When starting out on an emergency preparedness journey, most would agree that having the essential supplies ready in a 72 hour bag is a crucial first step.
By following an introductory 72 hour bag checklist tailored for beginners, new preppers can easily assemble a compact go bag with the core items needed to shelter in place or evacuate.
In this post, you'll discover the purpose of a 72 hour bag, build an essentials list for your starter kit, and learn how to customize your backpack for emergency scenarios.
Preparing Your 72 Hour Emergency Survival Kit
A 72 hour bag contains essential supplies to survive for 3 days in an emergency. This guide outlines must-have items for beginner preppers assembling their first 72 hour emergency survival kit.
Understanding the Purpose of a 72 Hour Bag
A 72 hour bag, also known as a bug out bag or emergency go bag, is a portable kit that contains all the necessities you might need to survive for three days in case of an emergency. Having a packed 72 hour bag allows you to be self-reliant in a crisis when access to food, water, and shelter may be limited. It enables you to shelter in place or evacuate quickly.
Assembling your first 72 hour emergency survival kit can seem daunting. But having the essential food, water, tools and supplies can provide peace of mind and potentially save lives if disaster strikes.
Crafting Your 72 Hour Bag Checklist
A comprehensive emergency go bag checklist ensures your 72 hour backpack is fully stocked with basics like:
- Water - 1 gallon per person per day
- Food - lightweight, high protein items like granola bars
- Shelter - emergency tent or tarp, blankets
- First aid - bandages, ointments, medicines
- Tools - flashlight, radio, batteries, chargers
- Personal items - clothes, toiletries, prescriptions
Tailor your 72 hour kit backpack to your family's unique needs like pets or seniors. Include 3 days of prescription medications, supplies for pets, and items seniors rely on.
The Essentials for a Basic Go Bag Kit
A basic go bag kit should contain:
- Water and water purification tablets
- Non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars
- Battery, solar, or crank-powered radio for weather alerts
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit with bandages and medications
- Whistle and dust masks
- Emergency blankets and garbage bags
- Basic tools like a pocket knife, duct tape, and zip ties
- Important documents like ID, cash, and contact numbers
Scale your emergency go bag essentials based on your family size, ages, and mobility. Having the basics covered will provide crucial short-term sustenance and safety.
Customizing Your 72 Hour Kit Backpack
Consider supplemental items in your 72 hour kit backpack for:
Pets - pet food, water, leashes, plastic bags, vet records
Seniors - extra medications, mobility aids, comfort items
Kids - diapers, formula, toys, books
Disabilities - hearing aids, glasses, prescription items
An emergency might require you to shelter in place without utilities or turn off utilities like gas lines. Include flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener, and phone chargers.
Having your own 72 hour emergency survival kit ensures you have the essentials tailored to your family's unique needs, providing safety and peace of mind when disaster strikes.
What should be in a 72 hour bag?
A 72 hour bag, also known as a go bag or bug out bag, contains essential emergency supplies to help you survive for 3 days in case of a disaster or emergency situation. Assembling your 72 hour bag is one of the most fundamental steps to take when starting your journey into emergency preparedness.
Here is a checklist of some must-have items to include in your 72 hour emergency bag:
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Water - Pack at least one gallon per person for 3 days. Water is critical for survival, both for drinking and sanitation purposes. Consider packing commercially bottled water or portable water filtration systems.
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Non-perishable food - Pack enough non-perishable, high-calorie food to last 3 days. Consider items like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, canned goods, peanut butter, etc. Special dietary needs should be taken into account.
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First aid kit - A basic first aid kit can treat injuries and ailments during an emergency. Adhesive bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and over-the-counter medications are essentials.
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Tools and supplies - Pack a flashlight, radio, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags, zip ties, and other tools. These help with lighting, communication, repairs, sanitation, and other issues.
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Personal items - Have copies of important documents, medications, eyeglasses, feminine hygiene products, and other specialty items you need. Customize based on personal needs.
Remember to pack light, prioritize based on survival necessity, and store items properly within your 72 hour bag. Conduct regular inspections and replace expired items as needed. With some planning and preparation, your 72 hour bag can give you peace of mind and help you endure many types of emergencies.
What is a 72 hour bag military?
