Go Bag Essentials List for Every Prepper

When it comes to emergency preparedness, most preppers would agree that having a well-stocked "go bag" with essential supplies is crucial.

This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to include in your go bag to ensure readiness for any situation, from natural disasters to civil unrest.

You'll get checklists of gear categorized by survival need, from food and water to tools and communication equipment, along with tips for customizing your bag. Whether sheltering in place or needing to evacuate quickly, your go bag essentials list will equip you for dealing with emergencies.

Introduction to Go Bag Essentials

A "go bag", also known as a bug out bag, is an emergency kit filled with supplies to help you survive for 72 hours in the event of a disaster or emergency situation. Having a go bag packed and ready provides peace of mind and ensures you have the essential items on hand if you need to evacuate quickly.

When assembling your go bag, the most important consideration is customizing it to meet your unique needs and situation. An urban dweller will require a different set of gear than someone in a rural area. Families must plan for children and pets, while people with medical conditions need to pack prescription medications. Go bag checklists serve as a starting point, but personalizing the contents is key.

Understanding the Go Bag

A go bag contains everything you need to survive outside your home for up to 3 days. It is designed to be portable in case evacuation becomes necessary. The supplies allow you to shelter in place or set up temporary accommodations if you cannot return home right away.

Typical go bag essentials include food, water, first aid items, tools, hygiene products, clothing, important documents, and more. The goal is to pack the gear that would give you the best chance of survival during a crisis event.

The Best Bug Out Bag for Your Needs

Choosing the right bug out bag involves selecting a pack that fits your body type, strength, and mobility. Consider the bag's durability, attachments for tools, and organizational components to keep gear secure. If traveling by vehicle, a duffel bag allows for more storage space. Backpacks work well for covering ground by foot.

When packing your bag, organize items from most to least essential. Prioritize what you would need within the first 24 hours. Then add gear that supports longer term survival needs. Weigh the bag to ensure you can transport it if necessary.

Essential Components of a 72 Hour Bug Out Bag List

While customized to your situation, all go bags should contain basic necessities for short term survival:

Water - 1 gallon per person per day minimum
Food - lightweight, high protein items like protein bars, beef jerky, nuts
First aid kit - bandages, ointments, medicines, etc.
Shelter - tent, tarp, emergency blanket, hand warmers
Clothing - weather-appropriate outfits, gloves, rain gear, hat
Fire making - matches, lighter, fire starter, candles
Lighting - flashlight, headlamp, batteries
Tools - knife, multi-tool, duct tape, rope, carabiners
Hygiene - soap, toothbrush, toilet paper, feminine products
Communications - radio, signal mirror, whistle, flares
Documents - ID cards, cash, maps, important phone numbers

Customizing Your Urban Bug Out Bag List

Tailor your go-bag to your environment. Urban evacuation may involve walking long distances or using mass transit. Pack light but include sturdy shoes, cash for fares, and a low-profile backpack to avoid attention.

Have contingency plans for apartment living if utilities fail. Identify evacuation routes and meetup places. Coordinate essentials with family or roommates. Print copies of digital documents as phones may lose power.

Go Bag Essentials List PDF Download

For a downloadable PDF checklist of the top recommended items to include in your 72-hour go bag, click here. Print out copies to post on the fridge or in your emergency kit. Review and update your go bag essentials list periodically as needs change over time. Invest in the survival gear that makes sense for your personal situation.

What should you have in your go bag?

Having the right items in your go bag is critical to being prepared for any emergency situation. Here is an essential list of what every prepper's go bag should contain:

Water and Food

Bottled water - Having potable water is extremely important in an emergency. Pack enough for at least 72 hours. Consider packing water purification tablets as well.
Non-perishable food items like granola bars, dried fruits and nuts, beef jerky, and canned goods. Focus on calorie-dense foods that don't require refrigeration.
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) are a compact long-lasting food option designed for emergencies.

