Survival Supplies List Essentials

When building an emergency preparedness kit, most people would agree that having the essential supplies for survival is critical.

This article provides a comprehensive checklist outlining the must-have items to include in your survival supplies, covering critical needs like shelter, water, food, first aid, and more.

You'll discover the top 10 essentials for any basic survival kit, what specific gear you'll need for different disasters, as well as additional equipment to further enhance your level of preparedness.

Introduction to Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial to ensure safety and survival. This article provides guidance on key supplies everyone should have on hand. We'll cover shelter, water, food, first aid, and other essentials recommended by experts.

Understanding the Basics of a Survival Kit

A basic survival kit contains supplies to meet fundamental needs in an emergency. Experts like the CDC and Red Cross suggest having:

Shelter: Sleeping bag, tent, blankets
Water: Bottled water, filtration system
Food: Non-perishable, high-calorie foods
First Aid: Bandages, medicines, ointments

These form the foundation of any preparedness kit. Assembling them ensures you can sustain yourself until help arrives.

The Importance of a 14-Day Emergency Kit List

Experts recommend stocking supplies to last 14 days. Disasters can severely limit access to essentials. Having ample reserves provides crucial time for authorities to organize relief efforts.

Key items in a 14-day kit include:

Water and food for 2 weeks
First aid supplies and medicine
Flashlights, batteries
Radio, chargers, cash

Customizing for specific risks in your area amplifies preparedness. But a 14-day supply covers fundamentals.

Customizing Your Kit for Specific Disasters

While a 14-day kit covers basics, customizing for your region’s hazards boosts readiness. Those in hurricane zones may add plywood, tarps. In earthquake zones - fire extinguishers, gloves. Cold climates - warm clothes, hand warmers.

Check emergency management guidance for your area when tailoring kits. Localizing accounts for unique risks.

Emergency Go Bag vs. Home Survival Supplies

Portable “go bags” complement home supplies. Go bags contain bare essentials for evacuation like food, water, first aid, tools, documents. Home kits offer sustainability if sheltering.

Together, they allow responding to diverse situations - evacuating quickly or hunkering down.

Items Needed for Complete Emergency Preparedness

Being fully prepared requires substantial reserves and gear. Beyond a 14-day kit, consider adding:

Power like generators, solar panels
Lighting, fuel sources
Sanitation and hygiene items
Communications equipment
Cooking equipment, can openers
Protective items like masks, boots

The exact items depend on your family, locale, and disaster risk. But comprehensive preparation is vital.

What survival supplies do I need?

Having the right survival supplies can make all the difference in an emergency situation. Experts recommend having the following basic items in a disaster supplies kit:

Water - At least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. Have enough water for several days.
Food - A supply of non-perishable foods like canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits and nuts that will last for several days.
Radio - A battery-powered or hand crank radio to receive weather and emergency alerts. A NOAA weather radio is recommended.
Flashlight - Flashlights and extra batteries. Headlamps allow for hands-free light.
First Aid Kit - A well-stocked first aid kit including bandages, gauze, medication, etc.
Tools - A multi-tool, duct tape, work gloves, safety goggles, and other tools.
Documents - Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag.
Sanitation - Items like toilet paper, feminine products, personal hygiene items.
Clothing - Seasonal clothing, sturdy shoes, blankets, hats, gloves, rain gear.
Shelter - Tent, tarps, and emergency blankets for temporary shelter.

Having these basic survival supplies on hand will help you safely wait out a storm, earthquake, flood or other crisis situation. Customize your kit based on your family's unique needs. Be sure to check expiration dates and replenish the kit as needed. With the right preparations, you can face emergencies with confidence.

What are the 10 essential survival kit items?

Having the right supplies in your emergency preparedness kit can be the difference between life and death in a crisis. While there are many items that can be useful, experts recommend prioritizing the following 10 essentials:

Flashlight and Extra Batteries

A flashlight allows you to navigate safely in the dark during a power outage. Be sure to pack extra batteries as well. Consider packing a hand crank or solar-powered flashlight to avoid relying on batteries.

