When disaster strikes, the first 72 hours are the most critical. Whether it’s a natural disaster, power outage, or emergency evacuation, having a ready-to-go kit can make all the difference for you and your family. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to be prepared. This guide will show you how to build a complete 72-hour emergency kit (also called a “bug out bag”) for under $200.
Why You Need a 72-Hour Emergency Kit
During the first three days after a disaster, emergency services are often overwhelmed. You might need to take care of yourself before help arrives. FEMA and the Red Cross both recommend having supplies to last at least 72 hours for each person in your household.
“But won’t this cost a lot?” you might be thinking. Not necessarily! With smart shopping and focusing on what truly matters, you can build a quality kit without breaking the bank.
Planning Made Easy: Before we dive in, try our Bug Out Bag Calculator to get a personalized list based on your specific needs, number of people, and situation. It’s free and takes just a minute!
The Core Essentials: Water, Food, and Shelter
Water Solutions (Under $30)
Water is your top priority in any emergency. You need about one gallon per person per day (half for drinking, half for hygiene).
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Water bottles: Buy a case of 24 16.9oz bottles for about $5-8
- Water purification tablets: Around $8 for 50 tablets (treats 25 gallons)
- Portable water filter: Basic models start at $20
Pro tip: Combine methods! Pack some bottled water for immediate use, then add a filter or tablets for longer situations.
Food Choices (Under $40)
Look for non-perishable items that are lightweight, don’t need refrigeration, and require minimal preparation.
Best Budget Food Options:
- Ready-to-eat meals: $8-10 for a pack of 3 meals
- Protein/granola bars: $10 for a box of 12
- Peanut butter: $3-4 per jar (high calorie, long shelf life)
- Canned tuna or chicken: $1-2 per can
- Trail mix and dried fruits: $5-8 per bag
Remember: Pack food you’ll actually eat! Emergency situations are stressful enough without forcing down food you hate.
Shelter and Warmth (Under $30)
You need protection from the elements, whether you’re staying home or evacuating.
Budget Shelter Options:
- Emergency Mylar blankets: $5-8 for a pack of 5
- Emergency tube tent: $8-10
- Rain poncho: $3-5 each
- Light fleece blanket: $8-10
Basic Tool Essentials
Multi-Tool Options (Under $25)
A good multi-tool can replace a whole toolbox in emergency situations.
Budget-Friendly Choices:
- Basic pocket multi-tool: $15-20
- Folding pocket knife: $10-15
- 5-in-1 survival tool: $10-15
You don’t need the fanciest brand – just something reliable with basic functions like a knife, pliers, can opener, and screwdriver.
Light Sources (Under $20)
When the power goes out, you’ll need reliable lighting that doesn’t depend on the grid.
Affordable Options:
- Hand-crank flashlight: $10-15
- Headlamp: $8-15
- Long-lasting emergency candles: $5-8
- Glow sticks: $5 for a pack of 10
Remember: Batteries die! Choose options with hand-cranking ability or stock extra batteries.
Communication Devices (Under $15)
Staying informed and able to call for help is crucial during emergencies.
Budget Communication Tools:
- Hand-crank emergency radio: $12-15
- Whistle: $2-5
- Small notepad and pencil: $2-3
- Emergency contact card: Free (DIY)
First Aid on a Budget
Pre-made Kits vs. DIY Approach
Pre-made kits ($15-25): Convenient but often contain lower-quality items. DIY kit ($20-30): More customized to your needs and often better quality.
If you go the DIY route, start with:
- Adhesive bandages (various sizes)
- Gauze pads and rolls
- Medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Triple antibiotic ointment
- Pain relievers
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Medical gloves
Essential Medications
Don’t forget to pack:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers ($4-6)
- Any prescription medications you take regularly
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions ($4-5)
- Anti-diarrhea medication ($4-5)
Keep at least a 3-day supply of any prescription medications in your kit. Ask your doctor for a paper prescription to keep in your emergency kit as backup.
Basic Wound Care
For treating injuries, add:
- Alcohol or antiseptic wipes ($3-5)
- Triple antibiotic ointment ($3-4)
- Burn gel ($5-7)
- ACE bandage ($3-4)
Personal Items & Documents
Hygiene Essentials
Basic hygiene prevents illness and improves morale during emergencies.
Budget Hygiene Kit ($15-20):
- Hand sanitizer: $2-3
- Travel toothbrush and toothpaste: $3-4
- Pack of wet wipes: $2-3
- Travel toilet paper: $2
- Menstrual supplies (if needed): $5-8
- Travel-size soap: $1-2
Important Document Storage Options
Protect key documents with:
- Waterproof document pouch: $5-10
- USB flash drive (for digital copies): $8-10
- Ziplock bags: $2-3
Important documents to include:
- ID and passport copies
- Insurance information
- Medical information
- Emergency contact list
- Photos of family members
- Home inventory photos
Cash Considerations
When card readers and ATMs are down, cash is king. Include $50-100 in small bills ($1s, $5s, $10s) if possible.
Where to Save vs. Where to Spend
Items Worth Investing In:
- Water filter: Clean water is non-negotiable
- Good shoes: Your feet are your transportation
- Quality multi-tool: You’ll use this constantly
- Durable backpack: Holds everything together
Where Cheaper Alternatives Work Fine:
- Emergency blankets: Basic Mylar works well
- Light sources: Basic flashlights are adequate
- Food: Store brands taste the same in emergencies
- First aid supplies: Generic bandages work just as well
Multipurpose Items to Save Space and Money:
- Bandanas: Use as washcloth, dust mask, bandage, signal flag
- Duct tape: Repairs gear, medical tape, fire starter
- Paracord: Hang food, make shelter, repair gear, emergency fishing line
- Trash bags: Rain poncho, ground cover, water collection, storage
Your $200 Emergency Kit: Final Breakdown
Here’s how your $200 budget breaks down for a complete 72-hour kit:
- Water solutions: $25-30
- Food supplies: $35-40
- Shelter/warmth: $25-30
- Tools and light: $35-40
- First aid: $20-25
- Personal items/documents: $15-20
- Cash: $20-40 (if possible)
Ready to build your custom emergency kit? Use our Bug Out Bag Calculator to get a personalized list based on your specific situation, including number of people, special needs, and environmental factors!
Start Building Today
Don’t wait for disaster to strike before getting prepared. Start today by:
- Using our calculator to create your personalized list
- Gathering items you already have around the house
- Making a shopping list for missing items
- Buying 1-2 items each week until your kit is complete
Remember, an emergency kit isn’t something you build once and forget. Check it every six months, rotate food and water, update documents, and replace expired medications.
Being prepared doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s always worth it. Your future self will thank you!
Click here to use our free Bug Out Bag Calculator and get your personalized emergency kit list now!
Have questions about building your emergency kit on a budget? Leave a comment below, and we’ll help you find affordable solutions!