A 72 kit contains items that will help you survive on your own until you get help. 72 hours is not an exact time but more of an estimate of how long you might have to wait for help. Each person may pack their kits differently depending on their situation. For example, if you have kids or pets you will need to consider what to pack in case of an emergency if you have to leave your home. I also created a home emergency kit blog post in July if you want to prepare your home.
I used an old backpack that had supportive straps and made sure I could walk comfortably with my supplies inside. I also followed Femas’s emergency preparedness recommendations as a guideline of what I should include in my emergency kit and added other items I thought I would use.
1. flashlight and spare batteries
2. paracord
3. A change of clothes and a jacket (don’t forget socks)
I change my clothes every season to make sure they are weather appropriate and still fit.
4. Lifestraw water filter or purification tablets and water bottle
5. Duct tape
6. Hat and gloves
7. Whistle
8. compass and local maps
This is important because you might not be able to use your phone or G
9. Pocketknife
10. firestarter and waterproof matches
11. Sharpies so you can write messages or notes
13. Raincoat or poncho that folds up
14. Flip flops since you have the shoes that you are wearing when you leave
15. Mylar blanket or emergency sleeping bag
16. First aid kit (make sure to include any medications that you are taking)
17.
18. Glowsticks because they have a long shelf life and can are versatile
19. Tarp to help build a makeshift shelter or have a dry place to put your stuff
20. Pet supplies if applicable
21. Something to keep you entertained such as a Ru
21. Important documents
22. Nonperishable food that you will eat
Make sure to check your 72-hour kits every 6 months at the minimum. This will allow you to restock or replace any supplies, food, and clothes. Also, you don’t need to go buy all of these supplies at once, I slowly bought emergency preparedness supplies over time.
