Joshua Babicz
Buying a ready-made survival kit is a great way to protect you and your family in case of an emergency. These kits, which are also known as a bug-out bag or a go-bag, are designed for emergencies such as floods, fires, hurricanes and earthquakes, and would give you some essential tools to help you survive for up to 72 hours. This is the length of time that you might be stranded before local authorities are able to come and help you. Survival kits come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, so today we’re going to share with you our recommendations for the best survival kit options on the market.
Best Survival Kits to Buy in 2022
1 – EVERLIT 42L Tactical Backpack Survival Kit Bugout Bag
Design and Size
This emergency preparedness kit comes in a large 42L backpack, so it can easily store a whole menu of items that you might need. The bag itself is made from 900D fabric, which is extremely durable and high-density. Its dimensions are 20 x 13 x 11 inches. When you are wearing the backpack, you’ll appreciate the padding and ventilation it offers, as well as the multiple compartments it has for easy storage of your kit. The straps and zippers are of a high quality, and won’t be damaged even when you need to grab this bag in a rush.
Contents of the Kit
One item that really sets this survival kit apart is the included 2L water hydration pack, which will allow you to have drinking water with you at all times in an emergency situation. There’s also a survival shovel included and a smaller MOLLE pouch which is made from 600D material. The first aid kit offers you everything you would need to treat a minor injury, and you’ll also appreciate the 100 ft paracord. If you are struggling to find help in an emergency, the flashlight has three different modes and will keep you visible at all times. For further visibility, there’s also a fire starter and two glow sticks which will last up to twelve hours each.
Pros
- This survival kit comes with a large 42L backpack made from 900D fabric
- 2L hydration pack included for carrying drinking water
- Basic first aid kit included
Cons
- Only twenty-three items are included in the pack, so you may find that some essential items that you need are missing
2 – Emergency Survival Kit, 32 in 1 Professional Survival Gear Tool
Design and Size
The dimensions of this bag are 8 x 6 x 5 inches, and it is a lightweight and highly portable bag which can easily be attached to your main backpack. With a black color and professional appearance, this is a versatile option for doctors, policemen and first aiders. As it can be attached to another bag, it’s a great option for campers or adventure sports enthusiasts to carry around in case of an emergency.
Contents of the Kit
This emergency gear kit contains thirty-two items, but you will be able to add a few more things into the bag if there’s anything else you feel you may need in an emergency. It contains everything you need in a natural disaster, including an emergency whistle, tactical pen, a flashlight, compass and fishing equipment. This kit helps to cover a wide range of scenarios, including if you need to stay outside of your home for a few days. You’ll be able to start a fire, stop yourself from getting lost and keep dry and warm. The tools that are included in this kit are ideal for a hiking or camping trip and will stop you from getting lost or finding yourself in any tricky situations.
Pros
- This is a compact emergency kit which can easily be stored in your car, or carried around on a hiking or camping trip
- Lightweight and portable bag which can be attached to a larger backpack
Cons
- No first aid kits included in these emergency kits
- No water filter or water purification tablets included in this bag
3 – EVERLIT Complete 72 Hours for 2 People Earthquake Bug Out Bag
Design and Size
Everlit has created this high-quality tactical backpack which stores all of your emergency kit belongings. It’s made from 600D polyester, which is water-resistant and tear-resistant. When you need to wear the backpack, you’ll appreciate the comfy straps and strong zippers that it has. If you are on the go, this backpack is comfortable to wear over a long period of time, thanks to the padded back and shoulder straps it has.
Contents of the Kit
With a 200 piece first aid kit included, this is one of the most extensive first aid kits included in any of the bags on this list. The first aid kit includes a combat tourniquet, and thanks to the MOLLE system, you can easily attach the first aid kit bag to a backpack. The food and water supplies in this survival kit have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, and have a fantastic five-year shelf life, making this survival kit a worthwhile investment. There are twenty-four water packs and two packs of food bars included in the bag. You’ll also appreciate the water purification tablets which are included in the bag, which are ideal if a natural disaster occurs and you are away from your home for an extended period of time. This survival kit offers everything you would need during an emergency, and other key features include a hand crank flashlight, survival blanket and an emergency shelter.
