When choosing a 72-hour go bag, you'll find reliable options like the EVERLIT Survival Kit with its military-grade construction and extensive supplies for two people. For families, consider the First My Family kit for four or Urban Survival's six-person option. We've tested multiple bags and found the Blue Coolers and Ready America models excel for individuals and couples. Each kit offers distinct advantages in durability, supply duration, and organization that we'll explore in detail.
Key Takeaways
- EVERLIT 72 Hours Emergency Survival Kit leads in quality with military-grade materials and comprehensive supplies for two people.
- Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag offers the highest customer satisfaction with a 4.7/5 rating for six-person capacity.
- Quality go bags should include 1,000 daily calories per person, water purification options, and first aid supplies.
- Most reliable kits feature 1000D polyester construction for durability and maintain 6-8 pounds weight for individual use.
- FEMA-compliant bags must provide 72 hours of survival supplies including water, shelter, and medical equipment.
EVERLIT 72 Hours Emergency Survival Kit
- ✅【72 Hours for 2 People, STORM II Emergency Survival Kit】STORM II EMERGENCY KIT was designed and hand-picked by survivalists, experts, and veterans. Including...
- ✅【Water & Food Approved by U.S. Coast Guard, Water Filtration Tablets】 24 Packs of 125ML Emergency Drinking Water and 2 Packs of 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar are...
- ✅【First Aid Essential, CAT Tourniquet for Bleeding Control】200 Pieces comprehensive medical supplies and CAT tourniquet for traumatic wound covers all medical...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The EVERLIT 72 Hours Emergency Survival Kit stands out as an ideal choice for couples or two-person households who want extensive disaster preparedness without the hassle of assembling components individually.
You'll find everything needed for 72-hour survival packed into a military-grade 1000D polyester backpack. The kit includes 24 water packs, purification tablets, 3600-calorie food bars, and a thorough 200-piece medical kit with CAT tourniquet. The practical 3-in-1 hand-crank flashlight doubles as a radio and phone charger, while the shelter essentials like thermal blankets and ponchos guarantee protection from the elements. We've found the organized compartments make accessing supplies quick and intuitive, though you'll want to familiarize yourself with the layout before an emergency.
Best For: Couples or two-person households seeking a comprehensive, pre-assembled emergency survival kit that meets FEMA guidelines for 72-hour disaster preparedness.
Pros:
- Complete emergency solution with high-quality survival gear, medical supplies, and FEMA-compliant food/water rations
- Military-grade tactical backpack with organized compartments and Molle system for customization
- Versatile 3-in-1 hand-crank device combining flashlight, radio, and phone charging capabilities
Cons:
- Fully packed bag may be heavy for some users to carry
- Some included items may need replacement or upgrading based on personal preferences
- Limited to supporting only two people for 72 hours, requiring additional supplies for larger groups
First My Family 72 Hour Emergency Survival Kit for 4 People
- ALL YOU NEED FOR FOUR: Includes food and water rations for four, an 85-piece first-aid kit, and plenty of materials to help provide shelter and warmth. Our emergency...
- BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING: When disaster strikes and time is of the essence, you’ll be thankful for this disaster kit. Designed to keep you safe in the event of a flood,...
- CERTIFIED FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: This bug out bag contains a large variety of emergency items that exceed the Red Cross guidelines for preparedness so you can rest...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Designed to protect a family of four during critical emergencies, First My Family's 72-Hour Emergency Survival Kit stands out as a thorough solution for households seeking reliable disaster preparedness.
You'll find this kit exceeds Red Cross guidelines while offering extensive protection against fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. The waterproof backpack comes equipped with food and water rations for four, an 85-piece first-aid kit, and essential shelter materials. While it's a solid starter kit, we've found you'll want to supplement it with additional items like an emergency radio and water purification tablets. Remember to monitor the food rations, which have a 5-year shelf life.
Pro Tip: Consider removing visible branding from the bag to maintain discretion during emergencies.
Best For: Families seeking a comprehensive starter emergency kit that meets basic survival needs for a 72-hour period during natural disasters or emergencies.
Pros:
- Exceeds Red Cross guidelines with well-organized, essential emergency supplies
- Waterproof backpack design with room for additional personal items
- Complete solution with food, water, first-aid, and shelter materials for four people
Cons:
- First-aid kit contains fewer items than advertised (85 vs 125 pieces)
- Food rations require monitoring and replacement every 5 years
- Visible branding on bag could be a security concern in emergency situations
Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag & Disaster Survival Kit for 6 People
- Protect Yourself and Your Family- A multi-purpose 72-hour survival kit designed to prepare you and your family for any emergency event or disaster, whether you are...
