What to pack in an emergency go-bag
Aim for 3 days of basic survival needs, and check it every six months
01 What to do now
- 01
Survival essentials
Drinking water (at least 2 bottles in the bag — as much as you can comfortably carry — plus about 3 liters or more per person stored at home), dry/ready-to-eat food, flashlight + spare batteries, power bank, whistle
- 02
Medical & hygiene
Basic first-aid kit (iodine, cotton swabs, gauze, etc.), regular medication (chronic-condition medication first, at least 3 days' supply), masks, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, feminine hygiene products
- 03
Warmth & clothing
Light jacket, a change of underwear and socks, small blanket or emergency thermal blanket, hand warmers, raincoat
- 04
Documents & cash
ID card, health insurance card, copy of bankbook, small amount of cash
- 05
Other
Family contact card, compact multi-tool knife, cable ties
02 Common myths
Packing your go-bag in a suitcase: the point is being able to grab it and go — use a light, two-strap backpack instead
Packing it once and forgetting about it: label the outside with an update date and check it every six months — batteries and food both expire