Apartment dwellers face unique challenges: no basement or garage for storage, restrictions on generators and grills, and shared building systems. But every home can be prepared. This checklist focuses on compact, apartment-appropriate solutions.
Water (3+ Days)
- Bottled water: 1 gallon per person per day
- Water bricks (stackable, space-efficient)
- Water purification tablets
- Portable water filter
Food (3+ Days)
- Canned goods (compact varieties)
- Energy bars and granola bars
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Peanut butter
- Crackers
- Instant oatmeal
- Manual can opener
Power and Light
- Portable power station (indoor-safe)
- Solar panel for charging
- LED flashlights
- Battery lantern
- Extra batteries
- Phone charger (portable)
- Battery or crank radio
Cooking Without Gas/Electric
- Butane stove (use near window with ventilation)
- Butane canisters
- Or: No-cook food options only
- Mess kit or disposable dishes
Safety and First Aid
- First aid kit
- Medications (1 week supply)
- Fire extinguisher
- Smoke detector (battery backup)
- CO detector (battery backup)
- Escape ladder (if above ground floor)
- N95 masks
Sanitation
- Toilet paper
- Trash bags (heavy duty)
- Hand sanitizer
- Soap
- Wet wipes
- Bucket with lid (emergency toilet)
- Kitty litter (for bucket toilet)
Documents and Communication
- Copies of important documents
- Emergency contact list
- Cash in small bills
- Building emergency procedures
- Neighbor contact info
Evacuation Go-Bag
- Backpack (packed and ready)
- Change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Phone charger
- Snacks and water bottles
- Important documents (copies)
- Cash
- Medications
- Flashlight
Storage Tips
- Under bed storage containers
- Top of closet shelves
- Behind furniture
- Vertical shelving units
- Multi-use items (sleeping bags double as bedding)
- Vacuum storage bags for blankets/clothes
Building-Specific
- Know stairwell locations
- Know building shut-off locations
- Have building management contacts
- Know neighbors to check on
- Understand building fire plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a generator in an apartment?
No. Generators produce carbon monoxide and must never be used indoors. Use portable power stations (battery-based) instead.
Where do I store supplies in a small apartment?
Under beds, in closets, behind doors, on high shelves, and in any unused space. A surprising amount fits with creative storage.
How do I cook without power?
Small butane stoves can be used with good ventilation near an open window. Or stock no-cook foods that do not require heating.
What about my pets?
Include pet food, water, medications, and carriers in your supplies. Plan for pet needs in evacuation.
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance. Check building rules regarding any equipment. Never use fuel-burning devices indoors without proper ventilation.