How to Make a Grab & Go Bag and What's Included
A grab & go bag (also known as a go bag, 72-hour kit, or emergency kit) is a cornerstone of emergency preparedness. This essential item ensures that every family member is equipped with the necessities to get through the first few days if evacuation becomes necessary. A well-prepared grab & go bag is built around three key components: core essentials, shared essentials, and individual-specific needs. Together, they provide the crucial supplies needed when leaving home in a hurry. Let’s break down each component.
Core Essentials for at least 72 Hours
Food
Your choice of foods must include only shelf-stable options that will last until your next rotation, usually every 6 months but not to exceed every 12 months.
Food Ideas
- peanut butter
- crackers
- protein & energy bars
- protein cookies
- canned foods
- packet meals
- boxed meals
- fruits
Remember to pack plastic utensils, napkins, and garbage bags as well.
Tip: Stores like the Dollar Tree are full of food items that will work well and can be rotated every 6-12 months. If you'd like to see some examples of foods in each category listed here, download ready to eat foods.
Tip: Stores like the Dollar Tree are full of food items that will work well and can be rotated every 6-12 months. If you'd like to see some examples of foods in each category listed here, download ready to eat foods.
Water
Each bag should have at least a few bottles of water. Because water is heavy, weighing 8 pounds per gallon, you'll need more than you can pack. Be sure to pack empty water containers you can fill later - that also include filtration ability.
Water Bottle Ideas
- Mini Sawyer Water Filtration System
- LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
- Katadyn Water Filter
- water bladder (non-filtration)
Other Helpful Items
- liquid hydration multipliers
- purification tablets
Tip: Important! Have water on standby, ready to grab on your way out, if you can go by car. Assign each adult with the task of grabbing one gallon of water or one adult to grab a 5-gallon portable water jug from long-term storage. Add a note inside of your grab & go bag, on top of all contents, reminding you to take the extra containers of water. Add this to your grab list as well.
Tip: Important! Have water on standby, ready to grab on your way out, if you can go by car. Assign each adult with the task of grabbing one gallon of water or one adult to grab a 5-gallon portable water jug from long-term storage. Add a note inside of your grab & go bag, on top of all contents, reminding you to take the extra containers of water. Add this to your grab list as well.
Clothing
Choose from clothes you already have but rarely wear. If you must go shopping for anything, thrift stores offer good prices. Rotation twice a year allows you to pack for the season. The shoes can stay the same – they should be a sturdy pair in which you can walk a long distance. Clothes for small children are listed below.
Colder Weather
- one complete change of clothing
- durable closed-toed shoes
- thick socks
- long underwear & warm coat
- hand and body warming packs
- wool blend blanket
Warmer Weather
- one complete change of clothing
- durable closed-toed shoes
- good socks
- light jacket
- cool packs and/or wave fan
- light-weight blanket
Tip: While this tip won't work for growing children, this technique works well for adults. Pack for both warmer and cooler weather and mark each plastic bag accordingly. Store both next to your grab & go bag. If you must evacuate, select the weather-appropriate clothing bag to take with your go bag. Leave a reminder note inside of your grab & go bag, on top of all contents. Be sure to leave enough room in your bag to absorb the clothing. See tips for packing for children below under Individual Needs / Child.
Tip: While this tip won't work for growing children, this technique works well for adults. Pack for both warmer and cooler weather and mark each plastic bag accordingly. Store both next to your grab & go bag. If you must evacuate, select the weather-appropriate clothing bag to take with your go bag. Leave a reminder note inside of your grab & go bag, on top of all contents. Be sure to leave enough room in your bag to absorb the clothing. See tips for packing for children below under Individual Needs / Child.
Hygiene
Here are some options of items to pack for hygiene. Some are essential while others may just be nice to have, depending on the individual.
Hygiene Options
- toothbrush & paste
- mouthwash
- floss
- comb/brush
- deodorant
- tissue pack
- antibacterial gel
- wet wipes
- nail clipper & file
- feminine supplies
- face & body lotion
- chap stick
- mirror
- washcloth
- 2 hand towels
- empty spray bottle
- rinse-free body soap
- rinse-free shampoo
Tip: You can take soap, shampoo, and conditioner with you if you prepare a family clean kit. With it, you'll be able to wash your hands with soap and take a hot shower.
