A Get Home Bag isn’t about surviving the apocalypse; it’s a practical, mission-focused kit designed to get you from your workplace or a stranded vehicle back to the safety of your home during an unexpected crisis. Think of it as your personal insurance policy for events like sudden power outages, severe weather, or public transportation shutdowns. My time as a Marine ingrained in me the importance of being prepared for anything with reliable, no-nonsense gear. Your bag should be tailored to your specific environment, commute, and physical needs, but the core principle remains the same: self-reliance for a 24 to 72-hour journey on foot.
The goal is mobility and efficiency. You need to be able to move quickly and comfortably, which means every item must earn its place. Overloading your bag with non-essentials is a common mistake that can slow you down when speed matters most. In this guide, I’ll break down the essential categories—water, shelter, navigation, and tools—based on my own experience and the gear I trust. We’ll also look at some of the best bags to carry it all in, focusing on durability and comfort over flashy features. This isn’t about fear; it’s about confidence, knowing you have a plan and the tools to execute it.
Essential Get Home Bag Gear: A Marine’s Picks
- Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System
- Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool
- Streamlight ProTac HL-X Flashlight
- 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack
- Goal Zero Yeti 200X Portable Power Station
- Adventure Medical Kits Heatsheets Survival Blanket
Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System
Water is life, and in a Get Home scenario, finding a safe source can be a major challenge. I’ve tested a lot of filters, and the Sawyer MINI is my top pick for a bug-out or get-home bag because of its perfect balance of size, weight, and performance. This thing is tiny, weighing just a couple of ounces, but it’s capable of filtering up to 100,000 gallons of water, removing 99.99999% of all bacteria and 99.9999% of all protozoa. That’s an incredible value and reliability in a package that fits in the palm of your hand. You can use it directly by drinking from a water source with the included straw, or screw it onto a standard disposable water bottle or its included pouches.
The versatility is what really sets it apart. It’s not just a straw; it can be set up as a gravity filter by using the included bags and some tubing, allowing you to filter water for cooking or to fill other containers hands-free. Maintenance is simple—just a periodic backflush with the provided syringe to keep the filter flowing freely. I always keep one in my bag alongside a metal water bottle. While the flow rate isn’t as fast as larger models like the Sawyer Squeeze, for its size and weight, the MINI is unbeatable. It’s a piece of gear that effectively eliminates one of your biggest survival concerns without adding significant bulk.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and compact, adding almost no burden
- Highly effective filtration against common waterborne pathogens
- Very versatile with multiple ways to use it (straw, squeeze, gravity)
Cons
- Flow rate can be slow compared to full-sized filters
- The included squeeze pouches can be prone to leaking if not handled carefully
Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool
If I could only have one tool in my pack, it would be a high-quality multi-tool, and the Leatherman Wave is the benchmark. For over a decade, this has been my everyday carry, and it has handled everything from routine repairs to unexpected situations. It features 17 tools, including needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, multiple screwdrivers, a knife, a saw, and scissors. The beauty of the Wave is that all the essential tools are accessible from the outside with the tool closed, so you don’t have to open it up to get to your knife or screwdrivers, which is a huge time-saver.
The build quality is exceptional. The stainless steel components are tough and resist corrosion, and the locking mechanism on the blades and tools provides confidence when you’re applying force. It has a solid, substantial feel in your hand without being overly heavy. Whether you need to cut a seatbelt, tighten a bolt on your gear, strip a wire, or open a can of food, the Wave is up to the task. It’s a testament to smart design and robust manufacturing. While there are cheaper alternatives, the reliability of a Leatherman is something you can count on when it really matters. It’s an extension of your own capability.
Pros
- All-locking blades and tools for safety and strength
- Outside-accessible knives and screwdrivers for quick use
- Built to last a lifetime with Leatherman’s famous warranty
Cons
- Premium price point compared to basic multi-tools
- Heavier than more minimalist options
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Flashlight
When you’re moving in the dark, whether it’s through an urban environment or a wooded area, a reliable and powerful flashlight is not just convenient—it’s a safety necessity. The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is the light I trust. It delivers a blinding 1,000 lumens on its high setting, which is more than enough to identify potential hazards or signal for help over a long distance. What I like about Streamlight is their focus on professional use; this light is built for police and firefighters, so it can take a beating. It’s constructed from machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish for durability.
