Stay or Go: Checklists To Build The Right Kit For Any Emergency

Updated: April 2025
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Since the early 2000s, the frequency and severity of natural disasters have significantly increased, largely due to climate change. The United States has experienced numerous billion-dollar disasters each year, with total damages often reaching into the tens of billions. In 2024, the U.S. has faced approximately 182.7 billion-dollar disasters, including severe storms, wildfires, and tropical cyclones. With 27 individual weather and climate disasters, 2024 is just one short of the record-breaking 28 events recorded in 2023 (NOAA NCEI, 2025).
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This rise in natural disasters has underscored the critical importance of disaster preparedness. Thinking ahead about a possible disaster can be unnerving, and knowing where to start with getting supplies can be challenging, but it is crucial in the event of an emergency. Some disasters may require you to evacuate with little to no notice, while others may necessitate sheltering in place. Being prepared for both scenarios is essential, and having the right supplies ready can make a significant difference. Our guide will break down what to pack in a to-go bag for sudden evacuations and how to stock a stay-box for sheltering at home.

We have outlined some of the most important items to include in your kits, but only you know what is most vital to you. Every household is different. Attached below are two checklists you can download and use to help you put together your own emergency kits.

• To-Go Bag Checklist 
• Stay-In Box Checklist

What to pack in your To-Go Bag: 

Documents: 
Making copies of important documents and packing them ahead of time will mean one less thing to worry about when evacuating. Along with this, make sure to scan and store such documentation securely online. Important documents can include any of the following: 

• will and insurance information; 
• video records of valuables in your home;
• contact information of loved ones - including phone numbers, emails, and addresses;
• financial records such as bank account and credit card numbers; 
• birth certificates, passports, and social security numbers.

Cash: 
Save up some cash to use in an emergency. This is in case of a large-scale power outage or blackout. Having cash on hand will make it easier for you to get any supplies you need. Don’t worry about what you have in the bank, your deposits are insured by the FDIC. This precaution is just so you have the ability to make any quick and necessary purchases. 

Electronics: 
On your way out the door, grab any necessary electronics and cables such as your phone, laptop, and a charger. You can purchase a Solar Charger Battery Bank that comes with a built-in flashlight and can charge your devices on the go!  

First Aid Kit: 
You can purchase a ready-to-use First Aid Kit that suits your needs from the American Red Cross, or from a variety of other retailers. Make sure to check the expiration dates of certain products, and restock when able. This portable kit should include at least the following basic supplies: 

• Adhesive Bandages, compresses, and dressings
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic wipes
• Aspirin or other non-prescription drugs
• Sterile gloves (non-latex in case of allergy)
• Breathing barrier (for CPR)
• Tweezers and Scissors
• Eye wash solution
• Gauze Rolls
• Instant cold compress
• First Aid Guide Book 

There should be a First Aid Kit included in your stay box as well. 

What To Pack In A Stay-Box: 

Food and Water: 
In the event of an emergency where it is safer for you to stay inside, you may end up in an uncomfortable situation for a few hours or several days without running water or electricity. 

• Store one to three gallons of water per person per day for drinking and washing needs.
• Pack non-perishable foods that won’t spoil without refrigeration. Pack what you know you and your loved ones will enjoy, like: canned meats and vegetables, peanut butter, granola or dry cereal, dried or canned fruits, protein bars, etc. 

Sanitary Supplies: 
You may end up without running water to bathe and dispose of waste. 

• Pack a bucket, trash bags, and zip ties to act as a toilet and to properly dispose of waste.
• Have a supply of toilet paper, soap, wet wipes, and hand-sanitizer.
• Keep a supply of personal hygiene and feminine supplies. 

Light Source: 
With the possibility of not having electricity available for an extended period of time, it is important to have a light source available to keep your space illuminated. We recommend a solar light so you don’t have to worry about batteries.

Tools and Supplies: 
Ultimately, you know what you need to best keep you and your loved ones safe in the event of a disaster. With the above items we’ve listed, have a conversation about what else you think is most essential to include in your Stay-Box. Some additional items to consider are: 

• Emergency Blanket (sometimes included in First Aid Kits)
• Masks or cotton shirts to filter air
• Duct Tape
• Waterproof Matches
• Lighter
  
• Fire Extinguisher
• Changes of clothing

Consider the needs of your household. An infant, elderly person or person with disabilities will need extra accommodations. Plan ahead for these needs by packing formula, diapers, medications, prescriptions, and whatever else your group needs in the event of an emergency.

Sources:
Listos California 
California Department of Public Health 
Ready America  
American Red Cross