Emergency “go-bag”
Is it worth having an emergency go-bag?
Yes — it helps you stay prepared for sudden situations where you may need to leave home quickly. A go-bag allows you to secure basic needs (water, food, hygiene items), important documents, and medicines. It also provides a sense of control and helps reduce panic.
Why have a go-bag?
- Quick response: In an emergency, you can grab the essentials immediately instead of wasting precious time gathering them.
- Basic needs covered: gives access to water, food, hygiene supplies, and first aid — all crucial in the first days after an incident when outside help may be limited.
- Peace of mind: having a packed bag reduces stress and panic because you know you have what you need close at hand.
- Mobility: makes it easier to quickly leave a dangerous area, as it is easy to carry.
- Versatility: useful not only during natural disasters, but also in situations such as a car breakdown, getting lost outdoors, or a house fire.
Keep in mind
- Tailor the contents: pack the bag to suit your and your family’s needs (e.g., prescription medicines, children’s supplies, or items for elderly family members).
- Update regularly: check and replace items like food, medicines, and batteries frequently
What should an emergency go-bag contain?
A go-bag should include items that help you manage the first few days. Suggested list:
Documents and money
- ID documents, birth certificates, property documents
- insurance documents, and proof of income
- a USB drive with digital copies of key documents
- cash in small denominations (useful for buying food or fuel)
Equipment and tools
- a battery-powered radio and spare batteries
- a torch with spare batteries
- a compass, a local map, GPS
- multi-tool items (pliers, knife, crowbar)
- a whistle for signalling
- a lighter or matches
- a can opener
- a notebook and a pencil
Food and water
- two days’ worth of food (canned food, energy bars, dry rations)
- a water-filter bottle with a new filter
Clothing and protection
- a change of clothes
- a waterproof jacket
- a sleeping bag
- respiratory protective masks
Hygiene and health
A basic first-aid kit, including:
- pain relief, anti-diarrhoea medication, electrolytes
- dressings, bandages, plasters, an emergency blanket, a thermometer, and tweezers
- soap and hand sanitiser
- rubbish bags
Additional items
- rubber bands, cords, insulating tape
- a car charger or power bank
- a phone with a backup power source
How to prepare your go-bag
- Tailor the contents: include each household member’s individual needs (e.g., prescription medicines, glasses).
- Label the bag: attach a card with your name, address, and contact number.
- Store it somewhere accessible so it’s always ready to grab.
- Check it regularly: monitor expiry dates for food and water, and ensure all equipment works.
- Prepare backup sets: consider additional bags at work and in your car.
Key tips
- Keep it light, comfortable, and easy to carry.
- Each household member should have their own kit.
- Update the contents regularly so it’s always ready to use.
More information on emergency preparedness is available on the Government Centre for Security (RCB) website