A home kit supports a longer stay at home, while a go-bag holds a portable core for evacuation. Build the home supply first, then duplicate the essentials you would need while traveling rather than trying to carry the whole household reserve.
A home kit and a go-bag solve different problems. A go-bag must stay light enough for the person assigned to carry it; the home kit can hold bulk water, extra food and supplies for several days without being portable. Ready.gov’s checklist covers the shared core; use it as a starting point, then adapt the quantities to household needs.
What belongs in both
| Shared essentials | Home kit | Go-bag |
|---|---|---|
| Water and food | Larger stored supply | Portable first-day supply |
| Medication and first aid | Household reserve | Personal essentials and prescription list |
| Light and communication | Lantern, radio and spare power | Compact flashlight and charged power bank |
| Documents and contacts | Protected copies and household plan | Copies and out-of-area contact card |
Do not rely on a bag as the entire household reserve. Water is heavy, and special diets, pets, infants and medical equipment can make a one-size kit inadequate. Keep a list of what is stored where.
Make the go-bag carryable
Put the bag near an exit, but out of a path that could be blocked. Assign the bag to someone who can carry its actual loaded weight; let children carry only what is appropriate for them. Keep shoes, glasses, chargers and daily medication accessible as last-minute additions.
Keep both usable
Check expiration dates, battery condition, contact details and seasonal clothing. A kit that has been packed once and forgotten is not a plan. For a detailed three-day baseline, see the 72-hour emergency kit checklist. For food formats, compare freeze-dried, MRE and canned food.
Sources: Ready.gov emergency supply checklist.
Common questions
What is the difference between a home emergency kit and a go-bag?
A home kit can hold heavier supplies for sheltering in place; a go-bag is a portable set for leaving quickly. Both should include water, food, medication, light, communication and copies of key information.
Should every family member have a go-bag?
Give each person an appropriately sized bag or assigned items they can carry, then account for children, mobility needs and pets in the household plan.
How often should I check an emergency kit?
Review it at least seasonally and after use; replace expired food, water, batteries and medications according to their labels.