What Makes a Quality Survival Kit? Choosing the Right Kit for Every Situation

Prepared individuals are better equipped to survive an emergency situation. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducts the only disaster preparedness survey administered by the federal government. This survey found that “the public is experiencing a wave of culture change in disaster preparedness,” with 81% of respondents having already gathered emergency supplies.

But simply having some emergency supplies isn't enough. Supply type and quality make a significant difference in survival rates. FEMA recommends that individuals and organizations maintain at least three days' worth of supplies. The risk is that medical equipment, food, and water can expire or run out.

At EmergencyKits.com, we understand that emergencies can strike unexpectedly and often require specific solutions. Our kits are designed with this in mind, offering a range of options tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're preparing for a home emergency, workplace disruption, or unexpected travel, we have a kit that can help.

Why Survival Kits Matter for Every Situation

Survival kits aren’t just for a disaster scenario. What happens when the power gets knocked out for hours or days at a time? The roads may not be safe, and the stores may be closed. The food in your refrigerator will spoil. Your oven and microwave won’t work.

In an actual disaster, you may need to shelter in place or evacuate immediately. You need ready-to-go supplies for all scenarios, including situations like:

  • Natural disasters, including:
    • Hurricanes
    • Tornadoes
    • Storms
    • High water
    • Tidal waves
    • Tsunamis
    • Earthquakes
    • Volcanic eruptions
    • Landslides
    • Mudslides
  • Vehicle breakdowns
  • Terror attacks
  • Hazardous material releases
  • Fire
  • Utility breakdown


A ready-made, purpose-built kit saves time in these stressful situations and ensures no essential is overlooked.

Key Features of a High-Quality Survival Kit

The survival kits at EmergencyKits.com are field-tested and created by emergency preparedness professionals. We understand your needs in an emergency and create kits with the following qualities.

Durability and Portability

A grab-and-go kit must be sturdy, weather-resistant, and easy to carry. The standard one-person backpack emergency kit weighs just 3.16 pounds. Even a child could carry this kit in an emergency.

Even during a shelter-in-place situation, you may need to move your kit from one area to another. That’s why it’s crucial to have a sturdy, reliable bag for carrying provisions. An able adult should be able to transport enough supplies for several individuals in a well-packed duffel bag.

Comprehensive Supply Range

Critical supply categories are food, water, first aid, communication, and shelter. Below, we explore the basic components needed in each category. Remember, adults and children have different needs. For example, young children require less food, while infants need specific items like formula or baby food.

When it comes to water, the industry standard for survival focuses on eight ounces per person per day. This amount ensures hydration during emergencies. Use the calculations below to determine how much water you’ll need to supply for your crew:

  • 8 oz. of water x # people x 3 days
Long Shelf Life

Your kit needs products like emergency food and water with extended expiration dates. These supplies must be clearly labeled with expiration information.

Other Supplies

You may want to keep other supplies on hand that are tailored to you and your family. These supplies won’t be included in any survival kit but can be added to the duffel or backpack.

  • Change of clothes
  • Sanitary products
  • Sleeping pads
  • Family and friend contact information
  • Local maps

We also recommend that you make an emergency plan with your loved ones. This plan will establish how to stay connected in an emergency. It will ensure everyone knows how to contact each other and where to meet if you become separated.

This plan is especially important when you have children or older family members. Keep physical copies of this plan in your survival kits.

The Components That Define a Grab-and-Go Kit

You and your family need essential survival gear that provides sustenance, medical care, shelter, and access to communication. Being prepared means purchasing survival kits that contain the following supplies.

Emergency Food and Water Supplies

Follow the FEMA guidelines and always keep three full days' worth of emergency food and water. This includes calorie-dense, shelf-stable meals, and purified water.

First Aid and Medical Supplies

The Mayo Clinic recommends keeping at least one first-aid kit in your home at all times. The medical supplies in a grab-and-go or shelter-in-place kit are separate from this standard first aid kit. Your emergency kit should contain materials that treat trauma injuries as well as administer first aid.

Stock your kit with the medications you and your family need in addition to the following:

  • Single-Use Thermometers
  • Gloves
  • Tweezers
  • Mini Scissors
  • Various-Sized Gauze
  • Antiseptic Wipes
  • Triple Antibiotic Ointment
  • Bandages
  • First Aid Guide
  • Paper Surgical Tape
  • Trauma Dressings
  • Wire Splints
  • Wound Closures
  • CPR Shields
  • Eye Wash
  • Burn Gel
Shelter and Warmth

These supplies prepare you to shelter at home, outside, at school, at work, and more. Hypothermia can occur at temperatures over 40°F, so maintaining your body heat and avoiding the elements is crucial.

  • Emergency Blankets
  • Ponchos
  • Tube Tents
  • Plastic Sheeting
  • Tarps
  • Hand Warmers
Communication and Navigation Tools

Maintaining communication is essential during an emergency. EmergencyKits.com provides a comprehensive selection of radios, megaphones, and whistles to stay connected.

  • Whistles
  • Flashlights
  • Hand-Crank Radios
  • Two-Way Radio
  • Megaphones

Why Choose a Premade Survival Kit Over DIY

Do-it-yourself kits require a deep understanding of emergency situations and ample assembly time. Most people aren't crisis and survival experts, making this a significant challenge.

Professionally designed kits ensure quality and compliance with guidelines. They arrive straight to your door, saving time and stress. These kits are tailored to your exact needs and include:

  • Residential Emergency Kits for Adults, Children, and Seniors
  • Pet Emergency Kits
  • School Emergency Kits
  • Lockdown Emergency Kits
  • Student Emergency Kits
  • Teacher Emergency Kits
  • Classroom Emergency Kits
  • Office Emergency Kits
  • Car Emergency Kits
  • And More

EmergencyKits.com creates tailored kits for diverse needs. We believe that being prepared involves more than just supplies. Explore our free emergency information and planning guides to help you stay ready for any situation.

As a professional readiness business, we take our customers' safety seriously and follow the guidelines established by FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security.

Prepare for the Unexpected with the Right Survival Kit

Preparedness can make all the difference in a crisis. A well-stocked, quality survival kit ensures you and your loved ones have the essentials to stay safe.

EmergencyKits.com specializes in expertly designed kits tailored to meet various emergency needs. These kits are packed with carefully selected items, from food and water to first aid and tools, so that you can face any emergency.

Explore the extensive collection at EmergencyKits.com to find the options that suit your needs and take the first step in ensuring your preparedness.