We just saw Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton devastate communities in Florida and surrounding states. In the case of Hurricane Helene, it was astonishing that it tracked from the Gulf Coast of Florida far enough north to cause destructive mudslides and flooding in the Asheville, North Carolina region. It’s very tough to stay safe at the mercy of a storms like these, but proper prep and planning will get you through it.
But first: what’s going on? Hurricanes have always been a threat, but it seems like they’ve been intensifying. There’s a reason for this: climate patterns are changing. The earth has historically gone through large-scale weather patterns, ebbing and flowing in what we call “Ice Ages.”
In our current ebb, hurricanes and floods are becoming more frequent and severe. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you need a well-stocked hurricane prep kit. This kit can make all the difference in your ability to navigate the challenging conditions that come with these natural disasters, so let’s go over the essential items you need to stay safe.
Light
Armytek Wizard Pro v3 XHP50 Headlamp
Power outages can last for days, so be prepared with a rechargeable headlamp (and pair it with this 25,000mAh Hiluckey Solar Charger). The Armytek Wizard Pro v3 XHP50 headlamp is a top choice for its durability and waterproof capabilities, and we like it even more because the main lamp detaches for use as a handheld flashlight.
This headlamp is IP68 rated, meaning it can withstand prolonged water immersion, and its long battery life ensures you’ll have hands-free light during critical times.
Read our full review of the headlamp and purchase it on Amazon.
Water
Waterdrop 1.5 gallon Gravity Water Filtration System
The Waterdrop 1.5 gallon gravity-fed filtration system comes with a filtering straw than can provide up to 1,400 gallons of clean water, which is stored in a 16oz soft flask, and it folds down to a very small size for portability.
It weighs only 4 ounces and is crucial for making almost any clean water source potable.
Waterproof Storage
Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L Waterproof and Airtight IP68 Backpack
An airtight, fully waterproof backpack is critical to protecting your electronics (laptop/phone, chargers and batteries), important documents, cash, and identification (wallet/passport). The Fogland Backpack is an excellent choice as a go bag, providing IP68 waterproof protection. This means it’s fully submersible and even floats (with up to 40lbs of contents), which is important in case of flooding.
Hygiene and Cleanliness
Dude Wipes XL Biodegradable Flushable Wipes
Maintaining hygiene and cleanliness is important, especially when access to bathrooms is limited during a storm. Biodegradable wipes, such as Dude Wipes XL, are a simple solution to staying clean when running water is unavailable. These large wipes are gentle on the skin, eco-friendly, and provide a quick way to freshen up. And even though they say “Dude Wipes,” they’re great for lil dudes (kids) and female dudes, too.
Whatever you go with, we urge you to choose biodegradable versions (like these) because they will simply break down into the environment.
Also: don’t forget to pack a toothbrush and some toothpaste to maintain dental hygiene as well.
First Aid & Survival
Breakwater Supply Waterproof Survival First Aid Kit Bug Out Bag
An emergency first aid kit is a must-have in any disaster situation. This waterproof Survival First Aid Kit includes everything you need, from bandages to antiseptics, in a compact and portable design, and it’s even got a CPR mask and flexible foam splint. For added preparedness, the dry bag survival kit contains emergency blankets, a poncho, a multitool, survival bracelet with fire starter, and more.
You can find the Breakwater Supply Waterproof Survival First Aid Kit here on Amazon.
Food
Roundhouse Provisions 3-Day Freeze Dried Food Supply (26 servings)
It’s essential to have a 3-day supply of non-perishable or long-lasting food for yourself and your family. Freeze-dried options are best as they’re the most lightweight, but common foods such as nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky or meat sticks, and packs of instant oats are low-cost, nutrient-dense ways to get your calories.
Just make sure your food is stored in airtight and watertight containers, such as Ziplock bags.
Additional
Other additional items to consider for your kit:
- Utensils, like this PSKOOK 5-in-1 Stainless Steel Utility Spork Set 2-Pack.
- Extra batteries, or a solar charger. Our pick is the Hiluckey 25,000mAh Solar Charger, which is waterproof and foldable.
- Be prepared for intense weather by packing a quick-drying, foldable hat to shield you from sun or rain, and a dry change of underwear.
- Sunscreen single-packs, like these from Banana Boat.
- All-natural DEET-free insect repellent. Choose all natural to be safe in case you aren’t able to wash it off.
Safety Is More Important Than Possessions
Lastly, remember that your safety and the safety of your loved ones should always come first. It’s natural to worry about material possessions because odds are you worked hard for them, but the most important part of surviving a hurricane is to stay together as a family, follow evacuation orders, and remain calm while hunkered down in protective shelter. Let your insurance company handle your possessions, while you worry about staying safe.
As mentioned at the start, natural disasters are occurring more frequently and weather patterns are growing more intense, which is all the more reason to build your hurricane prep kit without delay. With planning and preparation, you can stay safe, and always remember to heed warnings when you find yourself in the path of a storm, natural disaster, or other emergency situation.