Comparison: Best 72 Hour Emergency Bag (Updated | Dec 3rd)
When disaster strikes, being prepared can make all the difference—and that’s where a solid 72-hour emergency bag comes in. Whether it’s a storm, blackout, or unexpected evacuation, having the right gear ready to grab and go gives you peace of mind when you need it most. I’ve tested and compared top-rated emergency kits so you don’t have to. From compact essentials to full-featured survival packs, let’s break down what actually works, what’s worth the price, and which bag truly earns its spot in your home.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for compact car kit: Ready America 70280 72 Hour Emergency Kit
- Best for tactical survival pack: EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family
- Best for deluxe power station: Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit
- Best for hydration gear set: TacPreps 72-Hour Survival Kit | 45L Bug Out Bag | Survival Gear with First Aid
- Best for family-size survival: EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family
- Best for discreet survival kit: Emergency Zone Essentials 72-Hour Survival Kit – 2 Person | Bug Out Bag Backpack with Water Filter Straw and Emergency Supplies | The Optimal Disaster and Earthquake Emergency Kit
- Best for solo lightweight kit: Ready America 70180 72 Hour Emergency Kit
- Best for premium comm gear: Denver: Premium 72 Hour Survival Backpack with Supplies – 2024 Model Bug Out Bag Backpack – Upgraded Go Bag Emergency Backpack w/Complete Tactical Survival Kit – Bug Out Bag Survival Kit for 2 Person
- Best for solo tactical kit: Stealth Angel 1 Person Black 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes
- Best for dual-person tactical: Stealth Angel 2 Person Tan 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes
Product Comparison: Best 72 Hour Emergency Bag
Compact Car Kit
Ready America 70280 72 Hour Emergency Kit, 2-Person, 3-Day Backpack, Includes First Aid Kit, Survival Blanket, Portable Preparedness Go-Bag for Camping, Car, Earthquake, Travel, Hiking, and Hunting, Red
Ready America
- Emergency Kit For Disaster Preparedness: Stay Prepared For Emergency Situations Everywhere You Go. Ready America Emergency Survival Kits Sustain 2 People For 3 Days (72 Hours). Basic Essential Emergency Supplies Recommended By The American Red Cross
- Includes 33-Piece First Aid Kit: Comes With First Aid Essentials For Minor Injuries Like Bandages And Wound Cleaning Solution. Take Care Of Medical Emergencies With Easy-To-Use Supplies. Great For A Car Emergency Kit Or Boat Accessories
- Food, Water, Emergency Blankets: Everything You Need In Case Of An Emergency. 2 Survival Food Bars (2400 Calories) And Water Pouches With A 5-Year Shelf Life, Survival Blankets, Disposable Dust Masks, Nitrile Gloves, Whistle, Ponchos, Pocket Tissues
- Two Safety Light Sticks: In Case You’Re Outdoors Or In The Wilderness With No Light, This Emergency Bag Includes Two Safety Light Sticks. Equipped With Survival Gear For Hunting, Boating, Workplace, Camping, Backpacking, Fishing, Hiking, Travel, Home
Tactical Survival Pack
EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family, Preparedness for Hurricanes, Floods, Tsunami, Other Disasters
EVERLIT
- ✅【72 Hours for 2 People, STORM II Emergency Survival Kit】STORM II EMERGENCY KIT was designed and hand-picked by survivalists, experts, and veterans. Including everything you and your loved ones would need to survive for 72 hours. The most comprehensive and ULTIMATE emergency kit to get you well-prepared for any emergency or disaster. Everything is stuffed in a heavy-duty tactical backpack.
- ✅【Water & Food Approved by U.S. Coast Guard, Water Filtration Tablets】 24 Packs of 125ML Emergency Drinking Water and 2 Packs of 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar are provided in the bag with 5-Years Shelf Life. Meets FEMA Guideline for a minimum 1000 calories/day/person. In addition, the water purification tablets can treat up to 25 quarts of water.
