If you’ve listened to my latest episode of The Dr. Virga Podcast, then you already know we dove deep into the topic of emergency preparedness and management. For those who missed the episode, don’t worry—I'm covering everything we discussed here and more.
Whether you're dealing with fire season (like me in California), hurricane season, or other potential emergencies, having a well-thought-out preparedness kit is essential. While FEMA and Ready.gov offer great guidelines on what should be included in a basic disaster supplies kit, I’ve taken it a few steps further, building a kit that not only prepares me for disasters but also accommodates my skills as a backpacker, bushcrafter, and search and rescue team member. Below, you'll find the breakdown of my kit, along with some personal recommendations that I’ve tested and trusted over the years.
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit – Essentials + My Recommendations
Here’s what FEMA recommends as a baseline for any emergency preparedness kit, along with my personal additions. I’ve linked a full list of these items on Amazon to help you get started: Emergency Kit Amazon List.
1. Water
FEMA’s Recommendation: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
My Additions:
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter: Great for filtering water on the go, especially if you can’t carry gallons with you.
LifeStraw: A compact filter for when you need to drink directly from a source.
Bleach Drops: In a pinch, you can purify water with bleach. Just make sure to use the correct ratio!
2. Food
FEMA’s Recommendation: A three-day supply of non-perishable food.
My Additions:
Pinnacle Foods Freeze-Dried Meals: These are calorie-dense and delicious, making them perfect for emergency situations or even just a craving.
ReadyWise Emergency Meals: Big buckets that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. I tested these during lockdowns, and they lasted me weeks!
3. Flashlight
My Recommendations:
Nitecore EDC27 Flashlight: My everyday carry flashlight, super bright, compact, and reliable.
Garmin Tactix 7: This tactical watch has a built-in flashlight, which serves as a handy backup.
Thorfire Hand-Crank Flashlight: A battery-free, hand-crank option that also charges via solar power.
4. First Aid Kit
My Approach: Rather than purchasing pre-made kits, I prefer to build my own with items I know how to use.
SAM Splint: Lightweight and great for orthopedic emergencies.
Alcohol Pads, Band-Aids, and Trauma Shears: Essential for minor injuries.
Tourniquet: A must-have for more severe injuries, but only if you know how to use it.
Quick Med Kit: I carry a small, daily-use kit for blisters, minor cuts, and personal hygiene.
5. Shelter
Options I Use:
Black Diamond Bipod Bivy: For emergency shelter when a tent isn’t feasible.
Emergency Mylar Blanket: Lightweight and heat-reflective for keeping warm.
Trekking Pole Tent: Compact and reliable for backpackers who want to keep their kit light.
6. Additional Gear
Nemo Quasar 3D Sleeping Pad: Provides insulation and comfort when sleeping in the wilderness or an emergency situation.
Helko Werk Hatchet: Useful for splitting wood or making kindling. A full-size axe is in my car kit, but this is perfect for a go-bag.
Jetboil Stove: Ideal for boiling water quickly, whether for food or purification.
Extra Tips and Considerations
Redundancy is key: Many of the items I keep in my kit have backups. For example, I have multiple ways to purify water (filters, bleach drops, boiling), and I carry several light sources.
Don’t Forget Your Pets: Your fur babies need their own food, water, and first aid supplies too. I carry stiptic powder for minor injuries and have freeze-dried food that aligns with my dog’s usual diet.
Test Your Kit: If you’ve never used the items in your kit, it’s time to practice. Whether it's starting a fire with a ferro rod or setting up an emergency shelter, knowing how to use your gear before you need it is critical.
For a full list of gear, visit my Amazon Emergency Preparedness List.
If you have any questions or recommendations on gear I should add, feel free to comment below. I love hearing from you guys and am always open to new ideas to enhance my preparedness kit.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and I'll catch you in the next podcast or blog post.
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