Tip: You can take soap, shampoo, and conditioner with you if you prepare a family clean kit. With it, you'll be able to wash your hands with soap and take a hot shower.
Sanitation
Upon evacuation, you may find yourself either unable to find restroom services or in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It's a smart idea to include a few sanitation items in your grab & go bag. Creating a personal sanitation kit that is kid friendly will give you added peace of mind. Privacy not included :)
Sanitation Items
- unisex urinal with sealed lid
- toilet paper or wet wipes
- garbage bags with plastic ties
- super-sorb powder
- hand sanitizing wipes
Tip: Creating a family sanitation kit takes it to a whole new level. You'll have everything you need, including privacy.
Tip: Creating a family sanitation kit takes it to a whole new level. You'll have everything you need, including privacy.
Tip: Creating a family sanitation kit takes it to a whole new level. You'll have everything you need, including privacy.
Lighting
Here are some options for emergency lighting that you can place in your grab & go bag.
Lighting Options
- LED headlamp w/ batteries
- flashlight w/ batteries
- light sticks for kids
Be sure to store the batteries outside of the flashlights and keep an eye on the expiration date and rotate accordingly.
Tip: If you want more robust lighting for the family can share, learn more about the family light kit.
Tip: If you want more robust lighting for the family can share, learn more about the family light kit.
Tip: If you want more robust lighting for the family can share, learn more about the family light kit
Shelter
These shelter items help protect you from rain, wind, sun, and cold when you’re away from home. Keep the basic items in your grab & go bag year-round. Store hot/warm-weather and cold-weather extras in separate, clearly labeled add-on bags next to your go bag. When you need to leave, just grab your go bag and the add-on bag that matches the current conditions. This keeps your go bag lighter, reduces overpacking, and makes seasonal changes much easier.
The Basics
- Poncho with hood
- Emergency bivy
- Mylar/emergency blanket
- Foldable foam sit pad
- Micro cord or paracord (25–50 ft)
- Lightweight rain jacket
Tip: Prepare with a shelter kit that includes camping accessories. Learn more about the family shelter & warmth kit.
Seasonal Add-ons
- Wide‑brim packable sun hat
- Bandana or sunshade cloth
- Ultralight tarp (5×7 ft)
- Warm hat/beanie
- Lightweight gloves
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Emergency reflective sleeping bag
- Hand warmers (air‑activated)
Tip: Prepare with a shelter kit that includes a tent and camping accessories. Learn more about the family shelter & warmth kit.
Tip: Prepare with a shelter kit that includes a tent and camping accessories. Learn more about the family shelter & warmth kit.
Power
Each adult should have at least one reliable way to charge essential devices like a mobile phone. It is even better to have more than one option, since different charging methods work best in different situations.
Portable Charging Options
- Battery Packs - Learn More
- Solar Chargers - Learn More
- Solar Power Banks - Learn More
Don’t forget: charging cables, device-specific adapters, and a wall charging block.
Tip: Consider including all 3 options in your grab & go bag. This strategy provides you with more options, allowing you to charge one device while using another, thus providing a continuous supply of power. This type of redundancy may not be necessary if you choose to include a family charging kit when you evacuate.
Tip: Consider including all 3 options in your grab & go bag. This strategy provides you with more options, allowing you to charge one device while using another, thus providing a continuous supply of power. This type of redundancy may not be necessary if you choose to include a family charging kit when you evacuate.
Communications
At a minimum, each person should carry a few basic communication items, while larger shared devices can be kept in the family communications kit.
