How to Build the Ultimate 72-Hour Emergency Kit

When disaster strikes, having a well-prepared 72-hour emergency kit can make a world of difference. Whether you’re facing a natural disaster, a power outage, or an unexpected evacuation, having essential supplies on hand for at least 72 hours is crucial for survival. This guide will walk you through everything you need to build a thorough and practical 72-hour emergency kit for you and your family.

Why Do You Need a 72-Hour Emergency Kit?

The 72-hour window is critical because it typically takes about three days for emergency services to reach disaster-affected areas. During this period, you’ll need to rely on your own resources for survival, including food, water, first aid, and other supplies.

Who Should Have a 72-Hour Emergency Kit?

A 72-hour emergency kit is for anyone who wants to be prepared for unexpected emergencies.

Essentially, anyone can benefit from having a well-stocked 72-hour kit, whether it’s for natural disasters, power outages, or emergencies that might keep you cut off from help for a few days.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your 72-Hour Emergency Kit

Step 1: Choose the Right Container for Your 72-Hour Emergency Kit

First, you’ll need a sturdy, easy-to-carry container to hold your supplies. Depending on how much you’re packing and for how many people, you might need more than one container. Some popular options include:

Wheeled Luggage: Helpful for heavy loads and easy transport.

Backpacks: Ideal for mobility. One for each person is recommended.

Duffel Bags: Great for holding a large quantity of supplies.

Plastic Bins: Sturdy and waterproof, though less portable.

Step 2: Water: The Most Essential Part of Your 72-Hour Kit

Water is your number one priority in an emergency. FEMA recommends at least one gallon of water per person per day. For a 72-hour kit, that means three gallons per person. Consider:

Water Filtration System: Consider a portable water filter or purification tablets in case you run out of bottled water or need to source water from nature.

Bottle Water: Bottled water is convenient but bulky.

Water Storage Containers: Lightweight, collapsible water containers can hold larger quantities.

Step 3: Food – Easy-to-Prepare and Long-Lasting

Pack enough non-perishable food to last for 72 hours. Choose items that don’t require refrigeration or extensive preparation. Here are some good options:

Comfort Foods: Consider packing a few treats like chocolate or cookies to keep morale up.

Canned Foods: Soups, vegetables, fruits, and meats. Don’t forget a manual can opener!

Ready-to-Eat Meals (MREs): Lightweight and designed for emergencies.

Protein Bars, Granola Bars, or Trail Mix: Portable and calorie-dense.

Dried Foods: Instant noodles, oatmeal, or pasta.

Step 4: First Aid Kit

In an emergency, injuries can happen. Your first aid kit should be stocked to handle basic medical needs. Here’s what to include:

• Adhesive Bandages: Various sizes for cuts and scrapes.
• Antiseptic Wipes: To clean wounds.
• Gauze and Tape: For larger wounds.
• **Tweezers and Scissors**

Personal Items: If anyone in your family has specific health needs (such as an inhaler or EpiPen), be sure to include these.

Pain Relievers: Such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Antibiotic Ointment

Emergency Blanket

Any Prescription Medications: Have at least a three-day supply of any essential medication.

Step 5: Tools and Gear

You’ll need some basic tools and equipment for navigating an emergency. These items can help you stay safe, navigate the situation, and even make necessary repairs:

• Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: Can serve many functions in one compact item.
• Flashlight: LED flashlights are a reliable, long-lasting option. Include extra batteries or opt for a crank-powered flashlight.
• Matches or a Lighter: Waterproof matches are a good idea, or keep them in a waterproof container.
• Fire Starter: Compact fire-starting kits can be essential for warmth and cooking.
• Duct Tape: For emergency repairs or even sealing cracks in windows.
• Whistle: For signaling if you need help.
• Plastic Sheeting and Paracord: To create a makeshift shelter or cover windows and doors.
• Work Gloves: To protect your hands during clean-up or repairs.
• Face Masks (N95 if possible): In case of debris, smoke, or poor air quality.
• Portable Phone Charger (Solar or Crank): To keep communication devices powered.

Step 6: Hygiene and Sanitation Supplies

Maintaining hygiene during an emergency helps prevent illness and keeps spirits up. Include the following:

• Moist Towelettes or Baby Wipes: For personal hygiene when water is scarce.
• Hand Sanitizer
• Toilet Paper
• Trash Bags and Plastic Ties: For waste disposal and sanitation purposes.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, etc.
• Camp Soap or Biodegradable Soap: A small bottle for washing hands and dishes.

Step 7: Clothing and Warmth

Pack enough clothing for each person to last at least three days. Your clothing should be layered for various weather conditions:

• Change of Clothes: Include sturdy, comfortable items. Opt for quick-drying fabrics.
• Warm Clothing: A fleece jacket, hat, gloves, and a scarf can help if temperatures drop.
• Sturdy Shoes: In case you need to walk long distances.
• Emergency Blanket or Sleeping Bag: A compact, thermal blanket can help retain body heat.

Step 8: Important Documents and Personal Items

If you need to evacuate, having access to important documents can make the recovery process smoother. Include copies of:

• Identification: Driver’s license, passport, social security card.
• Insurance Policies: Health, home, and auto insurance.
• Medical Information: Prescriptions, important medical records.
• Emergency Contacts: Include names, phone numbers, and addresses.
• Cash: In small denominations in case ATMs are down or cards aren’t accepted.
• Map of the Area: In case you need to navigate without GPS.

Step 9: Special Items for Families and Pets

If you have children, elderly family members, or pets, you’ll need to include additional items:

• Infants/Toddlers: Baby formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, and baby food.
• Pets: Extra food, a leash, and a collapsible bowl for water. Don’t forget pet medications if needed.
• Comfort Items: Toys, books, or games to keep children entertained.

Step 10: Where to Store Your Emergency Kit

Where you store your emergency kit is just as important as what you put in it. Here’s where to keep it:

• Easily Accessible Spot: Your emergency kit should be stored where you can quickly grab it if you need to evacuate. Consider a front hall closet, the garage, or under your bed for easy access.
• Multiple Locations: If possible, have smaller emergency kits in several places:
  • Home: The main kit should be in your home, ideally near an exit.
  • Car: Keep a smaller version of your kit in your car in case you’re away from home during an emergency.
  • Work: A compact kit in your office or workspace can help if you’re stranded.
• Weather-Protected Area: Store your kit in a dry, cool location, such as a closet or garage, to prevent perishable items from spoiling.
• Portable Location: The kit should be stored in a location where it’s easy to grab quickly, especially in an evacuation situation.

Make sure everyone in the household knows where the emergency kit is stored to avoid confusion during a crisis.

Step 11: Review and Update Your Kit Regularly

Once your 72-hour emergency kit is complete, don’t just forget about it. Review and update the kit every 6 months to:

• Replace expired food, water, and medications.
• Adjust clothing to match the current season.
• Ensure batteries and chargers are in working order.
• Reevaluate the needs of your family and make changes as necessary.