Storm, prolonged power outage, flood alert, industrial incident: authorities recommend being able to stay self-sufficient for 72 hours. The bug-out bag, ready to leave in five minutes, is the foundation of that preparation. Here is how to build it right.
Why 72 hours?
In a major crisis, help and networks can take three days to come back. Being self-sufficient for 72 hours means avoiding queues, shortages and dangerous situations, and letting emergency teams focus on critical cases.
The 5 essentials
1. Water: 3 litres per person per day
Three litres per person per day, one third for hygiene. Carry a stainless bottle and a Stainless steel bottle with straw — 750ml, plus a filter or tablets to refill on the way.
2. Food: 2,000 kcal per day, no cooking
Energy bars, dried fruit, freeze-dried meals or rations: choose foods that keep long, need no cooking and can be eaten cold. Plan 2,000 kcal per person per day.
3. Power and light
A Rechargeable LED headlamp 2000LM keeps your hands free, a power bank charges your phone, and ideally a crank radio keeps you informed. Add spare batteries and Fast USB-C charger 20W — pack of 2.
4. Communication and documents
A radio or PMR446 walkie-talkie, a paper list of important contacts, copies of ID and insurance in a waterproof pouch. Your phone is a complement, never your only way to communicate.
5. First aid and hygiene
A complete first aid kit (see our checklist), a survival blanket, gloves, a whistle, soap, a hygiene kit and garbage bags.
According to your profile
- Alone in the city: 15-20 litre bag, 8-10 kg maximum, no perishable food
- Family with children: one bag per person + shared bag (games, comfort items, formula)
- Rural area: add backup heating, a larger water reserve, tools
- Car: "get-home bag": water, bars, light, blanket, charger
Mistakes to avoid
Do not overpack: beyond 10 kg, the bag will not be carried. Do not forget medicines and glasses. Protect electronics from moisture and keep paper copies: without network, there is no cloud. Finally, test your bag: wear it, empty it, rebuild it once a year, and check expiry dates.
FAQ
What is the ideal weight for a 72h bag?
8 to 10 kg for an adult, water included. Beyond that, the bag becomes a burden: favour compact and multi-purpose items.
Is a bug-out bag useful in the city?
Yes: power cuts, storms, health or industrial alerts also hit urban areas. A light bag, hidden in a closet, is ready in five minutes.
How long does a 72h kit last?
Bottled water: 1-2 years. Food: 1-5 years depending on the product. Do a yearly inventory and replace whatever is close to expiry.
Where should I store my bug-out bag?
Near the main exit or in the garage, in a place known to the whole family, never in a damp cellar or hard-to-reach spot.
Our picks to build yours
Three reliable and compact products to start: a Stainless steel bottle with straw — 750ml for hydration, a Rechargeable LED headlamp 2000LM for light and Fast USB-C charger 20W — pack of 2 to keep your devices charged.
