When it comes to big emergencies, it is important to ensure that your entire family is prepared – including your littlest ones (toddlers and infant have more needs). As a parent or caregiver, having an infant emergency kit on hand can help ensure that you are equipped with everything you need to keep your baby safe and comfortable during unexpected situations. From basic essentials like food/water, to comfort items, an “emergency diaper bag” should contain all the necessary supplies to help you care for your baby during a crisis situation.
With a little bit of planning ahead for possible future disasters, & becoming as prepared for it as possible, what could be catastrophic may become a bit more bearable to go through.
Join this seasoned prepper, mom of four, as she shares all of her thoughts on what you may truly need for a baby or toddler in times of crisis.
What kind of situations do I need to prepare for?
Many people are surprised to learn that you need a more specialized emergency kit for babies. However, it makes total sense when you sit back and think about just how high maintenance those little ones truly are…basic emergency supplies geared towards the whole family just aren’t enough.
Here are the types of situations out there that you would need to plan ahead for and prepare accordingly:
Natural disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires can all cause widespread damage and displace people from their homes for several days.
Power outages: Extended power outages can occur due to severe weather conditions or infrastructure failures, leaving individuals without electricity for several days.
Civil unrest or terrorism: In cases of civil unrest or terrorist attacks, individuals may need to evacuate their homes or shelter in place for several days.
Public health emergencies: Pandemics, disease outbreaks, or other public health emergencies may require individuals to stay at home or in quarantine for several days.
Transportation disruptions: In cases of transportation disruptions such as train derailments or airport closures, individuals may be stranded without access to food, water, or shelter for several days.
These types of events can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time and so planning for the worst case scenario is just plain smart.
It is important to note that the specific items and supplies included in a baby 72 hour kit may vary depending on the type of emergency or disaster of the individual child’s needs, so keep that in mind as you decide which items to pack together.
What should be in an emergency kit for a baby?
You may be wondering to yourself…”how do you pack an emergency bag for a baby”…and it’s actually a little more simple to throw one together than you might expect.
If you don’t want to DIY your kit, I recommend searching through Amazon to see which items they suggest, however, I am writing this out so that you also have the option of using many items that you may already have on hand.
First, I’m going to give you the basic list of supplies that you are going to want to have on hand, and then lower down in this article I will elaborate further on each topic.
If you also need a good resource for a go bag/emergency kit for the rest of the family, make sure to check out my post about it found here.
Basic Emergency Kit For Baby Supply List
Here are some key items that should be included in an infant earthquake kit or baby emergency bag:
- Diapers & Rash Cream: Make sure to pack enough diapers for at least three days, and add a tube of your favorite rash cream. You never know how long you may be without access to supplies.
- Wipes: Wipes are essential for keeping your baby clean and comfortable. Pack a large pack or multiple small packs to ensure you have enough.
- Formula With Water or Breast Milk: If your baby is formula-fed, make sure to pack enough formula to last for three days. If you are breastfeeding, pack a manual pump to help you express milk if needed.
- Bottles: Pack enough bottles to last for three days. Make sure they are clean and sanitized before packing.
- Blankets: Your baby will need warm blankets to stay comfortable. Pack a few lightweight blankets that are easy to transport.
- Clothing/Shoes: Pack at least three outfits for your baby and one pair of shoes. Make sure they are appropriate for the weather and that you have different sizes in case your baby grows during the emergency.
- Pacifiers: If your baby uses a pacifier, make sure to pack a few extras.
- First-Aid Kit: Make sure to include a first-aid kit with items like band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. You never know when your baby may need medical attention.
- Baby Carrier/Stroller: A baby carrier and/or stroller will allow you to keep your baby close and your hands free in case you need to evacuate quickly.
- Toys And Books: Pack a few toys to help keep your baby entertained and calm during the emergency. Reading can also be a helpful way to keep little ones entertained.
- Medications/Medicine: Basic fever reducers and teething soothers may be helpful. Also any medications your child needs for their individual needs.
- Baby Hygiene Kit: You’re going to need to keep baby clean, brushed, and nails clipped…even in an emergency.
Like I said, that’s a list of the basic preparedness items you may need to pack in your baby emergency kit… now it’s time to elaborate on all of the individual items.
Further explanation about all supplies needed:
Diapers & Rash Cream
When packing diapers and rash creams in an emergency survival kit, it is recommended to have at least a 3-day supply for each baby or toddler. This means having around 9-12 diapers per day, depending on the age and size of the child. It is better to have more than less, as you may not have easy access to stores during an emergency.