A 72 hour bag, sometimes called a "get home bag," is an essential emergency preparedness item for military personnel and civilians alike. This type of bag is designed to contain critical supplies to sustain an individual for up to 3 days in the event of a crisis situation.
For military contexts, a 72 hour bag is often referred to as a "go bag." It contains equipment and provisions tailored to the needs of service members. Some key components of a military 72 hour bag include:
- Communications gear - Radios, satellite phones, signal mirrors, whistles, flares. Allows maintaining contact and coordinating with unit.
- Navigation tools - Map, compass, GPS device. Critical for orienteering and rendezvous.
- Specialized equipment - Arms, ammunition, tools for specific military roles.
- Rations - MREs, protein bars, electrolyte powders. Provides sustenance when access to food is uncertain.
- First aid - Tourniquets, bandages, sutures, medications. Treats injuries until evacuation.
- Inclement weather gear - Clothing layers, gloves, shelter. Protection from the elements.
The 72 hour bag enables personnel to operate self-sufficiently when cut off from regular supply lines. It is a "grab and go" solution for quickly evacuating dangerous areas or hiking long distances to safety. The bag is designed to be as lightweight and portable as possible while containing versatile gear to address fundamental survival needs.
For civilians seeking enhanced emergency preparedness, many of the same principles apply. Stocking food, water, first aid, tools, and other critical items in a bag for easy transport equips individuals to endure disasters from earthquakes to terror attacks. Customizing the 72 hour bag to address factors like climate, health status, responsibilities for children/pets, and likely risks facilitates optimal preparation.
Whether military or civilian, the 72 hour bag is considered an essential item for emergency readiness. Its portability and comprehensive contents enables users to evacuate quickly and sustain themselves when infrastructure and support systems fail.
What should be in a 3-day bag?
A well-stocked 3-day bag, also known as a 72-hour bag or emergency go bag, is an essential part of any prepper's supplies. This bag contains the critical items you need to survive for 3 days in case of an emergency evacuation or disaster scenario.
Water
Having potable water is extremely important in an emergency. You'll want to pack:
- 3 liters (or more) of bottled water per person
- Water purification tablets or a portable water filter as a backup
Food
Pack high-calorie, lightweight, non-perishable food items. Some good options include:
- Canned goods (meats, soups, vegetables, fruits)
- Protein or granola bars
- Nuts and dried fruits
- Crackers and peanut butter
- MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
Shelter and Warmth
If you must evacuate and sleep outdoors, you'll need protection from the elements. Essential items include:
- Emergency foil blanket (retains 90% body heat)
- Hand warmers (air-activated for 12+ hours of warmth)
- Rain poncho
- Emergency tent or tube tent
First Aid and Medications
Medical issues can become serious quickly without proper supplies:
- First aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, etc.
- Medications - both over-the-counter pain relievers and any prescription meds needed to live
- Extra pairs of latex gloves
- Other personal care items - toilet paper, feminine products, diapers, etc.
Customize your 72-hour bag based on your family's unique needs, including supplies for pets, infants, seniors, or those with medical conditions. Update and replenish items in the bag every 6 months. With some planning and preparation, you'll have confidence knowing you can handle an emergency situation if one arises.
How important is a 72-hour kit in every household?
A 72-hour emergency kit is an essential preparedness item for every household. Having supplies on hand for the first 3 days after a disaster can truly be lifesaving.
The first 72 hours after an emergency are critical. Emergency services may be overwhelmed and unable to respond right away. Roads could be impassable. Power, water, and communication systems may be disrupted. This means you need to be self-reliant until help arrives.
A well-stocked 72-hour kit contains food, water, first aid items, tools, clothing, personal hygiene products, and other essentials. These supplies allow you to treat injuries, prepare food and water, communicate with others, and meet other basic needs if a disaster strikes.
For example, having bottled water and non-perishable food allows you to avoid water contamination issues and feed your family. First aid supplies help you address medical issues when professional care may not be available. Flashlights, batteries, and radios facilitate communication and navigation at night or when power is out.
