Go-Bag vs Get Home Bag vs Shelter-in-Place Kit: What You Actually Need in 2025
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When disaster strikes, having the right emergency kit can make all the difference. But with so many options out there—Go-Bags, Get Home Bags, Shelter-in-Place Kits—how do you know which one fits your needs best? Whether you're a busy parent, a renter, or someone who wants peace of mind, understanding these kits will help you prepare smartly and confidently.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences, uses, and must-haves of each kit type, so you can choose the right gear for your unique situation.
What Is a Go-Bag?
A Go-Bag, sometimes called a Bug-Out Bag, is a fully stocked emergency kit designed to sustain you for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly. It’s your grab-and-go survival pack for when you must leave your home or workplace immediately.
Key Features of a Go-Bag:
- Supplies for 72 hours (food, water, first aid, shelter)
- Durable backpack or bag for easy transport
- Multi-purpose tools (flashlight, multitool, emergency radio)
- Personal items like medications, documents, and hygiene products
- Designed for long-distance evacuation or extended time away
When to Use a Go-Bag:
- Natural disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes
- Civil unrest or unsafe environments
- Situations requiring evacuation from your current location
What Is a Get Home Bag?
A Get Home Bag is a smaller, lighter kit intended to help you safely get home if you’re caught away from it during an emergency. It focuses on short-term survival essentials to cover the journey home, which might take a few hours to a day.
Key Features of a Get Home Bag:
- Lightweight and compact for easy carrying
- Basic food and water supplies for up to 24 hours
- Navigation aids (maps, compass)
- Minimal first aid and personal safety items
- Often a shoulder bag or small backpack
When to Use a Get Home Bag:
- Urban emergencies where transportation is disrupted
- Power outages or transit strikes
- Situations where you need to travel on foot or by alternate means
What Is a Shelter-in-Place Kit?
A Shelter-in-Place Kit is designed for staying put safely during emergencies where evacuation is not advisable or possible. It provides supplies to survive comfortably and securely inside your home or workplace for a period.
Key Features of a Shelter-in-Place Kit:
- Food and water for several days (typically 3+ days)
- Emergency communication tools (radio, phone chargers)
- Medical supplies and sanitation products
- Items for comfort and mental health (blankets, games, books)
- Tools to seal off your space if needed (plastic sheeting, duct tape)
When to Use a Shelter-in-Place Kit:
- Chemical spills or hazardous material incidents
- Severe weather events where leaving is dangerous
- Quarantine or lockdown situations
Comparing the Three: Which One Do You Need?
| Feature/Use Case | Go-Bag | Get Home Bag | Shelter-in-Place Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 72+ hours | Up to 24 hours | 3+ days |
| Purpose | Evacuation | Travel home | Stay put safely |
| Size/Weight | Larger, heavier | Compact, lightweight | Medium, depends on supplies |
| Contents Focus | Comprehensive survival gear | Essentials for travel | Comfort and extended stay |
| Best For | Full evacuation scenarios | Urban travel disruptions | Hazardous environment at home |
Why Outpost Preparedness Recommends Having All Three
Disasters come in many forms, and your response should be flexible. Outpost Preparedness offers Marine-tested, regionally tailored kits for each scenario:
- Essential Go-Bag: Ready for 72-hour evacuation with premium gear and digital guidance.
- Get Home Bag: Compact and practical for quick trips home with essentials.
- Shelter-in-Place Kits: Designed to keep you safe and comfortable when you can’t leave.
Our kits come with clear instructions, digital resources, and founder support to empower you beyond just supplies.
Tips for Choosing the Right Kit for You
- Assess Your Risks: Consider your location’s common disasters and your lifestyle.
- Plan Your Response: Know when you might evacuate, stay put, or travel home.
- Customize Your Kit: Add personal items like medications, documents, and comfort items.
- Train and Test: Practice using your kits with family or team for confidence.
- Keep Kits Accessible: Store in easy-to-grab places for quick action.
Final Thoughts: Preparedness Is Peace of Mind
Choosing between Go-Bags, Get Home Bags, and Shelter-in-Place Kits isn’t about picking one and forgetting the others. It’s about building a layered, adaptable preparedness plan that fits your life and gives you confidence to face any emergency.
Ready to build your perfect emergency kit? Explore Outpost Preparedness’ full lineup and start your journey to readiness today.
Take Action Now: Shop our Marine-tested, regionally tailored kits. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike—be prepared, be empowered.