In 2018, there were 14,568 earthquakes worldwide. While most of the earthquakes experienced were between a magnitude 4-4.9, the possibility of more severe earthquakes is still very real. When an earthquake strikes, having access to an emergency kit that includes medical supplies and survival tools can be the difference between life or death.
In the past two decades, there have been more than 20 earthquakes that were a magnitude of 5.3 and higher in the US. Often thought of as a disaster that only affects California, since 1999, earthquakes have taken place in Alaska, Oklahoma, Virginia, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, and more. Earthquake kits are not only a must-have for people living in areas with high rates of earthquakes, but emergency kits can be used for a variety of disasters, both natural and man-made.
The emergency kits we’ve included below are not only full of life-saving items that will help in the case of an earthquake, but they can also save lives when a tornado, monsoon, hurricane, ice storm, flood or freezing rain engulfs an area. We like that these kits are portable and lightweight, making them the perfect addition to any home, car, cabin, or as an added item to take along on a camping, hiking or fishing trip.
While some of the kits we’ve included come with water and food with an extended shelf life, it’s always a good idea to have extra food and water reserves on hand in case of emergency.
Keep yourself and your loved ones safe regardless of where you live with these life-saving earthquake kits.
1. Ready America Deluxe 4-Person Emergency Kit
Approved by the US Coast Guard, the Ready America Deluxe Emergency Kit comes equipped with everything you’ll need to care for four people in the first 72 hours after a disaster strikes. The robust kit features a 107-piece first aid kit, food, and water with a five-year shelf life, an emergency power station with a flashlight, radio, siren and cell phone charger, 12-hour light sticks, hygiene supplies, work gloves, and an emergency blanket. Everything is packaged together in a bright red backpack that makes it easy to store in the home or car.
Pros: Includes a large first aid kit, approved by US Coast Guard, food has an impressive five-year shelf-life.
Cons: There is no space in the bag to add extra items.
2. MFASCO Complete Emergency Response Trauma Bag
Assembled in the USA, the MFASCO Complete Emergency Response Trauma Bag features diagnostic tools, emergency dressings, and a first aid kit that can be used in an emergency. The MFASCO includes one of the most comprehensive first aid kits on our list, with the EMT-style bag packed with bandages, wound care items, a variety of dressings, and diagnostic tools like a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, scissors that can cut through cloth, glucose gel for insulin reactions and more. Weighing just over five pounds and available in a variety of bright colors, the trauma bag has several pockets for easy organization and straps with buckles to keep contents together.
Pros: Includes CPR mask, features diagnostic tools, lightweight for easy carrying.
Cons: The MFASCO shouldn’t be stored in a hot car.
3. Sustain Supply Co. Essential 2-Person Emergency Survival Bag
Whether disaster strikes while you’re in the middle of the city or in the middle of the wilderness, the Sustain Supply Co. Essential 2-Person Emergency Survival Bag comes with essential items that will help users remain safe. Packed in an attractive gray backpack, the emergency kit comes with premium bug out bag essentials as well as smart additions, like the Sawyer mini water filtration system, which allows users to drink directly from almost any natural water source. The kit also includes 12 Datrex waters and one fully stocked, top-of-the-line first-aid kit with 41 pieces. Bath wipes and an LED lantern are also included in the kit, which features survival tools like reusable blankets, snap lights, a paracord and two whistles.
Pros: Includes water filtration system, comfortable necessities like bath wipes, survival tools like paracords, and whistles.
Cons: The first aid kit included is not as extensive as in other survival sets on our list.
4. Sustain Supply Co. Premium Emergency Survival Bag
For an earthquake kit that can keep users safe and comfortable for up to 72 hours, we recommend the Sustain Supply Co. Premium Emergency Survival Bag. Twelve servings of food, as well as 24 packets of Datrex water and one Sawyer mini filter, keep users hydrated and fed. A snap light and lantern provide light, while an expansive first aid kit and blankets provide medical assistance and warmth. Ideal for use in outdoor settings or when power is lost, the Premium bag includes a portable stove, bowls and utensils for two people. A MoraKniv knife, a ferrocerium rod, and two InstaFire tinders are also included to heat the stove or start fires for warmth. The oversized kit comes in a durable backpack that is smartly organized and includes room for users to add extra items.
Pros: Ample food and water, includes pot and utensils, multiple options for starting a fire.
Cons: Users should check to ensure that the water packets haven’t accidentally spilled.
5. VSSL First Aid
The VSSL First Aid kit is designed to withstand just about any natural disaster thrown at it. The contents of the first aid kit are packed in a military-grade tube that is waterproof and virtually indestructible. The tube doubles as a compass and a flashlight. Inside, the VSSL features a comprehensive kit of high-end first aid items. Weighing only 17 ounces, the kit includes items that are designed to be lightweight and effective, including Steri wound closure strips, Celox homeostatic agents and disposable thermometers. Medical gloves, bandages, tape and gauze, ointments, tablets and antiseptic wipes are included, as well as survival items like a whistle and tweezers are all included.
Pros: Lightweight, indestructible and waterproof case, includes flashlight and compass.
Cons: It can be difficult to get the supplies back into the VSSL tube.
6. Complete Earthquake Bag
Keep enough supplies for two people to survive up to 72 hours with the comprehensive Complete Earthquake Bag. Boasting a wide variety of must-have items, the Complete set features high-end items that are useful following an earthquake or any natural disaster. A 30-hour candle and hand-crank flashlight that includes a radio and phone charger provide visibility and communication. A first-aid kit and hygiene set, which includes a toothbrush and comb, as well as tissues and waste bags, add comfort. Users can stay hydrated thanks to the 24 water pouches and 20 water purification tablets. The set also features smart survival tools like ponchos, sleeping bags, an emergency tube tent and waterproof matches. Nylon rope, a sewing kit, goggles and face masks are also stored in the robust backpack that includes front webbing and side pockets for add-ons.
Pros: Includes a candle and hand crank flashlight, features survival items like a tent and sleeping bag, easy to add items onto the front of the backpack.
Cons: The bag is very heavy and may be difficult to carry for long periods.