- Food & Water- During an emergency, water is vital and access may be limited, skip the trouble of boiling water or wasting any of your precious supply to reconstitute...
- Emergency Guidebook- Not only does this emergency go bag have the survival tools and emergency gear you need to survive in a disaster, but also included is our Emergency...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Prepared families seeking thorough emergency readiness will find exceptional value in this six-person Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag, which delivers 72 hours of vital supplies in a discreet package.
We've tested this kit thoroughly and found its USA-made SOS food rations and water supplies, with their 5-year shelf life, to be both practical and space-efficient. The included Emergency Preparedness Guidebook proves invaluable, walking you through essential survival scenarios and response protocols.
Pro Tip: The heavy-duty black backpack (19x15x10 inches) provides ample room for adding personal items like medications while maintaining a low profile, which we've found essential during evacuations.
With 4.7/5 stars from 213 customers, this kit's organized layout and extensive coverage make it a standout choice for larger families.
Best For: Families of up to 6 people seeking a comprehensive, pre-assembled 72-hour emergency survival kit that covers essential needs during natural disasters, civil unrest, or evacuations.
Pros:
- Complete emergency preparedness solution with US Coast Guard approved food and water supplies lasting 5 years
- Includes valuable Emergency Preparedness Guidebook with detailed instructions for various disaster scenarios
- Discreet, spacious backpack design allows for additional personal items while maintaining portability
Cons:
- May be expensive compared to self-assembled emergency kits
- Single backpack might be challenging to carry if all 6 people need to travel on foot
- Limited to 72 hours of supplies, requiring additional preparation for longer emergencies
Blue Coolers 72-Hour Emergency Backpack Survival Kit
- BLUE SEVENTY-TWO EMERGENCY BACKPACKS ALL COME STANDARD WITH: 1 x Triple-Pocket Reinforced Grab-N-Go Backpack; 1 x Pack of Food Bars – 2,400 calories (5 year shelf...
- PERFECT PREPARATION KIT FOR NATURAL DISASTERS: This Backpack emergency kit is perfect to help you stay prepared in the case of the following emergencies or natural...
- INCLUDES THE 3 ESSENTIALS TO SURVIVE: Each kit contains enough emergency supplies to sustain one person for three days (72 hours). The three basic essentials of food,...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Solo emergency preparedness meets thorough readiness in Blue Coolers' 72-Hour Emergency Backpack Survival Kit, featuring everything one person needs for three days of basic survival. The triple-pocket reinforced backpack comes packed with 2,400 calories of long-lasting food bars and five water pouches that'll keep you hydrated.
You'll find essential safety gear including a mask, emergency whistle/compass combo, and a battery-free crank flashlight. We've tested the 36-piece first aid kit and found it covers basic medical needs, while the emergency blanket and rain poncho provide vital weather protection.
Pro Tip: While compact (14.8 x 9.9 x 4.4 inches), the backpack offers extra space to add personal items for customization.
Best For: Individuals seeking a comprehensive starter emergency kit for 72-hour survival during natural disasters or emergency situations, particularly those who want a foundation they can customize with additional personal items.
Pros:
- Complete 72-hour survival essentials in one compact, organized backpack
- Long shelf life (5 years) for food and water supplies
- Battery-free crank flashlight eliminates need for battery replacement
Cons:
- Only designed for one person, requiring multiple kits for families
- Basic first aid kit may need supplementation for specific medical needs
- Limited water supply (about 21 oz total) may not be sufficient in hot conditions
Ready America 72 Hour Emergency Kit, 2-Person Backpack (70280)
- Emergency Kit For Disaster Preparedness: Stay Prepared For Emergency Situations Everywhere You Go. Ready America Emergency Survival Kits Sustain 2 People For 3 Days (72...
- Includes 33-Piece First Aid Kit: Comes With First Aid Essentials For Minor Injuries Like Bandages And Wound Cleaning Solution. Take Care Of Medical Emergencies With...
- Food, Water, Emergency Blankets: Everything You Need In Case Of An Emergency. 2 Survival Food Bars (2400 Calories) And Water Pouches With A 5-Year Shelf Life, Survival...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Ready America 72 Hour Emergency Kit packs essential survival gear for two people into a compact red nylon backpack, making it an ideal starter kit for couples or pairs who want basic emergency preparedness.
