On my dining room wall, I have a cherished painting I bought during a trip to Venice. It’s the one item in that room I’d want to protect during an evacuation. Yet, it doesn’t fit in my prepared Go Bag. This highlights the need for a list detailing last-minute items to pack – things I use or treasure daily but don’t usually pack in advance.
You might have read countless times about emergency kits, Bug Out Bags, Go Bags, and their various names. I’ve got a guide on my site, too. However, the reality is, when you’re rushing out, the pre-arranged kit may be missing crucial items. These items, often used or appreciated daily, may only be suitable for last-minute packing.
In this post, we’ll discuss crafting a checklist for these daily essentials that aren’t typically pre-packed in an emergency kit.
The Necessity of a Last-Minute Packing List
Why It’s Essential
Emergencies can be chaotic, and not everyone can stay calm and collected. Having a list minimizes the decisions you need to make in the moment. Furthermore, abandoned homes can become targets for theft. So, think about what you absolutely need to take, as it might not be there upon your return.
When to Use It
This isn’t your pre-preparation list, though you create it beforehand. This list is for:
- Urgent evacuations with limited time.
- When you need to quickly secure items, like in flooding situations.
How It Works
This list is designed to assist you in swiftly gathering key items during emergencies. Rather than pondering what to save, you can rely on this pre-determined list for guidance.
Deciding What to Include
To curate this list, tackle it room-by-room. Consider:
- Is it truly unique? For instance, my special painting from Venice.
- Is it vital for survival? Think of essential medical equipment.
- Is it in use daily? Daily homeschooling supplies, for example.
- Can it be digitized? Like irreplaceable family photos.
- Does it carry substantial financial value? Perhaps an antique.
Once you’ve settled on your items, prioritize them. And assign individuals to each task, factoring in age, capability, and stress resilience. Everyone should know their roles.
Your Last-Minute Packing Essentials
- Cash: Extra money can be useful for unforeseen expenses.
- Medications: Don’t forget regular meds, and remember refrigeration if needed.
- Medical Equipment: Essential equipment can be tough to replace promptly.
- Firearms: Determine which to take, considering safety and urgency.
- Appropriate Clothing: Plan for the current climate.
- Valuables: Safeguard them in a fireproof and waterproof container.
- Photo Collections: Protect irreplaceable memories.
- Secure Containers: Anything worth securing is worth taking.
- Precious Metals: Store them for easy transport.
- Proper Footwear: Always have shoes ready for a swift exit.
- Vital Electronics: Secure essential digital data.
- Grab-and-Go Binder: A collection of vital household info.
- Perishable Foods: Pack a cooler for the journey.
- Comfort Items: Favorite toys, pillows, or blankets.
- Pets: Don’t forget their essentials.
- Camping Gear: In case standard accommodation isn’t an option.
Conclusion
Emergencies require swift, effective actions. A last-minute packing list ensures you efficiently protect what’s most valuable. What’s on your list?
