Comparison: Best American Red Cross Survival Kit (Updated | Dec 3rd)
When disaster strikes, being prepared can make all the difference—and that’s where the American Red Cross survival kit comes in. Trusted by families and emergency experts alike, these kits are designed to keep you safe when the unexpected happens. But with several options available, how do you know which one is truly the best fit for your needs? In this comparison, we’ll break down the top picks, weighing essentials like first aid supplies, durability, and portability, so you can choose with confidence and peace of mind.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for compact 3-day: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product | 3-Day Basic Emergency Preparedness Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 1 Person | Water
- Best for two-person survival: Ready America 70280 72 Hour Emergency Kit
- Best for family-size deluxe: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product |3-Day Emergency Preparedness Deluxe Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 4 People | Water
- Best for vehicle winter survival: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product
- Best for solo power pack: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product | 3-Day Emergency Preparedness Deluxe Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 1 Person | Water
- Best for rapid response bag: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product
- Best for auto trauma kit: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product
- Best for instructor training suite: American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Deluxe Instructor Kit with Skill Boost Training Supplies
- Best for mid-size team kit: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product
- Best for large facility kit: American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product
Product Comparison: Best American Red Cross Survival Kit
Compact 3-Day
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product | 3-Day Basic Emergency Preparedness Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 1 Person | Water, Phone Charger, Blanket, Food
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES: This emergency preparedness backpack contains potentially lifesaving first aid and survival supplies, and is designed to support one person during a 3-day emergency situation or natural disaster. Kit contains 79 essentials including drinking water pouch, hand crank powered flashlight/cell phone charger/radio, multi-tool, assorted bandages, cleanser, hygiene products, food bar, and more. 5 year shelf life for food and water.
- NATURAL DISASTER READINESS: Be ready to respond when the unexpected happens such as fire, earthquake, or tornado. Backpack has 2 organizing compartments providing extra room to add additional personal items you may need during an emergency, like medications. Backpack also has a removable soft-shell vinyl first aid kit with 2 zip pockets.
- PORTABLE BACKPACK: Simple to grab and go when every minute counts. Durable nylon fabric features double shoulder straps for a secure fit. The lightweight, easy to carry pack keeps your hands free to help others during an emergency.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Weighs 7 pounds with overall dimensions of 16.5”H x 12”W x 13”D.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED PRODUCT of the American Red Cross. The name and logos of the American Red Cross are registered trademarks of the American National Red Cross.
Two-Person Survival
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
Family-Size Deluxe
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product |3-Day Emergency Preparedness Deluxe Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 4 People | Water, Phone Charger, Blanket, Food
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES: This emergency preparedness deluxe backpack contains potentially lifesaving first aid and survival supplies, and is designed to support four people during a 3-day emergency situation or natural disaster. Kit contains 191 essentials including drinking water pouch, hand crank powered flashlight/cell phone charger/radio, blanket, multi-tool, assorted bandages, cleanser, hygiene products, dust face mask, food bars, and more. 5 year shelf life for food and water.
- NATURAL DISASTER READINESS: Be ready to respond when the unexpected happens such as fire, earthquake, or tornado. Backpack has 4 compartments, 2 side pockets, and 4 mesh carry bags providing ample room to add any personal items your family may need during an emergency, like medications. The removable vinyl organizer, with 7 pockets, provides additional organization for your supplies. Backpack also comes with a removable soft-shell 2 pocket zip up first aid kit.
- PORTABLE BACKPACK: Simple to grab and go when every minute counts. Durable nylon fabric features double shoulder straps for a secure fit. The easy to carry pack keeps your hands free to help others during an emergency.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Weighs 20.80 pounds with overall dimensions of 17”H x 16”W x 13”D.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED PRODUCT of the American Red Cross. The name and logos of the American Red Cross are registered trademarks of the American National Red Cross.
