How Much Does an Emergency Kit Cost?

There is no simple answer to this question.

There are many price points when it comes to pre-made kits on the market.

When it comes to building your own, you have a vast range of choice when it comes to the items your kit can contain.

Whatever your budget, you will probably find items that will help you stick to it. The real question comes down to how much should you spend? And is more expensive gear better than cheap items?

Work With What You’ve Got

First, come up with a list of items that you need for your emergency kit. Look around this website or sign up to the newsletter at the bottom to be sent the planning documents and more.

Once you have this list, work out what you have on hand already. Then work out what you want to get next to help build up your kit.

Make a Budget

Work out how much you would be happy to spend on your emergency kit. Either as a whole, or for individual components.

Stick to it. It’s very easy to get excited about one specific item and spend a lot of money on it. Try to think of the kit as a whole and build it within your budget.

It’s OK to build things piece by piece. Start with essential items first. Then branch out if you want into other areas.

Think Ahead

As well as the initial cost of an emergency kit, you will most likely need to factor in future costs as well.

These can come from items that expire and need replacing.

Keep in mind any additional items you may need to add as well. Either as an upgrade or if your situation changes. You might have extra family members you need to cater for.

Finding the Balance

A big part of building your own emergency kit is finding the balance between functionality and price of items and what works with you.

A $500 flashlight is super powerful and has some cool features. Is the price justified when a $50 flashlight has 90% of the same features.

In the End

There is no hard and fast rule on how much an emergency kit will cost.

You could spend thousands of dollars or a lot less. You have to work with what works for you and what you are happy with.

Remember, having something set aside and being prepared, even if in a little way, is so much better than having nothing.

Next>> What are the Different Types of Emergency Kits?