- ✅【First Aid Essential, CAT Tourniquet for Bleeding Control】200 Pieces comprehensive medical supplies and CAT tourniquet for traumatic wound covers all medical needs.
- ✅【Premium Protection/ Survival Gear and Tools】 Offers the most high quality, practical supplies on the market, including 3 in 1 Hand-Crank flashlight (radio and phone charger), emergency shelter, thermal blankets, poncho, goggles, gloves, CAT tourniquets, camping knife, compass, glow sticks and many more. Enough to keep you safe and prepared during the first critical 72 hours of any unpredictable emergency event.
- ✅【Heavy Duty Tactical Military-Spec Molle Backpack, Organized Design】 Easy to organize and store with four main compartments of the bag and many inner pockets. Made from 1000D polyester, the bag is tear and water-resistant and designed to survive in harsh environments. Features adjustable waist strap and shoulder straps, tough zippers, and comfortable mesh padding. The front and side molle panel can be used to attach your personal gear.
Deluxe Power Station
Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit, 2-Person 3-Day Backpack, First Aid Kit, Survival Blanket, Power Station, Emergency Food, Portable Disaster Preparedness Go-Bag for Earthquake, Fire, Flood
Ready America
- 72-hour emergency kit for disaster preparedness: Stay prepared for emergency situations everywhere you go. Ready America emergency survival kits have enough supplies for 2 people for 3 days (72 hours). Basic essential emergency supplies as recommended by the American Red Cross, as well as a hygiene kit, dust masks, survival blankets and ponchos
- Includes 33-piece first aid kit: Comes with first aid essentials for minor injuries such as bandages and wound cleaning solution. Take care of medical emergencies with easy-to-use supplies. Great for a car emergency kit or boat accessories
- Food and water: Everything you need in case of an emergency. 2 x 2400 calories U.S. Coast Guard approved survival food bars, 6 x 4.225oz water pouches (both food and water have 5 year shelf life from date of manufacture), water purification tablets and a BPA free water bottle
- Deluxe additions: The deluxe emergency kit includes a stainless steel multi-function pocket tool with screwdriver, pliers and knife functions, a 4-function hand-crank power station with radio, charger and flashlight and siren capabilities, and so much more
Hydration Gear Set
TacPreps 72-Hour Survival Kit | 45L Bug Out Bag | Survival Gear with First Aid, Water Filter, Food, Tools | Camping, Hiking, Outdoor Preparedness Equipment (2 Persons – Elite Kit)
TacPreps
- PREMIUM 45L TACTICAL BACKPACK: Durable, water-resistant pack designed for comfort and functionality. Multiple compartments for organized storage of all your essential gear. Ideal for outdoor activities or unexpected events.
- SUSTENANCE & COOKING KIT: Includes portable cookware, and long-lasting food options. Granola and nutrient-dense food bars provide quick energy. Compact and lightweight for easy transport and storage.
- ADVANCED HYDRATION SYSTEM: Ensures clean water in any situation. Includes efficient water filter, and 12 water pouches. Stay hydrated safely, wherever your adventures take you.
- COMPREHENSIVE FIRST AID KIT: IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) equipped with essential medical supplies. Be prepared to address minor injuries and provide initial care during emergencies.
- VERSATILE EMERGENCY TOOLS: Multifunctional gear for various scenarios. Includes rechargeable headlamps, saw, compass with whistle, multitool, duct tape, work gloves, and zip ties. Plus, a solar-powered radio/light combo for communication and illumination.
Family-Size Survival
EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family, Preparedness for Hurricanes, Floods, Tsunami, Other Disasters
EVERLIT
- ✅【72 Hours for 3 People, STORM II Emergency Survival Kit】STORM II EMERGENCY KIT was designed and hand-picked by survivalists, experts, and veterans. Including everything you and your loved ones would need to survive for 72 hours. The most comprehensive and ULTIMATE emergency kit to get you well-prepared for any emergency or disaster. Everything is stuffed in a heavy-duty tactical backpack.
