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