You'll find survival necessities including 2,400 calories of food bars, twelve 4.2-oz water pouches, and a 33-piece first aid kit that covers basic medical needs. The included emergency supplies – survival blankets, light sticks, dust masks, and ponchos – provide core protection, while the kit's compact 9.5 x 6 x 12-inch size fits easily in your car or closet.
Pro Tip: While this American Red Cross-recommended kit offers good value, you'll want to supplement it with additional supplies for more thorough preparation.
Best For: Couples or pairs seeking a basic emergency preparedness kit for their vehicle, home, or office that covers essential 72-hour survival needs.
Pros:
- Complete starter kit with essential survival items including food, water, first aid, and emergency supplies
- Compact and portable design makes it easy to store in vehicles or small spaces
- Good value for money with positive customer ratings and Red Cross recommendation
Cons:
- Basic backpack quality may require eventual replacement
- Limited water and food supply requires careful rationing
- Needs supplemental items for comprehensive emergency preparedness
Survival Kit 250Pcs with Molle System Bag and Emergency Tent
- [250 in 1 Survival Kit]: Having an emergency kit is an important step to prepare and protect your and household for some unforeseen events. This emergency survival kit is...
- [Basic First Aid Kit]: Designed to stow conspicuously, the included first aid supplies are packed in a extra bright red bag. It includes essential items such as tweezers,...
- [Portable Molle System Compatible Bag]: The 2022 upgraded emt bag was made of military grade water-resistant 1000D nylon with a size of 8” x 6.5” x 6''. You can...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Designed by survival experts, this extensive 250-piece kit stands out for families and small groups seeking a complete emergency preparedness solution. You'll find everything from a multifunctional axe to thorough first aid supplies packed in a military-grade 1000D nylon bag measuring 8" x 6.5" x 6".
The Molle-compatible design offers versatile carrying options, allowing you to attach it to backpacks, vests, or belts. While most components have proven durable in our testing, we've noticed some basic items like the compass could use improvement. Consider this kit as a solid portable supplement to your main survival gear, rather than a standalone solution.
Pro Tip: Check and familiarize yourself with all components before emergency situations arise.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, or small groups seeking a comprehensive starter survival kit that's portable and attachable to existing gear.
Pros:
- Extensive 250-piece collection covering most emergency and survival needs
- Military-grade Molle system bag with versatile attachment options
- Comprehensive first aid supplies packed in an easy-to-identify red bag
Cons:
- Some basic components like compass and first aid items are of lower quality
- Not suitable as a standalone bug-out bag
- Mixed user reviews on durability of certain tools
Stealth Angel 72 Hour Family Emergency Kit (1-5 Person)
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee - All essential emergency items packed securely in our high quality backpacks
- CHOOSE between our 1 Person (for the solo survivalist), 2 Person (for you and a friend), 4 Person or 5 Person (for your entire family)
- DESIGNED using advice from experts in the emergency preparedness industry and follows guidelines given by government agencies and non-profit preparedness organizations
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Families seeking extensive emergency preparedness will find solid value in Stealth Angel's 72-Hour Emergency Kit, which accommodates groups of 1-5 people with customizable sizing options. Each kit comes packed in a durable 600D nylon backpack, measuring 16 x 10 x 10 inches and weighing 8 pounds.
We've found the kit's thorough supplies particularly impressive, including essential food bars, water pouches, and purification tablets to keep your family sustained. The included 8-in-1 multitool, hand-crank radio, and emergency shelter components offer practical functionality, though we've noticed some quality concerns with zippers and clasps that you'll want to inspect upon arrival.
Pro Tip: Consider the 4-person option for best value, as it provides extra supplies without significant bulk increase.
Best For: Families and small groups seeking a comprehensive emergency preparedness solution that provides essential supplies for up to 72 hours during natural disasters or emergencies.
Pros:
- Complete kit with essential survival supplies including food, water, shelter, and communication tools
- Available in different size options to accommodate various group sizes (1-5 people)
- Compact and portable design with water-resistant backpack storage
Cons:
- Quality control issues reported with zippers and clasps
- Customer service concerns regarding returns and defective items
- Mixed reviews on durability of included components
Stealth Angel 72 Hour Family Emergency Kit (1-5 Person)
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee - All essential emergency items packed securely in our high quality backpacks
- CHOOSE between our 1 Person (for the solo survivalist), 2 Person (for you and a friend), 4 Person or 5 Person (for your entire family)
- DESIGNED using advice from experts in the emergency preparedness industry and follows guidelines given by government agencies and non-profit preparedness organizations
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Prepared families of up to five members will appreciate Stealth Angel's extensive 72-hour emergency kit, which comes packed in water-resistant 600D nylon backpacks. You'll find essential food bars, water pouches, and purification tablets to sustain your family through three days of emergencies.
