Imagine this: A sudden storm hits, or a power outage lasts for days. What if you couldn’t get to a store or even leave your house for three whole days? It’s a scary thought, but being prepared can make all the difference. Figuring out what to pack in a 72-hour survival kit feels overwhelming. There are so many things to consider, and it’s easy to feel lost when you’re trying to choose the best items.
That’s exactly why we’re here. This post will help you cut through the confusion and build a kit that truly works for you. You’ll learn exactly what essentials you need to keep your family safe and comfortable during those critical first 72 hours. We’ll break down the must-have items, explain why each one is important, and even offer tips for customizing your kit. Get ready to feel more confident and prepared for whatever comes your way.
Top 72 Hour Survival Kit Recommendations
No. 1
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply - 72 Hour Survival Kit, 30 Servings of Protein Meals, Freeze Dried Food for Backpacking, Camping Essentials & Disaster Prepping Supplies, up to 25 Year Shelf Life
- READY WHEN YOU ARE: At home, out camping, or caught up in the day-to-day rush - when disaster strikes, READYWISE Grab & Go Emergency Food Supply has you covered with 30 servings of freeze dried meals ready to support you in any situation.
- PREPARED FOOD STORAGE: Compact and easy to tuck away in your pantry, car, or go bag supplies emergency kit. With “just add water” convenience, you can enjoy it anytime and anywhere!
- LONG TERM RELIABILITY: With up to a 25 year shelf life, READYWISE Emergency Food Supply keeps you and your family secure during unexpected events, giving you peace of mind and ensuring you're always prepared and protected for the long haul.
- NUTRITIOUS & YUMMY: READYWISE protein packed disaster preparedness kit delivers bold, savory & satisfying flavor in every portion. Enjoy quick meals or to boost your emergency food kit with options like Cheesy Macaroni, Whey Milk Alternative & more.
- EXTREME SITUATIONS (OR NOT): From power outages to packed schedules on busy weekdays, our camping essentials emergency supplies offer prepared meals you can count on. Nutritious, tasty, and made to save time when you need it most!
No. 2
Survival Kit, 262Pcs Survival Gear and Supplies with First Aid Kit Pouch and Crossbody Bag, Emergency Kit with Tent, Camping Axe Hammer, Survival Shovel w/Pick, Bug Out Bag Gifts for Men Women
- [Preparedness for the Unknown]: While no one can predict when or how severe a disaster or accident will be, our 262pcs survival kit ensures your family’s safety during the critical first 72 hours. Designed for family use, it was developed in collaboration with first responders, doctors, special forces operators, mountain guides. Whether you're preparing for earthquakes, tornadoes, wildfires, or hurricanes, our survival kit provides peace of mind
- [Comprehensive First Aid Kit]: The included first aid supplies are stored in a bright red pouch, containing tweezers, scissors and pins, non-woven pad, triangular bandage, tournquet, cotton swabs, cotton balls, a generous supply of bandages etc, meeting all your medical and emergency needs. It also includes medical emergency card to record your basic information, helping first responders quickly identify and treat you if you're incapacitated
- [Safety Companion for Journey]: Our emergency kit includes many survival gear and supplies to ensure access to food, water, warmth, and light in a crisis. The fishing kit and multi-usage spoon help you catch and prepare food, while the collapsible water container bag helps store water. Fire starter and stick make it easy to build a fire. A flashlight,camping lamp, and glow sticks provide up to 72 hours of lighting, crucial for signaling for help and safe navigation
- [Essential Survival Gear]: Additionally, this survival kit includes a detachable multifunctional axe with hammer and a 2-in-1 shovel with pick, made of sturdy cabon steel. Combined with wire saw, emergency tent and blanket, rope, and compass, you can quickly set up an emergency shelter while maintaining your body temperature. Unlike others mini axes, our axe and shovel are 17 inches long, providing effective protection in the wild against animals or in other emergencies
- [Convenient Packaging]: The survival gear and supplies are packed in a crossbody bag, making it easy to carry and access in emergencies. The bag features multiple compartments and molle compatible straps and D-rings, allowing you to attach extra pouches or survival tools. The crossbody strap is also detachable, making it easy to connect to a tactical survival backpack using carabiners or the molle system
No. 3
