We all understand that a hurricane, flood, wildfire, or earthquake could require us to evacuate our homes, but are you prepared for what comes next? Due to the unpredictable nature and destructive power of natural disasters, an evacuation may last days or even weeks, and access to food, water, and emergency services could be limited. Considering the increasing frequency of these events (The Red Cross tracked 24 weather and disaster events in the US in 2024, totaling 568 deaths) disaster preparedness is more important than ever. To ensure you and your family are as prepared as possible for this scenario, a well-stocked, easily accessible go-bag is crucial.
A go-bag — also called a "bug-out bag" — is essentially a backpack, duffel bag, or small rolling suitcase stocked with enough emergency supplies to last three days (or 72 hours), allowing you to evacuate quickly and be well-prepared to face disaster-related challenges. While a go-bag is similar to a home emergency kit designed for sheltering in place — kept in a storage bin or plastic tub — they each serve a distinct purpose. Stephanie Fox, media relations lead of The Red Cross encourages everyone to have both types of emergency preparedness kits. "These kits should accommodate your unique needs as an individual or family, rather than planning for a specific type of hazard or emergency," she explained. This way you'll be prepared for anything that may come up, and be able to calmly, quickly, and effectively handle a variety of scenarios.
To ensure that your go-bag is as effective as possible and you don't leave yourself ill-prepared for a certain scenario or challenge, the curation of your go-bag items is crucial. Based on expert interviews and my own experience packing and utilizing a go-bag, this guide details the essential items you should always have in a go-bag.
Essentials to have in your go-bag
When assembling this list of essential items, I researched and reviewed the official recommendations of FEMA, Ready.Gov, the Red Cross, a variety of state-based emergency management documents, and also interviewed individual disaster experts. Using my own experience living in wildfire-prone Los Angeles, as well as an experienced writer, reviewer, and user of emergency-related gear, I also recommended specific products that I've come to know and trust over the years. (Keep in mind that this is only a list of the basics, and once you have these essentials covered, feel free to customize your go-bag with additional items that suit your specific needs).
Water
FEMA recommends 1 gallon of water per day, per person for both drinking and personal hygiene use. That's too much to carry at once in a go-bag, so in addition to 2 liters of prepackaged water (the per-day hydration minimum recommended by the National Park Service), I recommend supplementing it with a collapsible version for storing water later on (and that can fold down when empty to take up minimal space), like this 1.5-liter collapsible Hydrapak water bottle I use as my current everyday water bottle. In order to safely drink potentially contaminated water, a dedicated in-line filter like the Sawyer Mini is a fantastic option.
Non-perishable food
You may not have access to grocery or convenience stores during an evacuation, so it's important to stock your bag with at least 3-days of non-perishable food. While canned food is great because of its long shelf life (just remember to pack a can opener) their weight can add up, so mix in things like dried fruit, nuts, and freeze-dried foods that provide a lot of calories for their size. I like Clif bars for their 250-calorie serving size, just make sure to note their expiration date and rotate inventory accordingly.
Personal documents and cash
Make sure your go-bag includes copies of important personal documents you may need in the future like passports, birth certificates, the deed to your home, insurance policies, medication lists, and personal photographs. According to Fox, "Copies of important documents or digital copies on a jump drive can serve the place of the original copies."(I personally keep my actual passport in my go-bag, but unless you regularly travel internationally, it's probably more practical to keep it in your "important documents" drawer or safe). If the power grid goes down, credit cards and ATM machines will also be inoperable so a few hundred dollars in cash could be extremely useful. A waterproof pouch like this one from Rough Enough will keep your documents safe and dry and is large enough to organize over 400 sheets of A4 paper.
