Comparison: Best 72 Hrs Emergency Kit (Updated | Dec 3rd)

First, count the number of people you need to support for 72 hours and select a kit that matches that number. Many kits are labeled for 1, 2, 4, or 5 persons, so a family of four would benefit from a 4‑person kit like the Stealth Angel or the Ready America 2‑person kit may be too small. Consider also the weight and bulk; larger kits contain more food, water, and gear, which adds to the load you must carry.

Food rations typically range from 2,400 to 3,600 calories per person, with some kits offering multiple bars per person (e.g., 2‑person kits have 2 bars, 5‑person kits have up to 5). Water provisions vary widely: some kits include 12 × 125 ml pouches (enough for one person), while others provide 24 or 36 pouches for multiple occupants. Check the shelf life—most kits list a 5‑year guarantee, which is important for long‑term storage.

A NOAA weather radio gives you real‑time alerts for severe weather, which can be lifesaving when power and cell service are down. Hand‑crank radios often double as flashlights and phone chargers, providing illumination and a way to keep devices powered without batteries. Kits that bundle these features, such as the Ready America or Everlit models, add significant value for communication and safety.

Most premium kits use heavy‑duty fabrics like 1000D polyester or water‑resistant nylon, with reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers designed to survive rough handling. Features such as MOLLE webbing, reflective strips, and padded shoulder straps improve comfort and allow you to attach extra gear. The tactical‑style backpacks from Everlit and TacPreps are especially built for rugged outdoor use.

All kits contain a basic first‑aid set with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and trauma dressings, but some go further with CAT tourniquets, trauma shears, and a larger inventory of medical items (e.g., 200‑piece kits from Everlit). The presence of specialized items like a tourniquet can make a difference in severe injury scenarios. Review the item list to ensure it matches the level of medical preparedness you desire.

Additional tools increase versatility; a stainless‑steel multitool provides cutting, screwing, and gripping functions, while a high‑lumens LED flashlight improves night visibility. Solar‑powered radios or chargers reduce reliance on batteries, extending the kit’s usefulness over multiple days. Kits that bundle these items, such as the Ready America deluxe version, often justify a higher price with the convenience of fewer separate purchases.

Deluxe kits usually cost 20‑40 % more because they include larger food and water supplies, advanced communication gear, and extra comfort items like thermal blankets and ponchos. Basic kits may still meet FEMA’s minimum 72‑hour guidelines but provide fewer calories and less redundancy in tools. Weigh the added convenience and longer shelf‑life against your budget to decide which tier fits your needs.

Most kits reference FEMA, Red Cross, or U.S. Coast Guard standards, offering at least 1,000 calories per person per day and 2 L of water. Items such as NOAA radios, emergency blankets, and water purification tablets align with government recommendations for disaster readiness. Selecting a kit that explicitly cites these guidelines ensures you have a baseline level of preparedness.