We've tested the included 8-in-1 multitool, hand-crank radio, and emergency whistle, which provide vital functionality during disasters. The kit's emergency shelter options, including a tube tent, blankets, and ponchos, offer protection from harsh weather conditions.
Pro Tip: While the kit's 16 x 10 x 10-inch size makes it portable, you'll want to check all zippers and clasps upon arrival, as some users have reported quality concerns.
Best For: Families of 1-5 people seeking a comprehensive emergency preparedness solution with essential supplies for 72-hour disaster situations.
Pros:
- Complete emergency kit with food, water, shelter, and safety tools in one portable package
- Multiple size options available to accommodate different family sizes
- Includes versatile survival tools like hand-crank radio and 8-in-1 multitool
Cons:
- Quality control issues reported with zippers and clasps
- Customer service concerns regarding returns and defective items
- Higher price point compared to building your own emergency kit
EVERLIT 72 Hours Emergency Survival Kit
- ✅【72 Hours for 2 People, STORM II Emergency Survival Kit】STORM II EMERGENCY KIT was designed and hand-picked by survivalists, experts, and veterans. Including...
- ✅【Water & Food Approved by U.S. Coast Guard, Water Filtration Tablets】 24 Packs of 125ML Emergency Drinking Water and 2 Packs of 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar are...
- ✅【First Aid Essential, CAT Tourniquet for Bleeding Control】200 Pieces comprehensive medical supplies and CAT tourniquet for traumatic wound covers all medical...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The EVERLIT 72 Hours Emergency Survival Kit stands out as a thorough solution for two-person households seeking military-grade preparedness. You'll find a military-spec 1000D polyester backpack that's both water-resistant and durable, with organized compartments for efficient access to your supplies.
Inside, you've got 24 packs of 125ML emergency water and two 3600-calorie food bars that meet FEMA guidelines. The 200-piece medical kit, including a CAT tourniquet, covers essential first aid needs. We're particularly impressed with the 3-in-1 hand-crank flashlight that doubles as a radio and phone charger, plus practical additions like thermal blankets, ponchos, and survival tools.
Pro Tip: While the bag's fully loaded weight is noticeable, the adjustable straps help distribute weight comfortably.
Best For: Couples or two-person households seeking a comprehensive, military-grade emergency preparedness solution that meets FEMA guidelines for 72-hour disaster survival.
Pros:
- Complete emergency kit with high-quality survival gear including military-spec backpack and CAT tourniquet
- Well-organized with proper FEMA-standard food and water rations for two people for three days
- Versatile 3-in-1 hand-crank device combines flashlight, radio, and phone charger
Cons:
- Fully loaded pack may be heavy for some users to carry
- Water packets are relatively small at 125ML each
- Some included items may need upgrading or supplementing based on specific needs
Blue Seventy-Two Pro Series 72 Hour Emergency Survival Backpack
- BLUE SEVENTY-TWO EMERGENCY BACKPACKS ALL COME STANDARD WITH: 1 x Triple-Pocket Reinforced Grab-N-Go Backpack; 1 x Pack of Food Bars – 2,400 calories (5 year shelf...
- PRO-SERIES EMERGENCY BACKPACKS ALSO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL PREMIUM SURVIVAL GEAR: Larger tactical style backpack (red or camo); 1 x Canteen Cup; 1 x Playing...
- PERFECT PREPARATION KIT FOR NATURAL DISASTERS: This Backpack emergency kit is perfect to help you stay prepared in the case of the following emergencies or natural...
Last update on 2025-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Survival-minded individuals seeking extensive emergency preparedness will find strong value in the Blue Seventy-Two Pro Series backpack, which delivers essential supplies for one person's 72-hour needs. You'll get a robust triple-pocket reinforced backpack with 2,400 calories of food bars, five water pouches, and vital emergency gear.
While testing this kit, we appreciated the tactical-style design and practical additions like the canteen cup and playing cards. The compact dimensions (11 x 7.5 x 17 inches) make it ideal for vehicle storage, while waterproof features protect contents during severe weather. Though some users report quality concerns with included items, the kit's thorough nature and reasonable price point make it a solid choice for basic emergency readiness.
