Yes it’s another but better Ultimate Hurricane Prep for Families, Pets, and Peace of Mind. Since we’re lucky enough to have access to weather predicting technology from the National Hurricane Center, who are constantly updating us all on brewing storms, it’s a good idea to use these advanced notices to get prepped for any approaching hurricane. This means gathering up a hurricane survival kit.
When preparing a hurricane survival kit, first and foremost, it is important to make two — one kit to keep in the home and one ready to take with you should you need to evacuate. There a two types of survival prep kits, one for when the storm knocks out the utilities and shuts down the city. The other is where you must evacuate on a moments notice and get to safety. This is for when you do not have to leave your home, but rather survive the discomforts of post-storm life. Once you have a survival kit ready to go, homeowners should set aside time to practice emergency drills with their loved ones, so that they are best prepared if a hurricane strikes.
Your home kit should include, at a minimum, the following:
DRINKABLE WATER
According to Ready.gov, every kit should include one gallon of water per person, per day, for at least three days. This amount is based around the idea that you’re going to be evacuated or rescued. On the flip side, FEMA advises a two-week supply, in case you find yourself trapped in your home. Don’t forget your furry family members and remember that your pets will need to stay hydrated too. If you know a storm is on the horizon, fill up containers with tap water in addition to purchasing bottled water. We also suggest you add some Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets and store your water in a Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container (Stacks so it saves space!).
FOOD AND SNACKS
You need at least a three-day food supply, per person and per pet. Some practical ideas include canned fish, meat, beans, soups, and stews, along with beef jerky, protein bars, and dried fruits or veggies. TRAIL MIX and GRANOLA BARS are the biggest carbohydrate bang for your buck. Don’t forget to pack one or two manual can openers. While it is important to pack nutritious and filling foods, it is equally important to pack snacks that appeal to your family’s liking. Favorite snacks help reduce stress during chaotic times. Be sure to include baby formula and pet food if applicable. If you want an All-in-One solution that last for a few Hurricane Seasons, check out the Ready Hour, Emergency Meal Entrées and Ready Hour, Fruit & Veggie Mix, both of which have a whopping 25 Year Shelf Life.
BATHROOM ESSENTIALS
If a hurricane hits and it shuts down the local water systems or utilities, it is important to note that you may not be able to flush or refill your toilets. A good idea is clean and prefill all your bathtubs in the home with water and use this to brush teeth, wash your face, etc. You can also use this water to fill toilets and manually flush them but that can use all your water quick. Have extra garbage bags, toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer for everyone. Choose heavy-duty trash bags that can hold up to 50 gallons and contain odors. If you have a baby or toddler, pack a three-day supply of diapers or training pants. Women should include preferred feminine hygiene products. Face wipes and mouthwash are also worth packing. We suggest items like the Portable Toilet with Soft Cushion 5 Gallon Rotatable Lid (for a Home Depot or Lowe’s Bucket), 360° Spray Universal Bottle Adapter Portable Bidet (Must Have!) and to secure it all – PrepWell’s Toilet Waste Bags.
RADIO & CHARGING ESSENTIALS
Each kit should include a battery-powered radio (with extra batteries) or a hand-crank radio. The radio will keep you updated on storm conditions and rescue efforts. BELFOR’s disaster preparedness survey revealed that of the respondents who have prepared disaster kits, 78% failed to pack radios. Radios are often the last line of communication when other systems fail. You can also opt to get a sophisticated walkie talkie radio system which allows you directly connect to NOAA broadcast and nearby radio signals such AM/FM. Just be mindful that these hand held radios would need to be charged, and require further charging after continued use. We suggest stocking up on a few Anker Power Banks, FosPower Emergency Weather Radio which Solar or Crank Charged and the Baofeng UV-5R Two Way Radio Dual Band handhelds.
NOAA FREQUENCIES: 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz
DOCUMENTS & KEEPSAKES
In a storm, digital wallets and credit cards often fail, either due to power outages or disruptions in cell service and network access. That’s why it’s critical to have analog backups. Keep a stash of small-denomination cash in your kit, as many local businesses may only accept paper currency during emergencies. Store essential personal documents such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, passports, insurance policies, property deeds, and pet records in a waterproof container or document bag. These will be crucial for identification, medical access, or reentry processes after evacuation. Copies of prescriptions, medical cards, and emergency contact lists should also be included. We suggest simple solutions for protecting your important documents like Fireproof Waterproof Money Document Bags or the DocSafe 5200°F Fire & Water Resistant Document Container
TOOLS, EQUIPMENT AND SAFETY
A great way to cook and easy to use fire system would be the Caudblor Camping Stove with Butane Adapter which works with multiple gas tank types. FEMA recommends adding a fire extinguisher and waterproof matches. Other items like flashlights, extra batteries, headlamps, and a solar lantern are essential to navigate after dark. We suggest either a battery or chargeable GearLight 2Pack LED Headlamp which has the Red Light built in. Tarps, bungee cords, and basic outdoor gear can help with temporary repairs or shelter. Don’t forget rain gear and durable shoes or boots.
You absolutely need a Water Meter and Gas Shutoff Key or the 4-in-1 Emergency Tool to turn off utilities in an emergency. BELFOR’s survey revealed that only 64% of respondents knew where the main water shutoff valve was in their home. After a disaster, gas, water, and electricity can become major hazards. Being prepared to shut them down can save lives and having the right tools is essential. While on the topic of safety steps, if you a generator please be mindful of Carbon Monoxide poisoning! Get you a couple battery operated Carbon Monoxide Detectors to place around the house and garage.
ENTERTAINMENT & COMFORT
First-Aid & Prescriptions
A deluxe first aid kit that includes more than bandages and rubbing alcohol is key. Look for kits that include ponchos, face masks, gloves, and a rescue whistle. Toxic contaminants and dust often follow natural disasters. Masks can help reduce respiratory risks. A whistle can signal help when you’re isolated. Also, customize your kit with essential personal medications, including EpiPens, insulin, or inhalers, and store them in a waterproof pouch. Don’t forget pain relievers and allergy meds.
Screens won’t save the day when the power’s out. Pack a deck of cards, small toys, or art supplies to help reduce boredom and anxiety, especially for kids. Get you a pack Regal Games Card Games for Kids – which has Go Fish, Crazy 8’s, Old Maid, Slap Jack, Garbage Monster and War! While survival is the priority, comfort can make a major difference in reducing stress, especially for children and elderly family members. Consider packing cozy essentials like a soft fleece blanket, a small pillow, or a stuffed animal for kids. Familiar snacks, herbal teas, or instant coffee can help keep spirits up. If you have babies or toddlers, don’t forget pacifiers, favorite sippy cups, or bedtime storybooks. Adults may appreciate earplugs, an eye mask, or even a small battery-powered fan. In a time of chaos, these simple items help maintain a sense of calm and normalcy. If the electricity is out that means NO AIR CONDITIONING! Hand fans are a must have, and make sure to grab the Nylon version over the paper. We suggest Nylon-Cloth Vintage Retro Fabric Fans
BE READY & STAY VIGILANT
Hurricane season is unpredictable, but your response to it doesn’t have to be. Preparing ahead of time with a thorough and personalized survival kit isn’t just about safety—it’s about reclaiming peace of mind before the storm ever hits. From water and food to tools, documents, and comfort items, every detail counts when you’re navigating uncertainty. Review your kit regularly, adjust it to fit your family’s changing needs, and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it. Emergencies test our resilience, but preparation is what gives us the strength to get through them.