However, keep in mind that some of the more extreme emergencies can take up to two weeks before additional help/aide can be offered (such as the Red Cross coming in, or even the Coast Guard). If you are able to it may be smart to plan enough diapers for a couple of weeks worth of emergencies.
It may be a good idea to also throw in a large bottle of baby powder, if your family is out and exposed to the elements frequently during an emergency…there may be a lot of unplanned chafing going on…lol
Wipes
The number of baby wipes you will need in a natural disaster will depend on several factors, including the age of your baby, how often you change their diaper, and how long you will be without access to running water or other hygiene facilities.
As a general guideline, it is recommended to have at least one pack of wipes per week for each baby. This means having around 70-100 wipes per week, depending on the size of the pack. For a 3-day emergency, you would need around 21-30 wipes.
However, it is always better to have more than less, as you may not have easy access to stores during an emergency. Consider packing multiple packs of wipes in your emergency kit to ensure that you have enough to last for several days. It’s also a good idea to have enough for the whole family to use during an emergency.
Additionally, consider packing some alternative hygiene solutions, such as washcloths, small towels, or spray bottles, that can be used in place of wipes if you run out or need to conserve supplies. Remember to also pack some hand sanitizer or soap to clean your hands before and after changing your baby’s diaper.
Formula & Water
When packing formula for emergencies, it is recommended to have enough formula to last for at least 72 hours, which is the standard duration for most emergency kits. The exact amount of formula needed will depend on your baby’s age, weight, and feeding schedule, as well as how many feedings your baby typically has each day.
As a general guideline, newborns may consume around 1-3 ounces of formula per feeding, and older infants may consume up to 8 ounces per feeding, depending on their weight and age. It is recommended to pack at least 3 days’ worth of formula, or enough to cover your baby’s daily feedings for that time period.
Also make sure that you have enough clean water packed to mix with the formula.
Breast Milk/Breast Feeding
During an emergency, the following breastfeeding supplies are recommended:
- A manual breast pump: This can be useful in case there is no electricity to power an electric pump.
- A nursing cover or blanket: This can provide privacy and comfort while breastfeeding.
- Reusable breast pads: These can help absorb any leaking breast milk.
- Clean water: It is important to have access to clean water for drinking and cleaning breastfeeding supplies.
- Sanitizer or soap: These can help keep hands and any breastfeeding equipment clean.
- Burp cloths: These can be helpful for cleaning up after feedings and for general hygiene purposes.
- Storage containers: You may need to store breast milk for later use, so having storage containers that are clean and sterile is important.
- Extra nursing bras and clothes: You may not have access to laundry facilities during an emergency, so having extra nursing bras and clothes can be helpful.
- Cooler: If you’re lucky enough to have access to ice or a freezer during an emergency, it would be a good idea to have a cooler or ice packs on hand too so that you can store some milk and others can help in the baby-feeding process.
It is also a good idea to have an emergency plan in place for breastfeeding, including identifying safe locations to breastfeed or pump and having a backup supply of formula if needed.
Bottles
In addition to packing enough bottles for those first seventy two hours, here are some other feeding related items you should consider too:
- Nipples: Pack enough nipples to cover your baby’s daily feedings, and consider packing some extra in case they get lost or damaged.
- Clean water: If you do not have access to clean running water, you can use bottled water or boiled water that has been cooled to room temperature to clean the bottles.
- Soap or detergent: Use a mild soap or detergent to clean the bottles and nipples. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can be harmful to your baby.
- Bottle brush: Use a bottle brush to scrub the inside of the bottles and nipples to remove any milk residue or bacteria.
- Sanitizer: If you have access to a sanitizer, you can use it to disinfect the bottles and nipples after washing them.
- Drying rack: Use a clean, dry surface to air-dry the bottles and nipples after washing them.
How do I wash baby bottles during a natural disaster?
Washing baby bottles during a natural disaster can be challenging, especially if you do not have access to running water or other cleaning facilities. Here are some tips and supplies you will need to wash baby bottles during a natural disaster:
Here’s how to wash baby bottles during a natural disaster, when a dishwasher is not an option:
- First, rinse the bottles and nipples with clean water to remove any remaining milk or formula.
- Next, fill a container or basin with clean water and add a small amount of soap or detergent.
- Use a bottle brush to scrub the inside of the bottles and nipples, making sure to get into all the crevices and corners.
- Rinse the bottles and nipples with clean water to remove any soap or detergent residue.
