A go bag helps you leave quickly for the shelter without wasting time packing. It should be compact: you will not be able to carry a heavy bag for long, and there is little room in the metro and basements. Here is where to start.

Documents

  • Passport, ID card, children’s birth certificates.
  • Copies of documents and important contacts on paper. A phone can run out of charge.
  • A small amount of cash.

Health

  • Medicines you take daily, enough for a few days.
  • A first-aid kit: bandages, antiseptic, painkillers.
  • Glasses or lenses and care products for them.

Communication and power

  • A power bank and a phone cable.
  • A torch with spare batteries.
  • A small battery-powered radio.

Water and food

Half a litre to a litre of water per person and a few light foods: bars, dried fruit, nuts.

Warmth

A thin warm sweater, a scarf and a hat, plus a blanket or thermal blanket. Underground shelters can be cool.

For children and pets

A favourite toy, nappies or a change of clothes, food and a lead for a pet.

What is better not to bring

Bulky items take up space that others need. The Kyiv Metro specifically asks people not to bring large tents and inflatable mattresses into the shelter.

Tip

Arrange items by pocket so you can find what you need even in the dark. Every few months, check the expiry dates of medicines, food and batteries.