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Go bag checklist: 72-hour evacuation pack

A go bag (also called a bug-out bag or 72-hour kit) is a lightweight, durable backpack packed with essential supplies that allows you to evacuate your home in under 60 seconds during wildfires, floods, or gas leaks.

Do this now

  1. Pack one backpack for each member of your household.
  2. Store your go bags near an exterior door or in an easy-to-reach front closet.
  3. Keep physical photocopies of vital documents stored in waterproof bags inside each pack.
  4. Review and update food, water, and medication supplies every 6 months.

Essential items for every go bag

  • Water: 1 to 2 liters of bottled water per person plus water purification tablets.
  • Non-perishable food: High-calorie energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, and canned proteins with pull-tabs.
  • First aid kit: Bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, tweezers, and a 7-day supply of personal prescription medications.
  • Flashlight & extra batteries: LED headlamp or sturdy flashlight.
  • Emergency radio: Hand-crank or battery-powered NOAA weather radio.
  • Multi-tool or pocket knife: Swiss Army knife or multi-tool pliers.
  • Personal hygiene: Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and feminine hygiene products.
  • Warmth & shelter: Emergency Mylar thermal blanket, rain poncho, and a spare change of warm clothing and socks.
  • Cash: Small bills ($10 and $20 notes) and coins, as ATMs and card readers fail during power outages.

Vital document protection (Waterproof pouch)

Store copies of important paper records in a sealed ziplock bag or waterproof pouch:

  • Government-issued IDs, passports, driver's licenses, and birth certificates.
  • Home and auto insurance policy numbers and emergency contact cards.
  • Medical records, immunization cards, and doctor contact details.
  • USB flash drive containing encrypted digital backups of family photos and records.

Customizing packs for family members

  • For infants: Formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and comforting items.
  • For children: Activity books, small toys, and an ID card placed inside their pocket.
  • For pets: Collapsible bowl, 3-day pet food supply, leash, and pet records.

... note "Ready.gov preparedness" National disaster management agencies (Ready.gov / FEMA) recommend keeping go bags prepped year-round for instant evacuation readiness.