What Is a Go-Bag and Why Do Homeowners Need One?

Your go-bag should hold items you need for at least 72 hours. Start with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, and a basic first-aid kit. Add copies of important documents like your ID, insurance policy, and home inventory in a waterproof pouch.

Include a small tool kit, a phone charger, and cash in small bills. For water damage specifically, pack a pair of rubber boots, work gloves, and a change of clothes. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance company's phone number, written on paper.

• Water and snacks that won't spoil
• Flashlight and batteries
• First-aid kit
• Copies of ID and insurance documents
• Phone charger and power bank
• Rubber boots, gloves, and a change of clothes

A go-bag only works if it is stocked and easy to reach. Check it every few months. Replace expired food and swap out old batteries. Adjust the contents for the season, like adding a warm blanket in winter or extra water in summer.

Store your go-bag in a clear plastic bin or a sturdy backpack. Put it in a spot you pass often, like the hallway closet or near the front door. Tell everyone in your household where it is and what it contains, so anyone can grab it in a hurry.

Update your go-bag at least twice a year, or whenever your household changes. Add new items for a baby, a pet, or an older family member. Remove anything you no longer need. Keep the bag light enough to carry easily.

If you have recently dealt with water damage, refresh your go-bag with lessons learned. For example, add a waterproof phone case or a small map of your area. A well-maintained go-bag gives you one less thing to worry about in an emergency.