These bags are not for luxury, but basic survival and protection. However, you may add whatever you find to be
necessary, or remove whatever you find to be unnecessary. Remember, adhering to the basics is important, as you
will likely need most of the contents, but may also be forced to carry them for extended distances. Contrary to
many of the examples of 72 Hour Kits you may have seen; 5 gallon buckets, suitcases, plastic bins, etc, which
are poor choices, your kit should be a medium or larger backpack, allowing you to carry the weight with your
legs and shoulders. This allows your hands to remain free for other purposes. With the exception of perhaps a
few items, it is important to note that all of the 72 Hour Kits in your family (or group, if working with others)
should include as near to the same basic items as possible, so everyone has what they need, independent of each
other. Groups and even families often become separated. It is not advisable to have “shared” items within your
kits, but in some circumstances, it may be practical or even necessary.

• Back Pack (without water bladder)
• Water Filtration Bottle (Katadyn or equivalent brand)
• Water Bottles (3, 1 liter each)
• MREs (3 main courses, 3 side dishes, 3 desserts, 3 snacks, this is a minimum)
• Survival Bars (6)
• Spoon
• P-38/51 (just in case)
• First Aid Kit (more than band-aids and moleskin)
• Blow-Out Kit (for trauma wounds)
• Tinder Kit (Blast match, lighter, waterproof matches, candles, treated cotton balls, trioxane)
• LED Camping Flashlight (w/spare batteries)
• LED Mini Flashlight
• Binoculars (small backpack size)
• Compass
• Paper Maps (city, local and state)
• Radio (HAM/FRS/GMRS)
• Signal Mirror
• Howler Whistle (loudest whistle currently made)
• Tent
• Sleeping Bag (low temp rating)
• Poncho (military style)
• Plastic Bags (trash bags and ziploc bags)
• Belt Knife
• Pocket Knife
• Multi Purpose Tool
• Leather Gloves
• ParaCord (20+ yards)
• Duct Tape (4+ yards)
• Clothing and Hat (1 complete set)
• Sun Screen
• Insect Repellant
• AR or AK Variant Rifle (w/sling and spare mags)
• Glock (or equivalent pistol w/holster and spare mags)
• Weapon Style Flashlight (w/spare batteries)
• Wet Wipes (travel sized pouch)
• Toothbrush
• Toilet Paper (enough)
• Cash (enough)
• Marker
• Last Minute List (meds, baby formula, important documents, flash drive, etc)
• Feminine Products (for women)

With the exception of the last item, all of my family’s bags are the same. There is less water in these packs than
I’d like, but the filtration water bottles we’ve chosen, will filter plenty of additional water. As listed above (minus
weapons and ammo), our bags weigh about 38 lbs.