How to Build a 72-Hour Go-Bag

Why 72 hours?

Ready.gov recommends keeping supplies for at least three days if you have to evacuate. Help may not reach every neighborhood right away after a large disaster, and roads, stores and ATMs may be closed. A go-bag means you can leave in minutes with what your household needs to get through the first few days on its own.

The go-bag checklist

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day, so 3 gallons each. Bottled water is easiest to pack; a filter bottle lets you carry less.
• Food: 3 days of non-perishable food that needs no cooking, plus a manual can opener if you pack cans.
• Light and information: a flashlight or headlamp, extra batteries, and a battery or hand-crank radio that receives NOAA weather alerts.
• First aid and health: a first aid kit, at least a week of prescription medications, glasses or contacts, and N95 masks.
• Documents and money: copies of IDs, insurance policies and medical information in a waterproof pouch, plus cash in small bills.
• Power: a charged power bank and charging cables for each phone.
• Shelter and safety: an emergency blanket, a whistle to signal for help, sturdy shoes and a change of clothes.
• Hygiene: moist towelettes, garbage bags, toothbrush, and feminine supplies.

Packing tips

Use a backpack rather than a duffel so your hands stay free. Put the heaviest items, like water, close to your back. Keep each person's bag light enough for them to carry; children can carry a small bag with snacks, a comfort item and a card with your contact information.

Store bags near an exit or in your car trunk. Set a reminder every six months to swap out water, food and medications and to check that batteries still work.

Don't forget pets and special needs

Pack a separate bag for each pet with food, water, a leash, medications and vaccination records. If someone in your household uses medical equipment, add spare batteries and a printed list of devices and model numbers.