Are you ready for the unexpected? Here's what to pack in your go-bag
Whether it's a power outage or unexpected extreme weather, you can stay prepared with an emergency go-bag.
When you're in the thick of a crisis, every minute counts—which is why having a bag of pre-packed essentials can be so vital to ensuring your family's safety. Whether it's severe weather like a tsunami or fire, a power outage or regional unrest due to a larger conflict, emergencies can strike when you least expect them; but having a prepared go-bag can help you navigate any crisis with a little more confidence and support.
A go-bag or "grab-and-go bag" is exactly what it sounds like: A designated bundle or pack that's filled with just enough emergency essentials to sustain you (and your family) in the event of catastrophe or displacement.
From a First Aid kit to a portable power bank and nonperishable food items, your go-bag essentials might vary depending on your family size and needs—especially if you have toddlers, kiddos or pets.
What to pack: Emergency go-bag essentials
Below, we curated a general go-bag checklist that'll help you pack the main essentials and stay prepared in case of an emergency.
1. A First Aid kit
2. Chargers and power banks
3. A water filter and water tablets for clean drinking water
4. Disinfectant wipes
5. Nonperishable food
6. Medications
7. A flashlight
8. A portable power station
9. A reusable water bottle
10. Communication tools
11. Pet supplies
12. Miscellaneous emergency essentials
What is a go-bag?
A "go bag" or "grab-and-go bag" is basically a pre-packed bundle of emergency essentials that can help you better navigate a time of crisis—whether it's a power outage, case of extreme weather or regional unrest due to conflict or war. Per the U.S. Department of State website, it's advised that people have a 72-hour kit prepared, with emergency items that can help sustain you and your family for (at minimum) 72 hours.
How to pack a go-bag:
The U.S. Department of State website offers a guide for emergency preparedness, including recommendations on what to pack in your go-bag. See a comprehensive guide to the top go-bag checklist essentials, below:
- 3-day supply of nonperishable food and water (per person)
- First Aid kit
- Batteries
- Personal documents (driver's license, passport, birth certificate)
- A flashlight
- Sanitary supplies
- Medications
- Extra clothes