The key categories to cover in a 72-hour emergency kit include:
- Water and food
- First aid
- Tools and supplies
- Clothing and bedding
- Hygiene and sanitation products
Tailoring your kit to your family's unique needs is also important. Be sure to account for medications, infant formula, pet food, and other specific requirements. Updating and refreshing kit items every 6-12 months ensures supplies are ready when needed.
In an emergency, quick access to these provisions buys precious time while awaiting first responder assistance. A well-stocked go bag can truly make the difference in survival and resilience. Having emergency kits in homes, workplace, and vehicles is a smart way to prepare.
Water: Ensuring Hydration with an Emergency Water Supply
Water is critical for survival, so having an emergency water supply in your 72 hour bag is essential. When packing water, consider how much you'll need for drinking and sanitation for each person and pet.
Calculating Your Emergency Water Needs
- Estimate 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation
- Allow for extra water if you live in a hot climate or are exerting yourself
- Don't forget to account for pets - they need water too!
To determine your specific needs:
- List out each person and pet with expected water needs
- Multiply by the number of days (72 hours = 3 days)
- Add all amounts for your total supply goal
Having the right amount of water could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
Selecting Containers for Your Emergency Water Supply
Choosing the right water containers for your 72 hour bag is key. Look for containers that:
- Are durable and leak-proof
- Have a tap/spout for easy pouring
- Are lightweight and portable when full
Great options include:
- Collapsible jugs
- Stainless steel bottles
- Stackable water bricks
Make sure to pack containers in outside pockets for easy access. Rotate stock every 6 months to ensure freshness.
Purification Methods for Water in Your 72 Hour Backpack
Even with stored water, additional purification methods are vital for your 72 hour bag. Options include:
- Water purification tablets - lightweight and portable
- Lifestraws or other portable filters - filters out bacteria/protozoa
- UV water purifiers - uses UV light to kill pathogens
- Boiling water - low-tech but effective method
Choose purification methods that don't require electricity in case of power outages. Having multiple options provides redundancy if one method fails.
With the right water supply and purification tools, you can stay hydrated and healthy, no matter the emergency situation.
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Food: Nutritional Supplies for Your 72 Hour Backpack
Keep your energy levels up by packing the right food in your 72 hour bag. Focus on non-perishable, nutrient-dense foods that will keep you fueled in an emergency.
Selecting Non-Perishable Food for Your Survival Kit
When packing food for your 72 hour bag, choose items that:
- Are lightweight and compact
- Provide a lot of calories for their size
- Don't require refrigeration
- Have a long shelf life
- Are easy to prepare if cooking facilities are limited
Great options include:
- Granola bars
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Canned meats like tuna, chicken or spam
- Peanut butter
- Canned beans, vegetables, and soups
- Powdered milk
- High-calorie meal replacement shakes
Avoid packing perishable foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, meat or dairy products.
Packing Food for Special Dietary Needs
If you follow a special diet, pack 72 hour bag foods that meet your nutritional needs. Some good options include:
Gluten-free: Certified gluten-free granola/cereal, dried fruit, nuts, canned chicken, peanut butter
Dairy-free: Canned fish, beans, fruits packed in juice (not syrup), nut butters
Diabetic-friendly: Sugar-free dried fruits, nut mixes, jerky
Allergies: Check all ingredient labels to avoid your allergen triggers
Food Preparation and Storage in an Emergency
Proper storage keeps your food fresh and safe to eat. Consider packing:
- A lightweight camping stove and mess kit for cooking
- Resealable plastic bags, jars or portable containers
- Bottle opener and can opener
- Eating utensils
- Paper plates, bowls and napkins
Rotate and replace food every 6-12 months to maintain freshness. Mark expiration dates with a marker for easy reference.
Choosing the right foods and storing them properly ensures you'll have nutritious, safe meals to rely on in an emergency situation.
First Aid: Building Your Emergency Medical Supplies
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any 72 hour bag. Having the right medical supplies on hand can help treat injuries and illnesses during an emergency until professional medical care is available. When building your first aid kit, focus on including both basic essentials as well as any personalized items you may need.
Essential First Aid Items for Your Go Bag Kit
Every 72 hour bag should contain basic first aid supplies such as:
- Adhesive bandages
- Gauze pads and rolls
- Triangle bandages
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Medical tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Safety pins
- Thermometer
- Medications like ibuprofen, antihistamines, etc.
