The Ultimate 17-Piece Urban Survival Gear Checklist for Emergency Preparedness
Prepare for urban emergencies with our 17-piece urban survival gear checklist.
From disaster kits to bug-out bags, this guide equips you for urban disasters where access to necessities may be limited.
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1. Disaster Kit
A disaster kit is a collection of essential items that you will need during an emergency.
It should include enough supplies to last at least three days. Some of the items that should be included in your disaster kit are:
- Water bottles or water purification tablets
- Non-perishable food items
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Medications and prescriptions
- Personal hygiene items
- Clothing and footwear
- Important documents (ID, passport, insurance, etc.)
- Cash and credit cards
- Emergency contact information
2. Bug Out Bag
A bug out bag (BOB) is a portable kit that contains essential items for survival.
It should be light enough to carry on your back and contain enough supplies to last at least three days.
Some of the items that should be included in your bug out bag are:
- Water bottles or water purification tablets
- Non-perishable food items
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Multi-tool
- Rope and carabiner
- Compass and map
- Fire starter
- Emergency shelter (tent or emergency blanket)
- Clothing and footwear
- Personal hygiene items
- Communication devices (radio or cell phone)
- Self-defense items
3. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is an essential item for emergency preparedness. It should contain basic medical supplies to treat minor injuries and illnesses.
Some of the items that should be included in your first aid kit are:
- Bandages and gauze
- Antibacterial ointment
- Tweezers and scissors
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medication
- Thermometer
- Disposable gloves
- Sanitary wipes
- Eye drops
Our pick for the best first aid kit is the First Aid Only 299 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit.
4. Water Filtration
Access to clean drinking water is essential during an emergency.
A water filtration system can provide safe drinking water even if the water supply is contaminated. Some of the options for water filtration include:
- Water filtration bottles
- Water filtration straws
- Water purification tablets
- Portable water filters
5. Shelter
Emergency shelter is essential if you need to evacuate your home or if you are stranded outdoors. Some of the options for emergency shelter include:
- Tents
- Emergency blankets
- Emergency bivvies
- Tarps
6. Fire Starter
Starting a fire can be essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help.
Having a reliable fire starter in your emergency gear is crucial. Some of the options for fire starters include:
- Waterproof matches
- Firestarter sticks
- Lighters
- Ferrocerium rods
7. Multi-Tool
A multi-tool is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for various tasks during an emergency. Some of the features to look for in a multi-tool include:
- Pliers
- Knife blade
- Saw
- Screwdrivers
- Can opener
- Scissors
8. Flashlight and Batteries
Having a reliable source of light during an emergency is essential, especially in urban areas where power outages may occur.
Some of the options for flashlights include:
- LED flashlights
- Headlamps
- Hand-crank flashlights
- Solar-powered flashlights
Don’t forget to pack extra batteries for your flashlight, as well as any other battery-operated devices you may have.
9. Communication Devices
It’s crucial to stay connected with family members and emergency services during a disaster. Some of the options for communication devices include:
- Cell phones
- Two-way radios
- Emergency whistles
10. Navigation Tools
Knowing your way around an urban area during an emergency is essential, especially if you need to evacuate.
Some of the options for navigation tools include:
- Compass
- City maps
- GPS devices
- Smartphone apps
11. Self-Defense Items
In an emergency, personal safety is a top priority. Having self-defense items in your survival gear can provide added protection.
Some of the options for self-defense items include:
- Pepper spray
- Stun guns
- Tactical knives
- Personal alarms
12. Food Storage
Having non-perishable food items in your emergency gear is essential for survival.
Some of the options for food storage include:
- Canned goods
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Energy bars
- Freeze-dried meals
13. Hygiene Products
Maintaining personal hygiene during an emergency is important to prevent illness and infection.
Some of the items that should be included in your hygiene products are:
- Soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Feminine hygiene products
- Toilet paper
14. Clothing and Footwear
Having extra clothing and footwear in your emergency gear is essential for comfort, warmth, and protection from the elements.
Some of the items that should be included are:
- Extra socks
- Undergarments
- Warm layers (fleece or down jackets)
- Rain gear
- Sturdy shoes or boots
15. Backpack
A durable, comfortable backpack is essential for carrying all of your emergency gear.
Look for a backpack with multiple compartments, padded shoulder straps, and a hip belt for added support.
16. Sleeping Bag and Tent
If you need to shelter outdoors during an emergency, having a sleeping bag and tent can provide warmth and protection from the elements.
Choose a lightweight, compact option that is easy to carry in your backpack.
17. Rope and Carabiner
A sturdy rope and carabiner can be useful in various emergency situations, such as securing items, creating a makeshift shelter, or even climbing.
Look for a rope with a high tensile strength and durable carabiners