Vehicle Winter Survival
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product, Car First Aid Survival Kit for Winter, 27 Piece Emergency Medical Supplies to Clean and Treat Minor Injuries, Keep Warm, and Signal for Help
American Red Cross
- BE PREPARED: This emergency backpack contains potentially lifesaving first aid and winter survival supplies if you become injured or stranded in your vehicle; kit is full of essentials to keep you warm, clean and treat minor injuries, and signal rescuers
- COMPREHENSIVE CARE: 27-piece pack includes a premium selection of safety and cold-weather survival supplies including gloves and hand warmers, emergency Mylar sleeping back and blanket, food bars, 4oz water pack, a 12-hour light stick, rain poncho, and a pocket first-aid kit with assorted bandages, antiseptic wipes, and antibiotic ointment packet
- PORTABLE BACKPACK: Easily stored in your trunk or under the seat; durable nylon fabric bag with cinch top features double shoulder straps for a secure fit; ample room to add your own personalized gear
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Overall dimensions of nylon drawstring backpack are 10.5”L x 3”W x 17”H, weighs 2.61 lbs
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED: First Aid Concepts is an official trademark licensee of The American Red Cross; Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed. Be Red Cross Ready
Solo Power Pack
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product | 3-Day Emergency Preparedness Deluxe Backpack | 72 Hour Survival Supplies for 1 Person | Water, Phone Charger, Blanket, Food
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES: This emergency preparedness deluxe backpack contains potentially lifesaving first aid and survival supplies, and is designed to support one person during a 3-day emergency situation or natural disaster. Kit contains 177 essentials including drinking water pouch, hand crank powered flashlight/cell phone charger/radio, blanket, multi-tool, assorted bandages, cleanser, hygiene products, dust face mask, food bars, and more. 5 year shelf life for food and water.
- NATURAL DISASTER READINESS: Be ready to respond when the unexpected happens such as fire, earthquake, or tornado. Backpack has 4 compartments providing extra room to add additional personal items you may need during an emergency, like medications. The removable vinyl organizer, with 7 pockets, provides additional organization for your supplies.
- PORTABLE BACKPACK: Simple to grab and go when every minute counts. Durable nylon fabric features double shoulder straps for a secure fit. The lightweight, easy to carry pack keeps your hands free to help others during an emergency.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Weighs 8.25 pounds with overall dimensions of 17”H x 16”W x 13”D.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED PRODUCT of the American Red Cross. The name and logos of the American Red Cross are registered trademarks of the American National Red Cross.
Rapid Response Bag
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product, First Aid Concepts Basic Emergency Preparedness Starter Kit, 12 Hour Survival Supplies for 1 Person, Water, Phone Charger, Blanket, Food
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES This emergency preparedness bag contains potentially lifesaving first aid and survival supplies and is designed to support one person during a 12 hour+ emergency situation or natural disaster. Kit contains 55 essentials including drinking water pouch, hand crank powered flashlight/cell phone charger/radio, scissors, assorted bandages, cleanser, hygiene products, food bar, and more. 5 year shelf life for food and water.
- NATURAL DISASTER READINESS Be ready to respond when the unexpected happens such as fire, earthquake, or tornado. Bag has one large organizing compartment providing extra room to add additional personal items you may need during an emergency, like medications. Kit also has 2 side zip pockets with removable soft-shell vinyl pouches containing first aid and personal comfort items.
- PORTABLE DUFFLE BAG Simple to grab and go when every minute counts. Durable nylon fabric bag features a sturdy handle for secure grip.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS Weighs 9.75 pounds with overall dimensions of 7”H x 17”W x 11”L.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED PRODUCT of the American Red Cross. The name and logos of the American Red Cross are registered trademarks of the American National Red Cross.
Auto Trauma Kit
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product, Large Deluxe Auto First Aid Kit with Soft Case, Emergency Supplies to Clean & Treat Minor Injuries, Keep Hydrated & Warm
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES This deluxe, well-organized auto first aid kit is full of essentials to keep you warm, hydrated, treat minor injuries, and signal for help.
- COMPREHENSIVE CARE 99-piece pack includes a premium selection of emergency-preparedness supplies including face masks, rain poncho, emergency blanket, hand warmers, drinking water, light stick, whistle, Call 911 banner, nitrile gloves, assorted bandages, gauze pads, alcohol cleansing pads, antibiotic ointment, sterile eye pad, trauma pad, conforming gauze roll, cotton tipped applicators, moleskin square, finger splint, and a Red Cross First Aid Guide.
- BE PREPARED With this portable trauma kit, you’ll be ready should there be a disaster on the road. Keep one in each family member’s car.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS Overall dimensions of soft-sided case are 9.25”L x 7”W x 2.9”H.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED First Aid Concepts is an official trademark licensee of The American Red Cross. Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed. Be Red Cross Ready.
Instructor Training Suite
American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Deluxe Instructor Kit with Skill Boost Training Supplies
American Red Cross
- 1 – American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Participant’s Manual, Rev. 2021 (754100) This manual provides information regarding recognizing an emergency, the emergency action steps, recognizing cardiac arrest, signs of a heart attack, giving CPR, the cardiac chain of survival, how to use an AED, care for choking, care for sudden illnesses and other life-threatening injuries.