The feature set is well thought-out for tactical and emergency use. It has multiple modes, including a ten-tap programmable feature that lets you select which modes you want to cycle through (I set mine to high-only for simplicity in a crisis). It also has a strobe function for disorientation or signaling. It runs on either two CR123A batteries or one 18650 rechargeable battery, giving you flexibility. The pocket clip is robust, and it includes a tape switch for weapon-mounted use if needed. It’s a no-nonsense tool that provides immense capability in a manageable size, ensuring you’re never left in the dark.
Pros
- Extremely high output (1000 lumens) for its size
- Rugged construction designed for professional, heavy-duty use
- Versatile power options with programmable modes
Cons
- High-output setting drains batteries very quickly
- Can get hot on the highest setting after extended use
5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack
When I need a pack that can handle serious weight and abuse, my go-to is the 5.11 Tactical Rush 72. This isn’t a sleek, minimalist daypack; it’s a workhorse built for mission-critical carry. The 55-liter capacity is the sweet spot for a robust Get Home Bag, allowing you to pack multi-season clothing, a substantial amount of water, and other essentials without being overly bulky. What I appreciate most is the organization. It’s covered in MOLLE webbing, so you can attach additional pouches exactly where you need them, and the internal compartmentalization means you’re not just digging through a black hole of gear. The yoke-style shoulder straps and padded back panel make carrying a heavy load surprisingly manageable over distance.
Durability is non-negotiable for me, and the Rush 72 is constructed with heavy-duty 1050D nylon. I’ve scraped it against concrete, gotten it soaked in rain, and it just shrugs it off. The zippers are robust and smooth, even when the pack is fully loaded. While it has a distinct tactical look that might not be for everyone, the functionality is unmatched. It features a dedicated hydration bladder compartment and tube ports, a large main compartment, and multiple easily accessible admin pockets for items you need to get to quickly, like a flashlight or a multi-tool. This bag is an investment, but it’s one that will last a lifetime of use and ready when you need it most.
Pros
- Extremely durable construction with high-quality materials
- Excellent organization with ample MOLLE webbing for customization
- Very comfortable to carry even with heavy loads
Cons
- The tactical appearance may be too conspicuous for some users
- Heavier than many civilian hiking packs of similar size
Goal Zero Yeti 200X Portable Power Station
In our connected world, losing power can mean losing critical information and communication. For a Get Home Bag that you keep in your car, a small power station like the Goal Zero Yeti 200X is a game-changer. It’s powerful enough to recharge a smartphone multiple times, run a small fan, or power a portable radio for hours, but it remains relatively portable at around 5 pounds. I see it as a force multiplier for your electronics. If you’re stranded in your vehicle, this can keep your phone alive for navigation and emergency calls, or power a light source at night without draining your car battery.
The Yeti 200X is incredibly user-friendly. It has a variety of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and a 12V car port, making it compatible with almost any device. It can be recharged via a wall outlet, your car’s 12V socket, or, most importantly for preparedness, with a compatible solar panel. This last point is key for long-term sustainability. While it’s one of the more expensive items on this list, the peace of mind it provides is substantial. It’s built to be robust and reliable, not a flimsy power bank. For anyone who relies on electronics for work or communication, this is a worthwhile investment to ensure you stay powered up when the grid goes down.
Pros
- Provides a substantial amount of clean, quiet power for essential electronics
- Multiple charging options, including solar, for true off-grid capability
- Well-built with a clear charge-level indicator and multiple output ports
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than standard power banks
- Heavier and bulkier than simple battery packs, so it’s best for vehicle-based kits
Adventure Medical Kits Heatsheets Survival Blanket
Hypothermia is a silent and dangerous threat, even in moderately cool temperatures, especially if you’re wet or inactive. While many people toss a cheap Mylar space blanket into their kit, I recommend upgrading to the Adventure Medical Kits Heatsheets. The difference is significant. Standard space blankets are incredibly thin and tear easily, often after a single use. The Heatsheets blanket is more durable, reusable, and most importantly, it’s orange on one side and reflective on the other. The orange side makes you highly visible to rescuers during the day, while the reflective side retains up to 90% of your body heat at night.
This dual-purpose design is what makes it so valuable for a Get Home Bag. It’s not just for wrapping up; you can use it as a ground cloth, a rain shelter, or a signaling panel. I’ve used mine as an emergency rain poncho by cutting a headhole in it. It packs down to the size of a deck of cards and weighs almost nothing, so there’s no excuse not to have one. For the minimal cost and weight penalty, it provides a massive boost to your safety by addressing two critical needs: warmth and signaling. It’s a simple piece of gear, but its effectiveness can make all the difference in an emergency situation.