Pros
- Extensive food and water supplies included in this bag which are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard
- This survival kit comes with a wide range of items including an emergency shelter and a hand crank flashlight
- 200 piece first aid kit included
Cons
- One of the most expensive options on the market
- This survival kit comes in a larger bag, so it’s not the best option for storing in a car
4 – Ready America 70080 Emergency Kit, 1-Person 3-Day Bag
Design and Size
This is a fantastic kit thanks to its compact design and size, making it easy to store and transport during natural disasters. Constructed from plastic, it’s a hardwearing and long-lasting option that you’ll easily be able to store in your home without it taking up too much space. Its dimensions are 20 x 12 x 12 inches, and it weighs just 3.62 pounds.
Contents of the Kit
This emergency preparedness bag is designed to last one person for up to 72 hours and contains everything you would need if you had to escape from any disasters in your home. While it may look like quite a small bag, you’ll find it contains survival gear items like a lightstick, rain ponchos and a first aid kit with thirty-three pieces. Most importantly, it contains food and water to last you for up to three days, all of which is stored within the conveniently sized case. For additional help in an emergency, you’ll appreciate the emergency whistle, tissues and mask that are included. This is the perfect kit for storing at your office or in your car and provides everything you might need without taking up a whole cupboard.
Pros
- At under $30, this kit will solve most issues during disasters, and offers users food, water and a first aid kit
- The case is of a convenient size, so it can be stored in your car or your office, and it will make sure you are safe during power outages or disasters
Cons
- Some essential items are missing from this kit, including an LED flashlight, waterproof matches and a window breaker
5 – EILIKS Survival Gear Kit, Emergency EDC Survival Tools 24 in 1
Design and Size
If you are looking for a lightweight and compact kit to keep in your car or office, this is a great option. Its dimensions are 8 x 4 x 2 inches, and it’s easy to carry around or put into your backpack. There is a ranger band included with your purchase, which allows the kit to attach securely to your belt, backpack or climbing equipment. Producing a high-quality product is the number one priority of this company, so you will be able to receive good customer service assistance if you have any issues with your purchase.
Contents of the Kit
This kit contains twenty-four different items, all of which are designed to solve a different problem during a disaster. You’ll find a fantastic survival knife and a paracord bracelet, both of which are key pieces of gear to ensure your survival in an emergency. There’s a strong wire saw and whistle included, as well as a good flashlight to give you light throughout the night. You’ll be able to light a fire thanks to the four pieces of fire tinder which are included. Finally, a unique addition to this box is the four-piece fishing tools set, which will make sure you can catch food during an emergency. As well as functioning as a great emergency kit, it’s perfect for camping, hiking and adventure sports enthusiasts, and would make a great gift for anyone in your family who enjoys these activities.
Pros
- A compact emergency kit which can easily be stored in your car or office
- A ranger band is included with your purchase, allowing you to attach this kit to your backpack or belt
- All of the gear included is of a high quality and well manufactured
Cons
- A small kit which only includes 24 pieces of gear
- No first aid kit or sewing kit included with the set, which are essential supplies during emergencies
- No food or drink supplies included
6 – Aokiwo 126Pcs Emergency Survival First Aid Kit
Design and Size
The bag itself is one of the highest-quality options on the market, and the EMT bag is made from 1000D nylon which is of military-grade. It has straps which are MOLLE compatible, making it a good addition to any other outdoor kit you may have. The size of the kit is 8 x 6.5 x 6 inches, and it is water-resistant.
Contents of the Kit
With 126 pieces in this emergency preparedness kit, it includes almost everything you could think of. What sets it apart from other sets of a similar price is the 16 piece first aid kit, which allows you to deal with any wounds to avoid infections or further issues. You’ll find all of the common emergency prep kit essentials, such as a military knife, flashlight, tactical pen and much more in this compact bag. To keep you protected during inclement weather, there’s a raincoat and blanket. The kit comes with ten different fishing tools, so you won’t need to worry about starving in a true emergency situation. It’s a very practical kit, and every item that the kit includes will have a use during natural disasters or survival scenarios.
