3 Best Backpacks for Emergencies

Hey there my fellow outdoors lovers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best backpacks for emergencies and safety this year. In times of crisis and unforeseen emergencies, being prepared can make all the difference between chaos and safety.

One essential tool that can significantly enhance your preparedness is a reliable emergency backpack. These versatile packs serve as a lifeline during evacuations, natural disasters or unexpected situations, allowing you to carry vital supplies and gear in an organized and easily accessible manner. 

So for those of you looking to get out and about and in need of a good emergency backpack, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent options below. Let’s check them out.

My Three Recommended Backpacks for Emergencies

I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience: 

11/19/2023 11:48 pm GMT

What are Backpacks for Emergencies? 

Also known as survival backpacks, backpacks for emergencies are purpose-built, specialized bags designed to enhance preparedness and response during critical situations, such as natural disasters or evacuations. 

Crafted with durable materials and strategic design, these versatile packs allow for efficient organization and easy access to vital supplies including food, water, first-aid essentials, communication devices and survival tools. Their adaptability caters to various scenarios, making them invaluable companions for hikers, families or first responders. 

And in most cases, these backpacks are purchased with the above-mentioned tools etc. included as well.

Backpacks for emergencies - backpack and gear on table

What Should You Be Looking For?

The following factors should be considered as you hunt around for a good emergency backpack to meet your mountaineering or outdoors needs.

  1. Durability and Material
  2. Capacity
  3. Organization
  4. Contents
  5. Water Resistance
  6. MOLLE Compatibility
  7. Additions

Durability and Material

Emergency situations can subject gear to rigorous conditions, making resilience a key factor. Opt for backpacks crafted from robust materials such as nylon, polyester or Cordura, which exhibit superior resistance to tears and abrasions.

These materials ensure the pack can endure the harsh demands of emergency scenarios, providing longevity and reliability when you need it most. A durable backpack becomes a trustworthy companion during evacuations or natural disasters, as it maintains its integrity and safeguards your essential supplies throughout the ordeal.

Capacity

As with any backpack , the capacity of an emergency backpack can vary widely so it is essential to choose one that suits your specific needs and the potential duration of the emergency you’re preparing for.

Emergency backpacks typically come in various sizes and the capacity can range from small, basic kits designed for short-term emergencies to larger more comprehensive kits meant to sustain you for an extended period. When evaluating capacity, you should take into account the amount of food, water, clothing, first-aid supplies, tools and other essential items you may need during an emergency.

One common guideline for emergency preparedness is the “72-hour rule,” which suggests that you should have enough supplies to sustain yourself and your family for at least 72 hours in the event of a disaster or emergency. This timeframe is often considered the minimum duration for which you may need to be self-reliant before external assistance becomes available.

Organization

The organization of a backpack for emergencies plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency and preparedness during critical situations. Look for backpacks with well-designed compartments, pockets and dividers that allow you to neatly arrange your essential supplies.

A thoughtfully organized backpack ensures easy access to specific items without the need to rummage through the entire pack, saving valuable time when urgency is paramount. Efficient organization helps you maintain a clear inventory of your gear, enabling you to quickly identify and replenish depleted supplies during or after emergencies.

Backpacks for emergencies - first aid backpack

Contents

These are the items inside the backpack that you’ll rely on during an emergency. Two must-have contents are survival tools and a first aid kit.

  • Survival Tools: These are essential items that can help you in various emergency situations. Common survival tools include a flashlight, a multi-tool or Swiss Army knife, a fire starter, a whistle and a compass. These tools can help you navigate, create shelter, start a fire for warmth and cooking and signal for help.
  • First Aid Kit: A well-equipped first aid kit is vital for addressing injuries and medical needs during an emergency. It should include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers and any specific medications you or your family members may require. Having a first aid kit can be life-saving in critical situations.

Additionally, consider any additional items you may need to customize the kit to suit your situation such as personal hygiene items, extra clothing or specific medications.

Water Resistance

Emergency situations can often involve exposure to harsh weather conditions or unexpected water-related incidents. Choosing a backpack with water-resistant properties or one that comes with a rain cover ensures that your essential supplies and gear remain protected from moisture and rain.

This feature prevents water from seeping into the pack and potentially damaging critical items such as communication devices, first-aid supplies, or food which are essential for your safety and well-being during crises.

MOLLE Compatibility

MOLLE compatibility is a valuable feature to seek when selecting a backpack for emergencies. MOLLE, which stands for “Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment,” refers to the system of webbing and attachment points on the exterior of the backpack. Backpacks with MOLLE compatibility allow you to attach additional pouches, gear or accessories externally, enhancing the bag’s carrying capacity and customization options.

This feature enables you to tailor the backpack to your specific needs, ensuring that essential tools or items are easily accessible and readily available during critical situations. With the ability to add or remove pouches as needed, MOLLE compatibility provides flexibility and adaptability, allowing you to adjust the backpack’s configuration based on the demands of different emergencies.