Ready America 70280 72 Hour Emergency Kit, 2-Person, 3-Day Backpack, Includes First Aid Kit, Survival Blanket, Portable Preparedness Go-Bag for Camping, Car, Earthquake, Travel, Hiking, and Hunting, Red
- Emergency Kit For Disaster Preparedness: Stay Prepared For Emergency Situations Everywhere You Go. Ready America Emergency Survival Kits Sustain 2 People For 3 Days (72 Hours). Basic Essential Emergency Supplies Recommended By The American Red Cross
- Includes 33-Piece First Aid Kit: Comes With First Aid Essentials For Minor Injuries Like Bandages And Wound Cleaning Solution. Take Care Of Medical Emergencies With Easy-To-Use Supplies. Great For A Car Emergency Kit Or Boat Accessories
- Food, Water, Emergency Blankets: Everything You Need In Case Of An Emergency. 2 Survival Food Bars (2400 Calories) And Water Pouches With A 5-Year Shelf Life, Survival Blankets, Disposable Dust Masks, Nitrile Gloves, Whistle, Ponchos, Pocket Tissues
- Two Safety Light Sticks: In Case You’Re Outdoors Or In The Wilderness With No Light, This Emergency Bag Includes Two Safety Light Sticks. Equipped With Survival Gear For Hunting, Boating, Workplace, Camping, Backpacking, Fishing, Hiking, Travel, Home
No. 4
TacPreps 72 Hour Survival Kit, 45L Bug Out Bag with Emergency Food, Water Filter, First Aid Kit, Shelter and Survival Tools
- 72 HOUR EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOR 1 TO 2 PEOPLE - This survival kit is pre-packed with food, water, shelter, first aid, and tools to support 1 to 2 people for up to 3 days. Works as a bug out bag, go bag, family emergency kit, or grab and go backpack for home, car, office, or travel. Designed for outdoor adventures and unexpected events.
- 45L TACTICAL BACKPACK WITH MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS - Spacious 45 liter backpack built with durable, water-resistant fabric, padded shoulder straps, and multiple organized compartments. Comfortable to carry on long hikes, camping trips, or extended outings, with room left over for personal items, medications, or additional gear.
- EMERGENCY FOOD AND COOKING SYSTEM INCLUDED - Includes freeze dried food rations, emergency food bars, a portable stove, and compact cookware. Lightweight, shelf-stable nutrition that travels easily and stores compactly until you need it. See product packaging for exact calorie counts and storage information.
- WATER FILTER PLUS 12 EMERGENCY WATER POUCHES - Portable water filter helps provide drinking water from natural sources when paired with proper use, plus 12 sealed emergency water pouches for immediate hydration on the go. Essential hydration gear for camping, hiking, backpacking, and home emergency preparedness.
- FIRST AID KIT, SHELTER AND SURVIVAL TOOLS - Includes an IFAK first aid kit with supplies for minor cuts and scrapes, emergency tent, 2 bivy bags, 2 emergency blankets, 2 rain ponchos, 30ft paracord, 2 rechargeable headlamps, solar and hand-crank radio with built-in light, multitool, folding saw, compass with whistle, work gloves, duct tape, and zip ties. A thoughtful gift for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, new homeowners, and anyone who values being prepared.
No. 5
LifeStraw Personal Water Purifier for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness
- Removes Bacteria & Parasites: The Microfiltration Membrane Removes 99.999999% of Waterborne Bacteria (Including E. Coli and Salmonella), and 99.999% of Waterborne Parasites (Including Giardia and Cryptosporidium) - Essential for Your Survival Kit
- Removes Microplastics: Removes the Smallest Microplastics Found in the Environment (Down to 1 Micron), and Reduces Turbidity Down to 0.2 Microns - Ideal for Hiking and Camping Essentials
- Rigorous Testing: All Claims Are Verified with Laboratories Using Standard Testing Protocols Set by the US EPA, NSF, ASTM for Water Purifiers
- Long Lifetime: The Microbiological Purification System Will Provide 4,000 Liters (1,000 Gallons) of Clean and Safe Drinking Water - a Must-Have for Your Bug Out Bag
- Make an Impact: For Every LifeStraw Product Purchased, a School Child in Need Receives Safe Drinking Water for an Entire School Year. Essential Camping Accessory Made With BPA Free Materials
No. 6
EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family, Preparedness for Hurricanes, Floods, Tsunami, Other Disasters
- ✅【72 Hours for 2 People, STORM II Emergency Survival Kit】STORM II EMERGENCY KIT was designed and hand-picked by survivalists, experts, and veterans. Including everything you and your loved ones would need to survive for 72 hours. The most comprehensive and ULTIMATE emergency kit to get you well-prepared for any emergency or disaster. Everything is stuffed in a heavy-duty tactical backpack.
