How to Pack an Emergency Kit (The Right Way for Australian Homes)
If you had to leave your home in a hurry...Or suddenly lost power for 24+ hours, would you know exactly where everything you need is?
Most people assume they’d “figure it out” in the moment. But the reality is, emergencies don’t give you time to think clearly.
That’s why learning how to pack an emergency kit properly matters.
It’s not just about what you have it’s about how quickly and easily you can use it when it counts.
It’s not just about what you have it’s about how quickly and easily you can use it when it counts.
According to the Australian Government, every household should have a properly prepared emergency kit ready to go. View official emergency kit advice
👍 What Goes in an Emergency Kit (The Essentials)
- Water (2–3 litres per person, per day) or Water Filter Straw if water is available
- Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat)
- First aid kit
- Light sources (torch or headlamp)
- Communication (crank or solar radio)
- Fire starting tools (waterproof matches or ferro rod)
- Power backup (power bank or generator)
- Shelter (compact & fast setup)
- Health & Safety (blankets & ponchos)
- Hygiene (wet wipes, toothbrush)
How to Pack an Emergency Kit Properly
1. Pack by Priority
Items you’ll need first should be easiest to reach:
- Torch
- First aid kit
- Radio
2. 🎒 Make It Grab-and-Go
Use a single backpack or dedicated kit bag. Everything should already be in one place, ready to move.
3. Organise Your Kit (Most People Skip This)
- First aid & health
- Tools & equipment
- Hygiene & personal items
- Food & water
PrepMates grab-and-go kits are already organised into compartmentalised sections separating First Aid, Tools, Health & Safety, and essentials so you can access everything quickly when it matters most.
4. 💦 Waterproof It Properly
Having a dry bag that can be fully submerged and keep all the contents dry and safe is the difference between a well-thought-out emergency kit and one that will let you down. After all, a disaster can have a deluge of rain and bad weather.
5. Balance the Weight
Keep heavier items close to your back and centred for easier carrying.
Think in Scenarios (This Is What Most People Miss)
- If the power goes out tonight what do I need?
- If I had 5 minutes to leave what would I grab?
Your kit should cover:
- 🔦 Blackouts
- ⛈️ Severe storms
- 🌊 Flooding
- 🔥 Bushfire evacuation
The 5-Minute Rule:
Your emergency kit should be ready to grab instantly no searching, no thinking.
Your emergency kit should be ready to grab instantly no searching, no thinking.
What People Forget to Pack
- Medications
- Phone chargers
- Important documents
- Cash
- Hygiene items (toothbrush, wipes, sanitiser)
Common Mistakes
- Overpacking unnecessary gear
- Forgetting water
- Poor organisation
- Not checking the kit
Where to Store Your Emergency Kit
- Near an exit
- Hallway cupboard
- Garage
Some people also keep a second kit in their car.
⏰ How Often Should You Check It?
Every 3–6 months:
- Replace expired items
- Recharge power banks
- Update contents
✅ The Simple Way to Get Started
If building a kit from scratch feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.
That’s why ready-made kits exist to remove the guesswork and make sure you’ve got everything covered, often being over 30% cheaper than DIY!
🎒 View PrepMates Emergency Kits
Prefer to Build Your Own Kit?
If you’d rather build your own setup, we also offer a range of individual survival supplies from essential tools to first aid and practical add-ons so you can customise your kit to suit your needs.
Don’t Forget Your Emergency Plan
Having an emergency kit is crucial, but equally important is knowing what to do when the unexpected happens. An emergency plan is the key to making sure your family or team can act fast and safely during a crisis.
Be sure to have an evacuation route, meeting points, and a list of important contacts, so everyone knows what to do especially if you get separated
📝 Download your free household Emergency Plan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I put in my emergency kit?
Your emergency kit should contain the essentials for survival in case of power outages, natural disasters, or other emergencies. The basic items include:
- Water (2-3 litres per person, per day) Or a water filter straw
- Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat)
- First aid kit
- Light sources (torch or headlamp)
- Communication tools (solar/crank radio)
- Fire-starting tools (waterproof matches or ferro rod)
- Power bank
2. How often should I check my emergency kit?
It’s essential to check your emergency kit at least every 3–6 months. Replace expired items, ensure batteries are charged, and verify that everything is still in working condition. Don’t forget to update your kit if your family’s needs change (e.g., adding baby supplies or medications).
3. Why is an emergency plan so important?
While having an emergency kit is essential, having a solid emergency plan is just as important. An emergency plan outlines what to do in various scenarios, including evacuation routes, meeting points, and communication methods. It ensures everyone knows what to do when the unexpected happens, helping to avoid confusion and panic.
4. Why Does My Backpack Need to Be Water-Tight (Waterproof)?
If your bag isn’t waterproof, personal items and essentials like first aid supplies, spare clothes, and electronics can be damaged or completely unusable when you need them most.
5. What if I have pets? Should I prepare a separate kit for them?
If you have pets, you should definitely include them in your emergency preparedness plan. Pack a separate kit for your pets that includes:
- Pet food and water
- Collar and leash
- Medical records and medications
- Comfort items (blanket, toy)
6. How do I store my emergency kit?
Your emergency kit should be kept in a cool, dry, and easily accessible location. Some people store it in a hallway closet, under a bed, or near an exit in case of evacuation. Be sure to store your kit somewhere you can grab it quickly during an emergency.
7. How can I make sure my emergency kit is family-friendly?
When preparing an emergency kit for your family, consider the needs of children and elderly members. Include items like diapers, wipes, formula, children’s medicine, extra blankets, and toys to keep them calm during an emergency. Also, make sure to have any necessary prescriptions or medical supplies for elderly family members.