Apartment Survival Kit

GoBag.One™ | GoBag or Stay Home™

Small spaces require smart survival planning. Apartment living limits storage, mobility, and sometimes self-reliance options, but you can still build a capable kit for emergencies. This checklist focuses on space-efficient gear that maximizes readiness without overwhelming your living area.

Last Updated: September 15, 2025 | Time to Prep: 30–45 min | Difficulty: Easy

Download the Apartment Survival Kit Checklist (PDF)

📦 Space-Saving Essentials

Multi-use items that fit small living spaces without sacrificing function.

• Collapsible water containers (store flat when empty)
• Compact multi-tool + folding knife
• Stackable, lidded bins (under-bed or closet height)
• Vacuum storage bags for off-season clothing/bedding
• Over-door hooks & a “grab rail” near your exit for GoBags

🍲 Food & Water Storage

Stockpile nutrition and hydration for short- to mid-term needs without overloading shelves.

• 2–3 week supply of shelf-stable food (rotate what you eat)
• Bottled water or safe tap water in small, easy-carry containers (aim for ~1 gal/person/day)
• Water filtration pitcher or portable filter (backup)
• Manual can opener + no-cook/low-cook options
• Store heavier items low and against interior walls to protect floors

🛡️ Emergency Comfort & Safety

Stay comfortable and secure during shelter-in-place situations.

• Battery-powered lighting (lantern + headlamps) and spare batteries
• Portable power bank + charging cables
• First-aid kit + personal meds (7-day supply)
• ABC fire extinguisher (apartment size) + working smoke/CO alarms
• N95 masks & duct tape/plastic sheeting (smoke/shelter-in-place)
• Hygiene: wet wipes, sanitizer, heavy-duty trash bags, toilet liners

📡 Comms & Intel

Keep information flowing when networks get spotty.

• AM/FM/NOAA radio (battery/hand-crank/solar)
• Phone with offline maps & local alert apps pre-configured
• Printed contact list and building/landlord numbers
• Basic FRS/GMRS radios for family/group coordination (optional)

🚪 Mobility & Evac Staging

Plan for stairwells, locked lobbies, and fast moves.

• Pre-packed GoBag staged by the door (documents in a waterproof pouch)
• Lightweight “last-minute” tote (comforts, chargers, snacks)
• Sturdy shoes by the exit; spare keys & transit card clipped inside the bag
• Pet kit: carrier, leash, 48-hour food/water, vet records
• Know stair routes; assume elevators may be down

🧩 PSK Note

Your apartment kit can double as your GoBag staging area. Keep your PSK (Personal Survival Kit) parked on top for instant capability if you must move in seconds.

✅ Pro Tip

Use vertical space (shelves, hooks, wall racks) and under-bed bins to keep gear accessible without clutter. Color-code bins by category (power, water, medical) so anyone can grab the right box fast.

🧭 Apartment Constraints & Fast Solutions

❓ Apartment Kit FAQ

• Can I store a lot of water in an upstairs unit? Use multiple smaller containers and keep them on lower shelves along interior walls. Don’t overload balconies.
• Is indoor fuel storage okay? Generally no. Follow building rules; avoid storing fuels indoors. Choose no-cook foods and electric options if power is available.
• Flush during outages? Only if you know the building sewer is operational. Otherwise, use toilet liners and seal waste in heavy-duty bags.

Home Power Outage Plan | Shelter, Power & Light | Emergency Comms & Power Checklist | First Aid / Medical Supplies Kit | GoBag Essentials Checklist | Rural Bug-Out Checklist

Download the Apartment Survival Kit Checklist (PDF)

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