Contents of our "go bag"

As promised, the following is our current "go bag" packing list.  All these supplies can usually be obtained from the camping section of your local Wal-Mart.  Inspiration was drawn from this list and instapundit (during Katrina), among others.

Standard advice is that you should be able to survive 72 hours (3 days) without any assistance from 9-1-1 and the local authorities. The biggest threat in eastern NC, where I live, is hurricanes.  However, I've had to weather Pitt County tornadoes (20+ funnels, 50+ killed) and ice storms (power out 3-4 days), where some of these items became vitally necessary.  I generally do not actually go anywhere with this stuff, so "go bag" is really just a handy place to keep disaster gear.

• pencils
• permanent markers (sharpies)
• memo pad / small notebook
• multi tool
• whistle + compass + thermometer (all-in-one gadget, but the whistle and compass are the most important items, separate or together)
• light sticks / chem lights
• zip loc bags
• trash bags
• fishing line
• duct tape
• camp soap
• water purification
• first aid kit
• rain poncho
• Space blanket
• 50' nylon / parachute cord
• work gloves
• Hand-cranked flashlight + radio
• Filtering water bottle
• 1-litre waterskin

The list is definitely incomplete, and needs updating.  Most notable things that are missing, and should probably be added:

• Important documents, emergency contact and medical information
• Copies of I.D. cards
• Color photos of all family members
• Cash, small denominations