Pros
- Extensive 126 piece survival kit which offers almost all of the basic supplies you would need in an emergency
- A very high-quality kit bag, made from 1000D nylon
- MOLLE compatible kit bag
- 10 piece fishing kit included
Cons
- No food and water supplies, which is unexpected from a kit with this many items included
7 – KOSIN Survival Gear, 18 in 1 Emergency Survival Kit
Design and Size
The kit itself is extremely compact and convenient to carry in emergency situations. The dimensions of the storage box are 6.3″ x 4.3″ x 1.9″, and it weighs just 1.4 pounds. It’s ideal for putting in your car trunk and can even be attached to your belt or backpack strap in an emergency zone thanks to the ranger band included with the kit. The case of these emergency prep kits is made from plastic and is waterproof.
Contents of the Kit
Inside the kit, you’ll find eighteen items that are all of a high quality for your emergency essentials. The Swiss knife can be used in any situation, and you’ll also find a wire saw for cutting wood and plastic. A heavy-duty pen which is constructed from steel is included, and this can be used for breaking through windows in an emergency. To help with navigation in an emergency zone, you’ll find a flashlight, although you will need to provide the batteries for this item yourself. The credit card knife if easy to put into your pocket and offers eleven different functions including a can opener, wrench and screwdriver. Finally, the compass will offer you easy navigation and is easy to read even in the dark. There are a few basic first aid supplies including band-aids, a needle, bandage, gauze swab and an alcohol pad.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight kit
- High-quality items included in the kit
- Ranger band included to attach the kit to your belt or backpack strap
Cons
- Limited items in the kit, especially the first aid kit supplies
- No food and water supplies included
- No batteries are included for the flashlight
8 – Premium Emergency Survival Bag
Design and Size
Sustain Supply Co have created their Comfort2 bag which offers users a large bag filled with all of the essential supplies you might need to last two people up to three days during a worldwide or local disaster in the United States. The bag itself is black in color and is lightweight and durable, and can easily hold everything the kit contains plus any medical supplies you may need to add for your personal needs.
Contents of the Kit
You’ll appreciate the premium quality of everything that’s included in your bag. With 24 water pouches and a full first aid kit, you’ll find everything you could need for two people over 72 hours in these survival kits. You’ll have multiple different sources of light and fire, including a device for starting a fire and an LED lantern. You will be able to prepare yourself a good meal, thanks to the portable stove, which is a unique addition to this bag. Finally, in case of any medical issues, you’ll find a first aid box from Sustain Supply Co, which is packed with all of the medical supplies you might need.
Pros
- A wide range of contents are included in this bag, including an LED lantern, portable stove and 24 water pouches
- Extensive first aid kit included
- Multiple light sources are included
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on the market
- A large bag for storing in smaller homes or apartments
9 – Prep Store Quick – Emergency Survival Pack
Design and Size
As far as survival kits go, this is one of the largest options on the market, and everything is contained within a 65L backpack. The bag itself is made from lightweight and durable nylon, and this kit is designed for short term or long term survival. It’s a good value for money product if you are looking for a kit with a tent and sleeping bag, and when compared to other bags and survival kits of this size, it’s one of the more affordable options. A rain cover is attached to the bag, and everything weighs under 20 lbs.
Contents of the Kit
If you are looking for an emergency kit with everything you might need to camp for a few nights, this is one of the top survival kits on the market. It has over twenty-five different items that you may need, and you won’t need to provide any batteries to use any of the included items. All of the electronics are either rechargeable or solar-powered, so you don’t need to worry about running out of battery in an emergency. To ensure you keep hydrated, you’ll find a water filter straw, bottle, water bladder and a separate 2-gallon container. The added benefit of a kit of this size is that you’ll have a sleeping bag, camping mat, tent and mosquito net included, so you’ll be able to keep warm and safe come night-time. This pack doesn’t come with a first aid kit or food bars, so you will need to provide these separately and add them into these survival kits.
Pros
- Contains a tent, sleeping bag and camping mat for a comfortable night sleeping outdoors
- Plenty of options for obtaining emergency drinking water thanks to the different water filter and container options included
- 65L backpack
Cons
- A very large bag for storing in smaller homes
- No food bars or first aid kit included in this purchase
10 – Rescue Guard First Aid Kit Hurricane Disaster or Earthquake Emergency Survival Bag
Design and Size
Your emergency kit will arrive in a red backpack, which is a lightweight bag that is of a good quality. Due to its bright color, it will be easy to find in an emergency and is easy to store in your home without taking up too much space. The bag is a good size to store all sixty items in this kit, and offers enough survival supplies to last one person for up to six days, or a couple for up to 72 hours.
