What to Pack in a Bushfire Emergency: A Practical Checklist for Australian Families

Living in Victoria means living with the reality of bushfire risk. While we hope never to need it, being prepared can make an enormous difference in a stressful and fast-moving situation.

This guide is designed to help you pack a simple, practical bushfire emergency bag — one that’s ready to grab if you ever need to leave quickly.

Preparation isn’t about fear. It’s about care.

Why an Emergency Bag Matters

Bushfires can move quickly, and evacuation orders may come with little notice. Having essentials packed in advance can help you:

1. leave safely and calmly
2. reduce decision-making under stress
3. ensure important documents and supplies aren’t forgotten

An emergency go bag should be easy to carry, clearly labelled, and stored somewhere accessible.

The Bushfire Emergency Bag Checklist

1. Important Documents (Waterproofed)

1. Photo ID (licence, passport)
2. Medicare cards
3. Insurance documents
4. Property and vehicle papers
5. Emergency contact list
6. USB with digital copies (optional)

Tip: Store documents in a waterproof pouch or sealed bag.

2. Clothing & Personal Essentials

1. Change of clothes (lightweight, long sleeves if possible)
2. Sturdy closed shoes
3. Hat and face covering
4. Underwear and socks
5. Small towel

3. Health & Safety Items

1. Prescription medications (at least 3 days)
2. Basic first aid kit
3. Hand sanitiser
4. P2/N95 masks (to reduce smoke inhalation)
5. Sunscreen

4. Toiletries & Hygiene

1. Toothbrush and toothpaste
2. Soap or body wash
3. Tissues and wipes
4. Sanitary items
5. Glasses / contact lenses

5. Technology & Power

1. Mobile phone
2. Phone charger and power bank
3. Torch (battery or rechargeable)
4. Spare batteries

6. Food & Water

1. Bottled water
2. Non-perishable snacks
3. Baby food or formula if needed
4. Pet food (if applicable)

7. For Children

1. Comfort item (toy, book, blanket)
2. Nappies and wipes
3. Snacks and water bottle

8. For Pets

1. Lead or carrier
2. Vaccination records
3. Bowls
4. Familiar blanket or toy

How to Store Your Emergency Kit

1. Keep items organised in clearly labelled pouches or packing cubes
2. Store the bag near an exit
3. Review contents every 6 months
4. Replace expired items

Natural disasters are unpredictable — preparation is one small way to protect the people (and animals) we love.

A Gentle Reminder

Take the first step in your preparation today. Download our easy-to-print checklist to help you pack your emergency kit with confidence.

If you live in a bushfire-prone area, stay informed through official channels like VicEmergency and always follow advice from emergency services.

Being prepared doesn’t mean expecting the worst — it means caring for yourself, your family and your community.