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A crisis can strike at any moment—and when it does, every second counts. That's why in the face of severe weather or a power outage, having a prepared go-bag can help you navigate any crisis with a little more confidence and support.
An emergency go-bag or "grab-and-go bag" is exactly what it sounds like: a designated bundle or pack that's filled with just enough emergency essentials to sustain you (and your family) in the event of catastrophe or displacement.
From a First Aid kit to a portable power bank and nonperishable food items, your go-bag essentials might vary depending on your family size and needs—especially if you have toddlers, kiddos or pets. Stay prepared and shop exactly what to put in an emergency go-bag.
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What to pack in an emergency go-bag: Expert-recommended essentials
Below, we curated an emergency go-bag checklist that'll help you pack the main essentials and stay prepared in case of an emergency—especially if you're battling scorching heat wave temperatures or summer storms:
A First Aid kit
First Aid All-Purpose Emergency First Aid Kit
Have bandages, wrappings and other medical supplies at the ready with this portable First Aid kit.
Alvada Merino Wool Socks
Alvada Merino Wool Socks
Stay warm in even the briskest storm temperatures with these merino wool socks.
Chargers and power banks
FosPower Emergency Weather Radio Portable Power Bank
Keep your devices charged and powered at all times with this multifunctional power bank, which also doubles as a weather radio and flashlight.
Dreo Space Heater
Dreo Space Heater
On hurricane watch? Keep every corner of your home warm with this top-rated space heater from Amazon.
Non-perishable food
Readywise Emergency Food Supply Bucket
This top-rated food bucket is equipped with 120 servings of nonperishable meals.
A water filter and water tablets for clean drinking water
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
The best-selling LifeStraw Personal Water Filter makes any water clean to drink.
Aquatabs 397mg Water Purification Tablets
With these handy tablets, you can purify your water and ensure it's of the highest quality, no matter where you are.
Disinfectant wipes
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
Keep germs at bay with the help of these packable disinfectant wipes.
A flashlight
GearLight LED Flashlights
Caught in a power outage? These compact flashlights will help you see through the darkness, whether you're at home or outdoors.
A portable power station
Bluetti Solar Generator Elite 200 V2 2025 New
This new Bluetti solar generator is strong enough to help power your RV, camping gear or home in case of a power outage.
A reusable water bottle
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while you're on the go with this insulated Owala water bottle that's sure to keep liquids cold.
Miscellaneous emergency essentials
Prepared Hero Emergency Fire Blanket
Extinguish small fires quickly and effectively with the help of this best-selling fire blanket—available at Amazon.
What is a go-bag?
A "go bag" or "grab-and-go bag" is basically a pre-packed bundle of emergency essentials that can help you better navigate a time of crisis—whether it's a power outage, case of extreme weather or regional unrest due to conflict or war. Per the U.S. Department of State website, it's advised that people have a 72-hour kit prepared, with emergency items that can help sustain you and your family for (at minimum) 72 hours.
How to pack a go-bag:
The U.S. Department of State website offers a guide for emergency preparedness, including recommendations on what to pack in your go-bag. See a comprehensive guide to the top go-bag checklist essentials, below:
- 3-day supply of nonperishable food and water (per person)
- First Aid kit
- Batteries
- Personal documents (driver's license, passport, birth certificate)
- A flashlight
- Sanitary supplies
- Medications
- Extra clothes
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What to pack in a go-bag for weather emergencies and power outages
