What is an emergency kit?

An emergency kit, also called survival kit, is a kit filled with essential tools to save yourself during an emergency situation. During a power outage, for instance. An emergency survival kit ensures you are prepared and remain self-reliant when emergency services are not readily available.

Why should you have an emergency kit?

An emergency kit, also known as a survival kit, survival kit or emergency bag is essential to be prepared for unexpected situations. Of course, we hope you'll never have to use your emergency kit. But should the situation arise, it's better to be prepared. The right gear helps you remain self-reliant when help is not readily available. By prepping, or in other words preparing, you make sure you'll have the essentials within reach. Think of a water filter, a first aid kit, a torch or a multi-tool.

A good emergency kit or bug-out bag will help you survive independently in the first 48 or 72 hours until emergency services arrive on the scene. It gives you the security of not being completely dependent on external forces. Of course, you cannot prepare for everything, but the right tools and provisions can make a real difference.

Please note: An emergency kit helps you be better prepared, but does not guarantee complete safety. Each emergency situation is also different, so keep in mind that it is still key to carefully assess the situation at hand and follow the advice of local authorities.

What does an emergency kit cost?

Putting together an emergency kit is easier than you might think, but which items does it need to contain? The exact contents and costs depend on the situation you are preparing for. You can opt for a basic emergency kit with all the essential items you can put to good use during an emergency. Of course, you can also expand the kit and add other tools. Tools made of premium materials, with a longer lifespan or with extra features, for example. This does mean the total costs will be a bit higher.

Types of emergency kits

With so many different tools to choose from, it can be quite difficult to pick the right one for your emergency kit. Explore our selection of products for three types of emergency kit to decide which is best for you.

Basic emergency kit

A basic emergency kit consists of the most essential items that can come in handy during an emergency. From torch to a first-aid kit.

Professional emergency kit

A professional emergency kit contains all the essential items you can find in a basic kit, as well as extra tools that can come in handy during an emergency. Tools you might not have thought of, at first. This is the difference between a professional emergency kit and an off-grid emergency kit or basic emergency kit.

Off-grid emergency kit

An off-grid emergency kit is a more extensive, outdoor kit, to survive during a multi-day stay in a remote location, without access to modern amenities.

What should your emergency kit include?

The following products form the foundation of any type of emergency kit and ensure that you can be self-sufficient for at least a few days. This emergency kit list was compiled based on advice from reliable sources.

A basic emergency kit should have the following:

• Water and a water filter for hydration and to obtain safe drinking water.
• A knife or multi-tool for cutting, building or repairing.
• A power bank to ensure your communication and navigation tools keep working.
• A whistle is useful for communication or calling for help in an emergency.
• A flashlight and spare batteries are essential for light in the dark, especially in case of power outage.
• A first-aid kit for treating injuries.
• A lighter, firesteel and tinder so you can make a fire for heat, cooking or signalling.
• Don't forget about paracord, for things like building shelters and repairing equipment.

Emergency kit tailored to specific situations

You can pick and choose the items that will apply to your specific situation. For example, make an emergency kit for in the car, an emergency kit for at home or one for cooking in emergency situations.

Car emergency kit

When putting together an emergency car kit, it is important to pay extra attention to specific products. Many of the items suitable for a car kit can also be found in a basic emergency kit, but are extra suitable or specially designed for car-related emergencies. For example, a pocket knife with belt cutter. Wondering what else to add to the emergency kit for your car? Check out all tools here.

Emergency kit for cooking

During an emergency, you don't want to be completely dependent on ready-made snacks when you are without power or gas for days. But how do you make sure you can cook even during an emergency? What products do you need and what all should you pay attention to when putting together an emergency kit for outdoor cooking? Discover it here.

Emergency kit assembly

Planning to assemble your own emergency kit and want to learn more? We're here for tips and tricks! Make sure to keep your package up-to-date and tailor it to your specific needs. You will hopefully never have to use it, but when it comes down to it, you'll be glad you're prepared!