Go-Bag Checklist Calculator — Your Own Evacuation List

The plain list

What goes in a go bag?

A go bag is what you grab when you have to leave in a hurry. A stay-at-home kit is what gets you through when you stay put. Most people need both, and they are not the same bag.

Here is the go bag for one person for three days. The calculator below rebuilds it for your own household — more people, pets, more days, and the medical equipment the generic lists forget.

Water: 3 gallons (a gallon a person a day), or a water filter and purification tablets.
Food: 9 meals that need no cooking — cans with pull-tab lids, peanut butter, crackers, dried fruit — and a manual can opener.
Medicine: at least a 3-day supply of every prescription, a written list of your medications and doses with your prescribers’ phone numbers, glasses, hearing-aid batteries, and a first aid kit.
Papers, in a waterproof pouch: copies of your photo ID, Medicare and insurance cards, your emergency contacts written on paper, and some cash in small bills.
Light and power: a flashlight, spare batteries, a battery or hand-crank radio, and a phone charger that does not need the wall.
Being found: a whistle on your keyring and a reflective vest.
Clothing: sturdy closed-toe shoes, a rain poncho, a warm layer, and an emergency blanket.

Keep it light enough to carry — for most older adults that means 15 to 25 pounds, or a bag with wheels. A CPAP, insulin, oxygen or a walker each changes the list; tick them in the calculator.

Sources: Ready.gov: Build a kit · checked September 29, 2026

Tell Us About Your Household

Answer the questions below. We'll generate a personalized go-bag checklist sized for your specific household — with weight estimates and cost guidance.

1. Number of adults in household

2. Number of children (under 18)

3. Pets

4. How many days should your bag cover?

5. Medical needs (check all that apply)

CPAP / BiPAP machine Insulin or refrigerated medication Mobility aid (walker, cane, wheelchair) Oxygen or breathing equipment No special medical needs

I have read and agree to the Terms of Use, including the calculator disclaimer and the binding arbitration and class-action waiver. I understand that all results are planning estimates only, are not medical or safety determinations, and that I use them at my own risk.

Common Questions

How heavy should a go-bag be?

FEMA recommends a go-bag weigh no more than 25% of your body weight. For most seniors, that means 15–25 lbs maximum. Prioritize the essentials — medications, documents, water, and a 3-day food supply — over comfort items. Use a wheeled bag if carrying weight is difficult.

What documents should I include in my go-bag?

Include copies of: photo ID, passport, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid cards, insurance cards, medication list with doses, doctor's contact information, bank account information, property deeds or lease, and emergency contacts. Store in a waterproof bag or pouch inside your go-bag.

How do I evacuate with a CPAP machine?

Most modern CPAP machines weigh 1–3 lbs and travel well. Pack the machine, power cord, a travel-size distilled water supply (or go without humidification for short trips), extra filters, and your prescription information. A battery backup unit for your CPAP adds weight but provides 1–3 nights of operation without power.

Where should I store my go-bag?

Store your go-bag near your primary exit — hall closet, garage, or bedroom closet. It should be accessible within 2 minutes. Review and restock every 6 months: replace expired food and medications, update documents, and check battery-powered items. Put a calendar reminder in your phone.

🛻 Don’t forget the car. A go-bag rides with you; a car kit lives behind the seat. The jump starter, wool blanket, headlamp, and reflective tape that turn a breakdown into an inconvenience. See What Grandpa Kept in the Truck →