Adults and Teenagers
- Cell phone – leave a note on top of your bag to grab it on the way out
- Phone charging cord
- Include a pen, permanent marker, and note pad
- Written emergency contact card - includes phone numbers, meeting places, and one out-of-area contact
- List of important addresses — family, friends, shelter options, hotel, hospital
- Laminated family communication plan
- Local paper map (included in shared essentials - see below)
- Small waterproof pouch or zip bag for phone and paper items
Every family member
- Safety whistle with neck cord in case of accidental separation
Tip: Take your communication readiness to the next level - learn more about the family communications kit.
Tip: Take your communication readiness to the next level - learn more about the family communications kit.
Money
Each family should keep some cash available in case evacuation is needed. The amount is up to you, but many people aim for about $100 to $250 in small bills. Think through what makes the most sense for your family. Some may prefer to have one adult carry all the cash, while others may prefer to divide it between multiple grab & go bags. The best choice depends on factors such as the ages and maturity of family members, how likely bags are to become separated, and how easily the money can be accessed when needed.
Tip: Unless you feel otherwise, children do not need to know that cash is stored in a grab & go bag. In general, the fewer people who know, the better. Another option is to place a private reminder note inside your bag, near the top, so you remember to grab the cash before leaving.
Tip: Unless you feel otherwise, children do not need to know that cash is stored in a grab & go bag. In general, the fewer people who know, the better. Another option is to place a private reminder note inside your bag, near the top, so you remember to grab the cash before leaving.
Individual Needs
Every grab & go bag starts with the same core essentials, but not every person has the same requirements during an evacuation. Age, health, mobility, and life stage all influence what someone may need to stay safe, comfortable, and functional away from home.
This section highlights additional items to consider for family members with specific medical, developmental, or personal needs - including those who are pregnant, caring for a baby, supporting a child, managing chronic conditions, or assisting an elderly loved one. Use these lists as a starting point and tailor them to your household. The goal is to ensure that each person has what they need to get through an emergency with as little stress as possible.
Health & Medical Needs
Health needs include anyone, of any age, who depends on medication, medical supplies, medical equipment, special food, or assistive devices on a daily, weekly, or as-needed basis. This may include diagnosed conditions such as asthma, diabetes, COPD, heart conditions, or severe allergies, as well as ongoing needs such as vision correction, hearing support, or mobility assistance.
If you, your child, your parent, or anyone in your family has important health needs, the items they rely on must be part of their grab & go bag or packed to go alongside it.
Medications and equipment
Here are some supplies people may need to take. This list is an example so think about your own health and medical needs. Some items may fit inside your grab & go bag, while others may need to be carried separately. Either way, essential health supplies should be taken whenever possible.
- Prescription medications for diagnosed conditions
- Over-the-counter medications used regularly
- Inhalers or nebulizer supplies
- Epinephrine auto-injectors
- Nitroglycerin or other heart medications
- Insulin and blood glucose testing supplies
- Oxygen and related supplies
- Glasses, contact lenses, and contact lens solution
- Hearing aids and replacement batteries or chargers
- Canes, walkers, wheelchairs, or other medical devices
Packing your bag
Where possible, pack or have ready to go at least a 7-day supply of needed medications, medical supplies, and disposable one-use parts. Also include any medically necessary food or nutrition items. Here are some suggestions for gathering extra supplies and making sure you have what you need to evacuate quickly.
- Purchase extra: If you regularly use over-the-counter items, buy extras for your bag and rotate them so they don't expire.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacy for a 90-day refill: If your prescriptions qualify, rotate the two extra months through your packed supplies and be sure to follow proper storage conditions.
- Grab on your way out: It's not practical to pack items used every day if no extras exist. Make a list of what must be grabbed before leaving. Place this list at the top of your bag where its easy to find and update whenever health or medical needs change. Be sure to include any refrigerated medications.
Create a health needs fact sheet
Create a simple fact sheet for each person who relies on important medications, supplies, or equipment. Place it in a sealed plastic bag near the top of the grab & go bag so others can quickly help if needed.
- Medication names, dosages, and directions
- Doctor and pharmacy contact information
- Medical equipment used and basic instructions
- Allergies, diagnoses, and known triggers
- Insurance information and emergency contacts
Pregnancy Needs
If you are pregnant, take time to update your personal bag so it reflects your changing clothing, food, comfort, and prenatal needs. Even a well-stocked bag may need adjustments as your pregnancy progresses.