- ✅【Water & Food Approved by U.S. Coast Guard, Water Filtration Tablets】 36 Packs of 125ML Emergency Drinking Water and 3 Packs of 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Bar are provided in the bag with 5-Years Shelf Life. Meets FEMA Guideline for a minimum 1000 calories/day/person. In addition, the water purification tablets can treat up to 25 quarts of water.
- ✅【First Aid Essential, CAT Tourniquet for Bleeding Control】200 Pieces comprehensive medical supplies and CAT tourniquet for traumatic wound covers all medical needs.
- ✅【Premium Protection/ Survival Gear and Tools】 Offers the most high quality, practical supplies on the market, including 3 in 1 Hand-Crank flashlight (radio and phone charger), emergency shelter, thermal blankets, poncho, goggles, gloves, CAT tourniquets, camping knife, compass, glow sticks and many more. Enough to keep you safe and prepared during the first critical 72 hours of any unpredictable emergency event.
- ✅【Heavy Duty Tactical Military-Spec Molle Backpack, Organized Design】 Easy to organize and store with four main compartments of the bag and many inner pockets. Made from 1000D polyester, the bag is tear and water-resistant and designed to survive in harsh environments. Features adjustable waist strap and shoulder straps, tough zippers, and comfortable mesh padding. The front and side molle panel can be used to attach your personal gear.
Discreet Survival Kit
Emergency Zone Essentials 72-Hour Survival Kit – 2 Person | Bug Out Bag Backpack with Water Filter Straw and Emergency Supplies | The Optimal Disaster and Earthquake Emergency Kit
Emergency Zone
- ✅【72 Hour Survival Backpack】: Multi-purpose 72-hour survival go bag for you and your family, equipped with emergency supplies to safeguard against disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, civil unrest, pandemics, wildfires, winter storms, evacuations, and more, ensuring peace of mind.
- ✅【Undercover Readiness】: Crafted for disaster preparedness, our survival backpack features a discreet design, allowing you to stay under the radar during emergencies. Conceal crucial emergency supplies seamlessly, ensuring subtlety and preparedness in any situation.
- ✅【Long Lasting 5 year shelf life】: USA made SOS brand food rations and water are US Coast Guard approved, have a 5-year shelf life, space-efficient, great tasting and calorie dense, the food ration bars require no extra water to rehydrate, no reheating, and were developed to be non-thirst inducing.
- ✅【3x Purified Water】: In addition to the S.O.S brand emergency water pouches, this kit features a Frontier Straw Filter, giving you the power to use any water source. This innovative straw filters up to 30 gallons of water.
- ✅【53 pc Basic Survival First Aid Kit】: Featuring a compact and durable pouch, this on-the-go first aid kit is a basic yet comprehensive solution for minor emergencies. Designed for mobility and durability, it provides peace of mind in unexpected situations.
Solo Lightweight Kit
Ready America 70180 72 Hour Emergency Kit, 1-Person, 3-Day Backpack, Includes First Aid Kit, Survival Blanket, Emergency Food Portable Disaster Preparedness Go-Bag for Earthquake, Fire, Flood
Ready America
- EMERGENCY KIT FOR DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Stay prepared for emergency situations everywhere you go. Ready America emergency survival kits sustain 1 person for 3 days (72 hours). Basic essential emergency supplies recommended by the American Red Cross
- INCLUDES FIRST AID KIT: Comes with first aid essentials for minor injuries like bandages and wound cleaning solution. Take care of medical emergencies with easy-to-use supplies. Great for a car emergency kit or boat accessories
- FOOD, WATER, EMERGENCY BLANKETS: Everything you need in case of an emergency. 1 survival food bar (2400 calories) and water pouches with a 5-year shelf life, survival blankets, disposable dust masks, nitrile gloves, whistle, ponchos, pocket tissues
- SAFETY LIGHT STICKS: In case you’re outdoors or in the wilderness with no light, this emergency bag includes a safety light stick. Equipped with survival gear for hunting, boating, workplace, camping, backpacking, fishing, hiking, travel, home
- PORTABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK: Keep supplies at the ready with this packed handy backpack ready for emergencies that’s lightweight and easy to carry. Store this day pack wherever it can be easily accessed. A great gift for everyone
Premium Comm Gear
Denver: Premium 72 Hour Survival Backpack with Supplies – 2024 Model Bug Out Bag Backpack – Upgraded Go Bag Emergency Backpack w/Complete Tactical Survival Kit – Bug Out Bag Survival Kit for 2 Person
The Denver Survival Company
- Our best selling model has now been upgraded! New upgrades include powerful 5 Watt Walkie Talkies. 5x more powerful than our previous walkie talkies. Our Solar Lantern has also been upgraded to LED COB Technology – Twice as bright as before!