A first aid kit and personal prescription medications
Access to medical aid may be delayed or inaccessible during an emergency, so it is important to be prepared for injuries that occur due to, or in the days after, a disaster. I've tested dozens of first aid kits over the years, and consider the Red Cross Deluxe Family First Aid Kit to have a useful combination of function and portability. Its 115 peices are zipped inside a soft-sided storage case, and the large handle makes for easy carrying. This kit also includes the compartments and space to include your own personal prescriptions and any medical paperwork.
Personal hygiene items
It's important for both personal comfort and illness prevention to maintain personal hygiene, so pack things like toilet paper, wet wipes, menstrual products, and travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush. If you find yourself without access to running water - and don't want to use any of your valuable drinking water — this Purell hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol as recommended by the CDC) can significantly reduce your risk of exposure to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
A Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank NOAA Weather Radio
TV, internet, and cellphone infrastructure can fail during an emergency or power outage, and without a reliable way to receive information, will severely limit your ability to make informed decisions. This Midland radio automatically receives emergency-band alerts — you don't even need to tune in first — keeping you updated on any current or coming weather changes, official warnings, and other hazard information, allowing you to make actionable, informed decisions. Its 2600 mAh rechargeable battery also charges external devices, and combined with the three additional power options (solar, hand crank, or six AAA batteries) and built-in flashlight, is uniquely suited to emergency go-bag use. I love this radio.
A flashlight
Considering most disasters result in power loss, a flashlight is one of the most important items you can include in a go bag. They allow you to navigate uneven or dangerous terrain at night, as well as read maps, administer first aid, and signal rescuers that could otherwise pass you by. Unlike rechargeable flashlights that are dependent on access to power, I recommend models that use replaceable AA batteries (the most common size and thus more likely to find replacements for) like the Energizer LED Pro, which provides a mind-bogglingly-long runtime, as well as a rescue-friendly strobe function.
Extra batteries
These batteries can be recharged over 400 times, which helps to save money and reduce waste.
To keep your flashlight running as long as you need it—as well as other electronics like a radio, headlamp, or two-way radios—make sure to pack spare batteries. This 8-pack of Amazon AA batteries is a good value (about $2 each), and I've been impressed with their ability to hold a charge after regularly recharging.
A power bank
The ability to maintain communication is crucial in emergency situations, and you phone's battery won't last forever (especially if it was already partially drained before you evacuated). I have several of these Anker battery packs from Anker — a brand that tops BI's guide to the best portable power banks — charged and scattered around my house, car, workbag, and of course my go-bag, and its USB-C in and out ports allow for quick charging
A whistle
An emergency whistle allows you to quickly and effectively alert rescuers of your ___location (particularly in the dark). Considering their small size and cheap price, they are a no-brainer for an emergency go-bag. These LuxoGear plastic whistles won't stick to your skin in cold weather. They feature orange lanyards that are easy to spot in the dark, and the built-in pocket clip allows for easy access at all times.
A dust mask
A disaster can contaminate the air in various ways, leaving you vulnerable to short-term breathing difficulties and long-term respiratory issues. To minimize exposure to smoke and dust particulates during an evacuation, add some type of dust mask or respirator to your go-bag. These three-panel N95 masks are convenient to apply quickly, fit a range of face sizes, and filter out 95% of non-oil-based pollutants.
A multi-tool
Considering the versatility, durability, and compact size of a multi-tool, these items are a no-brainer for an emergency go-bag. I've been using this Leatherman Skeletool for years, and its carabiner clip, multiple screwdriver heads, and heavy-duty plier jaws make it well-suited for go-bag use. For a more emergency medical-focused option, I also include the Leatherman Raptor Response in my go-bag.
Duct tape
The ability to quickly adhere, repair, patch, or lash materials together is invaluable in a survival situation, and a roll of duct tape does just that. You can assemble a makeshift shelter out of plastic sheeting, patch a car radiator hose, repair ripped fabric, close up wounds, hold bandages in place, make a splint, and seal clothes against insects. This 20-yard roll of Original Duct Tape provides a decent amount of material, without weighing down your pack as much as the bulky 60-yard option.