Pros
- Dual-purpose design provides both warmth and high-visibility signaling
- More durable and reusable than standard flimsy emergency blankets
- Extremely lightweight and compact for easy carry
Cons
- Not a substitute for a proper sleeping bag in very cold conditions
- Can be noisy when moving around
100+ Get Home Bag Items & Best Bags | A Marine’s Essential Picks
Putting together a get home bag isn’t about preparing for the end of the world. It’s about being smart and self-reliant. My time in the Marines taught me that the most critical piece of gear is the one you have with you. A get home bag is your personal insurance policy for getting from your office, your car, or any other location back to your family safely during an emergency. Let’s talk about the bag itself first, then what goes inside it.
The Bag: Keep It Simple and Tough
You don’t need a massive, military-style rucksack. The goal is mobility. I look for a sturdy, comfortable backpack in a neutral color like grey, black, or dark green—something that doesn’t draw attention. It should have a good internal frame or a stiff back panel to distribute weight, padded shoulder straps, and a hip belt. A hip belt is non-negotiable for me; it takes the load off your shoulders on a long walk. My top picks are brands like 5.11 Tactical, GORUCK, or even a high-quality hiking pack from Osprey. Test it with weight inside. It should feel secure and not flop around.
Packing the Essentials: The Marine Mindset
Think in terms of systems. What do you need to survive for 24 to 72 hours? Here’s a breakdown of my essential categories for your 100+ get home bag items list.
Water & Food: Water is your top priority. I carry a LifeStraw or similar filter and a metal water bottle. The bottle can be used to boil water if needed. For food, pack high-calorie, non-perishable bars or ready-to-eat meals. Rotate them out every six months.
Shelter & Warmth: Hypothermia is a real danger, even in mild weather. A compact emergency bivvy sack, a wool beanie, and a pair of warm gloves are light but can save your life. A simple poncho protects you from rain and wind.
Navigation & Light: Your phone might die. I always have a physical map of my local area and a compass, and I know how to use them. A reliable headlamp with extra batteries is a must for hands-free movement at night.
Health & Hygiene: A comprehensive first-aid kit is crucial. Include bandaids, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Add a small hygiene kit with hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper. Staying clean prevents infection and boosts morale.
Tools & Security: A good multi-tool, a fixed-blade knife, paracord, and duct tape have a thousand uses. A power bank for your phone is modern-day essential gear. Consider your personal comfort level with other tools for security.
The key is to customize this list for your specific environment and needs. Practice with your gear. A bag you’ve packed yourself and are familiar with is worth ten times a pre-packed kit you’ve never opened.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a Get Home Bag and a Bug Out Bag?
This is a common question. A Bug Out Bag is designed for leaving your home for several days, possibly forever. It’s usually larger and contains supplies for a longer period. A Get Home Bag is much more focused. Its sole purpose is to get you from point A (like your workplace) to point B (your home) over a short distance, typically within 72 hours. It’s lighter and built for speed and efficiency.
How often should I check and rotate the items in my bag?
You should do a quick check of your bag every season. Change out seasonal clothing, check battery charge levels, and make sure your water is fresh. For food and medications, check the expiration dates and rotate them out every six months to a year. A good habit is to do this when the clocks change for Daylight Saving Time.
Should I tell my coworkers or friends about my Get Home Bag?
This is a personal decision. There’s no need to broadcast it, as you don’t want to be seen as the sole source of supplies in a panic situation. However, I think it’s a great idea to quietly encourage close friends or family members to build their own. Frame it as a sensible step for everyday emergencies, like a car breakdown or a power outage. The goal is resilience for your whole circle, not just yourself.
What is the single most important item, in your opinion?
If I had to pick one, it’s water purification. You can survive weeks without food, but only a few days without water. A simple, reliable filter like a LifeStraw or purification tablets gives you the ability to turn potentially unsafe water into a life-saving resource. It’s lightweight, cheap, and absolutely critical.
Is it okay to use an old school backpack I already own?
Absolutely, as long as it’s in good condition. The best bag is the one you have. Before you spend money on a new pack, test your old one. Load it up with about 15-20 pounds of weight and walk a mile or two. If the straps dig in, the zippers fail, or it’s generally uncomfortable, then it’s worth investing in something more robust. Comfort is key when you’re stressed and on the move.
How do I figure out what route to take to get home in an emergency?
This is where planning comes in. Don’t assume your normal route will be passable. Identify multiple paths home—main roads, secondary roads, and even pedestrian paths like rail trails or greenways. Walk these routes on a weekend if you can. Notice potential obstacles and resources along the way. Having multiple options outlined on a physical map in your bag is a huge advantage. This proactive step is what separates a good plan from a great one for your 100+ get home bag items & best bags setup.