72 Hour Emergency Backpack

I showed my bug-out-bag aka 72 hour emergency kit on my Instagram stories a while back and a bunch of you wanted to know what was in it. Well, I FINALLY got around to writing it up. It’s kind of a beast though, just warning you! In my defense, it’s pretty thorough. I mean, I researched this for awhile. Please, do yourself a favor and save time, by using this post instead 😉

1. Water. These portable water packets are lighter and easier to pack than water bottles.
2. Food. Meal replacement bars are light and have a long shelf life. Make sure to test out the bars before buying them in bulk to make sure you like the taste!
3. Whistle/compass/thermometer/magnifier. A great combo! A whistle in emergencies can last longer than your voice will. A compass to help you find your way. A thermometer to gauge the weather and a magnifier can help you start a fire. I love combos like this because it’s just one less thing you have carry!
4. A n99 mask like this helps keep you getting debris like smoke or dust in your lungs when you breathe.
5. Work gloves. These will help protect your hands as well as keep them warm.
6. Safety glasses that also work as sunglasses, another good combo!
7. Paracord bracelet. Paracord is always handy to have around. This clips onto your backpack and it has an extra compass as well.
8. Multi-tool. A great way to keep some tools handy, but in a small package.
9. A combo pick axe and shovel that folds for easy packing.
10. This hatchet also includes a knife.
11. A reliable and bright flashlight.
12. Headlamp. You can never have too many light sources. Especially when they’re hands-free.
13. This tarp can be used as a blanket or even at tent in a pinch.
14. Earplugs to keep water or ear-damaging sound to a minimum.
15. Signal Mirror. Keep this in your toiletry case to use as a mirror or you can also use its reflection to signal others.
16. Carabiners are one of the handiest little clips to have around.
17. Box cutter. Good for cutting more than just boxes!
18. 50 ft of strong rope.
19. Paper & pen. Always good to have on hand. And this is a water-proof version.
20. A quick-drying, compact camping towel.
21. Lifestraw. This handy little straw makes it possible to drink out of rivers, lakes and streams without getting sick.
22. This emergency candle will last 30 hours and I like that it’s in an easy-to-use portable tin.
23. Waterproof matches in a waterproof container.
24. Disinfecting wipes. I like wipes better than hand sanitizer, because you can try to clean the grime off as well as the germs with a wipe 😉
25. A knife, tinder, flint and a spork. A useful package deal.
26. Mess kit. I love this brand, they make a really compact and light-weight mess kit and they now have bio-plastic options!
27. A military can opener smaller that can fit on a keychain.
28. A metal, easily packable pan in order to cook things over a fire, if need be.
29. A small sewing kit.
30. Disposable gloves are always great to have around just in case.
31. Duct tape is one of those miracle items that can be used in so many different situations for so many different things.
32. A good first aid kit. Make sure you are familiar with everything in it and how to use it. Otherwise, what’s the point!
33. Ziplock bags and garbage bags.
34. A bunch of light sticks. Another great light source.
35. Survival tent. Lightweight and compact.
36. Bivy. Another name for a survival sleeping bag. Much, much better than an emergency blanket.
37. A toiletry kit. Make sure to add personalized items. I added glasses, contact solution and a contact case to mine.
38. A menstrual cup for women, better than having to deal with pads and tampons. And while you’re at it don’t for get TP, just pack a roll or two and remove the cardboard tube to flatten them out.
39. Hair bands for long hair.
40. Female urination device. No need to feel jealous that men can pee standing up in the bushes. This makes it possible for us women to do it too!
41. Hand and Feet Warmers. Good to keep those digits toasty.
42. Sunblock and lip balm with SPF.
43. Baby powder. Comes in handy for chafing and dry skin.
44. Insect repellant. Don’t be a meal for those pesky mosquitos!
45. A couple of local maps is really helpful if you end up without your cell phone.
46. Keep a durable wallet with a credit card and cash (in small bills) always in your bag. You can always add your ID later.
47. It’s important to include some fun and games for kids and adults! Puzzles, crayons, paper, toys, balls, etc.
48. Emergency Radio. This one has several power modes. You can charge it with a cord, solar or hand crank. And it can charge your phone as well.
49. Hiking boots are sturdy, water proof and great for walking especially if you’ll be trekking off road a bit. If you’re in a more urban area, a pair of good comfy sneaks might be more appropriate. Just make sure that whatever you choose is well broken in!
50. Wool socks. They keep your feet warm in the winter, cool in the summer and wick away moisture.
51. Don’t forget to pack yourself some underwear!
52. A comfortable sports bra or two.
53. A poncho in case of rain.
54. A sun hat and a beanie will help protect you from all the elements.
55. Bandanas are such a useful item to have around. So many uses!
56. Convertible pants. They might not look the prettiest, but they’re kind of genius.
57. A down jacket packs packs down nice and small, yet packs a punch when it comes to keeping you warm!
58. Wool shirts. I’d do long sleeve and short sleeve versions. You can’t go wrong with wool when you’re out in the elements.
59. Water bladder. Even thought you have the water packets already. It’s nice to have water readily available.
60. A comfortable, high capacity backpacking pack, designed to hold a lot of weight. Walmart has a bunch of reasonably priced ones or you can always find them used on eBay on steep discount!

And there you have it! Everything I have in my 72 hour emergency backpack! Of course, it’s always evolving…whether I’m switching out expired food or updating equipment or using equipment, so it’s a work in progress. Do you guys have a “bug out” bag? Do you have any things in your bag that I didn’t mention? Would love to hear your tips too, because I’m always improving mine!

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