Comparison: Best 72 Hour Survival Kit (Updated | Dec 3rd)
When disaster strikes, being prepared can mean the difference between panic and peace of mind. That’s where a solid 72-hour survival kit comes in—your lifeline during the critical first days of an emergency. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one truly has your back? We’ve tested, compared, and broken down the top kits so you don’t have to guess. From compact essentials to full-on bug-out bags, find out which 72-hour survival kit delivers real value, reliability, and readiness when it matters most.
Editor’s Choice
TacPreps 72-Hour Survival Kit | 45L Bug Out Bag | Survival Gear with First Aid
Tactical Hydration Pack
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for tactical hydration pack: TacPreps 72-Hour Survival Kit | 45L Bug Out Bag | Survival Gear with First Aid
- Best for family survival bundle: Stealth Angel 5 Person Black 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes
- Best for deluxe dual kit: Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit
- Best for compact 2-person: Ready America 70280 72 Hour Emergency Kit
- Best for 3-person tactical pack: EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family
- Best for 2-person tactical kit: EVERLIT 72 Hours 3 Day Earthquake Emergency Kit Bugout Go Bag Emergency Kit Survival Kit Backpack for Family
- Best for solo lightweight pack: Ready America 70180 72 Hour Emergency Kit
- Best for 2-person essentials: Stealth Angel 2 Person Black 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes
- Best for long-lasting food: 4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit: Emergency Food Supply Designed to Last 25 Years
- Best for 4-person family kit: Stealth Angel 4 Person Black 72 Hour Emergency Kit – Survival Bag for Earthquakes
Product Comparison: Best 72 Hour Survival Kit
Tactical Hydration Pack
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 Survival Bundle
Stealth Angel 5 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!
Deluxe Dual Kit
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
Compact 2-Person
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
3-Person Tactical 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 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.
2-Person Tactical Kit
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.
Solo Lightweight Pack
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
2-Person Essentials
Stealth Angel 2 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!
Long-Lasting Food
4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit: Emergency Food Supply Designed to Last 25 Years, 20 Servings
4Patriots
- 20 SERVINGS OF EMERGENCY FOOD: This emergency food supply doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy a variety of delicious recipes like Grammy’s Sweet Oatmeal & America’s Finest Mac & Cheese. Enjoy about 6 servings/day for breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks. 72-Hour Kit has an average of 4,800 total calories (approx. 1,600 per day – you may want or need more+) for energy & nutrients to survive an emergency.
- “DISASTER-RESISTANT” PACKAGING: Triple-layer Mylar premium packaging works as a barrier to help protect against things that can harm your survival food: air, light & moisture. We use a high-tech, high-capacity oxygen absorber to suck OUT any excess air.
- DESIGNED FOR SURVIVAL OR ADVENTURES: Whether you’re rounding out your survival stockpile, bugging out, or taking the family camping, this survival food will help keep you prepared. The lightweight, disaster-resistant packaging is perfect for stashing away or to bring on-the-go.
- EASY TO PREPARE, READY IN MINUTES: Tastier than MRE meals, just add boiling water, simmer and serve. It takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. With meals like Creamy Rice & Vegetable Dinner, you have a delicious variety of emergency food for your family.
- SURVIVAL FOOD DESIGNED TO LAST 25 YEARS: This emergency food supply is designed for long-term storage. Storage conditions impact shelf life. For best results, protect food from heat, air & moisture. Avoid exposure to temps above 75 degrees F. Keep food sealed until ready to eat. Shelf life varies based on storage conditions.
- PEACE OF MIND FOR DAYS: With a 72-hour supply of survival food on hand, you’ll be better prepared to handle an emergency situation. From dangerous storms and blackouts to supply chain disruptions, this long-lasting food store could be a lifesaver in a crisis.
- +YOU MAY WANT OR NEED MORE CALORIES PER DAY especially if you’re pregnant, a child, elderly, or have health conditions. Your food kit is designed to provide energy & nutrients for 1 person in an emergency, not to be a complete caloric replacement during normal times.
4-Person Family Kit
Stealth Angel 4 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!
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 should I prioritize when choosing a 72‑hour survival kit?
Focus on the balance between food and water supplies, medical gear, and durability of the backpack. Look for kits that meet FEMA guidelines for calories (at least 1,000 per person per day) and include water filtration or purification. Also consider comfort features like padded straps and modular compartments for easy organization.
Which kit provides the most comprehensive medical supplies?
The EVERLIT Storm II kits (both the 2‑person and 3‑person versions) include a 200‑piece first‑aid set plus a CAT tourniquet for severe bleeding, which is more extensive than the 33‑piece kits from Ready America. This makes EVERLIT the best choice if advanced trauma care is a priority.
How do the food and water provisions compare across the kits?
EVERLIT and TacPreps both offer U.S. Coast Guard‑approved water pouches and high‑calorie food bars, with EVERLIT providing 3,600 calories per person for 72 hours. Ready America kits supply 2,400‑calorie bars and fewer water pouches, while Stealth Angel and 4Patriots focus on food bars with less water filtration equipment.
Is a larger backpack always better for a family kit?
A larger 45 L tactical backpack like the one in TacPreps gives ample room for extra gear, but it can be heavier and bulkier for solo users. For families, the STEALTH ANGEL 5‑person kit uses a modular design that scales down to 1‑person packs, offering flexibility without unnecessary weight.
What added tools should I look for beyond the basics?
Premium kits include multi‑tools, rechargeable headlamps, solar‑powered radios, and hand‑crank flashlights that also charge phones. EVERLIT and TacPreps stand out with solar radios and built‑in USB chargers, while most Ready America kits only provide a basic flashlight and whistle.
How does price relate to value in these survival kits?
Higher‑priced kits like TacPreps and EVERLIT justify their cost with larger food/water caches, advanced hydration systems, and extensive medical supplies. Budget‑friendly options such as Ready America or 4Patriots still meet basic survival needs but offer fewer calories and less robust toolsets.
Can I rely on the water filtration systems in these kits?
TacPreps includes a dedicated water filter and twelve water pouches, providing reliable on‑the‑go purification. EVERLIT and Stealth Angel rely on water purification tablets, which are effective but require proper dosing and may not filter particulates. Choose a filter if you anticipate needing to treat untreated water sources frequently.
Which kit is best for solo adventurers versus family preparedness?
For solo users, the Ready America 1‑person kit or the Stealth Angel 2‑person pack offer lightweight, compact options with essential supplies. Families benefit from the larger capacity of the TacPreps 45 L bag or the EVERLIT 3‑person kit, which include more food, water, and shared tools to support multiple people.