- ✅【Water & Food Approved by U.S. Coast Guard, Water Filtration Tablets】 24 Packs of 125ML Emergency Drinking Water and 2 Packs of 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar are provided in the bag with 5-Years Shelf Life. Meets FEMA Guideline for a minimum 1000 calories/day/person. In addition, the water purification tablets can treat up to 25 quarts of water.
- ✅【First Aid Essential, CAT Tourniquet for Bleeding Control】200 Pieces comprehensive medical supplies and CAT tourniquet for traumatic wound covers all medical needs.
- ✅【Premium Protection/ Survival Gear and Tools】 Offers the most high quality, practical supplies on the market, including 3 in 1 Hand-Crank flashlight (radio and phone charger), emergency shelter, thermal blankets, poncho, goggles, gloves, CAT tourniquets, camping knife, compass, glow sticks and many more. Enough to keep you safe and prepared during the first critical 72 hours of any unpredictable emergency event.
- ✅【Heavy Duty Tactical Military-Spec Molle Backpack, Organized Design】 Easy to organize and store with four main compartments of the bag and many inner pockets. Made from 1000D polyester, the bag is tear and water-resistant and designed to survive in harsh environments. Features adjustable waist strap and shoulder straps, tough zippers, and comfortable mesh padding. The front and side molle panel can be used to attach your personal gear.
No. 7
Denver: Premium 72 Hour Survival Backpack with Supplies - 2024 Model Bug Out Bag Backpack - Upgraded Go Bag Emergency Backpack w/Complete Tactical Survival Kit - Bug Out Bag Survival Kit for 2 Person
- Our best selling model has now been upgraded! New upgrades include powerful 5 Watt Walkie Talkies. 5x more powerful than our previous walkie talkies. Our Solar Lantern has also been upgraded to LED COB Technology - Twice as bright as before!
- Comprehensive Preparedness: The 2 Person 72 Hour Emergency Bug Out Bag features a durable 45-liter 900D Tactical Backpack, ensuring you have ample space and a reliable storage solution for crucial supplies in emergency situations.
- Food and Water: Stay energized with two 3600 Calorie Food Bars and twelve packets of sealed water, providing sustenance and water for you and your companion during the critical 72-hour window. Additionally, two Freeze-Dried Oatmeal Breakfasts offer a quick and nourishing meal. Use it when you need it! Purposely crafter for long shelf life.
- Versatile Cooking Capability: Equip yourself with the 10 Piece Stainless Steel Camp Cook Set, allowing you to prepare meals wherever you find yourself. The TPU Water Bladder provides additional water storage capacity for cooking and drinking.
- Essential Tools for Unforeseen Challenges: Equip yourself with indispensable tools like Paracord for multifunctional use, a Folding Stove for cooking and heat, an LED Flashlight ensuring visibility during dark hours, a Compass for precise navigation, and a Whistle for signaling emergencies. Ensure comfort and protection against the elements with Emergency Blankets and a Poncho.
No. 8
Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit, 2-Person 3-Day Backpack, First Aid Kit, Survival Blanket, Power Station, Emergency Food, Portable Disaster Preparedness Go-Bag for Earthquake, Fire, Flood
- 72-hour emergency kit for disaster preparedness: Stay prepared for emergency situations everywhere you go. Ready America emergency survival kits have enough supplies for 2 people for 3 days (72 hours). Basic essential emergency supplies as recommended by the American Red Cross, as well as a hygiene kit, dust masks, survival blankets and ponchos
- Includes 33-piece first aid kit: Comes with first aid essentials for minor injuries such as bandages and wound cleaning solution. Take care of medical emergencies with easy-to-use supplies. Great for a car emergency kit or boat accessories
- Food and water: Everything you need in case of an emergency. 2 x 2400 calories U.S. Coast Guard approved survival food bars, 6 x 4.225oz water pouches (both food and water have 5 year shelf life from date of manufacture), water purification tablets and a BPA free water bottle
- Deluxe additions: The deluxe emergency kit includes a stainless steel multi-function pocket tool with screwdriver, pliers and knife functions, a 4-function hand-crank power station with radio, charger and flashlight and siren capabilities, and so much more
Your Guide to a 72-Hour Survival Kit
When unexpected events happen, having a 72-hour survival kit can make a big difference. This kit is your go-to resource for the first three days if you need to leave your home quickly or if services like water and electricity go out. Let’s explore what makes a good kit.
