Emergency grab bags/bug out bags are designed to be used in emergencies. They are usually small and light enough to carry with you at all times, but, what should be in an emergency grab bag?
Choosing the best emergency bag for your needs can be difficult as there is a wide range of different types of emergency bags available on the market. There is no one-size-fits-all emergency bag, so it’s important to take into account your own needs and preferences.
Generally, there are four types of emergency bags and kits: a bug out bag, a tactical backpack, a military grab bag, and a medical backpack kit.
A bug out bag is designed to be carried by one person for an extended period of time; it contains everything required to survive for up to 72 hours.
A tactical backpack is designed to be used by multiple people in an organization such as law enforcement or military personnel; it contains everything required to sustain themselves for up to 24 hours.
A military grab bag is designed for quick deployment by one person; it contains only essential supplies for survival such as food, water and shelter.
Medical backpacks are a necessity for most medical professionals. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they all have the same purpose: to provide the gear needed to handle any medical emergency.
For your emergency grab bag, I recommend the following items so that you’re prepared with the things you need for any emergency.
Emergency Grab Bag List
An emergency grab bag contains everything you need to survive for a few days to a week if you have to evacuate your home.
Some of the items that should be in your emergency grab bag are:
- A first aid kit
- A sewing kit
- A flashlight
- A wind up radio (some come with phone chargers)
- A map of the area
- Extra batteries
- Phone charger
- Important documents and wallet to hold them in
- A list of emergency phone numbers
- Emergency blankets
- Emergency sleeping bags
- A compass. (The first aid kit below contains one!)
- Basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers and. A swiss army knife is ideal with a can opener
- Emergency food and drink to last at least 72 hours. ( Seven Oceans food lasts for 5 years!)
- Water purifying tablets or a Lifestraw
- Credit/debit cards and cash
- Keys
- Prescription medication for 72 hrs
- Child care supplies such as nappies, wipes, food and clothing
- Toiletries – These bed bath wipes are ideal to clean the whole body.
- Sanitary items
- Toilet paper or toilet wipes
- Pet food and medication
- Glasses and contact lenses
- Emergency rain ponchos
- Extra clothing and underwear
- Windproof matches or a fire starter kit
- Small notepad and pencil
It is important to keep your bug out bag updated with current items and supplies. Items such as food, water, clothing, and matches should be rotated out every six months or so.
Recommended Wind Up Radio
Crank Dynamo Radio With Mobile Phone Charger Flashlight
I bought this tiny crank dynamo radio and I love it! It’s small-sized, so perfect for packing. I’ve found the signal strength & sound quality to be better than expected. The built-in USB port allows you to charge your mobile phone so it’s perfect for when the power goes out.
The torch is a bonus and is bright enough for emergency use. There’s also a siren & flashing red light to attract attention in an emergency.
The rechargeable batteries inside are replaceable and can also be charged by solar power or the hand crank. AAA batteries can also be inserted into the device to power it that way if you prefer.
Note that you will need to connect the batteries inside the device before use.
Recommended First Aid Kit
175 Piece First Aid Kit
As well as all the first aid essentials you need, this first aid kit has a compass, foil blanket, emergency rain poncho and whistle tucked inside. It’s packed full of medical items and folds up to a compact size so will fit in any grab bag nicely.
Ready Made Emergency Grab Bags
If you don’t have the time to put together your own bag, you can buy them already filled with emergency items. The following two bags are popular.
GoBag Emergency Kit 2 Person – 72 Hours Survival Supplies. (UK)
Premium Emergency Survival Bag/Kit – Be Equipped with 72 Hours of Disaster Preparedness Supplies for 2 People. (US & UK)
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the right grab-bag. It is important that you are prepared for anything, no matter what situation you may find yourself in. Start off with the ideas above and add any extra items that you think you might need in an emergency situation.