Contents of the Kit
This kit offers most of the emergency supplies that you would need in the case of an emergency or natural disaster. Inside the backpack, you’ll find enough drinking water to last you a few days, a tent, rope and a good-sized first aid kit. To keep you warm in cold weather, you’ll appreciate the fire starter, ponchos and thermal blankets that are included with your survival supplies. The 60 piece first aid kit will offer everything you need to deal with smaller injuries, and you’ll find a couple of masks included to protect you from smoke and fumes.
Pros
- A reasonably priced emergency kit for its large size
- 60 piece first aid kit included
- Survival supplies can last an individual user up to six days
Cons
- Cheap and lower quality backpack than some of the other options on the market
11 – Blue Coolers Blue Seventy-Two | 72 Hour Emergency Backpack
Design and Size
This set comes with four separate bags, all of which are blue backpacks that are easy to grab on the go during an emergency. They can easily be stored at home, and are also small enough to fit in your car or store at your office. Each kit is designed to last one person for up to three days and contains the basic items that are recommended for an emergency as per the American Red Cross.
Contents of the Kit
Each backpack has a full set of items for your survival needs and includes food bars with a five-year shelf life. You’ll find an emergency blanket, poncho, dust mask and 2,400 calories worth of food to keep you sustained in this survival gear kit. For your navigation and safety, you’ll appreciate the whistle, compass, flashlight, first aid kit and water supplies that this bag contains. Each bag has five water pouches, so you’ll be able to keep going for multiple days without worrying about finding a water filter or tap. The kit focuses on sustaining you and protecting you from the cold and rain but does lack any form of shelter.
Pros
- This set comes with four backpacks, so each member of your family can be protected
- Plenty of food and water is included in each bag, so you’ll be well sustained in an emergency
- Lightweight and comfortable backpacks to wear while on the move
Cons
- Bags lack some items which will help you to create a shelter, such as nylon rope and a knife
12 – Survival Kit, Verifygear 17 in 1 Professional Survival Gear Tool
Design and Size
This emergency kit comes in a lightweight and compact bag and looks professional enough to place in your car or office desk drawer. You can also attach it easily to your equipment if you are climbing or biking, so it also doubles as an adventure kit. The size of these emergency kits is 18 x 10 x 6 cm, and it weighs 600g in total.
Contents of the Kit
All of the survival item options in this kit are professionally manufactured and are of high quality. With seventeen different items included, you’ll find a waterproof box, pen, compass and flashlight included. The folding knife is of a top military design, and you’ll appreciate the fire starter that’s included. Finally, to keep you warm and safe in case of an injury, you’ll find a first aid blanket included in these emergency kits.
Pros
- A compact kit that is ideal for storing in your car or office desk
- A high-quality folding knife is included in this kit
Cons
- Only 17 items are included in these emergency kits
- No food and water supplies or first aid items in this go-bag
13 – Survival Gear and Equipment 35 in 1
Design and Size
The kit itself is 10.24 x 4.96 x 2.8 inches and is a lightweight option that’s perfect for putting in your car trunk or under the kitchen sink. The outer shell is shockproof and waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about it getting damaged in a natural disaster. It can easily be put inside a backpack, where you could then add food rations and drinking water to create a complete kit.
Contents of the Kit
This kit features 35 of the most important items you could need in an emergency. The survival knife, wire saw and screwdriver can help you out during many tricky situations. A compass will help navigate you away from a natural disaster, and a whistle and flashlight are provided to help get attention if you are in an emergency situation. To ensure you don’t get cold, an emergency blanket is included, as well as fire tinder. Finally, there are a few basic first aid supplies, including alcohol pads and band-aids.
Pros
- One of the lowest-priced options on the market
- A compact kit that is ideal for storing in your car trunk or adding to a larger survival backpack
Cons
- Minimal first aid kit supplies are included with this kit
- No food bars or rations are included in this small survival kit
14 – Huiming Survival Kit 72 in 1
Design and Size
Any problem can be solved with these compact survival kits which will give you peace of mind when you are out and about on an adventure. It’s ideal for keeping in your car in case of power outages and is a small black MOLLE bag that can easily be attached to your backpack. The bag itself is compact, yet can store everything you might need when you’ve had to leave your home and shelter elsewhere.
