When preparing for an emergency, it’s easy to want to pack everything you think might come in handy. However, carrying too much gear can slow you down and make it harder to move quickly when it matters most. The key is to pack smart—focus on essentials like medical supplies, shelter, and multi-use tools. Choose lightweight, high-quality items that serve multiple purposes. In an emergency, being able to move quickly is just as important as having the right equipment, and overpacking can prevent that.

If you or a family member rely on prescription medicine or specific over-the-counter remedies, these should be a priority in your kit. Emergencies are unpredictable, and access to a pharmacy might not be possible. In addition to daily medications, pack extras like pain relievers, allergy meds, and any essential first-aid items that might not come in standard kits.

A common mistake is assuming that having survival gear is enough—without actually knowing how to use it. Whether it’s a fire starter, water filtration system, or emergency radio, you need to know your equipment inside and out. Take time to test your gear before an emergency strikes. Practice using the tools, setting up shelter, and purifying water. Familiarizing yourself with your kit's contents will reduce stress and help you act quickly in high-pressure situations.

Items like food, water, and certain medical supplies have a shelf life, and failing to rotate them can leave you with spoiled or ineffective materials when you need them most. Make it a habit to check expiration dates on items in your kit regularly. Store foods with a longer shelf life—such as freeze-dried meals—and consider investing in water storage that has built-in filtration or a long shelf life. Regularly rotate your stock so your emergency kit is always ready and safe to use.

Clean water is often hard to find, and dehydration can happen quickly. Plan for at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for drinking and hygiene. For food, choose calorie-dense, non-perishable items that are easy to prepare. Make sure to have enough supplies for at least 72 hours, and consider packing more if you're planning for a longer emergency.