Grab-and-go bag: an evacuation kit you can carry
A grab-and-go bag holds what you need for the first 24–72 hours if you have to leave home quickly because of a flood, fire or gas leak. Keep it light enough to carry, by the door.
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The checklist
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Light enough to carry for an hour.
Enough for the first hours.
Light, long-life calories.
In a waterproof pouch.
Plus a copy of prescriptions.
With fresh batteries.
Small and light.
Pocket-sized version.
Keeps you and the bag dry.
Warmth and signalling.
Dry socks matter more than you think.
House and car.
Tips
- Keep it under 8 kg (18 lb) for adults.
- Agree a meeting point with your family outside the neighbourhood.
- Photograph your documents and store them encrypted in the cloud too.
Questions people ask
How heavy should a grab-and-go bag be?
Light enough to walk with for an hour: under about 8 kg (18 lb) for an adult, less for children.
Where should I keep it?
Near the main exit, where every member of the household knows to find it.