Additions

  1. Attachment points: Many emergency backpacks come equipped with attachment points, such as loops, D-rings, or straps. These attachment points are handy for securing extra gear or equipment externally. You can use them to attach items like a sleeping bag, a tent, or other essential gear that may not fit inside the backpack. Attachment points enhance the versatility of your backpack and allow you to carry more supplies as needed.
  2. Pockets: The number and design of pockets in an emergency backpack can greatly affect organization and accessibility. Pockets help you keep your supplies organized and readily accessible. Look for a backpack with various-sized pockets and compartments, both on the inside and outside. This makes it easier to separate and locate specific items like your first aid kit, flashlight, or snacks. Well-designed pockets can save you valuable time during an emergency when quick access to essential items is crucial.
  3. Reflective tape – Many emergency backpacks are fitted with reflective tape which aids in visibility in hazardous conditions.

My Three Recommendations Broken Down

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. Taiker Emergency Survival Kit

The Taiker Emergency Survival Kit is an impressive and comprehensive package that provides a wide array of high-quality survival gear and medical supplies, making it an essential companion for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Crafted from durable 600D nylon, the backpack boasts a large capacity, housing 74 pieces of emergency survival gear, 66 pieces of medical supplies, and 10 fishing tools, ensuring that it caters to any medical or emergency needs that may arise during wilderness adventures. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Taiker
  • Number of items: 151 items
  • Material: 600D nylon 
  • Weight: 4.85 pounds
  • Dimensions: 12.6 x 10.47 x 4.61 inches

Other inclusions:

  • After sales customer service
  • Multi-function emergency backpack.

Why have I chosen it?

This backpack kit includes premium survival tools, such as a tactical folding knife, fire starter, compass, folding pliers, flashlight and multi-function paracord bracelet, among others. Additionally, the emergency tent provides temporary shelter, while the thermal blanket efficiently retains 90% of body heat in cold conditions. The 12-inch survival axe features multiple functions like chop, cut, split, chip, trim, and open, making it an indispensable tool for survival situations, accompanied by a protective Nylon sheath for safety.

An approved first aid kit is also part of the package, equipped with essential items like tweezers, scissors, bandages, wound pad, and cotton buds, ensuring that you can promptly address wounds and prevent infections in emergency situations. The comprehensive supplies cater to single-family or group emergency treatment needs, making it a valuable asset for any outdoor activity.

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11/19/2023 11:48 pm GMT

2. Emergency Zone The Essentials Complete Deluxe Survival 72-Hour Kit

This emergency backpack includes USA-made SOS food ration bars and water with a 5-year shelf life ensuring essential sustenance when needed. Packed with basic supplies and manufactured by Emergency Zone, a reputable provider of top-ranked survival kits and premium food storage solutions, this kit offers peace of mind and reliable support during critical situations. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Emergency Zone
  • Number of items: 53 items
  • Material: 600D nylon 
  • Weight: 12.41 pounds
  • Dimensions: 15.2 x 11.4 x 7.5 inches

Other inclusions:

  • Can support two persons
  • Emergency preparedness guidebook

Why have I chosen it?

Designed to accommodate two individuals, this multi-purpose kit is well-equipped to provide essential supplies for 72 hours and the use of a red backpack ensures that your valuable emergency supplies remain visible, increasing the chances of being located during a disaster.

The emphasis on food and water highlights the kit’s commitment to ensuring your basic needs are met during an emergency, allowing you to focus on your well-being and safety. Packed with essential supplies, the Essentials Complete Deluxe Survival 72-Hour Kit offers peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved one have the necessary tools and resources to navigate through challenging scenarios.

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11/19/2023 11:51 pm GMT

3. Rescue Guard Emergency Survival Backpack

This last option is a top-quality and comprehensive emergency preparedness solution, offering essential supplies for families during disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes. Packed in a fully loaded survival backpack, it includes water and food rations for up to 12 days, first aid supplies, safety gear, and more. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Rescue Guard
  • Number of items: 60 items
  • Material: Polyester 
  • Weight: 18 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎18 x 14.25 x 8.5 inches

Other inclusions:

  • 72-hour supply
  • Can support four persons

Why have I chosen this?

This emergency backpack is a high-quality and comprehensive emergency preparedness solution, specifically designed to provide essential supplies for families during disaster situations such as hurricanes, earthquakes or other emergencies. The kit comes in a fully packed survival backpack that includes a vast array of necessities to help you survive challenging scenarios. From water and food rations that can last up to 12 days for a single user to first aid supplies, safety protection gear, a squeeze power light and more, this kit ensures you have the essentials to weather through emergencies.

It offers days of sustainability, with consumable items such as USA-made and US Coast Guard-approved water and food supplies that have a shelf life of 5 years. The backpack is packed with superior-quality items, including a tent, ponchos, rope, a survival compass, fire starter flint, thermal blankets, an axe, a survival knife and a lantern/radio/flashlight/phone charger. This advanced go bag ensures you have all the tools you need to endure any hurricane, earthquake, or outdoor exploration.

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11/19/2023 02:44 pm GMT

Conclusion

There you have it, my three best backpacks for emergencies. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time

Have fun

Paul

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