Be Ready for Anything: How to Build a Go-Bag That Works for You

Emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time to happen. Whether it’s a wildfire forcing an evacuation, a sudden power outage, or an unexpected disaster, having a well-stocked go-bag can make all the difference. It’s not about paranoia—it’s about being prepared and staying in control when the unexpected happens.

Yet, many people hesitate to take steps toward preparedness. Some believe they will never face an emergency, while others assume they can rely on emergency responders or the government for assistance. But the reality is that during major disasters, help can take days to arrive, and stores may quickly run out of critical supplies. Being self-sufficient for at least 72 hours is not just smart—it’s essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Building a go-bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, you can create a customized emergency kit that fits your needs and gives you the confidence to handle whatever comes your way.

Why People Hesitate to Prepare—And Why You Should Start Now

Despite clear evidence that emergencies happen every day, many people put off preparing for them. Here are some of the most common reasons why:

1. “That Will Never Happen to Me”

Many people believe that disasters only affect other people—until one hits their own community. Hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, power outages, and wildfires are all becoming more frequent and severe. Even everyday emergencies like car breakdowns or unexpected evacuations can happen to anyone.

2. Overwhelm and Uncertainty

Some people feel paralyzed by the idea of prepping because they don’t know where to start. They imagine expensive, bunker-style prepping and stockpiling years’ worth of food. The truth is, you don’t need to go to extremes—even a small, well-stocked emergency kit can be life-saving.

3. Relying on Emergency Services

While first responders do incredible work, they can be overwhelmed in major disasters. 911 may not be able to respond immediately, supply chains can be disrupted, and shelters can become overcrowded. Having your own emergency supplies ensures you are not left vulnerable while waiting for help.

4. The “It’s Too Expensive” Mindset

Prepping doesn’t have to be costly. Many emergency supplies, such as a flashlight, extra clothes, and a first aid kit, are things you already own. Investing in preparedness is an investment in your safety and peace of mind.

What is a Go-Bag and Why Do You Need One?

A go-bag is a portable emergency kit designed to provide essential supplies if you need to leave home quickly. Having one packed and ready to go means you won’t be scrambling to gather essentials when every second counts.

A well-prepared go-bag should include:

First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers)
Three days’ worth of food and water
Flashlight & batteries
Multitool or Swiss Army knife
Phone charger & backup battery
Emergency cash
Spare clothes & sturdy shoes
Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes)

And one critical addition often overlooked? A reliable source of hydration and nutrition.

Essential Emergency Kits for Different Situations

Being prepared doesn’t mean just having a go-bag. There are different types of emergency kits that serve different purposes.

1. The Go-Bag: Ready for Quick Evacuations

A go-bag is designed for situations where you need to leave your home immediately—wildfires, hurricanes, or any situation requiring fast evacuation. Keep it packed and easily accessible so you can grab it and go.

2. The Shelter-in-Place Kit: Staying Safe at Home

A shelter-in-place kit is meant for situations where you need to stay inside your home for an extended period, such as during a winter storm, pandemic, or chemical spill. This kit should include:

Two weeks' worth of non-perishable food
One gallon of water per person per day
Backup power sources (batteries, solar chargers, or generators)
Basic medical supplies and prescription medications
Emergency blankets and warm clothing

3. The Car Emergency Kit: Prepared for Roadside Emergencies

Your car is one of the most valuable tools in an emergency, but it can also be a liability if you’re unprepared. A car emergency kit is essential, especially for long drives, winter weather, or disaster evacuations. It should include:

Jumper cables & emergency tools
Blankets & extra warm clothes
Flashlight & extra batteries
Non-perishable snacks & bottled water
First aid kit
Gas can & tire repair kit

Fuel Your Body in an Emergency with PREP ORS & Cold Brew

When you’re on the move, food and clean water may be hard to find. That’s why PREP ORS (Oral Rehydration System) and Cold Brew belong in every emergency kit.

Why Pack PREP ORS?

Protein-Packed: Many emergency food options lack sufficient protein, but PREP ORS delivers 10 grams per serving to keep you strong.

Hydration Boost: Packed with electrolytes to replenish fluids lost due to stress, heat, or exertion.

Compact & Long-Lasting: Powdered mixes take up minimal space and can be stored for years. Just add water and you’re ready to go!

Cold Brew: A Must-Have for Energy & Focus

Caffeine When You Need It: Emergencies require quick thinking and stamina. Cold Brew provides a sustained energy boost without sugar crashes.

Essential Calories: Staying fueled is crucial, and Cold Brew offers a high-protein energy source in an easy-to-mix formula.

Morale Booster: A little normalcy in a crisis—because sometimes a familiar taste can make all the difference.

More Than a Go-Bag: A Plan for Any Emergency

A go-bag is a great start, but true preparedness means having a plan for different situations. Consider:

Talking with family members about what to do in an emergency.
Knowing your evacuation routes and having multiple options.
Making digital and physical copies of important documents.
Practicing emergency drills so you don’t panic when the time comes.

Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared gives you control.

Start Today & Stay Prepared

You don’t need a bunker to be ready for an emergency—just smart planning and the right supplies. With PREP ORS and Cold Brew, you’ll have a dependable nutrition and hydration source that fits easily into your go-bag.

Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Start building your go-bag today and take a simple step toward peace of mind and personal resilience.

For more go-bag essentials and expert preparedness tips, check out Popular Science’s guide on making a prepper go-bag, and for a full list of disaster preparedness items and suggestions, check out Ready.gov.

by ryan good