Whistle

A loud whistle can be used to call for help if you are trapped or lost. The sound carries much farther than using your voice.

Dust Mask

Dust masks filter contaminants in the air during disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes, and fires. They protect your lungs from breathing in dangerous particles.

Local Maps

Familiarize yourself ahead of time with local maps in case you need to navigate on foot. GPS may be unreliable if cell towers are damaged.

Manual Can Opener

Pack a simple manual can opener to open canned food when electric openers are unavailable.

Battery-Powered Radio

News and emergency broadcasts provide vital information during disasters. Choose a hand crank or solar-powered model with NOAA weather band access.

Games for Children

Board games, cards, books, and puzzles entertain and distract children during stressful times.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit contains supplies to treat injuries like cuts, burns, sprains, and fractures. Customize your kit based on your family's specific medical needs.

Experts at the CDC, Red Cross, and Department of Homeland Security emphasize these essentials alongside food, water, shelter, medicine, and other critical survival supplies. Prepare go-bags tailored for home evacuation and outdoor survival scenarios. With the right emergency kit items on hand, you can better weather any crisis.

What items to stock for survival?

When building your survival supplies, focus on the essentials - shelter, water, food, and first aid. These form the foundation of any emergency preparedness kit.

Shelter

Having basic shelter items can protect you from the elements in a disaster scenario. Key items include:

Sleeping bag or wool blankets for insulation
Tent or tarp for overhead shelter
Waterproof ponchos and document bags

Water

Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day. Ways to purify water include:

Filtration systems like LifeStraw
Water purification tablets
Metal pot for boiling

Food

Stock non-perishable, high-calorie foods. Prioritize:

Canned meats and beans
Canned fruits and vegetables
Peanut butter and nut butters
Crackers, cereal, rice

First Aid

Essentials to treat injuries and pain:

First aid kit
Medications and painkillers
Medical gloves and masks

What should I stockpile now?

When building your emergency stockpile, focus on shelf-stable foods that do not require refrigeration and are lower in salt content. Some essentials to include are:

Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
Manual can opener
Copies of important personal documents in a waterproof bag
First aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
Extra prescription medications you take
Pet food and supplies like litter or pee pads
Contact lens solution
Diapers and wipes if you have small children

The CDC recommends having at least a three-day supply of non-perishable foods that your family already eats, such as:

Canned meats, fruits, vegetables
Peanut butter
Dried fruits and nuts
Granola bars
Cereals
Powdered milk
Canned juices

Also make sure to stock up on purified drinking water or filtration systems like a LifeStraw. Round out your stockpile with other essentials like:

Sleeping bags or wool blankets
Tent or tarp shelter
Portable stove and fuel
Waterproof matches/lighter
Whistle and signal mirror
Compass and maps
Masks and goggles
Fire extinguisher
Bidet or no-rinse body wash
Faraday bag for electronics

Prioritize what your family needs most and build up your stockpile over time. Review and refresh your emergency supplies every 6 months. Being prepared can make all the difference when disaster strikes.

Shelter and Warmth Essentials

Having basic shelter and warmth supplies will help you safely withstand emergencies. Key items include a tent, sleeping bag, wool blankets, hand warmers, and masks.

Choosing the Right Tent for Your Survival Kit

When selecting a tent for your survival kit, prioritize durability, weather resistance, weight, and ease of setup. Dome-shaped tents offer more wind resistance while tunnel tents provide more space. Focus on tents designed for 3-season use, with durable waterproof flooring, strong poles, and quality stitching. If opting for a larger family-sized tent, ensure it can withstand high winds and rainfall. Compact backpacking tents strike the best balance between portability and protection.

Sleeping Bag and Wool Blankets: Combating the Cold

Having a quality sleeping bag and wool blankets in your survival supplies list helps retain body heat when temperatures drop. Choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating appropriate for your climate. Down is the warmest insulation but synthetic fill dries faster. Mummy bags limit air flow for added warmth. Wool blankets insulate even when wet. Blend them with emergency mylar blankets to boost insulation. Storing your sleeping bag properly maximizes loft and warmth over time.

