To simplify making a 72-hour kit, I divided "the big list" into 12 steps. I am not an expert on 72-Hour kits, but I get the highest number of hits on my blog about this topic, so I'm taking it seriously. I want to help you succeed and get the job done. Breaking this down into the following steps will hopefully make the task less daunting.
72-Hour Kit in 12 Steps
- Bedding
- Shelter
- Clothing
- Personal items
- Activities
- Food
- Food prep
- Emergency items
- Important papers
- Money
- Container(s)
- Additional emergency supplies
It may surprise you to see that I put the container towards the end of the process. Most people want to get that item first. But you could end up with the wrong size or container, so I suggest waiting. Don't "put the cart before the horse." For now, put your items in a box, bag or tote. Keep items small, lightweight and compact. Let's get moving.
Step 1: Bedding
- blanket
- emergency reflective blanket
- sleeping bag
Blanket - I like fleece blankets because they are warm, cheap and available everywhere after Christmas. But some people recommend wool blankets. Find one you would imagine using on a camping trip as you sit around a campfire. Make sure it fits around your body and feet. You probably have one in your house right now. Even though it won't fit in a backpack, it could be rolled up in your sleeping bag.
Emergency Reflective Blanket - These are lightweight, compact and cheap, and fit perfectly inside a kit. They use your own body heat to keep you warm and are waterproof. They can be found at Walmart, hardware stores or emergency supply stores.
Sleeping bag - Consider the cold temperatures in your area before purchasing, as most bags have a temperature rating. If you are lucky, yours will come with a nylon stuff bag. If not, you can put it in a kitchen trash bag or a Ziploc Big Bag. If you already own a sleeping bag, don't worry about finding a perfect one. Just add it to your pile. I store our sleeping bags in our emergency closet near our 72-hour kits. If you can't afford one right now for everyone in your family, you can always gather them one-at-a-time this year as they come on sale.
Go get Step 1 done today!
Keep watching for more steps on home to make your 72-hour kit.
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Yea! A current one I can follow! I find these a lot on Pinterest but they are usually from a year or two ago. I have sleeping bags for each of my kids but not for hubby and I ( we use king size comforters and an air mattress when we camp he's a wuss about sleeping on the ground lol)
ReplyDeleteI did want to add that if you have a baby you need a safe place to put them to sleep as well. Since pack n plays are bulky I suggest a bouncinette or an inflatable baby bed. I do keep inflatable swim rafts with the kids sleeping bags ( just the plain lay down kind) uniflated they aren't too heavy and could be very helpful depending on where you have to use that sleeping bag and for how long. I figure if we have an issue that involves crossing water. It could help my kids who aren't the strongest swimmers to stay afloat. Love double duty items!
I was wondering if anyone new a way to keep your sugar and powdered milk from going hard. I got them at the church cannery. They are both about 4 years old. Thank you.
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