- If you have access to a sanitizer, you can soak the bottles and nipples in it for a few minutes to disinfect them.
- Air-dry the bottles and nipples on a clean, dry surface, such as a drying rack or clean towel.
Remember to periodically check and replace supplies in your emergency kit, including soap or detergent and bottle brushes, to ensure that they are still in good condition and have not expired.
Blankets
Your may be wonder what types of blankets are needed to pack for emergencies? Or what seasonal changes do I need to plan for?
When packing blankets in an emergency bag, it is important to consider the type of blanket and the seasonal changes you may need to plan for.
Here are some types of blankets you should consider packing in your baby emergency kit:
- Receiving blankets: These lightweight and versatile blankets can be used for swaddling, burping, or covering your baby in warmer weather.
- Fleece blankets: These warm and cozy blankets can provide extra warmth for your baby during colder weather.
- Wool blankets: These are thick and warm blankets that can provide excellent insulation during colder weather.
- Muslin blankets: These lightweight and breathable blankets can be used for swaddling, covering, or shading your baby in warmer weather.
- Emergency Mylar blankets: These lightweight and compact blankets are made of reflective material and can be used to keep your baby warm in extreme weather conditions.
When planning for seasonal changes, it is important to consider the climate and weather conditions in your area. For example, if you live in a cold climate, you may need to pack thicker and warmer blankets, while if you live in a hot and humid climate, you may need to pack lighter and more breathable blankets.
Clothing & Shoes
What clothing and shoes need to be packed in a kit? What weather conditions do I need to plan for?
When packing clothing and shoes for emergencies, it is important to consider the type of clothing and shoes and the weather conditions you may need to plan for.
Here are some types of clothing and shoes you should consider packing:
- Onesies or bodysuits: These can be worn as a base layer and provide comfort and warmth for your baby.
- Sleepsacks or sleepers: These can be worn for sleepwear and provide additional warmth during colder weather.
- Pants and shorts: Pack a few pairs of pants and shorts for your baby, depending on the season and climate.
- Jackets or coats: Pack a lightweight jacket or coat for warmer weather and a heavier coat for colder weather.
- Socks, booties, mittens: These can provide warmth and protection for your baby’s feet and hands.
- Sun hats and sunglasses: Pack a sun hat and sunglasses to protect your baby’s eyes and skin from the sun during warmer weather.
- Comfortable shoes or booties: Pack comfortable shoes or booties for your baby to wear, depending on the weather conditions and their age.
When planning for weather conditions, it is important to consider the climate and weather patterns in your area. For example, if you live in a cold climate, you may need to pack heavier coats and warmer clothing, while if you live in a hot and humid climate, you may need to pack lightweight and breathable clothing.
It is also important to periodically check and update the clothing and shoes in your emergency kit to ensure that they are still in good condition, will fit baby, and are appropriate for the season. Remember to also pack extra layers and clothing for your baby in case of changes in weather or unexpected situations.
When prepping for a more long-term emergency it’s a good idea to have some laundry detergent on hand as well.
Pacifiers
A pacifier is a small, nipple-shaped device that can help soothe and calm infants by providing a natural sucking motion.
There are several reasons why you should consider packing a pacifier:
- Comfort and security: A pacifier can provide comfort and security for infants, especially during stressful or unfamiliar situations. The sucking motion can help soothe and calm infants, which can be particularly helpful during an emergency or disaster situation.
- Sleep aid: A “binky” can also be a helpful sleep aid for infants, as it can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Pain relief: Sucking on a pacifier can also help relieve pain and discomfort for infants who may be experiencing teething or other discomforts.
- Preventing/treating ear pain: If you’re forced to travel, sucking on a pacifier can help equalize the pressure in the ears (read what Readers Digest says about that here). Doing so can help prevent or reduce ear pain due to changes in pressure due to a shift in elevation.
It is important to note that not all infants will use or need a pacifier, and it is ultimately up to the parent to decide whether or not to use one. However, for parents who do choose to use a pacifier, packing one can help provide comfort and security for the infant during an emergency or disaster situation.
First Aid Kit
This one’s kind of common sense to anyone of a prepper mindset, but here are my thoughts about it.
A first aid kit is an essential component of any emergency or disaster kit, including one for the little ones.
There are several reasons why you should consider packing a first aid kit inside your full emergency kit:
- Injuries and accidents: During an earthquake or other disaster, there is a risk of injuries and accidents, especially for infants who may be more vulnerable. A first aid kit can help you quickly and effectively treat any injuries or emergencies that may arise.