Best For: Individuals and families seeking a comprehensive 72-hour emergency preparedness kit that's compact enough for vehicle storage while providing essential survival supplies for one person.
Pros:
- Complete emergency kit with 72 hours of food, water, and essential survival gear in a well-organized tactical backpack
- Compact and waterproof design makes it ideal for vehicle storage and severe weather situations
- Includes practical additions like playing cards and canteen cup that add value beyond basic survival needs
Cons:
- Some users report quality concerns with included items
- Limited to supporting only one person for 72 hours
- Food and water supplies have 5-year shelf life, requiring periodic replacement
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 72 Hour Go Bag
Selecting the right 72-hour go bag requires careful consideration of several critical factors that'll impact your survival readiness and mobility during emergencies. You'll need to evaluate the bag's storage capacity and weight distribution, ensuring it can accommodate essential supplies while remaining comfortable enough to carry when fully loaded. We've tested dozens of bags and found that material quality directly affects durability and water resistance, while the bag's design should allow quick access to supplies and provide protection for different disaster scenarios.
Storage Space Requirements
Three critical factors determine the storage space requirements for your 72-hour go bag: the number of people it'll support, the dimensions needed for essential supplies, and its designated storage location.
When we've tested various bags, we've found that compact models (11 x 7.5 x 17 inches) work well for individuals, while families need larger tactical packs to accommodate additional supplies. You'll want to guarantee your bag has multiple compartments for organized storage, making it easier to access items during emergencies.
Pro Tip: Consider where you'll store your go bag. Whether it's in your car's trunk, under a bed, or in a closet, the bag should be easily accessible while fitting comfortably in your chosen location. Remember to keep the packed weight manageable – you'll need to carry it during evacuations.
Weight When Fully Packed
The ideal weight for a fully packed 72-hour go bag typically falls between 6-8 pounds for individuals, though this can vary based on your specific needs and physical capabilities. When testing various bags, we've found that proper weight distribution makes a significant difference in how manageable your pack feels during extended carry periods.
Pro Tip: You'll want to regularly assess your bag's contents and remove any non-essential items that add unnecessary weight.
Consider these weight management strategies:
- Pack lighter alternatives of essential items
- Distribute weight evenly throughout the bag
- Test carrying your packed bag for 15 minutes
- Keep heavier items closer to your back
- Remove duplicate items when possible
Quality of Materials
When choosing a 72-hour go bag, high-quality materials serve as your first line of defense against unexpected emergencies and harsh conditions. You'll want to focus on bags made with 1000D polyester, which we've found exceptionally resistant to tears and water during our field testing.
Look for heavy-duty construction in every component of your kit. Your storage containers should maintain a 5-year shelf life for water and food supplies, while first aid materials need medical-grade quality to guarantee reliability. We've tested numerous kits and recommend those with 200+ piece medical supplies for extensive coverage.
Don't compromise on your survival gear's durability. Your flashlights and multitools should feature robust construction – we've found that aluminum and stainless steel components offer the best longevity in critical situations.
Pro Tip: Check material specifications for water resistance ratings and tear strength indicators before purchasing.
Essential Supply Duration
Survival success in any emergency situation depends heavily on properly calculating your go bag's supply duration. You'll need to carefully plan for 1,000 calories per person daily, following FEMA's guidelines for a complete 72-hour period.
When selecting your supplies, verify all food and water rations have at least a five-year shelf life to maintain their viability. We've found that including water purification tablets is essential, as you can't always count on having access to clean water during emergencies.
Pro Tip: Calculate your total food and water needs based on:
- Number of people your bag will support
- Specific dietary requirements or restrictions
- Full 72-hour coverage
- Water treatment capabilities
Disaster Type Coverage
Selecting the right go bag requires careful consideration of the specific disasters you're most likely to face in your region. You'll want to choose a kit that's equipped to handle multiple emergency scenarios, from natural disasters to civil unrest.
When we tested various go bags, we found that the most effective ones include disaster-specific items:
- Earthquakes: Sturdy work gloves, dust masks, and pry bars
- Hurricanes: Waterproof containers, tarps, and battery-powered weather radio
- Floods: Life jackets, inflatable rafts, and water purification tools
- Wildfires: N95 masks, fire-resistant blankets, and goggles
- Civil Unrest: Security items, communication devices, and portable lighting
Pro Tip: While most quality go bags cover multiple disaster types, we recommend supplementing your kit with additional region-specific gear based on your local risk assessment.