Utility shutoff tool
According to FEMA, a significant number of disaster-related fires are caused by natural gas leaks, which you can prevent by shutting off your home's natural gas line following a disaster. While this can be done with any adjustable wrench, a dedicated tool like the Green Goods 4-in-1 Emergency Tool fits precisely over the shut-off valve for hassle-free (and spark-free) operation.
Wind-proof matches
The means to start a fire is invaluable in an emergency situation, allowing you to generate warmth, provide light, boil water for safe drinking, and cook food. Regular BIC lighters are convenient and cheap, but these UCO Stormproof Matches are much more effective in heavy winds and rain, and easier to work with frozen fingers.
Heavy-duty trash bags
A sturdy trash bag is an extremely versatile (and practically weightless) go-bag item. It allows you to easily dispose of sanitation, hygiene, or toilet-based items, create a waterproof poncho or storage bag in a pinch, or even temporarily repair a broken car window. These Husky brand bags are extremely durable, making them useful for a wide range of emergency tasks.
A change of clothes
Every go-bag should include a change of clothes, such as a lightweight jacket, long-sleeve shirt, pants, socks, and sturdy footwear. This down jacket from REI is reasonably priced and still provides a decent amount of insulation without taking up a ton of storage space.
Map of your local area
GPS and the power grid may be compromised in a disaster, so a physical map could be the only way to navigate your way to safety. Laminated maps are great, but are not always easy to find for smaller-scale areas. A waterproof map case like this will protect your paper map from the elements, and zips open and closed for easy access.
Customizing your go-bag
Once you have the essential items listed above covered, consider supplementing your go-bag with items specifically suited to your region, climate, or environment. Since natural disasters present different challenges and risks, you can maximize the effectiveness of your go-bag by adding items most useful to the type of emergency you're likely to experience. I consulted with experts at the Red Cross and the City of Houston Emergency Management office and researched dozens of city-specific emergency offices to assemble this collection of disaster-specific recommendations.
To be clear, Fox specifically said the Red Cross does not recommend having different kits for different hazards, explaining, "Your kits (with the exception of an earthquake kit) should fit the specific needs of your family and account for any type of disaster they may experience."
- Wildfire: In addition to the N95 mask you already have packed, Fox suggests adding gloves, goggles, or other eye protection for those in areas prone to wildfires (I'm a big fan of these DeWalt safety goggles). She also explained that adding a contaminant suit to your kit can help limit exposure to potentially toxic fumes, smoke, or burned debris. Double-check that your first aid kit includes supplies to treat potential burns and heat-related injuries.
- Hurricane: Meteorological disasters like hurricanes are more likely to expose you and your gear to moisture-related issues, so prioritizing water resistance is a good idea. Ziploc freezer bags are a cost-effective way to ensure the contents of your go-bag stay dry and functioning and organize them for easy access. Pay attention to the IP rating of your flashlight and weather radio as well (this chart helps break down the different levels), looking for a minimum of IPX4 protection.
- Flood: Ruth Tovar of the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management also recommends using water-tight pouches or Ziploc bags, using different sizes to aid in accessibility. "For example, have one bag for clothing, one for food/water, and another for important documents and electronics" she explained. Tovar also suggested using a bag that is water-resistant or waterproof to further protect your belongings. Due to the high risk of floodwaters overwhelming sewer and water treatment facilities, a supply of water purification tablets or a Sawyer Mini Water Filter are high-priority items.
- Earthquake: For those in areas prone to earthquakes, Fox advised that in addition to a go-bag, a separate earthquake kit is necessary. "This kit is intended to help in immediacy of an event" she explained, and should be kept next to a person's bed for easy access should an event occur overnight. This kit should include sturdy shoes and work gloves for traversing debris and uneven terrain, a flashlight or headlamp to navigate in the dark, a dust mask to mitigate dust particles, and a whistle to alert rescuers.