Update Your Personal Bag
- Extra shelf-stable snacks or foods you tolerate well
- Maternity clothing in the right size for your current stage of pregnancy
- Comfortable underwear
- Supportive bra
- Prenatal vitamins
- Any pregnancy-related medications or comfort items you use regularly
- Copy of prenatal records, insurance card, and doctor or midwife contact information, if available
Packing for different stages
Because clothing sizes change, pack clothing for different stages of pregnancy in separate labeled plastic bags and store them next to your personal bag. If you need to evacuate, grab the size you need at that time. Leave a reminder note at the top of your bag and make sure there is enough room to add the clothing bag before you go.
Being prepared for the unexpected
As you move into the later months of pregnancy, it is also wise to prepare a small emergency birth kit as a backup. Emergencies don't always happen at convenient times, so thinking ahead can help you feel more prepared. Talk to your doctor or midwife about what you may need in an evacuation or other emergency.
Emergency Birth Kit
This is a basic backup kit in case labor begins during an emergency and medical care is delayed.
- Clean towels
- Clean sheets
- Medical gloves
- Sharp scissors
- Two clean shoelaces
- Infant bulb syringe
- Sanitary pads
- Two blankets
Helpful Steps to Take
- Learn the signs of preterm labor, which is labor before 37 weeks
- Know where else you could go if you cannot reach your preferred hospital or birthing center
- If you arrive at an emergency shelter, let staff know you are pregnant as soon as possible
Baby Needs
Evacuating with a baby can be especially challenging, so planning ahead matters. If evacuation becomes necessary, your baby should have a dedicated bag ready no later than the beginning of the third trimester. Pack items based on your child’s age, feeding method, and stage of development.
In an evacuation, you may be carrying your bag, your child’s bag, and your baby. A rolling suitcase can make this easier by holding multiple bags while keeping one hand free.
Feeding
Even if your baby is breastfed, consider packing infant formula in case it becomes medically or situationally necessary.
- At least 56 single servings of formula
- Ready-to-feed formula is easiest
- If using powdered formula, use bottled water only
- Sterilized bottles, nipples, and/or drop-in liners
- Baby food jars or pouches, plus other age-appropriate foods (pouches are often easier to pack than jars because they are lighter and won't break)
- Disposable cups, bowls, spoons, and paper towels
Water & bottle cleaning
- Bottled water if using powdered formula
- Pedialyte for babies 6 months or older, if approved by your pediatrician
- A pot, emergency stove, fuel, and matches or a lighter if you need to boil water or sterilize bottles
Never dilute infant formula to make it last longer. If your bottled water runs out and your backup water source is questionable, boil the water for at least 60 seconds before using it with powdered formula or for bottle sterilization.
Clothing & warmth
Pack clothing with growth and seasonal changes in mind. Store larger sizes and rotate often.
- 3 onesies
- 3 footie pajamas or sleepers
- Sleep sack or swaddle for younger babies
- 2 extra outfits for older babies
- Weather-appropriate shoes if needed
- 2 to 3 baby blankets
- Hat, socks, and mittens for colder weather
- Emergency blanket for extra warmth
Diapering & hygiene
- Disposable diapers or cloth diapers with covers
- Baby wipes
- Diaper rash cream
- Antiseptic wipes and hand sanitizer
- Bags for used diapers
- Baby wash and baby lotion
Other essentials
- Baby carrier or sling
- Portable crib
- Pacifiers
- Soft battery light
- Infant medications
- Measuring droppers or syringes
- Thermometer
- Bulb syringe and saline drops
- Teething supplies
- Copies of vaccination records
Baby ID card
Create a laminated ID card in case of accidental separation during an emergency. Attach it securely to your baby’s carrier, stroller, or diaper bag. If you attach the card with a zip tie, trim the sharp end so it cannot scratch or rub against your baby.
