3 Day Go Bag Essentials

When an emergency strikes, having a well-stocked 3 day go bag can make all the difference in successfully weathering the storm.

This comprehensive guide explores the essential items to include in your 72 hour preparedness kit, equipping you with practical supplies and reliable gear to handle any crisis.

You'll discover the key components of an effective 3 day backpack, from water and nutrition to first aid, shelter, communication tools, and more. With thoughtful packing lists and expert advice, you'll craft a personalized emergency kit to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Preparing Your Best 3 Day Go Bag for Emergencies

A well-stocked 3 day go bag is an essential part of emergency preparedness. Having supplies and gear on hand can make a crucial difference during the first 72 hours of an unexpected situation.

Understanding the Importance of a 3 Day Go Bag

A 3 day go bag, also known as a bug out bag or emergency go bag, contains everything you need to survive for 3 days if you had to leave your home or were unable to access food, water, and electricity. Key reasons these bags are so vital include:

Immediate access to supplies - In an emergency, stores may be closed and utilities compromised. A pre-packed bag removes the stress of gathering last-minute provisions.
Mobility - Bug out bags are designed to be portable in case you must evacuate your home. The right backpack keeps your hands free for safety.
Peace of mind - Knowing you have a stocked emergency kit gives a sense of readiness in unstable times.

The Anatomy of an Effective Emergency Go Bag

An effective 3 day go bag is more than just a backpack filled with random items. The best emergency go bags have:

Water - Pack at least one gallon per person for 3 days. Water purification tablets help ensure potability.
Non-perishable food - Choose calorie-dense foods like granola bars, canned goods, and MREs.
First aid supplies - A first aid kit tailored for survival needs can treat injuries without professional medical care.
Tools and gear - Equipment like flashlights, a pocket knife, duct tape, and a radio help endure the elements and provide safety.
Clothing and blankets - Extra socks, jackets, and emergency blankets regulate body temperature if shelter is compromised.

When reviewing and selecting supplies for a 72-hour kit, experts suggest focusing on versatile items that serve multiple purposes:

Multi-use tools like a Leatherman can open cans, provide light, start fires, and more.
Water purification tablets allow you to drink from questionable sources, expanding access.
A quality medical kit handles not just first aid, but also minor medical procedures if needed.
Fire starting aids like stormproof matches and fire starter sticks are compact yet essential.

Prioritizing adaptable, rugged gear over gimmicky gadgets helps create a reliable, long-lasting emergency kit.

Selecting the Best 3 Day Backpack

The foundation of every bug out bag is a durable, ergonomic backpack sized appropriately to carry 3 days worth of supplies. When selecting a 3 day go bag, key criteria include:

Volume - Ensure adequate storage capacity, approximately 40-50 liters.
Organization - Multiple compartments and pockets simplify gear access.
Comfort - Padded straps and hip belts prevent fatigue from heavy loads.
Ruggedness - Water-resistant fabric and reinforced stitching stand up to the elements.

Choosing the right backpack makes transporting emergency provisions more manageable.

Personalizing Your 3 Day Go Bag Checklist

While most 3 day go bag checklists share common essentials, personalizing your kit to meet specific needs maximizes preparedness. Be sure to include:

Prescription medications - Pack at least a week's supply of critical medications.
Special dietary requirements - Extra provisions for allergies, infants, pets, etc.
Regional considerations - Snow gear in winter climates, rain ponchos in tropical regions, etc.

Customizing your emergency bag to your situation helps ensure you have what you truly require if disaster strikes.

Following expert guidance on stocking a 3 day go bag gives you the best chance of making it through the initial critical hours of an emergency scenario. Investing in high quality survival gear brings essential peace of mind.

What should be in a 3 day bag?

A well-stocked 3 day go bag is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most important items to include:

Food and Water

Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. Water purification tablets can be useful as a backup.
Include a 3-day supply of non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and crackers.

Shelter and Warmth

Pack an emergency blanket and poncho to stay dry and retain body heat.
Include 3 12-hour hand warmers for additional warmth.

First Aid

A comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, etc. This will allow you to treat injuries.
Pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
At least 3 pairs of medical gloves to protect yourself from potential biohazards.

Medications

If you rely on any life-saving prescription medications, pack a 3-7 day supply. Include copies of the prescriptions as well.