Tools and Supplies

Flashlight - Choose a durable and reliable flashlight that uses common battery types. Consider having a hand crank or solar powered flashlight as a backup.
Radio - Pack a battery operated or hand crank AM/FM radio to receive emergency broadcasts and weather reports.
Batteries - Stock up on spare batteries for all your devices. Store them properly to preserve battery life.
Cell phone power bank - Charge your devices if power is interrupted. Consider a solar panel charger.
Multi-tool - Choose one with features like a knife, screwdrivers, pliers, and wire cutters.
Duct tape and zip ties - Help make repairs and secure items.
Notepad, pens, pencils, markers - Take notes or leave messages.
Paper maps - If digital navigation fails, have local maps on hand.

First Aid Supplies

Be prepared to treat injuries with a well-stocked first aid kit containing treatments for pain, wounds, burns, sprains, and other common issues.

Additional Important Items

Cash in small bills
Emergency whistle and rescue signal
Work gloves and protective eyewear
Sanitation and hygiene essentials
Seasonal clothing and footwear
Pet food and supplies

Customize your go bag for your personal needs, but this checklist covers many of the essentials for an effective emergency preparedness kit.

What are 10 items in a survival kit?

A well-stocked survival kit is essential for every prepper. Here are 10 must-have items to include:

Flashlight - Choose one that uses common batteries or is rechargeable. Bring extra batteries too.
Whistle - Useful for signaling others if you need help.
Dust mask - Protects your lungs during evacuation.
Maps - Have local maps on hand to navigate the area if cell towers are down.
Manual can opener - Allows you to open canned food when there's no power.
Radio - Battery-powered or hand cranked models provide access to emergency broadcasts.
Entertainment items - Books, games, puzzles keep children occupied if stuck indoors.
First aid kit - At a minimum have bandages, antiseptic, medicine, gloves.
Multi-tool - Has knives, pliers and other functions in one compact tool.
Emergency blankets - Retains body heat to prevent hypothermia.

Having these 10 essentials in your go-bag means you'll be ready for whatever comes your way during a disaster. Customize further based on your family's unique needs.

What do you put in a doomsday bag?

A basic disaster supplies kit should contain the following essential items:

Water - Have at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. Plan for enough water to last several days.
Non-perishable food - Stock up on foods that do not require refrigeration and have a long shelf life, such as canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits and nuts. Have at least a 3-day supply.
Radio - Pack a battery-powered or hand crank AM/FM radio as well as a NOAA weather radio with tone alert to stay updated about the emergency situation and any instructions from authorities.
Light sources - Include a flashlight with extra batteries. Glow sticks also come in handy during a power outage.
First aid supplies - Have a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, gauze, antiseptic, latex gloves, medications, etc.
Tools - A multi-tool, duct tape, whistle, plastic sheeting, garbage bags all have a variety of uses in an emergency.
Personal items - Have copies of important documents, extra eyeglasses, medications, pet supplies, etc. based on your family's unique needs.

The key is preparing by gathering critical supplies so that you have what you need if you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place during a disaster. Review and update your kit regularly.

What is in the bare minimum go bag?

A bare minimum go bag, also known as a "get home bag" or MY BAM (Make Yourself a Bag) kit, contains only the most essential items to survive for 72 hours in an emergency situation. While extensive go bag checklists exist, a pared down kit allows for mobility, ease of access, and affordability. Here are some of the key items every basic go bag should contain:

Shelter and Warmth

2 large trash bags: Can be used as makeshift ponchos or shelter. Space blankets also work.
1-2 space blankets: Retain 90% of body heat to prevent hypothermia.

Water

2 1-liter water bottles: Store clean drinking water. Consider a portable water filter for finding and purifying water on the go.

Food

Emergency food rations: Lightweight, long-lasting foods like protein bars or MREs (Meals Ready to Eat).

Fire

Fire starter: Such as stormproof matches, a lighter, or flint rod. Necessary for purifying water, signaling, and warmth.
0000 steel wool and petroleum jelly: Makes excellent fire starters even in wet conditions.

