Baby emergency kit: the complete 72-hour checklist
What to pack in a baby's emergency kit: formula, bottles, diapers, clothes, medicine and documents. How to feed an infant without running water or power, and what to know if you're breastfeeding.
In short
- Babies can't wait: in an emergency you need food, diapers and warmth for them from the first hour.
- Powdered formula needs safe water. For your kit, ready-to-feed liquid formula in small cartons is safer and simpler.
- Breastfeeding is the safest food in an emergency: it needs no water, power or sterilizing.
- Plan on 8–12 diapers a day for a newborn and 6–8 for an older baby.
A baby depends on you completely for food, warmth and cleanliness. During a long power cut, an earthquake or an evacuation, stores and pharmacies may be closed. If you have a baby, a separate kit next to the family go bag, for at least 72 hours, is worth it.
Feeding
- Ready-to-feed liquid formula in small cartons for 3 days (no water needed)
- Or powdered formula plus bottled water to mix it (about a quart, or 1 liter, a day)
- Bottles, clean or disposable, 3–4
- Spare nipples
- Baby food in jars or pouches, if your baby eats solids
- Spoons and a bowl
- Bottle soap and a small brush
- For breastfeeding: a small pillow, a manual breast pump, milk storage bags
Hygiene
- Diapers: 8–12 a day for newborns, 6–8 a day for older babies, for 3 days
- Wipes, two packs
- Diaper cream
- Foldable changing pad
- Bags for used diapers
- Hand sanitizer
Clothes and comfort
- Changes of clothes for 3 days: onesies, pants, socks
- A hat, summer (sun) and winter (cold)
- Blanket or baby sleeping bag
- Favorite toy or a pacifier
- Baby carrier
Health
- Thermometer
- Infant fever and pain reliever with its dosing syringe, as your doctor advises
- Saline drops and a nasal aspirator
- Infant oral rehydration solution, on your doctor’s advice
- Prescribed medicines, if any
Documents
- Birth certificate (copy)
- Vaccination record (copy)
- Your pediatrician’s number
- A recent photo of you with your baby
Cold and heat
- In winter, during a power cut: dress your baby in layers, keep them close (skin to skin) and check the back of the neck: it should be warm, not sweaty. See heating without power.
- In summer, during a heatwave: light clothes, shade, frequent feeds. Never leave them in a car. Know the signs of dehydration.
Keep the kit current
Babies grow fast. Every 2–3 months, size up diapers and clothes, check formula and medicine dates and add whatever has changed. Set a phone reminder.
For older children, see our guide to children in emergencies.
Recommended equipment
What to look for when buying. Links go to partner shops; if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Details.
Ready-to-feed liquid formula, small cartons
No water or mixing needed. Ideal for an emergency kit.
- Right stage for your baby
- Single-use cartons
- Check the expiry date
Baby carrier
Keeps your hands free if you evacuate or walk.
- Rated for your baby's weight
- Supports head and hips
Frequently asked questions
How do I make powdered formula without power?
You need safe water: bottled or boiled. The World Health Organization recommends preparing powdered formula with water of at least 158 °F (70 °C), then cooling quickly. Without a stove, boil water on a camping stove outdoors. Simpler: keep ready-to-feed liquid formula in your kit, which needs no water.
How do I clean bottles without running water?
Wash with safe water and dish soap, rinse, then boil for 5 minutes if you can. Otherwise use disposable bottles or sterile disposable bottle liners. In a pinch a clean cup or spoon can replace a bottle, on your doctor's advice.
I'm breastfeeding and stressed. Will my milk dry up?
Stress can temporarily slow let-down, but it usually doesn't reduce supply. Nurse often, drink water, eat and rest when you can. Breastfeeding support organizations and your doctor can help.
Sources and further reading
Preper is for general education and does not replace instructions from your local authorities or advice from a doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.