- 1 – American Red Cross Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Ready Reference, Rev. 2021 (754102) 1 – American Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Ready Reference, Rev. 2021 (754103) The Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Ready Reference Card supports the courses in the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED program. It is used to teach participants the knowledge and skills needed to give immediate care to an injured or ill person and to decide whether advanced medical care is needed. The Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Ready Reference card offers concise step-by-step instructions for responding to emergencies, as well as full-color photos.
- 1 – American Red Cross Instructor Backpack (150801) American Red Cross Instructor Backpack – durable, multiple pockets including an 18-inch laptop compartment, water bottle holder on each side, extra padding on back panel and straps for added comfort.
- 1 – First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor’s Manual, Rev. 2021 (754101P2) 1 – Binder (374814) The primary purpose of the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED program is to help participants recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing and first aid emergencies. The courses teach participants how to provide immediate care to an injured or ill person until medical professionals arrive. Incorporating the 2020 International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) Consensus on Science and Treatment Recommendations for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) Guidelines and meets OSHA guidelines.
- 1 – First Aid/CPR/AED DVD, Rev. 2021 (754104) The First Aid/CPR/AED DVD is used for the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED program, to help participants recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing and first aid emergencies until medical professionals arrive. This product also Incorporates the latest 2020 International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) Consensus on Science and Treatment Recommendations for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) Guidelines and meets OSHA guidelines.
- 1 – Red Cross Tourniquet Training Arm (760129) Use the American Red Cross Tourniquet Arm Trainer for teaching the skills of severe bleeding control, including: applying direct pressure, bandaging, tourniquet application, and wound packing. Made from a durable foam material that is light weight, water resistant and easy to clean. The arm includes a severe open wound hole on the lower extremity to help with practicing the skills of wound packing and tourniquet application. A laceration on the upper arm can be used to practice the skill of direct pressure and bandaging.
- 1 – Red Cross Tactical Medical Tourniquet (SOFTT-W-RC) The American Red Cross SOF Tactical Tourniquet is an easy to use tourniquet for all environments. High-strength, lightweight alloy components are used in critical areas of function ensuring reliability in the most challenging of circumstances and the largest of limbs. Generation 5/Gen 5 tourniquet. Please note: this windless tourniquet device is an approved device per the 2019 Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC).
- 1 – Nasal Spray Training Device for Naloxone/Opioid Overdose & Anaphylaxis Training (5-Pack) (765216) Reusable nasal spray training device for Opioid Overdose and Anaphylaxis training. For demonstration and training only. This training device contains no active drug. This nasal spray training device can be used for Red Cross Opioid Overdose Skill Boost training as a Naloxone nasal training device and for medications delivered with a nasal atomizer/nasal spray device in Anaphylaxis training.
- 1 – Epinephrine Auto injector Training Device for Anaphylaxis (765201) Epinephrine Auto injector Training Device for Anaphylaxis. For demonstration and training only. This training device contains no active drug. This device can be used for American Red Cross Anaphylaxis auto injector, Skill Boost training.
- 1 – Practi-Inhaler, Training Device for Asthma, (EACH) (765202-EACH) 1 – Spacer Trainer for Practi-inhaler (765204) Practi-Inhaler, Training Device for Asthma. For demonstration and training only. This training device contains no active drug. This spacer trainer (chamber) attaches to the Practi-Inhaler, Training Device for Asthma when teaching the skill of Administering Quick-relief Medication Using an Inhaler. A spacer makes it easier for a person to inhale the medication, as the medication goes into the spacer, which the person then inhales through the spacer’s mouthpiece.
Mid-Size Team Kit
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product, 25 Person First Aid Kit, 118 Piece Emergency Medical Supplies to Clean & Treat Minor Injuries, Hard Case Box for Home, Business, Job Site, Car
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES This deluxe, well-organized 25-person first aid kit is full of essentials to treat minor injuries. The durable plastic storage case has ergonomic slide latches and individual compartments to keep supplies organized and easily located in an emergency.
- COMPREHENSIVE CARE 118-piece pack includes a premium selection of emergency-preparedness supplies including assorted bandages, gauze pads and rolls, trauma pads, first aid tape, antiseptic towelettes, alcohol wipes, sting relief wipes, antibiotic ointment packets, burn cream packets, scissors, tweezers, nitrile gloves, finger splint, tongue depressor, cotton-tipped applicators, cold pack, and a Red Cross First Aid Guide.