Other Essentials

Flashlight, batteries, lighter, duct tape, multi-tool
Extra socks, hat, sunglasses for protection
Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag
Emergency whistle and bright cloth for signaling

Customize your 3 day go bag based on your needs, but these items form a comprehensive basis for most situations. Periodically inspect and replace expired items as part of your emergency preparedness plan.

What should be in a 72 hour emergency kit?

Having a well-stocked 72 hour emergency kit is an essential part of being prepared for any crisis situation. This kit, also known as a "bug out bag" or "go bag", contains supplies to sustain you for 3 days if you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place.

Here are the most important items to include in your kit:

Water

Store 2 liters of water per person per day. That's 6 liters total for a 3 day supply.
Pack commercially bottled water in small, portable bottles. Avoid heavy large jugs.
Water purification tablets can be a lightweight backup option.

Food

Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, beef jerky, and canned goods.
Choose foods that do not require refrigeration or preparation.
Aim for ~2,000 calories per day per person.
Replace food items once a year to ensure freshness.

Tools & Light

Pack a manual can opener to open canned goods.
Include a wind-up flashlight and radio with extra batteries. This allows you to conserve battery life and recharge them.

Having these basic supplies will help you safely endure an emergency situation for 3 days. Customize your 72 hour kit further with additional gear like first aid supplies, maps, shelter, clothing and more. Being prepared with a go bag gives you confidence to act quickly when faced with the unexpected.

What goes in a military 72 hour bag?

A military 72 hour bag, also known as a 3 day go bag, contains essential items to survive for 3 days in an emergency situation. Here are some key items to include:

Bedding & Clothing

Change of clothing (short and long sleeved shirts, pants, jackets, socks, underwear, etc.)
Sleeping pad for insulation from the cold ground
Cold weather gear like a coat, gloves, and blanket

Personal Supplies & Medication

Feminine hygiene products
Folding hairbrush and hair ties
Prescription medications you take
Backup pair of prescription eyeglasses/contacts
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Backup charger for electronic devices

Food & Water

High-calorie protein bars or dried foods
Packets of nuts, seeds, and trail mix
Water purification tablets to make found water drinkable
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

The key is preparing for unpredictability and packing versatile layers and supplies. Focus on survival basics like shelter, water, food, first aid, and navigation.

What do you put in a doomsday bag?

A doomsday or 3 day go bag contains basic supplies to help you survive for several days in an emergency situation. Here are some of the most essential items to include:

Water - Pack at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. Water purification tablets can help make found water sources safe to drink.
Food - Non-perishable, high-calorie foods like granola bars, canned goods, nuts, and dried fruits. Enough to last each person several days.
Radio - A battery-powered or hand crank radio to receive emergency broadcasts and weather updates. A NOAA weather radio with tone alert is ideal.
Light - Pack LED flashlights and extra batteries. Glow sticks also work well and don't require batteries.
First Aid - A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc. Know basic first aid and CPR.
Tools - A multi-tool, duct tape, whistle to signal for help, dust masks, plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.
Other Supplies - Prescription medications, personal hygiene items, emergency blankets, matches, a map, gloves, and other essentials.

Customize your 3 day go bag based on your family's unique needs. Update and refresh supplies every 6 months to keep them ready for an emergency. With the right doomsday bag, you can weather any storm.

Water and Hydration Essentials

Water is critical for survival, so having adequate supplies and purification methods in your 3 day go bag is essential.

Water Supply: How Much to Pack

You should pack at least 3 liters of water per person for a 3 day go bag. This allows for about 1 liter of drinking water plus additional water for food preparation, hygiene, etc. Some tips:

Pack commercially sealed bottled water which has a 5+ year shelf life unopened.
Rotate out water every 6-12 months if using reusable bottles/containers. Check for leaks, cracks etc.
Consider packing water pouches which take up less space.
Have a mix of bottle sizes - small to drink on the go, larger for camp/cooking.

Water Purification Tablets and Methods

Water purification ensures you can drink found water safely. Options include:

Water purification tablets - lightweight, long shelf life. Follow directions on packaging.
Liquid water treatments like iodine or chlorine dioxide. Add to water, wait, then drink.
Water filters - pump or straw types are portable for bags. Remove bacteria and particulates.

Portable Water Containers

Good portable water containers for 3 day bags include:

BPA-free plastic bottles - durable, lightweight. Wide mouths are easier to fill.
Collapsible containers - saves space when empty. Silicone is durable.
Water bladders or pouches - integrate with hydration packs, take up less space.

Choose containers that won't leak and are easy to use on the go.

