Ultimate Survival Kit Checklist Builder
Prepare for any emergency with your customized survival supplies list
Safety Disclaimer: This tool provides general preparedness guidance. Survival situations can be dangerous. Always consult with survival experts and medical professionals before attempting risky activities or using unfamiliar equipment.
Pro Tip: Start with our recommended essentials, then add scenario-specific items using the custom section below.
Essential Survival Items
Total: $3.00
Total: $15.00
Total: $25.00
Custom Survival Items
Survival Kit Summary
Essential Items:
Custom Items:
Total Weight Estimate:
$0.00
$0.00
0 lbs
Total Kit Cost: $0.00
Preparation Tips:
- Store water in food-grade containers and replace every 6 months
- Rotate food supplies to maintain freshness
- Practice using all equipment before you need it
Survival Kit Essentials: What You Really Need
The Rule of Threes
- 3 minutes without air
- 3 hours without shelter (in harsh conditions)
- 3 days without water
- 3 weeks without food
Must-Have Categories
- Water purification methods
- Multiple fire-starting tools
- Navigation aids (map + compass)
- Signaling devices
- Multi-tool or knife
"Survivors with prepared kits are 8 times more likely to endure emergencies successfully according to FEMA research."
Specialized Kits for Different Scenarios
Wilderness Survival
Focus on shelter-building materials (tarp, paracord), hunting/fishing gear, and water purification. Include signaling mirrors and brightly colored items for visibility. A quality fixed-blade knife is essential.
Urban Disaster
Prioritize cash in small bills, portable battery banks, dust masks, and sturdy footwear. Include copies of important documents on a waterproof USB drive. Crowbar and work gloves can be invaluable.
Vehicle Emergency
Include jumper cables, flares, blanket, and high-calorie non-perishable food. Add cat litter for traction in snow and a portable air compressor. Keep a printed map of your region in case GPS fails.
Expert Tip: Build kits in layers - a pocket EDC (Every Day Carry), a small grab bag, and a comprehensive home kit. This ensures you're prepared whether you're across town or at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check and update my survival kit?
Inspect your kit every 6 months. Check expiration dates on food, water, medications and batteries. Rotate seasonal items (like extra blankets in winter). Update whenever your family's needs change (new medications, pet additions, etc.).
What's the difference between a bug-out bag and a survival kit?
A bug-out bag is designed for rapid evacuation (72 hours max), while a survival kit can be more comprehensive for sheltering in place. Bug-out bags prioritize portability with about 25-30lbs of gear, whereas home kits can include bulkier items.
Should I include weapons in my survival kit?
This is personal preference and depends on local laws. Many experts recommend non-lethal options like pepper spray first. If including firearms, ensure proper training, secure storage, and extra ammunition. Never include weapons you're not thoroughly trained to use.
How can I make my survival kit more compact?
Choose multi-use items (bandana can be towel/sling/filter), repackage bulk items into smaller containers, use vacuum-sealed bags, and prioritize quality over quantity. Remember that the best kit is the one you'll actually carry with you.
What's the most commonly forgotten survival item?
Most survivors regret not including: 1) Extra socks (wet feet cause blisters), 2) Cash in small denominations (ATMs may not work), 3) Copies of important documents, and 4) Comfort items like hard candy or tea bags for morale.