Ready America 70280 72-Hour Emergency Kit (2-Person)

Verdict

The 70280 is the budget / starter pick. Ready America is a Red Cross–recommended brand, and this two-person bag is the cheapest complete-looking option in the directory — about $39.44. It covers calories, water pouches, blankets, and a small first-aid pouch. It is not a tools-and-filter kit. Rating is high for the job it actually does: get something in the closet or the trunk tonight.

Who it’s for

First kits, college apartments, a car backup, or anyone who will not spend $140 this month. Size up later, or add a knife, filter, and fire starter yourself.

What’s inside

• Two 2400-calorie food bars
• Twelve water pouches (about 4.2 oz each)
• 33-piece first-aid kit
• Two survival blankets, two ponchos, two dust masks
• Nitrile gloves, whistle, two 12-hour light sticks, tissues
• Red backpack (about 5 lb)

Ready America also sells this line in other household sizes.

Weaknesses

• Food is bars, not meals
• No knife, multi-tool, or fire starter
• First aid is thin
• Component quality matches the price