- Comprehensive Preparedness: The 2 Person 72 Hour Emergency Bug Out Bag features a durable 45-liter 900D Tactical Backpack, ensuring you have ample space and a reliable storage solution for crucial supplies in emergency situations.
- Food and Water: Stay energized with two 3600 Calorie Food Bars and twelve packets of sealed water, providing sustenance and water for you and your companion during the critical 72-hour window. Additionally, two Freeze-Dried Oatmeal Breakfasts offer a quick and nourishing meal. Use it when you need it! Purposely crafter for long shelf life.
- Versatile Cooking Capability: Equip yourself with the 10 Piece Stainless Steel Camp Cook Set, allowing you to prepare meals wherever you find yourself. The TPU Water Bladder provides additional water storage capacity for cooking and drinking.
- Essential Tools for Unforeseen Challenges: Equip yourself with indispensable tools like Paracord for multifunctional use, a Folding Stove for cooking and heat, an LED Flashlight ensuring visibility during dark hours, a Compass for precise navigation, and a Whistle for signaling emergencies. Ensure comfort and protection against the elements with Emergency Blankets and a Poncho.
- Effective Communication and Safety Measures: Stay informed and connected with Upgraded 5 Watt 2 Way Radios and a 2000mAh Emergency NOAA Radio. Illuminate your surroundings and beckon for assistance with the Upgraded LED COB Solar Lantern. Prioritize safety with the comprehensive 184 Piece First Aid Kit.
Solo Tactical Kit
Stealth Angel 1 Person Black 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, and Other Natural Disasters
Stealth Angel
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee – All essential emergency items packed securely in our high quality backpacks
- CHOOSE between our 1 Person (for the solo survivalist), 2 Person (for you and a friend), 4 Person or 5 Person (for your entire family)
- DESIGNED using advice from experts in the emergency preparedness industry and follows guidelines given by government agencies and non-profit preparedness organizations
- FOOD & WATER: Making sure hunger and thirst are not a problem, included in the kit are 72 hours supply of water pouches, food bars, and water purification tablets!
- LIGHT & COMMUNICATION: Our kits are also equipped with flashlights, a hand-crank radio, and an emergency whistle for safety and connectivity!
- SHELTER & WARMTH: Stay warm and shielded from harsh weather with emergency blankets, body warmers, ponchos, and a durable tube tent, ensuring complete protection against the elements!
- MULIT-FUNCTIONAL TOOLS: Equip yourself with the ultimate survival arsenal: A versatile 8-In-1 multitool, powerful flashlight, precise compass! Everything you need to tackle any emergency with confidence and ease!
- FIRST AID KIT: Be prepared for any injury with our first aid kit, packed with essential medical supplies to treat minor wounds and prevent serious health issues during emergencies!
- HYGIENE KIT: Maintain cleanliness and boost morale with our comprehensive hygiene kit, featuring essentials like shampoo, toothpaste, and face masks to keep you refreshed and protected in any emergency!
Dual-Person Tactical
Stealth Angel 2 Person Tan 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, and Other Natural Disasters
Stealth Angel
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee – All essential emergency items packed securely in our high quality backpacks
- CHOOSE between our 1 Person (for the solo survivalist), 2 Person (for you and a friend), 4 Person or 5 Person (for your entire family)
- DESIGNED using advice from experts in the emergency preparedness industry and follows guidelines given by government agencies and non-profit preparedness organizations
- FOOD & WATER: Making sure hunger and thirst are not a problem, included in the kit are 72 hours supply of water pouches, food bars, and water purification tablets!
