16 Things to Always Have in Your Home Emergency Kit, According to Experts

Flashlights

Flashlights are perhaps the first thing one thinks about when it comes to emergency kits—and this is for a good reason. "Darkness is disorienting and dangerous," says CEO at Entropy Survival, Jeremy Gocke. "Whether you’re navigating your home during a power outage or trying to signal for help, a reliable flashlight is your first line of defense."

He recommends flashlights with multiple charging options: battery, solar, and hand crank. For additional sources of light, pack candles, a battery or solar lantern, and waterproof lighters. You never know when you might need them.

Extra Batteries

Extra batteries are always good to have on hand, but especially in emergencies. “Batteries power everything from flashlights to sound machines and baby monitors,” notes Harshbarger.

She recommends stocking your home and emergency kit with commonly used sizes, like AA, AAA, and 9V, so that you'll likely have exactly what you need when the time comes. Regularly check the batteries inside your emergency kit to make sure they are still securely packed and have not corroded.

Portable Phone Charger or Power Bank

“Communication can be lifesaving, whether you need to call for help, access emergency maps, or stay in touch with loved ones,” explains safety expert Alina Bradford.

Phones can become our lifelines—but in a natural disaster, outlets may be unavailable, so having a portable phone charger is a must-have in your emergency kit. “A fully charged power bank is one of the easiest and most effective tools to keep in your emergency kit,” says Harshbarger.

Non-Perishable Food

Always keep your emergency kit stocked with an array of non-perishable foods. “Shelf-stable snacks like granola bars, mixed nuts, dried fruit, or crackers can go a long way in making a stressful moment feel a little more normal,” says Harshbarger.

Bradford recommends opting for food pouches, as they are lighter and compact. “You don’t need a bunker full of rations, but enough to get you through 72 hours without resupply is critical,” advises Gocke. High-calorie, no-cook options like MREs or vacuum-sealed bars are ideal. And make sure to properly store the food to prevent pests from getting into your supply.

Drinking Water, Water Purification Tablets, or Filters

Always have a few gallons of water stored in a cool, dry place in your home. According to Harshbarger, “it’s one of the simplest ways to stay prepared for natural disasters or utility disruptions, especially if you live in an area where severe weather can affect water quality.” 

That said, when the water runs out or you have to leave your home, having a secondary water source is equally as essential. "In case water supplies are contaminated or unavailable, purification tablets or a portable water filter…ensure you have access to clean water," advises Bradford.

A Headlamp

In addition to flashlights, Gocke recommends including a headlamp in your emergency kit. “Unlike flashlights, headlamps give you hands-free light,” he says. Having one on hand for cooking, reading in the dark, repairs, or first aid can be a game-changer.

Sanitation Supplies

Toilet paper and moist wipes can help maintain personal hygiene, especially when plumbing fails. And garbage bags not only help manage waste but can also double as makeshift rain ponchos or ground covers.

Warm Blankets or Emergency Mylar Blankets

In the event that a winter storm knocks out your power, having extra blankets on hand can help you get through cold nights, preferably emergency mylar blankets. “Compact and lightweight, these reflective blankets retain body heat and provide warmth in cold weather or shock situations,” explains Bradford.

“They’re also useful as shelter liners, signal reflectors, or makeshift ground insulations.” Bradford advises packing one blanket per family member, along with a couple of extras.

A Multipurpose Tool

According to Bradford, a multipurpose tool like a Swiss army knife can handle a range of tasks, like cutting bandages, opening packaging, or performing minor repairs. “It’s especially useful in survival situations when access to a full toolbox isn’t possible,” she says.

Personal Alarms or Whistles

If you happen to be in a situation where you need to call for help, a whistle makes it easier to be heard. “It’s a smart, low-tech addition every household should have,” says Harshbarger.

Additionally, security expert Jeff Ketelaars recommends keeping a personal alarm on hand (available at stores that sell self-defense items). “When triggered, [they] make a loud and high-pitched sound,” he explains. If needed, these personal alarms can be used to ward off threats, including people or animals, and serve to alert nearby rescue teams.

Important Documents and Emergency Contacts

Having important documents and emergency contact information readily available is essential. Laminating them will help protect them from water damage and from getting crushed or torn.

These include copies of your IDs, insurance documents (medical, home, and auto), family contacts, medical details, and prescriptions. “If you have to evacuate or are offline, these are your proof of identity and access,” says Gocke.

Manual Can Opener

If your multipurpose tool doesn't include a can opener, ensure you pack one separately. “You’d be shocked by how many people stockpile canned food, but forget the can opener,” says Gocke. He recommends prepping your kit with a manual can opener, so you won't have to rely on working batteries or an outlet to access your food.

Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio

“In any emergency–especially during storms, blackouts, or natural disasters–staying informed is key,” explains Bradford. “A NOAA weather radio can provide updates on weather, rescue operations, and even evacuation routes when phones and the internet are down.”

N95 Masks

Packing a few N95 masks in your emergency kit is recommended as a health safeguard. They don’t take up much room, and they can keep you from breathing in harmful contaminants due to wildfires, earthquakes, and more, notes Ketelaars.

Duct Tape

Never neglect to pack a roll of duct tape—its uses are nearly endless. “The ultimate fix-it tool, duct tape can temporarily seal leaks, patch tents or clothing, secure bandages, and even create rope,” says Bradford.

She recommends removing the cardboard tube inside and flattening the roll so it occupies even less space in your emergency pack.

Cash (But Not Too Much)

Ketelaars recommends keeping a small amount of cash in your emergency kit. Any large stack of bills could make you vulnerable to theft. “Just a few bills is good,” he says.