Portable Heat Sources: Staying Warm in Emergencies

Incorporate hand warmers and a compact portable stove into your survival kit for supplemental heat. Reusable hand warmers allow you to generate heat on demand while high-BTU camping stoves boil water quickly for cooking, warmth, and sterilization. Small propane canisters fuel most compact stoves efficiently. Test and maintain your portable heat sources regularly to ensure functionality when you need it most.

Protective Gear: Masks and Goggles

Pack protective masks and goggles in your survival bag to shield against smoke, ash, dust, and other hazardous particles you may encounter. Opt for N95 or N100 masks, which filter 95-99% of particles. Look for indirectly vented goggles designed for hazardous environments. Ensure your protective gear forms a tight seal on your face for maximum effectiveness. Refresh supplies annually or as directed.

Securing Your Shelter: Ropes and Anchors

Carry several lengths of durable rope and shelter anchors in your kit to properly secure your tent or tarp in high winds and precipitation. Nylon ropes withstand stretching better than natural fibers. Metal stakes provide the most secure anchoring in soft ground. Auger-style corkscrew stakes maximize holding power. Choose rope lengths suitable for guy lines, ridgelines, and tie-downs based on your shelter size. Practice proper staking techniques before an emergency.

Water Purification and Storage Solutions

Life Straw and Filtration Systems: Ensuring Safe Drinking Water

Having access to safe drinking water is critical in an emergency situation. Life Straw and other water filtration systems allow you to filter out bacteria, parasites, microplastics and other contaminants from water sources. The Life Straw Personal Water Filter is lightweight, portable, and can filter up to 1,000 gallons of contaminated water. Other good options are the Sawyer Mini Water Filter, the Survivor Filter Pro, and the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. These all remove 99.99% of waterborne bacteria and protozoan parasites. It's recommended to pack 1-2 portable filtration systems in your survival supplies.

Water Containers: Storing and Carrying Water

To prepare for disruption of water services, the CDC recommends having at least 1 gallon of water per person for 3 days. The best containers for transporting and storing water are BPA-free plastic jugs, stainless steel bottles, and collapsible bags like Platypus SoftBottles which are lightweight and packable. Water bricks that hold 3-5 gallons are also handy for larger storage. Ensure your containers have tight sealing lids. Labeled your storage containers with the water collection date and replace the water every 6 months.

Methods to Purify Water: Beyond Filtration

In addition to filtration systems, other methods like boiling and chemical treatment can remove viruses and heavy metals. Boiling water vigorously for 1 minute ensures safety for drinking. Chemical treatments like water purification tablets (like Potable Aqua iodine tablets) and bleach can also sanitize water when boiling is not possible. Follow instructions for proper dosage. These should be in all survival supply lists and emergency bags.

Hydration Packs and Water Bladders

Hydration packs like Camelbaks and water bladders allow easy access to water without needing to stop and open bottles. Hands-free hydration is key when hiking or traveling. Carry at least 2 liters of water in your pack for short 1-2 day trips. Materials should be BPA-free and the wide mouth openings make for easy cleaning.

Waterproof Document Bag for Essential Papers

A waterproof document bag helps protect essential documents like IDs, insurance cards, birth certificates, and emergency contact info. Consider items you’d need to prove identity or manage finances. The SealLine Baja dry bag offers waterproof storage for letter-sized documents. Having backups of critical paperwork in your emergency kits provides peace of mind.

Nutrition and Sustenance: Emergency Food Supplies

Having the right emergency food supplies is crucial for survival. Here are some key considerations when stocking your survival kit:

Non-Perishable Foods: Stocking Up for the Long Haul

Non-perishable foods that have a long shelf life are essentials for your survival supplies list. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods like:

Canned goods (vegetables, beans, soups, meats)
Dried fruits and vegetables
Peanut butter and other nut butters
Whole grains like rice, quinoa, oats
Granola/protein bars
Powdered milk

Canned goods are heavy but have a long shelf life of 2-5 years. Opt for pop-top lids rather than cans that need a separate can opener.