Young children and pets should also have their own go-bag. For children, Fox recommends encouraging your little ones to contribute items that will help provide comfort and activity in an unknown environment. "This may include their favorite toys or stuffed animals, coloring books and crayons, puzzles or card games, and soft things like a blanket or pillow," she said. For pets, include supplies like leashes, carriers, food, water, bowls, litter, and a photo of your pet in case you are separated.
Pre-made go-bags
Although assembling a go-bag takes some time, as someone who has packed and updated their own go-bag for years — recently utilized during the Los Angeles wildfires — I can confidently say they're worth the investment. If you don't have time to make one yourself, and would otherwise have zero emergency supplies available should a disaster strike, pre-made bags available online are also an option.
Keep in mind that while these pre-made bags allow you to technically cover your emergency bases right away — depending on shipping times — they also typically use lower-quality products than the versions I've listed above. They're also less personalized, and since these bags are generally packed tight, remove the benefit of customizing the bag to your specific needs. That being said, a lower-quality, less-personalized option is still better than nothing. To try and separate the best options from the variety of poorly made and assembled options out there, I used my expert interviews, government-recommended item lists, and further online research skills to find four well-designed options (pre-made bags naturally lack the recommended water supply though, so you may need to add that in when they arrive.)
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Features highest-quality itemsThis bag isn't cheap, but considering the high-quality items — including the bag itself — it's worth the cost. -
Best for organizationThis waterproof bag features a removable insert that keeps smaller items organized into easy-access pouches.
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Best for additional add-onsThis Preppi bag provides an impressive amount of functionality, and comfort creatures will appreciate their curiously robust Malin+Goetz hygiene kit, chic toothpaste, and premium tea collection.
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Best for extreme evacuationsBy including an in-line water filter, tent, and raincoat, this bag is well-suited to serious disaster scenarios that would otherwise leave you without shelter or a freshwater supply.
Go-bag FAQs
Do I also need a home emergency kit?
Yes, in order to be fully prepared for an emergency, you need an emergency kit as well as a go-bag. If an emergency requires you to shelter in place at home, you'll need much more supplies than a go-bag can contain. This home emergency kit should "sustain an individual or family for up to two weeks should access to power or community infrastructure be impacted" says Fox. Home emergency kits require more space, and "may be kept in plastic bins at the bottom of a pantry, in a mud room, or at the top of a closet", suggests Fox. With both options stocked and ready, you'll be fully prepared to hunker down or hit the road when disaster strikes.
Where should I store my go-bag?
You should store your go-bag in an easily accessible place, such as a hall closet or garage. This allows you to quickly grab it the moment disaster strikes and periodically re-check, update, and re-stock any food items with expiration dates. This ___location should also be cool and dry to prevent damage to the contents inside.
Do I need different go-bags for different seasons?
No, you do not need different go-bags for different seasons, although if you're committed to a strict update schedule, it would be helpful to swap out the clothing and other weather-related gear for different seasons. This could mean lighter-weight clothes in the summer, warmer layers and a heavier coat for winter, or rain gear and lighter layers that can be added or removed for spring and fall. Regardless of your seasonal needs, all go-bags should be checked and updated every 6-months to ensure your electronics, batteries, food, and water stores have not been compromised or damaged.
Should each family member have their own go-bag?
Each family member should have their own go bag — including pets. This ensures that all members' emergency needs will be met, even if one or part of your family is separated (this could be due to children hitching a ride with neighbors, or one parent taking the children to a shelter while the other searches for a missing pet, or a medical emergency requiring some members to travel in an ambulance.)
What's the best type of go-bag?
The best type of bag to use is one that's easy to transport and carry, while still being spacious, strong, and durable enough to do its job. Waterproof bags or those with many organizational elements are ideal, but a standard backpack, duffel bag, or even small wheeled suitcase is better than nothing. For maximum mobility and hands-free use, I consider a backpack as the ideal option.
