When disaster strikes, having a well-stocked go bag can make all the difference.
In this post, we'll review the top-rated go bags on Amazon to help you make an informed decision when buying an emergency preparedness kit.
We'll compare features like capacity, durability, and specialized add-ons so you can find the perfect go bag to meet your family's unique needs.
Introduction
A go bag, also known as a bug out bag, is an essential part of emergency preparedness. It contains supplies needed to survive for at least 72 hours in case you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place. Having a well-stocked go bag can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.
In this article, we provide reviews and recommendations for top-rated go bags available on Amazon. With the increasing variety of emergency bags now sold on Amazon, it can be difficult to determine which is truly the best option for your needs and budget. By summarizing real customer experiences, we aim to help readers select a high-quality, purpose-built go bag for their household.
Understanding the Importance of a Go Bag
A go bag should contain everything needed to cover your basic survival needs, including:
- Water - 1 gallon per person per day minimum
- Food - High-calorie, non-perishable items
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Radio
- Cash
- Medications
- Tools
- Maps
Having these essentials packed in a bag that is easily accessible allows you to evacuate at a moment's notice or shelter comfortably wherever you may be located when disaster strikes. Go bags can make a life or death difference for those affected by natural disasters, civil unrest, or other emergencies.
The Rise of Go Bags on Amazon
In recent years, Amazon has become a popular marketplace to purchase emergency and survival gear, including go bags. The online retailer offers a vast range of brands, models, sizes, and price points to meet diverse needs. Top-rated bags with hundreds or thousands of reviews provide helpful insight into real-world performance.
As more people recognize the importance of emergency preparedness, the demand for go bags continues to grow. Amazon offers the convenience of home delivery on a wide assortment of bags pre-packed with supplies or modular components so you can customize to your specific situation. We summarize the highest rated ready-made and buildable go bag options below.
What is the difference between a go bag and a bug out bag?
Both go bags and bug out bags are essential emergency preparedness items. The main differences between them are:
- Intended use: A go bag is designed for evacuation from sudden emergencies like fires, earthquakes or floods. It contains supplies to cover your immediate survival needs for 24-48 hours. A bug out bag contains enough gear and supplies to survive for several days or weeks if you need to leave quickly and can't return home.
- Portability: Go bags are more portable and compact so you can grab them quickly. Bug out bags are usually larger backpacks loaded with more gear.
- Supplies: While they share some common emergency items, go bags have a more minimalist pack list focused on lightweight essentials. Bug out bags prioritize tools, food, shelter and self-defense items needed for longer-term survival.
When choosing between go bag and bug out bag options on Amazon, consider your intended purpose, the portability you need, and the duration you aim to be prepared for. Well-stocked go bags provide short-term evacuation preparedness. For multi-day excursions, a bug out bag's more extensive supplies will serve you better. Choose based on your situation.
Is it worth having a go bag?
Having a go bag packed and ready in case of an emergency evacuation can be invaluable. Here are some key reasons it's worth investing in go bags for your household:
- Peace of mind: Having go bags prepared ahead of time gives you one less thing to worry about in an emergency. You'll know you have the essential supplies for your family if you need to leave quickly.
- Critical supplies: Go bags allow you to bring important items with you like medications, flashlights, batteries, snacks, cash, copies of documents, and changes of clothes. These can be critical for health, safety, and comfort.
- Mobility: Go bags are designed to be portable and easy to carry. Having supplies pre-packed avoids wasting precious time gathering items before evacuating. Go bags allow you to be mobile.
- Adaptability: Quality go bags are durable and roomy enough to customize based on your family's unique needs. You can pack medications, kids' activities, pet food and other essentials.
While an emergency evacuation may seem unlikely, being prepared with go bags can give you invaluable security and reassurance. Having portable supplies ready to sustain your family for 72+ hours can make a tremendous difference if disaster strikes. Investing in go bags brings essential peace of mind.
How to get free emergency kit?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit to help individuals and families prepare financially for emergencies.
To get your free emergency financial kit:
- Go to ready.gov/financial-preparedness
- Scroll down and click the green "Download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (PDF)" button
- The PDF will download to your device
The kit includes checklists, forms, and tips to help you:
- Document valuable household information
- Make a plan to pay bills during an emergency
- Set aside money for repairs or recovery
- Better understand insurance coverage
Having an emergency financial kit can give you more control over your finances when the unexpected happens. It's one important way to become better prepared.