- Medical conditions: Infants may have underlying medical conditions that require medication or treatment, such as asthma or allergies. A first aid kit can help you manage these conditions and provide necessary medication or treatment during an emergency.
- Hygiene and sanitation: A first aid kit can also include supplies for hygiene and sanitation, such as hand sanitizer, antiseptic wipes, and gloves, which can help prevent the spread of infection and illness.
Here are some items you should consider packing in a first aid kit for an infant earthquake kit (or whatever you choose to call it…lol):
- Bandages and gauze: These can be used to cover cuts, scrapes, or other injuries.
- Antiseptic wipes and ointment: These can help clean and disinfect wounds to prevent infection.
- Thermometer: This can help you monitor your baby’s temperature and identify any signs of fever or illness.
- Nasal aspirator: This can help clear nasal congestion and mucus from your baby’s nose.
- Allergy medication: This can help manage any allergies or allergic reactions that your baby may have especially if you find yourselves in an unfamiliar environment.
- Hand sanitizer and gloves: These can help prevent the spread of infection and illness.
Remember to periodically check and update/replace the supplies in your first aid kit, including medication and other items that may have expiration dates.
It is also a good idea to keep a list of emergency contacts and important medical information in your first aid kit, such as your baby’s doctor’s phone number and any relevant medical history.
Baby Carrier/Stroller
You may be wondering why do I need to have a baby carrier or stroller ready to pack in an infant kit for emergencies?
Having a baby carrier or stroller packed with your kit can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Mobility: In an emergency or disaster situation, you may need to evacuate quickly or move to a safer location. A baby carrier or stroller can help you transport your infant more easily and quickly, especially if you need to walk long distances or navigate through crowds…plus you can often carry another sibling or other supplies on a stroller.
- Hands-free: A baby carrier allows you to keep your hands free, which can be particularly helpful during an emergency situation where you may need to carry other supplies or help others.
- Comfort: A baby carrier or stroller can provide a comfortable and secure place for your infant to rest or sleep, which can be particularly important during stressful or unfamiliar situations.
- Protection: A baby carrier or stroller can also provide protection for your infant, especially in crowded or dangerous areas.
- Accessibility: Having a baby carrier or stroller readily available can make it easier for you to transport your infant to safety, without having to worry about searching for or obtaining one during an emergency situation.
Overall, a baby carrier or stroller can be a valuable addition to your prepping, as it can help you transport your infant more easily and safely during an emergency or disaster situation.
Toys And Books
Why do I need to pack toys and books for an emergency diaper bag? Which types should I pack?
Packing toys and books can help keep your infant or child occupied and calm during even the worst situations.
Here are some reasons why you should consider packing toys and books:
- Comfort and distraction: During an emergency or disaster situation, infants and children may feel stressed, scared, or anxious. Toys and books can provide comfort and distraction, and help keep them calm and occupied.
- Entertainment: Toys and books can also provide entertainment and stimulate your infant or child’s imagination and creativity, which can be particularly important during extended periods of time spent indoors or in limited spaces…especially if there’s no TV access.
- Learning: Books and educational toys can provide an opportunity for your infant or child to learn and develop new skills, even during an emergency situation.
When packing toys and books, consider the following types:
- Comfort items: Pack a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or other comfort item that your infant or child enjoys. Or just make sure to grab it on the way out the door if you do need to leave in a hurry.
- Small toys: Pack a few small toys, such as blocks, cars, or dolls, that your infant or child can play with.
- Books: Pack a few age-appropriate books that your infant or child can read or look at.
- Educational toys: Pack educational toys, such as puzzles, shape sorters, or building blocks, that can provide a learning opportunity for your infant/toddler/ or child.
- Art supplies: If age-appropriate pack a small set of crayons or markers and a notebook/coloring book, so your child can draw or color.
Remember to pack light because you will have to transport it all, and periodically check to update the toys and books in your kit. As time passes, your infant or child’s interests and abilities may change over time.
Medicine
Sometimes the medications in a basic first aid kit just aren’t going to cut it for a particular baby’s needs depending on the situation you find yourself in. What medications/medicine should be packed in an emergency kit for a baby?
When packing for emergencies for a little one, it is important to include any necessary medications or medical supplies that your baby may need on an individual basis.
Here are some medicines you should consider packing for a baby:
- Infant pain reliever: This can help relieve pain and fever in infants. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as recommended by your pediatrician, may be used.
