Peace of Mind in a Backpack: Why Every Caregiver Needs a “Go Bag” for Their Loved One
If you care for someone with medical needs, you know how quickly things can change.
A trip to the ER. A power outage. A winter storm that closes the pharmacy. Emergencies don’t give us time to pack calmly, especially when we’re worried about keeping a loved one safe, hydrated, and comforted.
That’s where a “Go Bag” comes in.
This simple, pre-packed emergency bag can ease the panic in unpredictable moments. For caregivers, it’s not about fear — it’s about preparation. Because when you're responsible for someone else's health, comfort, and dignity, having the right items on hand makes all the difference.
💼 What Is a Go Bag?
A “Go Bag” (also called a bug-out bag or emergency kit) is a grab-and-go backpack or duffel filled with 1–3 days’ worth of essentials — medications, ID, food, clothing, hygiene supplies, and more.
Most people think of these bags in the context of natural disasters. But if you’re a caregiver, you’ve probably already experienced the “micro-emergencies” that disrupt daily life:
A hospitalization that extends past dinner
A power outage that affects oxygen equipment
A plumbing issue that displaces someone for the night
In those moments, a go bag isn’t just practical — it’s a lifeline.
Who Needs One?
Every family should have a basic go bag, but caregivers should think two steps ahead.
Make a bag for:
You (the caregiver)
The person you care for
And, ideally, a miniature version to keep in your car
This is especially important if your loved one:
Lives alone or has limited mobility
Has cognitive challenges (like dementia)
Depends on medications, oxygen, or medical devices
Lives in a facility but may need to relocate temporarily
📝 What to Pack: The “Go Bag” Checklist for Caregivers
Here’s what to include in your loved one’s bag. (And yes — there’s a free printable checklist at the end of this post.)
🔹 Essential Survival Items (Non-Medical Emergency)
3 days’ worth of water (or purification tablets)
Shelf-stable snacks (granola bars, protein shakes, crackers)
Flashlight (with batteries or hand-crank)
First-aid kit
Manual can opener
An emergency blanket or a small sleeping bag
Whistle (for calling for help)
🔹 Health & Medical Supplies
3–7 day supply of all prescription medications
Complete medication list (names, doses, schedules)
Copies of Insurance cards and photo ID
Medical history summary or printed EHR
Durable medical equipment supplies if possible…not always (CPAP tubing, glucometer, hearing aid batteries)
Medical alert bracelet or printed condition card
Face masks and hand sanitizer
🔹 Personal Care & Comfort
Change of clothes (including socks and underwear)
Adult diapers or incontinence supplies (if needed)
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, deodorant, lip balm
Denture care kit (if applicable)
Lotion or barrier cream
Washcloth or small towel
Earplugs or an eye mask (especially for hospital stays)
🔹 Mobility & Support Tools
Copy of advance directive or power of attorney
List of emergency contacts (printed and saved on phone) — VERY IMPORTANT
Laminated name/contact card to keep in a pocket or ON BAG
Copies of house key, facility code, or medication lockbox combo
🔹 Emotional Well-being
Framed photo or small item from home
Book or puzzle
A calming playlist or music downloaded to a device
Something familiar — a scarf, favorite mug, or blanket
💡 Caregiver Tips for Go Bag Success
Label everything. Use clear bags, pouches, or folders with labels like “Medications” or “Documents.”
Review it twice a year. Spring and fall time changes are great reminders to update meds and clothing.
Pack light but smart. Prioritize what supports safety, mobility, and comfort, not just survival.
Keep it accessible. Store the bag near an exit or in a caregiver’s car.
Make a backup plan. Include notes about who to call if you’re not available.
🎁 Download: The Caregiver’s Go Bag Checklist
I’ve created a printable version of this list — with extras for people who use walkers, oxygen, or have dementia — so you don’t have to start from scratch.
👉 [Download the Free Go Bag Checklist PDF]
It’s editable, printable, and easy to share with other family members or care teams.
Final Thought: Readiness Is a Form of Care
You may never need to use your go bag. But packing one is a powerful act of love. It says, “I’m thinking ahead for both of us.” It says, “I’ve got you.”
And when the unexpected happens — because life always throws curveballs — that quiet confidence can be your best emergency response plan.
