When you’re facing an emergency—whether it’s an earthquake, flood, or a rapid evacuation—having access to essential documents can make the difference between chaos and order. A well-prepared emergency backpack should contain not only food and equipment, but also vital paperwork that can help you rebuild your life after a disaster.
Below is a checklist of documents you should include, stored securely and preferably in waterproof pouches.
ID card or passport: Copies of your identification documents (and those of your family members) are essential for proving who you are when relocating or dealing with authorities.
Birth certificates: Include copies of birth certificates for yourself and your children. These may be required to access services or replace other lost documents.
Driver’s licence: Useful if you need to drive or confirm your identity.
Home ownership or rental contract: A copy of your property deed or rental agreement can help prove your address.
Vehicle ownership papers: If you own a vehicle, this document helps confirm legal ownership.
Home insurance: A copy can speed up compensation claims after a disaster.
Health insurance: Essential for accessing medical services when needed.
Car insurance: Useful if you need to travel by car.
Prescriptions or treatment information: If you are on medication, keep details or copies of prescriptions.
Health insurance card: Ensures access to medical care.
Medical history: Information about allergies, chronic conditions, and past surgeries.
Vaccination records: Especially important for children or during health checks.
Bank statements or cards: A list of bank account numbers and copies of cards (front and back) can help you access funds.
Cash: Keep a small amount of cash, as ATMs may be unavailable.
A printed list of phone numbers for family members, friends, doctors, and authorities. Phones can run out of battery—paper is a reliable backup.
If you have a will or power of attorney, a copy can be crucial for protecting your interests or those of your family.
A few photos of family members or valuable items can help identify missing persons or document losses for insurance purposes.
Add a note with short instructions such as emergency contact numbers, a pre-agreed meeting address, or details about pets (for example, microchip numbers).
In an emergency, time is limited, and having these documents readily available can greatly simplify recovery. Prepare your emergency backpack using this checklist, and you’ll have a crucial advantage when facing the unexpected.