You can also find free information on ready.gov to help your family make an emergency plan, build an emergency kit with basic supplies, and stay informed about potential threats. Being prepared can go a long way to keeping your family safe.
Where is the best place to keep go bags?
Each family member should have their own go bag packed and ready in case of an emergency evacuation. Here are some tips on the best places to store go bags for quick access when needed:
- Under the bed. This keeps the go bag out of the way but easily accessible. Just reach under and pull it out. Ensure all family members know where their personal go bag is stored.
- In a front hall closet. Hang go bags on hooks inside the closet near the entrance. When exiting the home during an evacuation, bags will be right there ready to grab.
- Garage or outdoor storage. Use a plastic storage bin or waterproof container to store go bags. This keeps them protected from elements but quickly accessible. Place labels on the outside of containers indicating they contain emergency go bags.
The key is keeping go bags in a spot that is easy to reach even when exiting in a hurry. Make sure all family members are aware of where their personal go bag is located. Conduct practice drills having each person retrieve their bag. Check go bag contents twice a year and replace expired items. Maintaining grab-and-go access to go bags is crucial in an unexpected emergency evacuation.
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Factors to Consider When Buying a Go Bag on Amazon
When shopping for a go bag on Amazon, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you select the best option for your emergency preparedness needs.
Evaluating Capacity and Storage Options
The capacity and storage organization of a go bag is crucial to evaluate. Consider the following:
- Size: Choose a bag that provides adequate space and expandability for all the supplies you need. Generally 20L+ is sufficient for 1-2 people for 72 hours.
- Compartments: Bags with multiple pockets and compartments help organize gear efficiently. Look for separate sections for food, water, first aid, tools, etc.
- MOLLE compatibility: MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing allows attaching additional pouches and gear. This expands capacity.
- Expansion: Some bags feature expandable designs to increase space when needed. This provides flexibility.
Take time assessing storage needs for your situation. Well-organized capacity ensures you can store all essential emergency items securely.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Go bags face challenging conditions. Durability is vital:
- Materials: Nylon and polyester fabrics withstand wear and tear well. Ensure they are thick and reinforced.
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof materials protect contents from rain, spills, etc. Some bags have just water-resistant sections.
- Zippers & closures: High quality, heavy-duty zippers resist breaking. Look for water-resistant zippers and secure closure systems.
Prioritize abrasion-proof and weatherproof materials from reputable brands to get a durable go bag that lasts.
Specialized Features for Specific Needs
Additional go bag features offer enhanced functionality:
- Hydration bladder compatible: Allows hands-free hydration while on the move. Crucial for active situations.
- Molle expansion/customization: More flexibility to attach additional pouches and gear as needed.
- Emergency/safety features: Reflective strips, LED lights, safety whistles etc. Can be lifesavers in disasters.
- Specialized compartments: Some bags optimize storage for certain gear with padded laptop sleeves, quick-access pockets, pole holders etc.
Evaluate whether specialized features would provide advantages for your intended emergency uses. Tailor selections accordingly.
Carefully assessing these key factors helps determine optimal go bag solutions for your situation from the many options Amazon provides. Prioritizing durability, capacity, and functionality ensures your emergency preparedness is in good hands.
Go Bags Amazon Review: Top Picks Analyzed
We reviewed dozens of go bags on Amazon and narrowed it down to the top 5 based on ratings, reviews and quality. These bags are designed to be grabbed quickly in an emergency situation and provide the essential supplies to survive for at least 72 hours.
Military Go Bags Amazon: Tactical and Durable
The best military-style go bags on Amazon offer rugged and durable construction to withstand harsh conditions. Many feature MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches and gear. Top picks include:
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack: This 55L bag is made of 1050D nylon and has plenty of specialized compartments for organization. It has a 4.8/5 rating with over 5,000 reviews.
- Reebow Gear Tactical Sling Bag: A budget-friendly option made of heavy duty 900D polyester. Includes adjustable straps and multiple compartments. Rated 4.7/5 stars.
- Sandpiper of California Long Range Bugout Backpack: A high-end choice made in the USA from abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric. It has an extendable lid and large capacity. Rated 4.8/5 stars.
When choosing a military-style go bag, prioritize durability and specialized features like MOLLE webbing to mount additional gear. These allow further customization for your specific needs.