- LIGHT & COMMUNICATION: Our kits are also equipped with flashlights, a hand-crank radio, and an emergency whistle for safety and connectivity!
- SHELTER & WARMTH: Stay warm and shielded from harsh weather with emergency blankets, body warmers, ponchos, and a durable tube tent, ensuring complete protection against the elements!
- MULIT-FUNCTIONAL TOOLS: Equip yourself with the ultimate survival arsenal: A versatile 8-In-1 multitool, powerful flashlight, precise compass! Everything you need to tackle any emergency with confidence and ease!
- FIRST AID KIT: Be prepared for any injury with our first aid kit, packed with essential medical supplies to treat minor wounds and prevent serious health issues during emergencies!
- HYGIENE KIT: Maintain cleanliness and boost morale with our comprehensive hygiene kit, featuring essentials like shampoo, toothpaste, and face masks to keep you refreshed and protected in any emergency!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing a 72‑hour emergency kit?
Look at the number of people the kit supports, the calorie and water provisions, and the quality of medical and survival tools. Check the shelf life of food and water, the durability of the backpack, and whether the kit includes power‑generation devices. Also compare price per person to gauge overall value.
How do the Ready America kits differ from the EVERLIT Storm II kits?
Ready America kits focus on basic essentials with a lightweight backpack, offering 2‑person support and a 33‑piece first‑aid kit. EVERLIT Storm II kits are larger, tactical‑style packs that include advanced gear such as a hand‑crank radio/charger, CAT tourniquets, and more water purification tablets. The Storm II models also tend to be heavier but provide a broader range of survival tools.
Which kit offers the most comprehensive medical supplies?
Both the EVERLIT Storm II and the Emergency Zone Essentials kits list around 200 medical items, including CAT tourniquets for severe bleeding. The Ready America deluxe kit adds a multi‑function pocket tool and a 4‑function hand‑crank power station but has a smaller first‑aid inventory. For sheer medical depth, the EVERLIT Storm II models are the leaders.
Is a larger backpack capacity worth the extra weight?
A larger 45‑liter pack, like the TacPreps or Denver models, gives room for extra food, water, and gear, which can be valuable for extended evacuations or groups larger than two. However, the added weight may reduce comfort during long hikes or quick evacuations. Choose a larger pack if you anticipate longer stays or need more equipment, otherwise a smaller 30‑35 L bag is easier to carry.
How important is water purification in these kits?
Clean water is the top priority after the first 24 hours, so kits that include both bottled water and purification tablets or filters provide redundancy. EVERLIT and Ready America kits supply water pouches plus tablets, while Emergency Zone Essentials adds a straw filter capable of treating up to 30 gallons. Having multiple purification options ensures you can stay hydrated even if the bottled supply runs out.
Do any of the kits include power‑generation tools for electronics?
Yes, several kits feature hand‑crank devices that combine a flashlight, radio, and phone charger, such as the Ready America deluxe kit and the EVERLIT Storm II models. The Denver backpack also adds upgraded LED lanterns and walkie‑talkies for communication. These tools let you stay connected and powered without relying on batteries.
Which kit provides the best value for a two‑person family?
The Ready America deluxe kit balances price, food calories, water, and a solid set of tools, making it a cost‑effective choice for two people. EVERLIT Storm II offers more advanced medical gear and a tactical backpack but comes at a higher price point. If budget is a priority, the Ready America deluxe version delivers strong overall value.
Are there any kits specifically designed for discreet, everyday carry?
The Emergency Zone Essentials bag is marketed as an “undercover” design, featuring a low‑profile look that blends into daily life. Its compact size and neutral colors make it easy to store at home or in a vehicle without drawing attention. For those who prefer a less conspicuous option, this kit is a good fit.