What to Store in an Emergency Preparedness Bag

We’ve discussed what to put in a disaster kit, but what if you have a little more room, such as an emergency preparedness bag?

Here’s what you can – and should – store inside. (And ideally, you’ll store it somewhere other than in your home; you’ll need it most if disaster strikes your house.)

What to Store in an Emergency Preparedness Bag

The bigger your bag, the more supplies you can stash away for an emergency. Consider adding:

Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Boxed food
Canned food
Cash and credit cards
Complete changes of clothing
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Fire extinguisher
Glasses and contact lens solution
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
Important family documents (insurance policies, identification and bank account records)
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
Matches in a waterproof container
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Non-prescription medications
Paper and pencil
Pet food (and extra water)
Prescription medications
Sleeping bags for each person

Check your bag periodically to make sure that food hasn’t expired or that your water hasn’t gone stagnant. You’ll also need to add to it when your family dynamics change (don’t forget to put in diapers if you’re expecting!) or when other items expire, as well.

It’s a good idea to keep this bag in your vehicle or somewhere other than your home, provided that you can access it easily.