If the U.S. Goes to War: What to Pack for an Emergency
A Simple Guide to Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Trust me when I say this is the last thing I want to be thinking about. However, I’d rather prepare in advance than scramble in the moment admist chaos. I live in New York City and I’m originally from Washington, D.C. Living in major cities has taught me a lot about preparedness, so I’m sharing a few things to consider in case you need to evacuate or move quickly.
Important Documents
I recommend having any important documents scanned and somewhere easily accessible digitally (license, passport, marriage license, house deed, social security card, etc).
Create a note on your iPhone, scan the documents into that note, and lock the note. Create a passcode for it, for extra security. Also, put all of those physical documents in a fireproof and water safe container, if possible. Have them all together and easily accessible.
Exit Strategy
Next, discuss an exit plan with loved ones should you need to leave your area quickly. If phone lines go down and you can’t reach each other, where will you meet? Where are you heading?
Avoid plans that rely on public transportation or ride shares as those systems are likely to be overwhelmed in a crisis.
Emergency Bag
Have a bag packed and ready to go in case you need to leave at a moment’s notice. It should include things like a first aid kit, flashlight, toiletries, utility knife, small scissors, ponchos, KN95 masks, etc.).
By planning ahead, creating an exit strategy, and packing an emergency bag, you significantly increase your chances of staying safe.
ESSENTIALS PACK (CRITICAL TO SURVIVAL)
Water & Food
1 gallon of water per person per day (3-day minimum)
Non-perishable food (canned goods, MREs, protein bars)
Manual can opener
Water purifier or LifeStraw
Safety & Shelter
Flashlight + extra batteries
First aid kit (plus prescriptions)
Emergency blanket or sleeping bag
Face masks and gloves
Duct tape + plastic sheeting
Multi-tool or pocket knife
Documents & Comms
Copies of ID, insurance, and emergency contacts (paper, digitally, & USB)
Cash in small bills
Battery-powered radio (NOAA preferred)
Phone charger + power bank
Local paper map and compass
Personal Items
Clothing layers + sturdy shoes
Toothbrush, soap, hand sanitizer, menstrual products
Whistle
Non-Essentials Pack (For Comfort & Safety)
Books or a journal
Solar charger
Camp stove + fuel
Reusable utensils + dishes
Trash bags, rope, zip ties
Walkie-talkies
Coffee, tea, or small luxuries
Earplugs + eye mask
Optional: Personal Defense
Pepper spray or safety alarm
Tactical flashlight
Remember…
In an emergency, quickly do the following:
Fill your gas tank
Withdraw cash
Charge all devices
Refill prescriptions
Connect with your emergency contact
Feel free to save, share, and screenshot this. Preparedness doesn’t have to be panic. It’s power.