Emergencies can be stressful for anyone, but when you have young children, the stakes feel even higher. Having an emergency kit tailored to your infant or child’s specific needs is essential for ensuring their safety, comfort, and well-being during unexpected situations. Below, we’ve outlined what to include in a child-focused emergency kit so you can be prepared for anything.
1. Food and Feeding Supplies
Young children and infants have unique dietary needs, so it’s important to plan accordingly:
• Formula and Bottles
Even if you’re breastfeeding, having powdered formula as a backup can be a lifesaver. Check out this top-rated emergency formula. Include enough for at least 72 hours and pack extra bottles or nipples. Shop durable baby bottles here.
• Baby Food and Snacks
For infants, include jarred or pouch baby food. For toddlers and older children, pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars, applesauce pouches, or crackers. Find shelf-stable baby food options.
• Utensils
Pack plastic spoons, bibs, and a small bowl to make feeding easier. Browse compact feeding utensils.
• Sippy Cups
Include a spill-proof cup for toddlers to prevent messes during stressful moments. Shop spill-proof sippy cups here.
2. Diapers and Hygiene Items
Keeping your child clean and comfortable is vital in an emergency:
• Diapers and Wipes
Pack enough diapers for at least 3 days and include a full pack of baby wipes, which can also double as cleaning wipes for hands or surfaces. Stock up on travel-sized wipes and buy emergency diaper packs.
• Changing Pads
Include disposable or portable changing pads to provide a clean surface wherever you are. Check out lightweight changing pads.
• Diaper Cream
Prevent diaper rash by packing a small tube of diaper cream. Find diaper rash solutions.
• Trash Bags
Small trash bags or plastic grocery bags can help you dispose of dirty diapers hygienically. Grab compact waste disposal bags here.
3. Clothing and Blankets
Children may need changes of clothes more frequently than adults, especially in emergencies:
• Seasonally Appropriate Clothing
Pack at least two complete outfits per child, including socks and underwear. Shop emergency-ready clothing for kids.
• Extra Layers
Include a jacket, hat, and gloves for cold weather or a lightweight blanket for warmer months. Find lightweight, packable blankets here.
• Swaddle or Sleep Sack
For infants, pack a swaddle or lightweight sleep sack to keep them cozy. Check out travel-friendly sleep sacks
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4. Comfort and Entertainment
Emergencies can be scary for kids. Familiar items can provide comfort and help reduce stress:
• Favorite Toy or Stuffed Animal
Pack one small comfort item that your child loves. Shop durable comfort toys.
• Books and Small Games
Include compact activity books, crayons, or card games to keep older kids entertained. Find travel-friendly activity books here.
• Pacifiers
If your infant uses a pacifier, pack a few extras in case they get lost or dirty. Stock up on multi-packs of pacifiers.
5. Health and Safety Supplies
Children require specific medical and safety items:
• Medications
Pack any prescription medications your child needs, along with infant or children’s pain reliever, fever reducer (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen), and a dosing syringe. Shop child-friendly medications here.
• First Aid Kit
Include kid-friendly bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer. Find compact first-aid kits for families.
• Baby-Friendly Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Protect your child’s skin from the elements with gentle, child-safe products. Check out baby-safe sunscreen and bug sprays.
• Identification
Keep a copy of your child’s birth certificate, health insurance card, and a recent photo in a waterproof bag. Shop waterproof document pouches here.
6. Sleep and Shelter Supplies
Rest is essential for children, even in emergencies:
• Portable Crib or Playpen
If space allows, consider a lightweight option to give your child a safe sleep environment. Browse portable cribs and playpens here.
• Travel-Sized Blanket or Sleeping Bag
Choose something small and easy to carry that will keep your child warm. Shop compact sleeping bags for kids.
• Mosquito Netting
For outdoor situations, netting can help keep bugs away from infants and toddlers. Find baby mosquito nets here.
7. Additional Tips for Preparedness
• Practice Using the Kit
Familiarize yourself with the items in your child’s emergency kit and show older children where things are so they feel prepared too.
• Rotate Supplies
Regularly check your kit and replace items like food, formula, and medication as they near expiration.
• Personalize It
Consider any unique needs your child may have, such as allergies, special medications, or sensory needs.
Final Thoughts
Being prepared for emergencies as a parent means planning for more than just the basics. A well-stocked emergency kit tailored to your infant or child’s needs can provide peace of mind and make a challenging situation much more manageable. Take the time to assemble your kit today—you’ll thank yourself later.
Need help getting started? Explore our favorite emergency kit essentials here!