First Aid Kit Comprehensiveness
Beyond identifying disaster-specific gear, a robust first aid kit forms the backbone of any reliable go bag. You'll want to guarantee your kit contains at least 30 essential pieces, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers for basic emergency care.
We've found that premium go bags often include expanded medical kits with 85-200 pieces, featuring critical items like CAT tourniquets for severe injuries. Don't overlook specialized tools such as scissors, tweezers, and protective gloves, which you'll need for proper wound treatment.
Pro Tip: Include water purification tablets in your first aid supplies, as they're essential when clean water isn't available.
Remember to regularly inspect your kit's contents and replace any expired items – we recommend checking dates every six months to maintain your kit's effectiveness.
Food and Water Capacity
The three critical days following an emergency require precise food and water calculations to ascertain your survival. You'll need to verify your go bag contains at least 1000 calories per person daily, with emergency food bars providing a minimum of 2400 total calories for the 72-hour period.
For hydration, pack one gallon of water per person per day. We've found that 12 pouches of 4.225 oz water can effectively sustain two people over three days. Don't forget to include water purification tablets that can treat up to 25 quarts of water if you need to source from streams or lakes.
Pro Tip: When selecting food supplies, opt for items with a 5-year shelf life to maintain your bag's readiness. We recommend checking expiration dates annually and replacing items as needed.
Tool Selection Appropriateness
Smart tool selection forms the backbone of any well-equipped 72-hour go bag, requiring careful consideration of both versatility and practicality. You'll want to start with a reliable multi-tool that can handle everything from opening cans to making repairs, as we've found this to be essential during our field testing.
Pro Tip: Choose a headlamp over a traditional flashlight – they're hands-free and more practical for emergency situations.
Your tool selection should include:
- A quality multi-tool with pliers and knife functions
- Paracord (at least 50 feet) for shelter building
- Hand-crank or solar-powered lighting
- Emergency whistle (85+ decibels)
- Portable water filtration system
When we've tested various go bags, we've consistently found that these tools provide the best balance of functionality and space efficiency while meeting essential survival needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Replace Items in My 72-Hour Go Bag?
Even if you check your go bag a million times, items still need regular replacement. You'll want to inspect your bag every 6 months, replacing water every 6-12 months (sooner if stored in heat), food every 1-2 years, batteries annually, and medications per expiration dates. Don't forget to rotate seasonal clothing and check equipment functionality. Pro Tip: Set calendar reminders for key replacement dates, and always check expiration dates when doing your inspection.
What's the Best Way to Store a Go Bag Long-Term?
Store your go bag in a cool, dry place between 50-70°F, away from direct sunlight and moisture. You'll want to keep it elevated off the ground and easily accessible, like in a hall closet or garage shelf. Don't store it in your car trunk or attic, where temperature fluctuations can damage supplies. Pro Tip: Place moisture absorbers inside and use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and documents to protect against humidity.
Should I Customize My Go Bag Based on Local Climate Conditions?
Like a chameleon adapts to its environment, you'll want to customize your go bag based on your local climate conditions. You'll need different gear for Death Valley's scorching heat versus Alaska's bitter cold. We recommend adjusting your clothing, shelter, and gear selections to match your region's typical weather patterns. Include appropriate seasonal items like sunscreen and moisture-wicking clothes for hot climates, or extra insulation and hand warmers for cold regions.
How Much Should I Expect to Spend on a Quality Go Bag?
You'll typically spend between $150-300 for a quality go bag setup, with pre-made options on the lower end and custom builds on the higher end. We've found mid-range bags ($200-250) offer the best value, including essential gear like water filters, emergency food, and basic medical supplies. Don't forget to factor in replacements costs for perishable items. Pro Tip: Consider spreading purchases across several months to manage your budget while building a thorough kit.
Can I Take My 72-Hour Go Bag on Commercial Flights?
You can take your 72-hour go bag on commercial flights, but you'll need to follow TSA regulations carefully. Remove prohibited items like multi-tools, fuel, lighters, and large liquid containers. Pack your bag with TSA-compliant items (liquids under 3.4 oz, no sharp objects), and consider checking it instead of carrying on. Pro Tip: Create a separate "flight-friendly" version of your go bag that excludes restricted items while maintaining essential preparedness capabilities.