The above covers the fundamental survival needs. As you build out your bag, tailor it to your specific regional risks, health needs, and potential evacuation scenarios. The goal is having the minimum to safely get home.

Food and Water: Sustenance for 72 Hours

Having enough food and water is critical when bugging out. Experts recommend having supplies to sustain you for at least 72 hours. This section outlines key considerations for stocking your go bag.

Non-Perishable Food Items

Focus on high-calorie, non-perishable foods that don't require refrigeration and have a long shelf-life. Some good options include:

Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits, chili, tuna, chicken, etc. Prioritize pop-top cans that don't require a can opener.
Dried fruits and nuts for an energy boost
Beef or turkey jerky for protein
Granola, protein, or energy bars
Powdered milk, eggs, or meal replacement shakes

Look for vacuum-packed items when possible to maximize freshness. Make sure to regularly check expiration dates and rotate stock.

High-Energy Snacks

Having compact high-calorie snacks on hand is important when on the move or doing strenuous activities. Some recommendations:

Protein bars with at least 10g of protein
Trail mixes with dried fruits, seeds, and nuts
Peanut butter or nut butter packets
Granola bars with 5g or more protein

Choose bars individually wrapped to prevent crumbling.

Hydration Options

Staying hydrated is critical. Pack durable water bottles and a water filtration system like a LifeStraw in case access to clean water is limited. Some bottle options include:

Stainless steel bottles that resist dents and cracks
Collapsible soft bottles to conserve pack space
Built-in water filter bottles for purification on the go

Bring at least 1 liter per person for a 72 hour period. Rotate water every 6 months.

Dietary Considerations for Food

If anyone in your group has dietary restrictions, pack suitable alternatives like:

Gluten-free bars, dried fruits, nuts, tuna, etc.
Low-sugar bars and shakes for diabetics
Vegan protein powder and meat alternatives

Check labels to avoid ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.

Printable Bug Out Bag List for Food and Water

Here is a printable checklist summarizing go bag food and water essentials:

Canned goods (pop-top preferred)
Dried fruits and nuts
Jerky or protein-rich snacks
Granola/protein/energy bars
Powdered milk, eggs, meal replacements
Water bottles & water filtration
High-calorie compact snacks
Food for dietary needs

First Aid Supplies: Health and Safety Essentials

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for every prepper's go bag. In an emergency situation, quick access to medical supplies can make all the difference. When packing first aid items, focus on including the basics - bandages, gauze, medications, instruments, and other gear to treat minor injuries and stabilize major trauma.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit

A complete first aid kit tailored for your go bag should contain:

Adhesive bandages - Include a variety of sizes, from small strips to large pads
Gauze rolls - These allow you to create customized bandages or wraps
Sterile gauze pads - Stock up on 2x2, 4x4, and 8x8 sizes
Medical tape - Useful for securing dressings or improvised splints
Antibiotic ointment - Prevents infection in minor cuts and scrapes
Antiseptic wipes - Clean wounds to avoid bacteria or dirt contamination
Trauma pads - These absorbent pads help manage bleeding from deeper injuries
Nitrile gloves - Wear these when treating others to prevent fluid exposure
CPR mask - Essential for safely performing CPR without direct contact

Medications and Prescriptions

Be sure to pack:

Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Anti-diarrheals
Antihistamines - Crucial for managing allergic reactions
Prescriptions - Pack at least a week's supply of medications you take regularly

Medical Instruments

In addition to dressings and meds, also prepare these supplies:

Digital thermometer - Track body temperature to check for fever
Tweezers - Remove debris from wounds if needed
Trauma shears - Cut away clothing from injuries
Emergency blanket - Retain body heat to prevent hypothermia

Specialized Medical Supplies

Those managing health conditions should prepare items like:

EpiPens - Severe allergy sufferers need these epinephrine injectors
Inhalers - Asthma patients should have extra inhalers available
Blood glucose meter with strips - For diabetics to monitor sugar levels

The elderly, infants, and those with disabilities may require other specialized gear as well.

