Why set a timeframe?
Preparedness is about bridging time without outside help. By setting clear goals — 72 hours, 7 days, 14 days and 30 days — you can plan efficiently and avoid over- or under-stocking.
Quick overview by timeframe
| Time | Purpose | Core Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 72 hours | Initial buffer | Water, simple meals, light, emergency radio, flashlight, basic first aid |
| 7 days | Short disruption | Food rotation, extra water, powerbank/solar, hygiene |
| 14 days | Regional outage | Menu planning, fuel/cooking, medication supply, waste management |
| 30 days | Extended disruption | Bulk storage (mylar/cans), water replenishment/treatment, energy management |
Water needs
- Baseline: at least 3 L per person per day (drink + cook). More in heat/high activity.
- Totals: 72h = 9 L pp | 7d = 21 L pp | 14d = 42 L pp | 30d = 90 L pp.
- Replenish: pair storage with filtration/treatment; see our water guide.
Food planning
Aim for 1,800–2,400 kcal per person per day. Choose fuel-efficient “one-pot” meals.
- 72h: bars, nuts, crackers, canned fish/beans, instant.
- 7–14d: rice/pasta/couscous + legumes + oil; add freeze-dried as needed.
- 30d: bulk staples in mylar + mixed cans for variety. Rotate regularly.
See also: Emergency Food Advice.
Power & communications
- Light: rechargeable flashlight/headlamp + spare cells.
- Power: powerbank (ideally solar-enabled) for phone/flashlight/radio.
- Information: emergency radio for alerts.
- Cooking: compact gas/alcohol stove, safe setup, ventilation and extinguisher.
Health & first aid
- First aid: plasters, gauze, bandages, antiseptic, gloves, pain relief.
- Medication: personal meds for 14–30 days where possible.
- Hygiene: wipes, hand gel, toilet paper, waste bags.
Documents, cash & organization
- Documents: copies of ID, insurance, medical data (waterproof folder).
- Cash: small bills; see emergency cash.
- Storage: cool/dry/accessible; see where to store your kit.
Build up in stages
- Level 1 – 72h: start with a base kit + water + light + radio.
- Level 2 – 7d: double water/food; add powerbank and stove.
- Level 3 – 14d: plan menus, meds, hygiene & waste.
- Level 4 – 30d: bulk storage, water replenishment, solar/dynamo power.
Common pitfalls
- Gear without practice: run blackout drills and test gear.
- No rotation: biannual checks for expiry, batteries, meds.
- Overweight kits: keep mobility; prioritize quality over quantity.
- No plan for dependents: consider kids/elderly/pets and special diets.
Conclusion
72 hours is the practical starting point. Progress to 7–14 days and, when appropriate, 30 days. Build gradually, rotate smartly and keep the pillars tight: water, food, light/power, information and care. That’s sustainable self-reliance.