- BE PREPARED This kit has a handle for quick transport to the location of an injury. Ideal for small offices, construction sites, restaurants, homes, and vehicles.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS Overall dimensions of hard-sided plastic case are 9.75”L x 7.88”W x 3”H.
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED First Aid Concepts is an official trademark licensee of The American Red Cross. Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed. Be Red Cross Ready.
Large Facility Kit
American Red Cross Officially Licensed Product, 50 Person First Aid Kit, 216 Piece Emergency Medical Supplies to Clean & Treat Minor Injuries, Hard Case Box for Home, Business, Job Site, Car
American Red Cross
- FIRST AID SUPPLIES: This deluxe, well-organized 50-person first aid kit is full of essentials to treat minor injuries; durable plastic storage case has ergonomic slide latches and individual compartments to keep supplies organized and easily located in an emergency
- COMPREHENSIVE CARE: 216-piece pack includes a premium selection of emergency-preparedness supplies including assorted bandages, gauze pads and rolls, trauma pads, first aid tape, antiseptic towelettes, alcohol wipes, sting relief wipes, antibiotic ointment packets, burn cream packets and dressings, scissors, tweezers, nitrile gloves, finger splint, tongue depressor, cotton-tipped applicators, cold pack, face shield, eyewash, rubber tourniquet, sterile eye pads, and a Red Cross First Aid Guide
- BE PREPARED: This kit has a handle for quick transport to the location of an injury; case also includes tabs for mounting the kit on a wall or other flat vertical surface; ideal for small offices, construction sites, restaurants, homes, and vehicles
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Overall dimensions of hard-sided plastic case are 13”D x 11.5”W x 3.25”H, weighs 3.55 lbs
- OFFICIALLY LICENSED: First Aid Concepts is an official trademark licensee of The American Red Cross; Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed. Be Red Cross Ready
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 selecting an American Red Cross emergency kit?
Look at the number of people the kit supports, the duration it covers, and the types of supplies included such as first‑aid, food, water, and shelter items. Also compare the weight and size of the backpack to ensure it’s portable for your situation. Finally, check for official licensing and warranty information to confirm authenticity.
How do the 3‑day kits differ in terms of capacity and number of people supported?
The basic 3‑day kit (ASIN B0CKXVR4B7) is designed for one person and weighs about 7 lb, while the deluxe version (ASIN B0CKTR8LJJ) also supports one person but includes more items and weighs 8.25 lb. The larger family‑size kit (ASIN B0CKXXFRYK) supports four people, contains 191 essentials, and weighs roughly 20.8 lb. Choose the model that matches the size of your household or group.
Is the hand‑crank flashlight/radio combo included in all kits?
Yes, every backpack‑style kit listed – the single‑person, family, and even the car‑specific kit – includes a hand‑crank powered flashlight that also functions as a phone charger and emergency radio. This feature provides power‑free illumination and communication capability during a blackout. It’s a core component of the Red Cross‑licensed kits.
Which kit offers the best value for a family of four?
The family‑size 3‑day kit (ASIN B0CKXXFRYK) provides the most comprehensive set of supplies for four people, including extra compartments, mesh bags, and a larger water and food supply. Although it weighs 20.8 lb, the extensive inventory of 191 items reduces the need to purchase add‑ons separately. For most families, this kit balances cost, completeness, and convenience.
Are there any kits specifically designed for vehicle use?
Yes, the car first‑aid survival kit (ASIN B0DK62TW86) is a compact, 2.6 lb backpack meant to fit in a trunk or under a seat, with winter‑survival items like hand warmers and a Mylar blanket. The larger auto first‑aid kit (ASIN B0CVQZJXXX) is a hard‑case with 99 pieces, ideal for keeping in each family vehicle. Both are officially licensed by the Red Cross and focus on road‑side emergencies.
How does the weight of each backpack affect portability?
Lighter kits such as the single‑person 3‑day pack (7 lb) and the car kit (2.6 lb) are easy to grab and carry, making them suitable for quick evacuations. Heavier options like the family pack (20.8 lb) provide more supplies but may require additional help to lift, especially for older users. Consider the trade‑off between weight and the amount of gear you need for your scenario.
What should I look for regarding shelf life and food/water supplies?
All kits list a 5‑year shelf life for the included water pouches and food bars, which is standard for emergency supplies. Verify that the packaging is sealed and that the expiration dates are clearly printed. Rotating the kit every few years or replacing expired items ensures you always have fresh, reliable resources.