Basic Items for 72-Hr Kit
We have provided links to some of these items in case you don't already have them available or would like more information. Now, a bit of a disclaimer, these links are for products that we felt met three criteria:
1. look to be of good quality,
2. look appropriate for the need, and
3. are as budget friendly as we could find.
Saying that, we cannot guarantee that it is the absolute best choice or the best price. You are free to do your own research, but we provided these links for your convenience.
Water for 72-Hr Kit - One gallon per person/day for at least 3 days. Disaster experts recommend 5 days!
The one gallon per day includes 0.5 (half) gallon for Drinking and 0.5 (half) gallon for Other Uses.
Alternative Methods for cleaning and disinfecting dirty source water:
Our recommended water filter is the Sawyer Squeeze. It is very versatile, lightweight, and has a good flow rate at an affordable price ($30). Where to buy: Amazon or Walmart
Our recommended water purification tablets are the Aquatabs. Kills all common bacteria and viruses in 30 minutes with no aftertaste. Where to buy: Amazon
Our recommended water purification powder is P&G Purifier of Water. Combines flocculation and disinfection for 1 packet to treat 10 liters (2.5 gallons) of contaminated dirty water in approximately 30 minutes. Where to buy: Amazon or Walmart
Non-Perishable Food - at least a 3 day supply. Disaster experts recommend at least 5 days!
Can Opener, cooking pot, utensils
Flashlight or Headlamp (extra batteries)
Waterproof Tarp, plus 6-8 tent stakes.
Tyvek is an affordable, waterproof, lightweight and durable material to use as a ground cover.
550 Para Cord - 100 ft min.
First Aid Kit and First Aid Booklet
Waterproof matches, lighter(s), and road flares
Whistle (plastic; no pea ball) on a lanyard, to signal for help.
You want a quality whistle that will be heard above the ambient noise, loud crowds, the roar of engines, breaking waves and thundering gale-force winds.
Recommended emergency whistle is the Fox40 (Classic model). Where to buy: The Lifeguard Store
Fixed blade knife with full tang (non-folding), and/or utility tool like a Leatherman.
Rain Gear or Poncho
Emergency Space Blanket / Mylar Blanket (same thing!)
Emergency All Weather Radio - hand crank and/or battery (extra batteries).
Receive weather alerts and news. Radio will charge your cell phone during power outage! It's a must have in your BOB (Bug Out Bag).
Best Emergency Radios for 2021 by GearJunkie
Recommended emergency radio is the RunningSnail model MD-090. Switch between rechargeable battery and AAA batteries. Where to buy: RunningSnail
Charging cords plus wall plug & car adapters for: cell phones, electric wheelchair, hearing aids, etc.
Local maps - paper
Note Pad and Sharpie, Ink Pen, Pencil
Bandana
Leather gloves
Knit Cap (cold weather)
Dust Mask (N95 recommended)
Change of Clothes (based on seasonal weather)
Sturdy shoes with hard sole
Warm Jacket / Coat / Sweatshirt
Toilet paper
Duct tape, small roll
1-2 Large Contractor's Plastic Bag (3 mil thick)
Emergency Contact Information for family, neighbors, and friends (ICE card)
Cash - (enough for immediate needs) in small denominations ($1s, $5s, $10s) & 1 roll of quarters
Prescription Medication (enough for 2 weeks)
Infant & baby necessities (if applicable) diaper, wipes, formula, baby food, medicine, etc.
Important Documents & Financial Information