A basic disaster kit gets more important when you can't rely on a neighbor or family member showing up with supplies during a multi-day disruption.
Core supplies
- At least 3-7 days of water and non-perishable food
- A week's supply of medications, kept current as prescriptions change
- A battery or hand-crank radio and flashlight
- A charged battery pack for your phone
- Copies of key documents (ID, insurance, POA) in a waterproof bag
The solo-ager-specific addition
Identify one person, ideally outside your immediate area, who would check on you specifically during a known regional event (storm, heat wave) — a role a spouse would otherwise fill by default.
Store the kit somewhere reachable without needing a step stool or heavy lifting — accessibility matters as much as completeness.