Hydration Packs and Systems

Hydration packs with bladders and drinking tubes allow you to sip water frequently without stopping. Look for:

Bite valves that shut to avoid leaks
Durable, BPA-free material
2-3 liter capacity
External filling openings
Shoulder straps for carrying

Monitoring Water Quality and Safety

To keep water safe:

Store away from direct sunlight which can encourage bacteria growth
Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute before drinking if unsure
Use water purification methods properly each time
Visually inspect water before drinking

Replace water that smells, tastes or looks bad. Stay vigilant about water safety.

Nutrition: Packing the Right 3 Day Food Supplies

Selecting the appropriate food for your 3 day go bag is essential for maintaining energy and health during a crisis. Having the right nutrition will help you think clearly, avoid fatigue, and stay healthy if you need to evacuate or shelter in place.

Calorie-Dense Food Options

When packing food for an emergency go bag, focus on non-perishable, calorie-dense options that will help sustain your energy levels. Some good choices include:

Granola or protein bars
Nuts and trail mixes
Peanut butter
Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, and apricots
Beef jerky or pemmican
Canned tuna, salmon, chicken
Powdered milk, eggs, or protein shakes (just add water)

Choose items that pack a lot of calories and nutrients in small, lightweight packages.

Non-Perishable Food Items

In addition to high-calorie foods, include some non-perishable items that have a long shelf life and don't require refrigeration. Some options:

Canned vegetables, fruits, soups, or beans
Whole-grain crackers
Vacuum-packed meals or MREs
Bouillon cubes or dried soup mixes

Make sure to pack cooking tools like a can opener, pocket knife, mess kit, and camping stove to prepare meals.

Special Dietary Considerations

If you follow a special diet, make adjustments so your emergency food matches your needs:

Allergies: Avoid items that contain your allergens. Pack safe substitutes.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Include plant-based proteins like nuts, seeds, beans, lentils.
Medical Conditions: Choose foods that fit conditions like diabetes or food sensitivities.

With planning, most special diets can be accommodated.

Cooking and Eating Utensils

Even if you pack ready-to-eat foods, include a few utensils:

Can opener
Pocket or survival knife
Small pot for boiling water
Spork for eating main dishes or canned goods
Mess kit with plate/bowl, cup, and cutlery

You need minimal gear to prepare quick hot meals. Items that serve multiple purposes are ideal for a compact kit.

Food Preparation and Preservation

To preserve foods and make items last the full 3 days:

Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
Wrap or pack foods in airtight plastic bags or containers
Prepare some no-cook items that just need water added
Plan meals so perishable items get eaten first
Balance ready-to-eat snacks with meals that need boiled water

With smart planning and storage, you can pack a nutritious 3-day food supply. Evaluate your diet, activity level, and packing space to customize your emergency nutrition kit.

First Aid and Health Maintenance

A well-stocked first aid kit is a cornerstone of any emergency go bag, prepared to handle medical issues that may arise. Having the proper supplies and knowledge to address injuries or illnesses can be critical when away from professional medical care.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit Contents

When packing your 3 day go bag, be sure to include a comprehensive first aid kit with essentials such as:

Adhesive bandages of multiple sizes
Gauze pads and rolls
Antiseptic wipes and ointment
Medical tape
Scissors and tweezers
Pain medication
Thermometer
Anti-diarrhea medication
Antacids
Antihistamines
Eye drops
Hand sanitizer
Nitrile gloves

A basic first aid reference guide can also help guide treatment. Rotate perishable supplies to keep them effective.

Prescription Medications and Personal Care

Pack at least a 3 day supply of any critical prescription medications you take, properly stored in their bottles. Birth control, heart medications, insulin, inhalers, and epi-pens are common essentials.

Personal hygiene items like toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine products, and extra eyeglasses should be in your emergency kit as well.

Health and Wellness Tips

Stress during an emergency can negatively impact health. Try deep breathing, stretching, or meditation. Stay hydrated and eat if possible. Take shelter, keep warm, and rest when you can.

Pack comfort items like tea bags, honey sticks, or hard candies to help ease anxieties. Having self-care items available can aid mental wellbeing.

First Aid Training and Knowledge

Consider taking a first aid class, like through the American Red Cross, to prepare. Learn how to treat sprains, burns, wounds, allergic reactions, and more. Know how to take a pulse, control bleeding, and perform CPR.

Understand the proper use of any medications or tools in your kit. Review first aid procedures regularly so skills remain fresh.

