A go bag is for leaving fast, a 72-hour kit is for lasting at home. Learn how they differ and when to evacuate or shelter in place.
- A go bag is light and for leaving fast; a 72-hour kit is bulk supplies for staying.
- Follow official orders: evacuate when told, shelter when it is safe.
- Build the kit first, then pull essentials into a grab-and-go bag.
People often use the words "go bag" and "72-hour kit" as if they mean the same thing. They overlap, but they do different jobs. A go bag is built to be grabbed in seconds so you can leave. A 72-hour kit is a larger stash meant to keep you going for three days, usually at home. Most households benefit from both, in a simple form.
What a go bag is
A go bag (also called a grab bag or bug out bag) is a portable bag you can pick up and carry out the door in an emergency such as a wildfire, flood or order to evacuate. It is lightweight, packed ahead of time and kept somewhere easy to reach, like a closet near the main door.
Typical contents:
- Copies of ID, insurance papers and key phone numbers in a waterproof bag.
- Cash in small bills.
- Phone charger and a power bank.
- A small first aid kit and a few days of essential medication.
- Water and a few ready to eat snacks.
- A flashlight or headlamp, and spare batteries.
- Basic hygiene items and a change of clothes.
- Items for children, babies and pets.
What a 72-hour kit is
Emergency agencies in Canada and the US recommend being able to look after yourself for at least 72 hours (three days) without help or services. A 72-hour kit supports that, usually at home. It is bigger and heavier than a go bag and may sit in a bin or cupboard. It holds enough for everyone in the household:
- Water: about 4 litres (1 gallon) per person per day.
- Non-perishable food, a manual can opener and basic cooking supplies.
- Lights, a battery or crank radio, and spare batteries.
- Blankets, warm clothing and a stocked first aid kit.
- Sanitation supplies, such as garbage bags and wipes.
- Medications, glasses, pet food and baby supplies.
See the 72-hour checklist, or the step by step family 72-hour kit guide.
The main differences
- Purpose: leaving quickly versus staying put.
- Weight: a go bag should be light enough for you to carry for a distance; a kit can be heavy.
- Location: a go bag goes by the door or in the car; a kit sits in a storage spot.
- Contents: documents and portable essentials versus bulk supplies.
- Number: one bag per person is ideal; one kit per household.
A practical approach is to build the 72-hour kit first, then pull the most important items into a go bag. Some people find it easier to turn a part of the kit into a go bag, with a pre-packed duffel or backpack.
Evacuate or shelter in place?
Follow official instructions first. Local authorities will say whether to leave or stay.
- Evacuate when authorities order it, or when your home is unsafe because of fire, flooding or hazardous conditions. Leave early, and take your go bag, medications, pets and documents. See wildfire and evacuation guidance and the hurricane checklist.
- Shelter in place when roads are dangerous, a storm is passing, or authorities tell you to stay indoors. A typical power outage in a safe house means staying, using your 72-hour kit.
Keep both kits ready
- Check bags every six months. Swap out food, water and medicine that is expiring.
- Update clothing as children grow and with the seasons.
- Keep your car fuel above half, especially in winter. See winter car emergency kit.
- Agree on a meeting place with your household, and review your family communication plan.
You do not need to buy a lot to start. Begin with the go bag essentials, then grow the kit over time. The readiness score can show what to add next.
One more point: tailor both kits to your household. Families with babies, older adults, people with disabilities or pets will need different items, such as formula, mobility aids, spare glasses or pet carriers. Write a short list of those special needs and tape it inside the bag so anyone in the family can check it quickly when time is short.
Quick answers
Do I need both a go bag and a 72-hour kit?
Ideally yes. The kit covers staying at home, and the go bag covers leaving quickly. You can build one from the other.
How often should I check them?
Review them about every six months, and swap out expiring food, water, medicine and outgrown clothing.