging ports for phones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommendation<\/strong>: This emergency radio<\/a> is compact, solar-powered, and includes a flashlight and USB charger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n