### Go Bag Essentials List Family Health Edition

A family go bag should also include:

Children's medications - Fever reducers, antibiotics, etc.
Diapers and wipes
Formula, bottles, snacks
Comfort items - Pacifiers, small toys
Pet medication if needed

Having the proper medical equipment on hand lets you effectively respond to health issues when SHTF. Continue building your skills as well - take first aid classes so you can properly utilize your well-stocked supplies.

Survival Tools and Gear: Equipping Yourself for Emergencies

Having the right tools and gear can make all the difference in an emergency situation. When packing your bug out bag, focus on versatile, durable equipment that promotes self-reliance.

Versatile Multi-Tools

Multi-tools like the Leatherman Wave+ feature pliers, screwdrivers, knives, and other attachments in one compact, portable tool. Choose a stainless steel model with components that match your expected repair and crafting needs. Must-haves include pliers, screwdrivers, and a sharp folding knife.

Illumination Devices

Emergency lighting keeps your hands free and ensures you can access gear at night. The ThruNite Archer 2A V3 tactical flashlight offers 1150 lumens from a single AA battery. Waterproof headlamps like the Foxelli USB Headlamp provide hands-free lighting for navigation, first aid, or camping tasks.

Fire Creation Tools

Having multiple methods to start a fire greatly improves survival odds. We recommend storing stormproof matches, a ferrocerium flint fire starter, and WetFire tinder tabs. These tools work when wet and only occupy a small space in your pack.

Portable Shelter and Bedding

Packable tarps and tents provide overhead shelter if you cannot reach home. The SOL Emergency Bivvy reflects 90% of radiant heat to protect against hypothermia. Inflatable sleeping pads like the ThermaRest RidgeRest offer insulation from the ground. Stuff the Sea to Summit Reactor sleeping bag liner in your pack for extra warmth.

Minimalist Bug Out Bag List for Tools and Gear

For a lightweight emergency kit, pack a Swiss Army Knife, pocket survival fishing kit, stormproof matches, Foxelli headlamp, Mylar thermal blankets, and Paracord. The most versatile survival tools get the job done without weighing down your pack.

Emphasize tech tools and backups for staying on course and connected during an emergency.

Power Supply Solutions

Having backup power is crucial to keep devices charged in an emergency. Consider getting a high-capacity portable power bank that can charge phones, tablets, GPS devices, and radios. Anker and Omnicharge make excellent power banks with 20,000 mAh capacity or more. Make sure to keep devices fully charged as much as possible, and top them off whenever you can access power.

Reliable Emergency Radios

Look for an emergency radio that doesn't just receive AM/FM signals, but also NOAA weather radio, which provides alerts and emergency information. Waterproof and crank-powered radios add reliability. The Midland ER310 is a highly-rated option with all these key features.

Essential Maps and Compasses

Paper maps and a quality compass like the Suunto MC-2G are still essential navigation backups. Topographic maps allow navigation via terrain features if separated from digital maps. Learn key map reading skills like orienting the map properly, identifying landmarks, taking bearings and more.

Signaling for Help

A loud safety whistle like the Storm All Weather Whistle can be heard over long distances if you need to signal for help when lost. Also consider carrying visual signals like a signal mirror, flare guns, glow sticks and reflective items to attract attention.

Secure Document Storage

Keep digital and/or paper copies of critical personal identification, credentials and other documents in your go-bag. This includes items like driver's license, passport, insurance cards, medical records, cash/cards, contact lists and more. Store these securely in a waterproof bag or container.

Personal Care and Comfort: Maintaining Well-being

Maintaining personal health and hygiene while bugging out is critical. Pack items to meet your basic needs as well as comfort items to boost morale.

Adaptable Clothing Options

Focus on breathable, moisture-wicking base layers. Merino wool or synthetic fabrics work best.
Pack extra socks. Changing socks regularly prevents blisters and fungus.
Include gloves, hat, buff for sun/wind protection. Choose based on climate.

Vision Essentials

Pack backup prescription glasses/contacts if required.
Essential to see to navigate, perform first aid, etc.