Contents of the Kit
These survival kits contain 72 different items, including a 60 piece first aid kit. Everything is made from top quality materials, and Huiming offer a 60-day return policy with your purchase, so you can shop with peace of mind. Inside the kit, you’ll find a paracord bracelet, multi-tool card, a window breaker pen and fishing supplies. There’s everything here that you might need to survive a 72 hour period, whether you are alone or in a two person party. This kit focuses on essential survival items as opposed to offering an extensive range of supplies such as a sewing kit or filtration system like you might find in larger and more expensive kits.
Pros
- A low-cost option
- Very portable design and storage container
- A survival bracelet is included, which has a compass and other handy tools
Cons
- While this kit has 72 items, quite a few basic supplies are missing such as rain ponchos, hand warmers and water supplies
15 – Ready America 70285 Deluxe Emergency Kit 2-Person, 3-Day Backpack
Design and Size
Suitable for one person, couples or smaller families who are looking to keep themselves protected for up to a 72 hour period during an emergency, this kit comes in a red and black backpack which can easily be stored in your home. This bug-out bag is lightweight yet durable and has comfortable straps for when you are on the go.
Contents of the Kit
This bug-out bag is one of the top survival kits, in particular thanks to the inclusion of the four-function power station. This device allows you to charge your phone and also doubles as a siren, flashlight and radio. Within these survival kits, you’ll find a 72 hour supply of food and water with a shelf life of five years, which is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Other notable survival tools in the kit include emergency ponchos, an emergency blanket, hygiene items and a first aid kit with 33 pieces. For your health and safety, you’ll also find glow sticks and a multi-function survival tools set.
Pros
- A low-cost option if you are looking for a larger set of survival tools than some of the smaller kits on the market
- Contains enough food and drink to last three days
- The four-function power station is ideal for when you are needing to escape an emergency zone and will provide power to your phone as well as a hand crank flashlight
Cons
- Ensure you check the contents of your bag upon its delivery, as many users report items missing from the menu of items that should be included with this purchase
What to Look for in the Best Survival Kit
When it comes to comparing the best survival kits below, these are some of the most important factors to look out for.
Size
The smallest emergency kits on this list primarily consist of a first aid kit, essential tools and a fire starter. Naturally, they are good value options and are a great choice for those just looking for something small and easy to store in their home. A larger survival kit comes with everything you need to live in an emergency situation, including food and water. It’s up to you to decide what’s most important and choose a survival kit for your family accordingly.
Sustainability
These survival kits listed below are designed to help keep you alive in an emergency, and they are all designed for different lengths of time. While most kits are good for about 72 hours away from your home, some of them don’t have the appropriate food rations to last that long. However, most of them will provide you with the tools to get food and water in an emergency situation.
Items
The most important thing to consider is the items in your new emergency prep kit, so you can find one that will meet you and your family’s needs. Most prioritize first aid supplies and basic survival equipment, and then larger kits add food and drink into the mix. If you are able to get a survival kit with a reasonably large bag, you can customize and upgrade its contents to fit your needs.
Price
The prices of survival kits vary wildly, with some of the smaller options starting at around $30-40. It’s up to you whether you want to buy a cheaper kit and then purchase additional supplies individually, or invest in an emergency survival kit that has everything you need. The smaller and cheaper kits are best for storing in cars, whereas if you are looking for an all-encompassing option for your home, you might want to consider one of the larger and more comprehensive backpack options.
Is there anything else I should add to the survival kit?
While we recommend trying to purchase the biggest survival kit that you can afford space and money-wise, there are a few additional items that you’ll need to add to the bag regardless of which one you purchase. Prescription medications and prescription glasses are essential for any emergency kit, including those that you only use occasionally. It’s best to also add additional clothing if you have a larger bag, especially if you live in an area which experiences cold weather. Once your bag arrives, make a copy of your ID and passport, as well as your insurance information and contact information for your closest family members.
If you are looking after babies or young children, you’ll need to add their basic supplies such as baby food and diapers into the bag, and you’ll certainly require a larger survival kit in this case. Female users will need to add hygiene supplies, as these are often not included in the survival kits. Finally, you’ll want to add some small bills to your bag, as in the case of a power cut, you won’t be able to use your credit cards for emergency purchases you may need to make.
Related Articles