Best Go Bags Amazon for Urban Preparedness
For urban evacuation situations, pick a lightweight and maneuverable go bag. Key features include:
- Slim profile to navigate crowded spaces
- Reflective strips and bright colors for visibility
- External USB charging port and built-in battery pack
- Hidden anti-theft compartments for valuables
Top choices:
- NOMATIC Navigator Slim Backpack: A tech-focused bag with anti-theft features and USB charging. 30L capacity. Rated 4.6/5 stars.
- HIKPRO 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack: Budget pick that packs down small. Has 20+ pockets and water resistant fabric. Rated 4.7/5 stars.
- Everest Signature Waist Pack: Fanny pack style with water bottle pockets, headphone port, and security features. Rated 4.6/5 stars.
For heavy urban usage, pick a lightweight bag with anti-theft and visibility features to safely evacuate. Prioritize portability and quick access.
Travel Go Bags Amazon for the Adventurous
Frequent travelers need versatile go bags to use on the move. Key aspects are:
- Multiple carrying options (backpack, shoulder strap, handles)
- TSA compliant for air travel
- Quick-access compartments and pockets
- Gear ties and straps to attach items externally
Top picks:
- Shacke Pak - 4 in 1 Travel Backpack: Includes backpack, shoulder bag, waist pack, and sling bag configurations. Rated 4.6/5 stars.
- Gonex 30L Packable Backpack: Ultra lightweight with foldable design that packs down small. Water and tear resistant. Rated 4.7/5 stars.
- Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Backpack: Budget-friendly with breathable mesh shoulder straps, double compartment design, and durable zippers. Rated 4.6/5 stars.
When preparing your go bag for frequent travel, pick an adaptable design that allows multiple carrying methods and rapid access to your gear. Look for TSA compliant bags to speed up airport screening.
Recommendations for Every Type of Emergency
Based on your specific needs, here are our top go bag recommendations:
Emergency Go Bags for Family Readiness
When preparing go bags for your family, you'll want ample space for emergency supplies to sustain multiple people, including children. The First Responder On Call Trauma Bag W/Reflectors is a top choice, with room for first aid items plus food, water, and other gear. It has reflective strips for visibility and comes in a bright color. The Keep-Me-Safe Children's Deluxe 72-Hr Emergency Survival Kit is designed specifically for kids, with child-friendly items like glow sticks, playing cards, and a stuffed animal.
For infants, the emergency bag for teen girls by Emergency Zone has space for diapers, formula, changes of clothes, and more baby essentials.
Compact Go Bag Backpacks for Solo Travelers
If you're prepping an emergency kit for just yourself, compact and lightweight is key. The The Essentials Complete Deluxe Survival 72-Hour Kit weighs just 3 pounds but contains food, water, first aid, tools, and other gear to sustain one adult for 72 hours. Its backpack-style bag is easy to carry.
For even more portability, the emergency bag for school by Emergency Zone packs the basics into a slim backpack that fits easily into a locker or under a desk.
Go Bags Survival Kit 2 Person with Food
When shopping for a go bag to sustain two people, prioritize kits with ample food rations. The go bags survival kit 2 person with food from Weanas includes 3600 calories of food bars plus two 1.06 gallon water pouches. With two sleeping bags, flashlight, first aid supplies, and other gear, it will support two adults in an emergency situation.
For a kit with even more food, the go bag emergency backpack from Emergency Zone contains over 10,000 calories of food bars, ensuring you and a companion have sustenance for an extended period. It also includes two rain ponchos, light sticks, duct tape, and other essentials.
Essential Add-Ons for Your Go Bag
Beyond the basics, consider these essential add-ons to tailor your go bag to your unique needs.
First Aid Kit: A Go Bag Essential
A comprehensive first aid kit is a critical component of any emergency go bag. When packing your go bag, be sure to include a first aid kit that contains supplies to treat injuries, stabilize medical emergencies, and manage pain. Prioritize including sterile gauze pads, bandages, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, trauma shears, pain medication, antiseptics, and latex-free gloves. Waterproof storage containers help keep first aid contents clean and dry. It's also wise to pack prescriptions, a first aid instruction manual, tweezers, trauma pads, thermometers, and electrolyte tablets. Customize your kit based on your medical needs.