Make sure to have enough supplies to treat cuts, burns, sprains, and other common injuries. Aim to have materials to create splints if needed. Having basic OTC medications can also help manage pain and allergies.
Personalizing Your First Aid Kit with Prescription Medications
In addition to basic first aid items, include any prescription medications you normally take such as:
- Heart medications
- Insulin
- Inhalers
- EpiPens
- Daily medications
Also consider special needs like infant formula, supplies for pets, extra eyeglasses, etc. Personalize your kit so it has your specific medical requirements.
Staying Prepared to Turn Off Utilities and Administer First Aid
During an emergency, you may need to turn off utilities like gas, electricity, and water. Make sure you know where shut-off valves are located and how to safely turn these utilities off. This helps minimize further property damage or injuries.
Also review your first aid manuals so you can effectively provide medical care if needed. Having the right supplies is crucial, but so is knowing how to properly use bandages, splints, treatments, and medications in an emergency scenario. Prepare ahead of time so you can act quickly and without hesitation.
Shelter and Comfort: Preparing to Shelter in Place or Evacuate
Whether you're sheltering in place or evacuating, having the right gear in your 72 hour bag is essential for protection from the elements. This section covers some key items to include.
Choosing the Right Clothing for Your 72 Hour Kit Backpack
When packing clothing in your 72 hour bag, consider the climate and seasons where you live. Having versatile layers that can be added or removed is important. Key items to include are:
- Waterproof jacket and pants - Essential in all weather. Choose breathable fabrics.
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes - Supportive footwear for walking long distances.
- Socks - Pack at least 2-3 extra pairs. Keeping feet dry prevents blisters.
- Base layers - Lightweight shirts and leggings to wick away sweat.
- Fleece jacket - Retains body heat well and dries quickly.
- Gloves and winter hat - Important if evacuating in cold weather.
Pay attention to sizing and pack clothes suitable for every family member. Having the right clothing makes a big difference in comfort during an emergency.
Essential Shelter Supplies for Your Emergency Go Bag
Your 72 hour bag should allow you to set up temporary shelter if evacuating or provide backup shelter at home during a power outage. Useful items include:
- Tent or tarp - Choose a portable tent or waterproof tarp that can provide overhead shelter.
- Emergency blanket - Retains 80% of body heat. Useful as a ground cover too.
- Paracord - Durable rope for securing tarps or tying down tents. 30 feet is a good amount.
- Duct tape - Multi-purpose for quick shelter repairs and sealing gaps.
- Space blanket - Lightweight and highly reflective to retain heat inside a shelter.
Having shelter gear in your bag gives you flexible options for protecting yourself and your family from the elements.
Comfort Items to Include in Your 72 Hour Bag
While survival necessities are crucial in your 72 hour bag, some comfort items can also make a big impact during stressful times:
- Pillow - Adds normalcy and comfort if sleeping away from home.
- Earplugs and sleep mask - Blocks light and noise for better rest.
- Portable seat - Keep clean and dry rather than sitting on wet ground.
- Extra socks and underwear - Being able to change provides comfort.
- Baby wipes - Help freshen up when showering isn't possible.
- Lip balm - Prevents chapped lips in cold or windy weather.
Having familiar comforts from home can lift spirits when challenges arise during an emergency. Prepare your 72 hour bag to shelter in place or evacuate with both survival necessities and items for mental and physical comfort.
Special Considerations: Prepping for Unique Needs and Situations
Every family has unique needs when it comes to emergency preparedness. This section provides tips on accommodating seniors, children, pets, and medical conditions in your 72-hour bag.
Accommodating the Needs of Seniors and Children
When packing 72-hour bags for seniors or children, consider adding:
- Prescription medications
- Medical supplies like glucose meters, oxygen, mobility devices
- Comfort items like family photos, stuffed animals
- Easy-to-swallow foods
- Diapers and wipes
Focus on mobility, medical needs, nutrition, and comfort.
Pet Preparedness: Including Your Pets in the Emergency Supply List
Don't forget about your furry family members! Have a pet preparedness kit with:
- 3 days of pet food and water
- Medications, medical records
- Sturdy leashes, harnesses, carriers to transport pets
- Pet first aid kit
- Cat litter/pan, waste disposal bags
Make sure pets have ID tags with your phone number in case you get separated.
