Family Survival Kits

Every family's emergency needs are different. A young family with two small children has different priorities than a couple preparing for hurricane season, or a multigenerational household with seniors and pets. The right family survival kit isn't just about how many people it covers, it's about making sure every member of your household has what they need when it matters most.

The core standard for any family emergency kit is 72 hours of independent survival capability. That means food and water for every person, first aid supplies, shelter and warmth, light and communication tools, and hygiene essentials. FEMA recommends one gallon of water per person per day as a minimum. For a family of four over three days, that's 12 gallons. Our family kits are built around this standard, with US Coast Guard-approved food rations and water pouches that require no rehydration, no reheating, and carry a 5-year shelf life.

Beyond the basics, the best family survival kits account for the people who are often hardest to prepare for, children, seniors and pets. That's why our catalog includes dedicated children's survival kits, senior-friendly options, and pet emergency kits that can be paired with your family kit for complete household coverage. Because in a real emergency, no one gets left behind.

Choosing between a 2-person and 4-person kit comes down to your household size, but don't just count adults. Children need their own supplies, and a larger kit gives you the buffer to include personal items like medications, important documents, and comfort items that no pre-packed kit can include for you. Our Emergency Preparedness Guidebook, included in most kits, walks you through building a complete family emergency plan from scratch.