Key Features to Look For
A good 72-hour survival kit should be packed with essentials.
- Portability: It needs to be easy to carry. Look for a sturdy backpack or a durable duffel bag.
- Completeness: The kit should cover basic needs: water, food, shelter, first aid, and communication.
- Durability: The items inside should be able to withstand different conditions.
Important Materials
What goes inside your kit? Here’s a breakdown of crucial items.
- Water: At least one gallon per person per day. Water purification tablets or a filter are also smart additions.
- Food: Non-perishable food items that don’t need cooking. Think energy bars, canned goods, and dried fruit.
- Shelter: A lightweight emergency blanket or a small tent can provide protection from the elements.
- First Aid: A well-stocked first-aid kit is vital. It should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Tools: A multi-tool or a sturdy knife is incredibly useful. A flashlight with extra batteries is a must for darkness.
- Hygiene: Basic hygiene items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a toothbrush help maintain cleanliness.
- Communication: A whistle to signal for help and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to get information are important.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a kit great, and what makes it less useful?
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Improved Quality:
- High-quality water: Sealed, filtered water is better than just any water.
- Nutritious food: Food that provides energy and nutrients keeps you going.
- Comprehensive first aid: A kit with more items and clear instructions is more effective.
- Durable gear: Items made from strong materials last longer.
- Customization: A kit tailored to your specific needs (e.g., for a baby, a pet, or specific medical conditions) is top-notch.
-
Reduced Quality:
- Expired food or water: These items are not safe to consume.
- Cheap, flimsy materials: Items that break easily are not reliable.
- Missing essential items: A kit lacking water or first aid is not a complete survival kit.
- Difficult-to-use items: If you can’t figure out how to use something, it’s not helpful.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these kits, and what’s the experience like?
- User Experience: A well-packed kit provides peace of mind. When you need it, everything is organized and ready. It should be easy to grab and go. The contents should be simple to understand and use, even under stress.
- Use Cases:
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, or severe storms can disrupt services.
- Power Outages: Long power outages can make your home uncomfortable and unsafe.
- Evacuations: If you need to leave your home suddenly, your kit has what you need.
- Camping or Hiking: While not a primary purpose, some items can be useful for outdoor adventures.
Building or buying a 72-hour survival kit is a smart step towards preparedness. It ensures you have the basics covered when you need them most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 72-Hour Survival Kits
Q: What is a 72-hour survival kit?
A: A 72-hour survival kit is a collection of essential supplies designed to help you meet your basic needs for three days during an emergency.
Q: Why is it called a 72-hour kit?
A: It’s called a 72-hour kit because it’s meant to sustain you for approximately three days, which is the average time it might take for emergency services to reach you or for essential services to be restored.
Q: What are the most important items to have in a 72-hour kit?
A: The most important items include water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, and basic hygiene supplies.
Q: How much water should I include?
A: You should aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day. For a 72-hour kit, this means three gallons per person.
Q: What kind of food is best for a survival kit?
A: Non-perishable foods that require no cooking or minimal preparation are best. Examples include canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts.
Q: Do I need a special bag for my kit?
A: A sturdy backpack or duffel bag works well. It should be large enough to hold all your supplies and easy for you to carry.
Q: How often should I check and update my survival kit?
A: You should check your kit at least once a year. Replace any expired food, water, or medications, and check batteries in your flashlight and radio.
Q: Can I buy a pre-made survival kit, or should I build my own?
A: You can do either. Pre-made kits offer convenience, but building your own allows you to customize it for your specific needs and preferences.
Q: What if I have pets? Should I include supplies for them?
A: Yes, if you have pets, you should include a separate kit with food, water, and any necessary medications for them.
Q: What are some situations where a 72-hour survival kit would be useful?
A: It’s useful during natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes, extended power outages, or if you need to evacuate your home quickly.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.