Cooking Implements: Portable Stoves and Utensils

To prepare meals, pack a lightweight backpacking stove and fuel, along with:

Pot, pan
Utensils
Can opener
Lighter/matches
Aluminum foil

A mess kit or spork covers both spoon and fork needs. Consider a pocket knife with can opener.

Meal Planning for Emergencies: A 14-Day Guide

Create a 14-day emergency kit list for food. Calculate ~2,000 calories per person daily. Meal ideas:

Breakfast - Oatmeal, cereal, protein bar
Lunch - Peanut butter sandwich, soup
Dinner - Chili, rice and beans, pasta sides

Vary flavors and textures for morale. Pack foods you actually eat now.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet in Survival Situations

Getting key nutrients from limited foods can be a challenge. Prioritize:

Protein - Canned fish/meat, powdered milk
Fruits/Vegetables - For vitamin C and fiber
Fats - Nuts, oil, peanut butter
Carbs - Rice, oats, granola

A daily multivitamin helps fill any nutritional gaps.

Food Preservation Techniques Without Refrigeration

Without electricity, food safety is critical. Methods to preserve foods include:

Canning - Sterilizes food by heating, sealing in jars
Dehydrating - Removes moisture, inhibiting bacteria
Salting - Cures meats and fish
Cool storage - Root cellars, streams, snow

Inspect cans and packaging for damage before eating. Cook thoroughly.

First Aid and Medical Supplies

A well-stocked first aid kit is a critical component of any emergency preparedness kit. Having the necessary medical supplies on hand can help treat injuries and illness until professional medical care is available.

Comprehensive First-Aid Kit Checklist

A first aid kit should contain:

Sterile gauze pads and rolls in multiple sizes
Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes
Elastic wrap bandages
Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
Medical tape
Scissors, tweezers, safety pins
Digital thermometer
Cold packs
Sterile gloves in multiple sizes
CPR face shield

It's also important to have basic medications:

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and fever
Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Antidiarrheals
Electrolyte solutions for dehydration

Rotate medications to ensure they do not expire.

Medications and Prescriptions: Staying Healthy

Make sure to pack at least a week's supply of any prescription medications you take on a regular basis. These should be stored in a waterproof bag.

If possible, obtain an extra prescription from your doctor in case of emergency.

Non-prescription medications that are good to stockpile include:

Cold and flu medications
Anti-inflammatories
Anti-diarrheals
Allergy medications
Antacids

Check expiration dates every 6 months and replace as needed.

Dental Care in Emergencies

Dental issues can cause severe pain and infection, so having dental supplies is imperative:

Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Temporary filling material
Clove oil (dental pain reliever)

If you wear dentures, pack denture adhesive and cleaning tablets.

Specialized Trauma Supplies for Severe Injuries

For major trauma cases, also consider packing:

Tourniquets to stop bleeding
Advanced wound dressings for gaping injuries
Splints to stabilize injured limbs
Nasopharyngeal airways to open blocked airways

These items require training to use properly. Consider taking a first aid course.

Hygiene Products: No-Rinse Body Wash and Bidets

Maintaining personal hygiene prevents illness. Pack:

No-rinse body wash
Portable bidets
Baby wipes
Feminine hygiene products
Diapers if caring for infants

Proper sanitation is critical in emergency situations.

Having reliable communication devices, navigation tools, and backup power sources in your survival supplies can greatly increase your chances of getting help or finding your way in an emergency situation.

Emergency Radios and Communication Devices

Emergency radios allow you to receive critical news and weather updates when other communication channels may be compromised. The American Red Cross recommends having a battery-powered or hand-crank radio in your survival kit. When purchasing an emergency radio, look for the NOAA Weather Radio function and ensure it has multiple power options like rechargeable batteries, solar panels or a hand crank. Popular portable options include the Midland ER310 and the Eton FRX5.

Two-way radios are also useful for communicating with others in your party. The Motorola Talkabout T800 is a reliable two-way radio with a 35-mile range to consider.

Navigational Aids: Military Compass and Maps

A military compass and maps, including a state map and local topographic maps, are essential for navigation should you lose your bearings. Select a high-quality lensatic or baseplate compass designed for reliability. Topographic maps contain helpful terrain details that GPS may not provide. Store maps in a protective bag to prevent damage.

