Printable 72-Hour Emergency Kit Checklist
Use this as a practical family baseline. Store it with your kit, mark what is complete, and review it every 6 months.
Planning baseline: 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days, plus 3 days of
shelf-stable food, light, first aid, documents, power, hygiene, and family-specific items.
Water and hydration
- 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days
- Water bottles for transport
- Water purification tablets or backup treatment method
- Collapsible water containers
Food
- 3 days of shelf-stable food per person
- Manual can opener
- Ready-to-eat meals, bars, nut butter, tuna packets, or similar no-cook foods
- Infant, medical, or dietary-specific food if needed
First aid and health
- Family first aid kit
- 7-day backup of critical medications where possible
- Copies of prescriptions and important medical notes
- Gloves, masks, antiseptic wipes, and blister care
Light, power, and communication
- Flashlight or headlamp for each adult
- Extra batteries or rechargeable battery bank
- Phone charging cables
- NOAA weather radio or local alert backup
Documents and cash
- Copies of IDs, insurance cards, and emergency contacts
- Small amount of cash in useful denominations
- Printed family meeting place and out-of-area contact
- Waterproof document pouch or zip bag
Hygiene and weather
- Hand sanitizer, wipes, soap, and toilet paper
- Trash bags and basic sanitation supplies
- Seasonal clothing and sturdy shoes
- Rain protection, blankets, or compact warmth layer
Family add-on sheet
- Baby supplies: formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, pacifier, and comfort item
- Pet supplies: food, water bowl, leash, carrier, medication, and vaccination copy
- Kid supplies: snacks, small games, headphones, and a familiar comfort item
- Senior/accessibility supplies: backup glasses, hearing-aid batteries, mobility aids, and caregiver notes
Review log
Kit location: ________________________________
Last reviewed: _______________ Next review: _______________
Items to replace: ________________________________________________________________