Customizing Your Emergency Backpack with Individual Needs
Tailor your go bag to your specific situation by packing items that meet your individual needs. Those managing medical conditions should pack at least a week's supply of prescription medications, copies of prescriptions, and physician contact details. Include dietary supplements if applicable. Accommodate food allergies, intolerances and religious restrictions with appropriate food stocks. Pack feminine hygiene products, infant formula, and diapers as needed. Include entertainment items like books and playing cards to reduce stress. Place custom documentation like medical records, insurance information, and family contacts in waterproof containers. These personal touches help ensure your emergency backpack provides for your unique requirements.
Emergency Bag for School: Keeping Kids Prepared
Equipping your child with an emergency bag for school promotes readiness. Their bag should include first aid essentials like bandages, antiseptic spray, pain relief capsules, and latex-free gloves. Pack a whistle, flashlight, batteries, protein bars, bottle of water, light rain poncho, and a comfort item like a stuffed animal. Also include a note with emergency contacts, medical information, and special instructions. Teach kids how to use bag items responsibly. Periodically inspect bags to replace expired items and replenish stock. An emergency bag empowers kids to contribute positively during crises.
Prepare for the Unexpected: Curated Go Bag Lists
We've curated several go bag lists to help you prepare for the unexpected, ensuring you have all the necessary items to face a variety of emergency situations. When creating your go bag, focus on the essentials - food, water, first aid supplies, tools, and other gear to survive for at least 72 hours.
The Essentials Complete Deluxe Survival 72-Hour Kit
The Essentials Complete Deluxe 72-Hour Survival Kit from Survive Outdoors Longer is one of the highest rated ready-made go bags on Amazon. This comprehensive bug out bag is designed to sustain one person for up to 3 days and contains food, water, first aid, survival tools, and other essential gear.
Key features:
- Packed in water-resistant backpack
- 3,600 calorie food supply
- 7 pouches of clean drinking water
- First aid kit, gloves, and emergency blankets
- Multi-tool, 50 feet of paracord, and fire starter
- Lightstick, whistle, and dust masks
- Overall weight of 23 pounds
With over 500 reviews and a 4.7 star rating, customers praise the quality and thoroughness of this go bag. It takes the guesswork out of emergency preparedness.
Keep-Me-Safe Children's Deluxe 72-Hr Emergency Survival Kit
For those prepping with kids, the Keep-Me-Safe Children's Survival Kit ensures your little ones are equipped for disasters. In addition to the standard supplies, it includes kid-friendly food, a cute backpack, stuffed animal, playing cards, and other items to keep them comfortable.
Key features:
- Adorable kid-themed backpack
- Pediatric first aid kit
- Non-perishable food and pouches of water
- AM/FM radio, flashlight, blankets
- Stuffed animal, playing cards
- Dust masks, whistle, and waste bags
Reviewers mention this is a great starter kit for kids that eases their worries. It empowers children to take an active role in family preparedness.
First Responder On Call Trauma Bag W/Reflectors
Those with medical training or who serve as first responders require a more advanced go bag for trauma situations. The First Responder On Call Trauma Bag contains specialized supplies for providing emergency care, including tools for fractures, bleeding, CPR, burns, and more.
Key features:
- High visibility with reflective strips
- Splints, bandages, tourniquets
- Medical shears, cold packs, and blanket
- Full CPR kit with pocket mask
- Organized interior compartments
- Shoulder strap for easy carrying
First responders mention this bag has everything they need for off-duty medical emergencies. It allows them to save lives even when not on active duty.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a quality go bag provides much-needed peace of mind. When selecting the best go bag option for your needs, consider the following:
- Intended use: Are you preparing for natural disasters, outdoor excursions, or everyday emergencies? Prioritize features that align with your likely scenarios.
- Portability: The bag should be easy to carry and transport. Look for compact bags with comfortable straps. Wheeled options offer mobility.
- Durability: Select durable fabrics that can withstand the elements. Water-resistant materials help items stay dry.
- Storage: Bags should have sufficient space and pockets to organize critical supplies. Consider your packing list when choosing capacity.
- Budget: Set a reasonable budget for your situation. You can find reliable bags across price ranges on Amazon.
Taking time to find the right go bag is a smart investment. Having supplies and provisions when you need them most can prove invaluable. Use this guide to pick a bag that fits your lifestyle and gives confidence to handle unpredictable events.
