Why keep an emergency kit?
A basic emergency kit gives you time and options during outages, water issues or evacuations. Aim for at least 72 hours of self-reliance. Keep it practical, portable and well maintained.
How big should it be?
Calculate per person. A grab-and-go backpack works for most households, plus a small home bin. Place frequently used items on top and label clearly.
Minimum contents by category
1) Water & purification
- Water: guideline 3 L per person per day → 9 L pp for 72 hours.
- Purification: compact filter bottle or tablets to top up safely.
- Containers: durable reusable bottles or jerrycans.
2) Food (shelf-stable)
- Calories & simplicity: energy bars, nuts, freeze-dried meals, pasta/rice, canned veg/fish.
- Preparation: lightweight cook set or ready-to-eat options; can opener + spork.
3) Lighting & power
- Flashlight + headlamp (preferably rechargeable) with spare batteries.
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh) and charging cables (incl. USB-C).
- Optional: compact solar panel or crank/solar emergency radio with power bank function.
4) Communications & info
- Emergency radio (AM/FM; weather/alert capable where applicable).
- Printed contacts + local paper map.
5) First aid & health
- Core first aid: plasters, gauze, bandages, antiseptic, tape, scissors, tweezers, gloves, pain relief.
- Personal: prescription meds + dosage/allergy card.
- Hygiene: wipes, soap, toothbrush, toilet paper, trash bags.
6) Shelter & clothing
- Emergency blanket and/or lightweight tarp/poncho.
- Layered clothing (quick-dry), spare socks, gloves, beanie.
7) Tools & repairs
- Multitool or sturdy knife, duct tape, paracord, storm matches/lighter.
- Small fixes: safety pins, zip ties, notepad + pen.
8) Documents, cash & extras
- Copies of ID/insurance/medical notes + encrypted USB with scans.
- Cash (small bills); spare keys.
- Special needs (infant, pet, diet, glasses/contacts).
Maintenance: the twice-a-year check
- Expiry & batteries: rotate food/meds; test lights and power banks.
- Seasonal update: adjust clothing and weather gear.
- Contact plan: verify numbers, meeting point and routes.
Quick 72-hour checklist
- Water 9 L pp • Food 6–9 meals pp • Flashlight + headlamp • Power bank + cables
- Emergency radio • First aid + meds • Hygiene kit • Tarp/poncho + emergency blanket
- Multitool/knife • Duct tape • Paracord • Document copies • Cash
Get started today
Begin with a compact set and expand over time. Explore Prepping.nl/noodpakketten for ready-made kits and add-ons like lights, radios, power banks and water filters to tailor your setup.