Signal Mirrors and Emergency Whistles

Pack signal mirrors and loud emergency whistles like the Storm All Weather Whistle. Signal mirrors flash bright light to attract attention from aircraft or rescuers. Follow instructions for proper aiming technique. Whistles allow you to signal for help loudly over long distances.

Power Generation: Solar Panels and Generators

Prepare backup power sources like portable solar panels and generators. The Goal Zero Boulder 100 folds into a convenient briefcase design. For gasoline generators, the Westinghouse iGen2500 is a solid portable option.

Protecting Electronics: Faraday Bag for EMP Shielding

A Faraday bag like the Mission Darkness Non-Window Faraday Bag shields electronic devices from solar flares or electromagnetic pulses. Place battery bank chargers, radios, phones and other electronics inside for protection.

Additional Survival Supplies for Comprehensive Preparedness

Round out your emergency kit with equipment to start fires, light your way, document information, and meet sanitation needs. Having these supplemental items can make a significant difference in your ability to survive various emergency situations.

Fire Suppression Tools: Extinguishers and Blankets

Incorporating fire suppression tools such as extinguishers and fire blankets into your emergency kit is an important protective measure. Small, portable extinguishers can help contain initial flames if a fire breaks out in your shelter or vehicle. Fire blankets serve a similar purpose in smothering flames before they grow out of control. Having these basic tools on hand gives you valuable extra response time in a fire emergency.

Illumination and Power: Rechargeable Batteries and Lighting

Rechargeable batteries and alternate lighting sources are essential when packing your go bag. Stock up on rechargeable AA and AAA batteries to power flashlights, radios, and other devices. Pack a crank or solar powered flashlight that does not require batteries. Glow sticks also provide hours of illumination and double as signaling devices. Headlamps free up your hands for other tasks. Waterproof matches, fire starters, candles and lanterns offer multiple means for lighting that do not rely on electricity.

Sanitation Solutions: Portable Toilets and Waste Disposal

Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation during an emergency helps prevent illness. Pack essentials like disinfecting No-Rinse Body Wash, portable bidets or toilet bags, toilet paper, and feminine products. Designate a waste disposal bag to contain hazardous materials. Digging cat holes away from water sources offers a no-cost toilet solution. Having these items on hand helps maintain health and dignity when normal infrastructure is disrupted.

Utility Tools for Survival and Repair

A variety of utility tools have multiple uses in emergency situations. Pack duct tape, zip ties, paracord, and a multipurpose tool or Swiss Army knife. These can assist with makeshift repairs, constructing survival shelters, splicing ropes, opening cans, removing splinters, and other essential tasks. Basic hardware like screws, tacks, wire, and rope also have many applications in repairs and survival projects.

Safekeeping Personal Documents and Cash

Finally, be sure to safeguard critical personal documents and emergency cash in your go bag. Scan copies of identification cards, passports, birth certificates, deeds, and financial documents. Store paper copies or encrypted digital copies in a waterproof document bag. Also pack $100-200 in small bills for buying essential post-disaster supplies. Proper documentation and spare cash give you vital flexibility in accessing services or aid during disasters.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Building Your Survival Supplies List

Preparing your emergency survival supplies in advance is crucial to being ready for any situation. This essential supplies list covers the basics like shelter, water, food, first aid, navigation tools, hygiene items, and other key gear to safely endure a disaster or emergency scenario.

Having these basic yet critical items on hand will provide some peace of mind and potentially lifesaving resources if faced with a natural disaster, extended power outage, or other crisis events. It's wise to prepare these supplies well ahead of time before an emergency strikes.

Review the list above and check off what you already have. Make a plan to acquire any remaining critical items over the next few weeks or months. Store your survival supplies together in a centralized, accessible location like a backpack, plastic bin or bag.

With these fundamental provisions covered, you'll have a far greater chance of safely enduring a crisis until help arrives or conditions improve. Preparing now takes some time and effort upfront, but is well worth it for your future safety and wellbeing should disaster strike.