What Should You Pack in Your Emergency 'To-Go' Bag That Isn't Essential?

When preparing for an emergency or evacuation, it's important to think beyond the basic survival essentials. While items like a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a multi-tool are crucial, there are a variety of non-essential items that can make your journey more comfortable and manageable. This article explores some of these lesser-known but valuable additions to your emergency 'to-go' bag.

Seasoning and Comfort: Salt and Pepper

Additional Items: Salt and Pepper
While not strictly necessary for survival, salt and pepper can greatly enhance the flavor of any food you manage to prepare during an emergency. These simple spices can transform bland rations into something more palatable. Whether you're surviving on unleavened bread and dehydrated vegetables or have managed to find some fresh ingredients, knowing that you have a way to season your meals can be a huge comfort.

Multi-Purpose Laces: Extra Shoelaces

Additional Items: Extra Shoelaces
A roll of shoelaces may seem trivial, but they have numerous uses beyond binding your footwear. Need to lash two pieces of wood together to start a fire, or tie something temporarily? Shoelaces can be used creatively in a pinch. Keeping a few extra pairs on hand ensures you always have a readily available resource when you need it most.

Entertainment and Downtime: Something to Read

Additional Items: Something to Read
In an emergency situation, you'll likely have plenty of downtime. A book, magazine, or even a printed map can help pass the time and take your mind off the situation. Additionally, reading can provide a much-needed sense of normalcy. Consider packing light, paperback editions or something you won't mind getting slightly worn.

Sharp and Efficient: Small Pencil Sharpener

Additional Items: Small Pencil Sharpener
Though traditionally used for writing, a pencil sharpener can serve multiple purposes. The shavings can be used to start a fire, or if you're camping, you can use it to sharpen other blades or tools. A multi-purpose item like a small pencil sharpener can help you in many otherwise-desperate situations.

Preventative Care: Small Bottle of Hand Lotion

Additional Items: Small Bottle of Hand Lotion
In cold or dry conditions, your hands can become extremely chapped and uncomfortable. Carrying a small bottle of hand lotion can help prevent this, keeping your skin soft and moisturized. This can be crucial for both your physical comfort and hygiene, especially if you have to spend time outdoors.

Feeding Bite-Sized Creatures: Small Ziploc Bag of Cat Food

Additional Items: Small Ziploc Bag of Cat Food
Almost any animal will readily consume cat food, making it a useful item to have in an emergency. If you or your companions come across an injured or feral animal, this food can serve as a means of attraction for a trap or to coax an animal out of hiding. It's lightweight, and the bag can be reused if needed.

Light Flexible Cordage: Bank Line

Additional Items: Bank Line
Bank line is a type of lightweight cordage that is much cheaper than paracord but just as versatile. It can be used for various tasks, from tying items together to providing a makeshift handle for cups or other objects. Its flexibility and low cost make it a valuable addition to any emergency kit.

Coin Cases: Coins

Additional Items: Coins
Carrying 10-20 USD in coins can be incredibly useful. The weight is negligible, and you never know when these coins might come in handy. They can be used for bartering, paying for small necessities, or in a pinch, even as a replacement for small change. Plus, the sound of coins in a Ziploc bag can provide a sense of security and comfort.

Packable Bags: Extra Ziploc Bags

Additional Items: Extra Ziploc Bags
Extra Ziploc bags are incredibly versatile. You can use them to store small items, organize your gear, or even as a temporary carrier for laundry. Their simple yet functional design ensures they are always useful in an emergency. Consider including a variety of sizes, so you can store both large items and small items efficiently.

Note-Taking Tools: Post-It Notes

Additional Items: Post-It Notes
Post-It notes are excellent for leaving reminders or notes for others, or to mark your trail if you're lost. In an emergency, you may need to communicate important information quickly and efficiently. Post-It notes can also be used to create quick, scratchy maps or diagrams to assist you.

Other Non-Essential But Useful Items:

Dental Floss Nail File Sleeping Soap Towel Contraceptives Chapstick Bowl Cup Plastic Bags Spoon Comb Tweezers Needle Thread A Few Extra Shoe Laces

These items may not be essential for survival, but they can make a significant difference in your comfort and ability to cope during an emergency. Preparing your emergency 'to-go' bag with thoughtfulness can help ensure that you are as prepared as possible for unexpected situations.