Home, Room, Shelter & Vehicle Readiness
Readiness looks different depending on where you sleep. Here are realistic steps for many living situations — no judgment, just useful.
Key takeaways
- Everyone can prepare, whatever their housing.
- Match your plan to your real space and resources.
- Small, portable kits work when space is tight.
Step-by-step
- Apartment or rooming house. Keep a small water and food supply, a flashlight, a power bank, and know your exits and a meeting spot outside.
- Shelter or transitional housing. Keep a personal kit: ID copies, medications, phone numbers, a charger, and comfort items. Ask staff about emergency procedures.
- Vehicle living. Store water, snacks, a blanket, warm clothes, a charger, and ID within reach. Never run the engine to stay warm in an enclosed space.
- Tent or rough sleeping. Keep gear dry, layer for warmth, protect your feet, and know where warm indoor spaces and outreach are.
- Couch surfing. Keep your essentials in one easy-to-carry bag: ID, medications, charger, and a change of socks, so you can move quickly.
✅ Printable checklist
- Exits and a meeting spot known
- Small portable kit packed
- ID copies + medications with you
- Charger and power bank ready
- Dry socks and a warm layer