- Baby’s name and birth date
- Parents’ names, phone numbers, and email
- Home address
- Recent photo (be sure to update)
- Distinguishing features or birthmarks
- Medical conditions. allergies, and medications
Rotation tips
- Check diaper sizes, bottle nipples, clothing, and food regularly
- Try to review the bag every 4 to 6 weeks
- If that is not realistic, rotate clothing and key supplies at least every 3 to 6 months
- Keep the next 1 to 2 sizes ready when possible
- Swap out winter and summer items as needed
- Set a calendar reminder so updates are not forgotten
Children’s Needs
(toddlers to age 12)
Children’s Needs
(toddlers to age 12)
Children need a slightly different packing plan than adults, especially when it comes to clothing, comfort, and bag weight. As a general rule, a child’s grab & go bag should weigh no more than about 10% to 25% of body weight, depending on age, size, and fitness level. Anything extra should be packed in an adult’s bag.
Clothing Considerations
- Pack according to the season and rotate clothing at least every 6 months
- Pack 1 to 2 sizes larger to allow for growth
- Include a belt if needed for larger sizes
- Pack at least 2 full changes of clothing, and more for toddlers
- Include 1 pair of closed-toe shoes
- Pack several pairs of seasonally appropriate socks
- Include a jacket suited to the season
- Choose clothing that can be layered
- Consider thrift store clothing for lower-cost rotation
Tip: Some parents choose matching or similarly colored clothing for siblings so children are easier to identify during an evacuation or crowded emergency situation.
Potty Training
If your child is potty training or still has accidents, pack a few extra items to make cleanup easier.
- Extra underwear or pull-ups
- Extra bedding or sleep clothing
- Absorbent waterproof under-bedding layer
- Portable potty
- Baby wipes
Other Helpful Supplies
- Customized foods - adjust the food list to include shelf-stable foods your child will actually eat
- Waterplus electrolyte drinks or packets if appropriate
- Age-appropriate vitamins if used regularly
- Comfort items such as a stuffed animal, blanket, book, or small toy
- A few simple treats for comfort or distraction, such as lollipops
- Child-safe medications or health items, if needed
Older Adult Needs
This section is for older adults who have age-related limitations, ongoing health needs, or daily support items that should be included in an evacuation plan. Not all older adults have these needs, but for those who do, everyday items that support health, comfort, safety, communication, and mobility should be treated as essential.
Anything used daily should be considered important and should be packed in the person’s bag or placed on a written grab list if it cannot stay packed at all times.
Examples of Important Needs
- Prescription medications
- Restricted-diet foods, nutrition drinks, or other special dietary items
- Incontinence pads or underwear
- Any hygiene supplies
- Prescription glasses and hearing aids
- Needed chargers and spare batteries
- Dentures and supplies
- Any other personal care items
- Canes or walkers
- Other assistive devices
- Vitamins or supplements used regularly
- Copies of medication lists, doctor contact information, and insurance cards
Obtaining Extras
It's usually easier to buy extra items that are already paid for out of pocket. It may be harder to get extras of prescribed medications, medical supplies, or equipment when doctors, pharmacies, and insurance are involved.
However, some pharmacies allow certain medications to be filled in 90-day supplies. If this is an option and the medication can be safely stored at room temperature, you may be able to keep one full bottle in the bag and rotate through it. If a medication must be refrigerated, add it to your written grab list so it's not forgotten.
If extras cannot be obtained, make a written list of everything that must be taken at the last minute and place it at the top of the bag for quick reference. Update this list anytime needs change.
Helpful Steps to Take
- Review daily-use items and decide what can stay packed and what must be grabbed at the last minute
- Keep hearing aids, chargers, spare batteries, and glasses together so they are easy to find
- Make sure assistive devices are easy to access and ready to go
- Store important documents in a waterproof bag or pouch
Back to Individual Needs Main Tabs
Best Storage Location
Keep the grab & go bags and family kits together in one place where they can easily be found and grabbed on your way out. Store in a cool, dry environment.
Tips for Rotation
- Check your bags twice per year.
- Check expiration dates on any applicable items and rotate when necessary.
- Rotate food at 12 months.