Hygiene and Sanitation Supplies

Mini soaps, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
Feminine hygiene products
Hand sanitizer, toilet paper

Critical for health, sanitation.

Critical Documents and Currency

Government ID, cash/cards, medical information
Waterproof bag/laminated copies for protection

ID and cash critical if evacuating. Medical info aids first responders.

Morale-Boosting Items

Pack small books, games, photos of loved ones
Important for mental health when bugging out

Boosts mood, wards off boredom/anxiety.

Tailoring Your Go Bag: Special Considerations

When preparing your go bag, it's important to consider the unique needs of your situation. Whether you have children, pets, seniors in your family, or special health considerations, tailoring your bag can help ensure you have what you need when an emergency strikes.

Children and Family Needs

Having supplies for babies, toddlers, and older kids is essential. Key items include:

Diapers, wipes, rash cream
Formula, bottles, snacks
Changes of clothes
Activities like books, small toys
Medications

For older kids and teens, add:

Weather-appropriate clothing
Hygiene items
Flashlight
Whistle
Lightweight sleeping bag

The goal is keeping children safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible if you need to evacuate.

Pet Preparedness

Don't forget supplies for furry family members:

Pet food, treats
Extra leash, collar, harness
Photos of your pets
Medications
Waste bags
Pet carrier or crate
Toys, bedding

Having your pets' needs covered prevents having to leave them behind.

Senior Specific Supplies

Consider packing:

Extra medications
Medical alert bracelet
Mobility aids like canes or walkers
Extra batteries for medical devices
Comfort items like blankets, pillows
Easy-to-prepare foods

These make dealing with an emergency less stressful for seniors.

Military Bug Out Bag Insights

Current and former military members often have go bags with:

Fire starting tools
Tactical flashlight, knife
Two-way radios
Water purification tools
First aid tools like tourniquets

While specialized, some of these items can be useful additions for civilian bags as well.

Shelter in Place vs. Evacuation

If sheltering at home, stock supplies like:

Water, non-perishable food
Can opener, cooking fuel
Entertainment items
Tools, batteries

For evacuation bags, focus more on portable, lightweight items for survival on the move. Prioritize water, food, first aid, tools, and gear for your climate and terrain.

The key is assessing your personal risks and packing what makes sense for your situation. With some thoughtful preparation, your go bag can help you handle an emergency more confidently.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Go Bag Essentials

Revisiting the Essential Supplies

A well-stocked go bag should contain critical supplies like non-perishable food, water, first aid items, flashlights, batteries, multi-tools, and other gear to survive for at least 72 hours. It's important to customize your bag based on your family's unique needs, accounting for medications, pet supplies, or items for children and seniors. Revisit your bag every 6 months to check expiration dates and replace used items.

Continuous Preparedness

Assembling your go bag is just the first step - practicing evacuation routes and using the contents will ensure you know how to respond in an emergency. Check local weather and news to remain situationally aware and adjust your kit as needs evolve. Updating contact lists, learning new skills, and taking inventory regularly are key for continuous preparedness.

Bug Out Bag Essentials 2023 Update

Consider adding a power bank, emergency blankets, and a crank radio to your 2023 go bag. Having offline access to information via radio alongside device charging capabilities can be invaluable. As extreme weather events become more common, emergency blankets provide lightweight, packable protection from the elements.

Accessibility of Your Go Bag

Storing your bag someplace easily accessible, like your home entryway or car trunk, saves critical moments when seconds count. If traveling, keep your bag in your hotel room rather than checked luggage for fast access. Consider keeping a smaller version at work containing just essentials like food, water, power bank, and first aid.

Emergency Supply List Recap

A well-stocked go bag should have:

3-day supply of non-perishable food and water
First aid kit and essential medications
Flashlight, radio, batteries, chargers and power bank
Multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags
Emergency blankets, clothing, toiletries
Extra cash, important documents
Customized items like pet food or baby formula

Following expert guidance to prepare your bag, then maintaining and practicing with it, is crucial to being emergency ready.