Preparing for Chronic Conditions and Medication Management
Those managing health conditions should:
- Have at least a week's supply of medications in your kit
- Include medical supplies like testing strips, syringes
- Pack a first aid kit tailored to your condition
- Bring copies of prescriptions, medical records
- Know treatment procedures in case of disaster
Discuss an emergency plan with your doctor. Adapt your 72-hour bag to fit your unique medical needs.
Transportation and Mobility: Keeping Your 72 Hour Bag Ready in Your Car
Emergencies can happen anywhere, so it's important to keep a compact 72 hour bag in your vehicle containing essential supplies. This bag should be easy to grab and carry in case you need to leave your car and continue on foot.
Assembling a Compact 72 Hour Bag for Your Vehicle
When assembling a 72 hour bag for your car, focus on portability and only the most vital items:
- Water - Small, sealed bottles that won't leak in your car. Rotate stock every 6 months.
- Food - Lightweight, high-calorie foods like protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit. Prioritize non-perishables.
- Medications - If you take prescription medications, pack a 3 day supply. Include basic OTC meds like pain relievers.
- Tools - Flashlight, pocket knife, duct tape, car escape tool.
- Shelter - Emergency blanket and warm layers like a jacket or fleece.
- Hygiene - Toothbrush, small toothpaste, wet wipes, and feminine products.
- Power - Phone battery pack, car phone charger.
Pack items tightly in a backpack or tote bag that is easy to lift and carry.
Maintaining Mobility with Your Emergency Go Bag
To ensure your 72 hour bag doesn't hinder mobility if you need to travel by foot:
- Choose a lightweight, comfortable bag for easy carrying. Backpacks with waist and chest straps help distribute weight.
- Pack the heaviest items closest to your back to balance the load.
- Make sure the bag isn't overstuffed - only essentials.
- Consider items like collapsible water containers and portable chargers to save space.
Practice grabbing your bag and walking briskly with it to test mobility.
Regularly Updating and Maintaining Your Car's 72 Hour Bag
Check your car's emergency bag at least twice per year and refresh items as needed:
- Inspect food/meds for expiration dates and replace anything that has expired.
- Test electronics like flashlights and chargers. Replace batteries as required.
- Inspect water containers and replace any that are damaged or leaky.
- Replenish first aid items that may have been used.
- Remove unused items that are taking up space. Only pack what you need.
- Check bag itself for damage/tears. Consider replacing if worn out.
Keeping your mobile 72 hour kit updated ensures you'll have the essential supplies in an on-the-go emergency situation.
Conclusion: Mastering Your 72 Hour Bag Essentials
Reviewing Your Comprehensive 72 Hour Bag Checklist
A comprehensive 72 hour bag checklist is essential to ensure you have all necessary supplies in case of an emergency evacuation or sheltering in place. Key items to include are:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day minimum)
- Non-perishable food rations (enough for 72+ hours)
- First aid kit
- Flashlights and batteries
- Radio and batteries
- Cash
- Important documents
- Medications
- Tools like a pocket knife, duct tape, and garbage bags
- Seasonal clothing and footwear
- Hygiene items
- Pet supplies if needed
Go through your checklist periodically and take inventory of your bag’s contents. Replace expired items like food, water, medications, and batteries. Tailor your 72 hour bag to your family’s unique needs.
Practicing with Your Go Bag Kit
Once you’ve assembled your 72 hour go bag, it’s important to become familiar with its contents and practice using it. Set periodic reminders to go through each item in your bag so you know exactly what’s included.
Stage mock emergency evacuation drills with your family where you grab your bags and drive to a meeting point or shelter location. Time how long it takes so you know if you need to pack faster. Practicing will ensure everyone knows their role if an actual emergency strikes.
Staying Informed and Ready to Act
Situational awareness about potential emergencies in your area is key. Monitor weather reports during storm seasons and sign up for community emergency alerts.
Keep your go bag handy near your home’s exits rather than tucked away in storage. This ensures you can grab it at a moment's notice if first responders give an evacuation order. Maintaining awareness and readiness to act quickly with your 72 hour bag is vital to survival in an emergency.