- Prescription medications: Pack any prescription medications that your baby may be taking, such as asthma inhalers, allergy medication, or any other medications prescribed by your pediatrician.
- Nasal saline drops: These can help relieve nasal congestion in infants and young children.
- Antihistamine: This can be used for allergic reactions, if recommended by your pediatrician.
- Hydrocortisone cream: This can be used for skin rashes or irritations.
- Thermometer: This can help you monitor your baby’s temperature and identify any signs of fever or illness.
- Baby Gas Relief Drops: These can help relieve colic or gas symptoms in infants.
- Teething gels: Some topical gels can be used to soothe the gums and relieve teething pain. It is important to talk to your pediatrician before using any teething gels, as some gels may contain ingredients that can be harmful for infants.
- Teething rings: Teething rings can provide relief by allowing your baby to chew on them, which can help soothe the gums and relieve pain.
When packing medicine in your emergency kit, it is important to make sure that they are properly labeled and have not expired (or won’t expire for quite a while).
You should also consider packing any necessary specialty medical supplies, such as syringes, feeding tubes, or oxygen masks, if your baby requires them.
It is important to regularly check and update the medications and medicines in your emergency kit, as well as to consult with your pediatrician regarding the use of medications and any necessary dosage adjustments you should be aware of as baby grows.
Baby Hygiene Kit
A baby hygiene kit is an essential component of a preparedness bag or emergency kit, as it can help keep your baby clean, comfortable, and healthy during an emergency or disaster situation.
Here are some reasons why you should consider packing a baby hygiene kit in your preparedness bag, and what items you should include:
- Cleanliness: Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is crucial for your baby’s health and well-being in general, especially during an emergency or disaster situation. A baby hygiene kit can help you keep your baby clean and comfortable, even if you don’t have access to running water or other facilities.
- Preventing infections: Good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of infections and illnesses, which can be particularly important during a situation where resources may be limited.
- Comfort: Keeping your baby clean and comfortable can help reduce stress and promote a sense of normalcy during an emergency or disaster situation.
Here are some items you should consider packing in your baby hygiene kit:
- Baby wash: Pack baby wash or soap, as well as a washcloth or sponge, to clean your baby’s skin.
- Hand sanitizer: Pack hand sanitizer or hand wipes to keep your hands clean before and after changing your baby’s diaper or touching their skin.
- Tissues or paper towels: These can be used for wiping your baby’s nose, mouth, or face.
- Nail clippers: Pack nail clippers to keep your baby’s nails trimmed and prevent scratches.
- Hair Brush: Brushing an infants hair helps cut down on cradle cap, so keep up on it even when times are tough.
- Lotion: Keep babies skin healthy and hydrated.
- Sunscreen: If caught out in the elements sunscreen will be helpful to have on hand.
- Bug Spray: Prevent bug bites and infections by having and using bug spray.
Remember to periodically check and update the items in your baby hygiene kit, and to discard and replace any items that have expired or become damaged.
Conclusion
Overall, putting together an infant emergency kit is an important step in preparing for unexpected situations. By ensuring that you have all the necessary supplies to care for your baby, you can feel more confident and at ease during those difficult times.
I may sound like a broken record at this point…lol…but remember to check and replace any expired or damaged items once in a while, and store your emergency baby kit in a location that is easy to access and known to all members of your household.
With a well-stocked baby emergency survival kit, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are prepared to handle whatever situations may arise, and that your little one will be safe and cared for no matter what…and don’t forget to throw some cash in the bag too so that you can pay for any items that you may not have thought of.
**If you noticed that I missed an essential item, please make sure to email me so that I can add it to the list and everyone can be more prepared.**
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Other Helpful Resources
Here are some other helpful things you may need to know in case of a baby emergency:
- How to Perform Child and Baby CPR https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/performing-cpr/child-baby-cpr
- How to Perform Child & Baby First Aid https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/first-aid/performing-first-aid/child-baby-first-aid
- How To Deliver A Baby During An Emergency Situation https://www.verywellfamily.com/how-to-deliver-a-baby-in-an-emergency-childbirth-2758998
- Emergency Kit Checklist For Kids And Families https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/checklists/kids-and-families.html
If you would like to check out my entire Homemaking section, go here. You can also view all of my Emergency Preparedness posts here.
Here are direct links to several of my other posts that you may also find helpful:
* Please note that this article was originally shared to this website on 03/30/2023, and has since been/will continue to be updated to improve user experience, remain relevant, as well as to be as shareable as possible across the social medias.