Grab & Go Bag: How to Build for Efficiency

Emergencies can happen without warning, and having a grab & go bag ready could make all the difference. Whether it’s an evacuation due to a wildfire, a hurricane, or another unexpected event, a grab & go bag ensures you have the essentials to get through the critical first hours or days. For beginners, creating one might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, keeping it simple and achievable. By the end, you will know how to assemble a functional bag tailored to your needs.

Start with a Plan

Before you start packing, it’s important to plan. Think about:

Your Location and Risks: What emergencies are most likely in your area? Wildfires, floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes?
Who You’re Packing For: Are you creating a bag for yourself, your family, or a specific family member? Each person may need slightly different supplies.
Time Frame: A 72-hour bag is a common starting point.
Time of year: What time of year are you initially packing for? Your overall plan needs to take into account all times of the year.

Taking a moment to think through these questions will help you create a grab & go bag that’s practical and meets your needs.

Choose the Right Bag

The type of bag you choose is critical. A good bag should be:

Durable: It needs to hold up in rough conditions.
Comfortable: If you have to carry it for long distances, padded straps and a supportive design are a must.
Portable: Make sure the bag isn’t so large or heavy that it’s impractical to grab and carry quickly.

Some common options include backpacks, duffel bags, or rolling suitcases. If you’re not sure which bag is best for you, check out: How to Choose the Right Bag.

Think in Categories

When creating your grab & go bag, organizing by categories will keep things simple and ensure nothing important is missed. These are the key categories to focus on:

Food and Water: Enough to sustain you for 72 hours minimum
Clothing: season-appropriate
Shelter and Warmth: Protection from the elements, like a blanket and poncho
Lighting: Flashlights and other light-emitting items
First Aid Items: first aid kit
Hygiene and Sanitation: Enough to sustain you for 72 hours minimum
Communication and Navigation: Tools like a radio and map to stay informed
Personal Essentials: ID, medications, glasses, etc.
Money: in small bills

For now, simply think about what each category might include. We’ll cover the exact items in the next post.

Learn Basic Packing Principles

A well-packed bag is easier to carry and more functional in an emergency. Follow these simple tips:

Pack Heavy Items Close to Your Back: This improves balance and reduces strain.
Use Small Bags or Pouches: Group similar items together in a resealable bag. Zip lock bags come in many sizes and are helpful for packing items together. This also protects your belongings from getting wet.
Label: Before packing away, write the name of the content category of each plastic bag (like hygiene or lighting) by using a non-smudge marker. This is helpful for quick identification when you need something from your bag.
Prioritize Accessibility: Items you’ll need most often, like water or snacks, and a flashlight should be easy to reach.

Test Your Bag

Don’t wait for an emergency to find out your grab & go bag doesn’t work for you. Testing it first will ensure that it’s ready to go should you need it. Once your bag is packed, do the following:

Carry: Take the bag and carry it on a short walk to test the weight and comfort.
Check: Open it up and check to see if items are easy to find without having to displace all contents to find what you’re looking for.
Adjust: Make any needed adjustments to make your bag manageable.

Conclusion

Creating a grab & go bag doesn’t have to be complicated. By starting with a plan, choosing a suitable bag, and focusing on categories, you can build a bag that’s both functional and tailored to your needs. Remember, this is a process. Your bag doesn’t have to be perfect from the start. You can always improve it over time. Ready to take the next step? Read our next post: Grab & Go Bag: The Core Essentials.