Regularly Updating Your First Aid Supplies

Check expiration dates on medications, ointments, food, water, batteries, and other perishable items every 6-12 months. Replace anything that is expired or close to expiration.

Restock any supplies used on a regular basis. Perform a full inventory annually and replace missing or damaged gear. Keep your first aid kit current and complete.

Shelter and Comfort: Creating a Safe Haven

Having the means to create a temporary shelter in an emergency can protect you from the elements and provide a sense of security. A 3 day go bag should include compact and efficient shelter options.

Choosing Compact and Efficient Shelter Options

Lightweight, packable tents or tarps are essentials for a 3 day go bag. Consider a bivvy bag as an ultra-compact emergency shelter option. Prioritize portability when selecting shelter gear for your go bag.

Sleeping Systems and Warmth

Pack a compact sleeping bag rated for the climate you live in. Pair it with a sleeping pad or underquilt for insulation from the ground. A sleeping bag liner adds warmth. Choose compressible, lightweight options.

Shelter in Place or Evacuate?

Your 3 day go bag should support both sheltering in place or evacuating. Have basic provisions to create an emergency shelter wherever you go. Also prepare by securing your home shelter ahead of time.

Weatherproof Clothing and Gear

Include waterproof, windproof jackets and pants to withstand the elements. Choose breathable fabrics that won't get clammy. A wide-brimmed hat, waterproof boots, and gloves help protect you.

Maintaining Personal Hygiene

Pack soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, toilet paper, feminine products, hand sanitizer. Baby wipes are a quick way to clean up when access to showers is limited. Practice basic hygiene habits to stay healthy.

Communication and Information

Staying informed and being able to communicate are critical during an emergency. Ensure your 3 day go bag contains the right tools.

Reliable Two-Way Communication Devices

Having reliable two-way communication devices like walkie-talkies or satellite phones is essential for staying in contact when cell networks are down. Consider packing:

Walkie talkies with a long battery life and range. Make sure to pack extras batteries.
An emergency satellite phone and portable charger. These work when other networks fail.

Power Sources and Chargers

To keep devices powered:

Pack portable solar chargers or power banks with multiple charges.
Bring cables to charge gear. Choose universal cables that work for multiple devices.
Have backup batteries for all electronics. Store these properly to preserve longevity.

Emergency Signaling Tools

If you need to signal for help, carry:

A whistle with lanyard - loud and easy to use
Mirror for visual signals
Waterproof matches and flares

Store these accessible in a outside pocket.

Information Storage and Access

Pack printed maps for your area and planned route. Have a compass and GPS device.
Keep important phone numbers and documents in a waterproof bag.
Load digital copies of ID, contacts, and maps onto a phone or flash drive.

Staying Informed with a Portable Radio

A hand crank or battery-powered radio lets you listen to emergency broadcasts when power is out. Choose one with:

Multiple power options like solar, hand crank, and batteries
AM/FM stations
Weather band frequencies
Smartphone charging
Flashlight or beacon

Stay informed on local conditions. This guides good decisions.

Safety and Self-Defense

In an emergency, protecting yourself and your loved ones becomes a top priority. Equip your go bag with items for safety and self-defense.

Self-Defense Gear for Personal Protection

When packing a bug out bag, including legal and effective self-defense tools can provide protection in unsafe situations. Items like pepper spray or a tactical pen allow you to defend yourself while avoiding further escalation of violence. Consider your personal comfort level and local laws when choosing self-defense gear for your 3 day go bag.

Emergency Whistles and Alarms

Packing an emergency whistle or personal alarm in your go bag provides an easy way to signal for help or deter potential threats. Choose a loud whistle with a wrist lanyard to keep it accessible. Mini personal alarms also attach to keychains and purses while emitting an extremely loud, high-pitched noise to draw attention and scare away attackers.

Tactical Flashlights and Illumination

A reliable tactical flashlight serves the dual purpose of providing visibility at night and acting as an improvised self-defense tool. The best flashlights for a 3 day go bag are compact, durable, waterproof models with strobe or high lumen settings to disorient an attacker. Quality illumination also helps avoid tripping hazards while navigating unfamiliar areas or disaster zones.

Secure Storage for Valuables

Consider packing discreet, portable lock boxes or document sleeves to safely secure emergency cash, important papers, passports, and other essential items in your go bag. Hidden wallet compartments, money belts, or zippered pouches also prevent theft of valuables during evacuations. Properly securing your critical belongings reduces safety risks.

Navigating and Avoiding Hazards

Natural disasters, infrastructure failure, and conflict zones create dangerous environments with downed power lines, unstable structures, toxic spills, and other hazards. Keep safety gear like dust masks, protective eyewear, gloves, and durable shoes in your emergency kit to traverse damage safely. Having offline maps and a compass ensures navigation abilities if cell towers and GPS fail. Avoid wading through flood water which may contain infectious diseases or sharp debris.

Technical Skills and Knowledge

Having the right gear is only half the battle; knowing how to use it effectively is equally important for survival. Developing key technical skills and knowledge can prepare you to handle emergencies when modern conveniences fail.

Basic Survival Skills Training

Learning fundamental skills like fire starting, shelter building, and water purification can make a crucial difference in an emergency. Consider taking wilderness survival training courses or watching tutorial videos to familiarize yourself with these essentials. Useful skills include:

Building shelters from available materials
Safely starting and maintaining fires
Purifying water from natural sources
Identifying edible plants
Crafting tools from natural materials
Applying first aid in remote settings

Practicing these skills ahead of time will give you confidence to rely on them when needed most.

Emergency Procedures: When to Turn Off Utilities

It's important to understand when and how to safely shut off utilities like gas, water, and electricity during emergencies. Having the knowledge to take appropriate action can prevent further property damage or risks to your safety.

Consult with your utility companies to learn the proper emergency shut-off procedures for your home. Identify where shut-off valves or switches are located. Consider labeling them for quick access. If evacuating due to disasters like floods, fires or earthquakes, shutting off utilities may be critical to minimize risks. Use caution and only attempt this if safe to do so.

When today's technology fails, map reading and land navigation skills become essential for finding your way. Study topographic maps to gain familiarity with map symbols and scales. Practice using a magnetic compass or GPS device to set bearings and pinpoint locations. Understanding these basic navigation techniques provides confidence to traverse remote terrain effectively.

Consider packing maps and a compass in your go-bag as backup options. Take a wilderness navigation course to hone vital skills for staying oriented when modern conveniences are unavailable.

Repair and Maintenance Skills

Equipment failure can be disastrous in emergency situations. Develop fundamental repair abilities and pack spare parts to restore vital gear and tools when needed. Useful skills include:

Basic mechanics like changing flat tires
Sewing to mend rips or tears
Replacing flashlight batteries and broken shoelaces
Using duct tape, super glue, safety pins for quick fixes

YouTube tutorials can teach repair techniques for common breakdowns. Regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment will maximize reliability.

Coping Mechanisms and Stress Management

Remaining calm under pressure can save your life in emergencies. Understanding healthy coping strategies and stress management will strengthen your resilience. Useful tips include:

Recognizing early signs of anxiety or panic
Using deep breathing and mindfulness to regain composure
Keeping active to manage negativity and boredom
Maintaining routines and purposeful goals each day
Journaling thoughts and feelings to process emotions

Seeking help from others, keeping a positive attitude, and believing in your abilities to handle challenges will carry you through tough times.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Your 3 Day Survival Kit

Assembling a comprehensive 3 day go bag with essential supplies is a crucial step in emergency preparedness. However, a go bag is only effective if its contents are regularly reviewed and updated. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Reviewing Your Emergency Supply List

It's important to periodically take inventory of your 3 day go bag to ensure nothing is expired, damaged or missing. Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine and batteries. Replace anything that's expired or close to expiration.

Practicing with Your Go Bag Kit

Unpack your go bag and familiarize yourself with all the contents. Set up your shelter, start a fire with the supplies, and try filtering water. This allows you to evaluate what's working and what needs improvement. Mark the contents and compartments so you know where everything is located.

Adapting Your Kit to Changing Circumstances

As your family's needs change, the contents of your bag should adapt too. If you have a baby, pack diapers and formula. Those with medical conditions should pack extra medications. Tailor it to your environment as well - those in cold climates need warm clothing.

By sharing survival knowledge with family and friends, you enable everyone to be better prepared in an emergency. Teach them useful skills like building a fire, purifying water and administering first aid.

Staying Informed on Best Practices

Sign up for newsletters, social media updates and email lists to stay on top of the latest products, recommendations and innovations in emergency preparedness. Being informed allows you to implement best practices.

Keeping your 3 day go bag maintained, adapted and ready for action will give you confidence to face any emergency situation. The key is consistency in reviewing, updating and practicing with your kit.