The Importance of Being Prepared
Life is unpredictable, and emergencies often strike when we least expect them. Recently, my wife and I found ourselves in a rush to the ER, and I quickly realized just how unprepared I was. My phone was at 15%, my charger was nowhere in sight, and I was suddenly filled with anxiety. Our daughter was with our in-laws, and the thought of my phone dying before I could communicate with them added to the stress. In a situation already filled with uncertainty, not being prepared made everything worse.

That day was my wake-up call. I needed a dedicated emergency bag that I could grab in seconds, stocked with all the essentials to keep me connected and prepared. So, I’ve set up my Tomtoc sling as my emergency go-bag, and here’s how you can do the same.

The Wake-Up Call
In the chaos of rushing to the ER, I was struck by the realization that even though I have all the right gear—battery packs, chargers, and snacks—I wasn’t ready when I needed them most. I wasn’t just unprepared; I was also disconnected. If our wait at the hospital had been longer, my phone would have died, leaving me unable to check in on our daughter or update anyone on our situation. That stress does no one any good in an already tense moment.

Why a Sling Bag?
I chose the Tomtoc Explorer-T21 Sling Bag for its compact yet spacious design. It’s a minimalist EDC (Everyday Carry) bag that fits everything I need without being bulky. The bag’s Cordura Ballistic Nylon material is incredibly sturdy and perfect for any situation. Plus, the hidden back pocket is perfect for storing important documents like IDs and emergency cash, keeping them safe and accessible.

The Tomtoc Explorer-T21 Sling Bag features three main compartments for quick access to essentials and is made from durable, water-resistant Cordura Ballistic Nylon. It’s incredibly comfortable to wear and still has plenty of space after packing my essentials, leaving room for extras like water bottles or more snacks when needed.

What to Pack: Essential Items for Your Emergency Bag
Here’s what I packed to stay prepared, all from items I already had on hand:

• Tech Essentials:
  • Anker Magsafe Charger – Lightweight and powerful to keep your devices charged.
  • USB-C – To charge phone, headphones and flashlight.
  • Flashlight – A small but bright light for any dark situation.
• Health and Safety:
  • Mini first-aid kit – Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any medications you might need.
  • Hand sanitizer – For quick cleanups and protection in crowded places.
  • Leatherman Multi-Tool – Compact and versatile, with tools for any minor fix.
• Personal Care:
  • Snacks like granola bars or nuts – Quick energy boosts during long waits.
  • Drink Mix Packets – To make fountain water more palatable when you need it.
  • A small water bottle – Hydration is key, especially in stressful situations.
  • Cash and spare change – Because sometimes cash is the only option.
  • A notepad and pen – For jotting down important information when your phone’s not handy.
• Comfort and Convenience:
  • Spare set of keys – A lifesaver if you’re locked out or need to access your car quickly.
  • Headphones – For a bit of distraction when you need it most.
  • Important documents – Keep IDs and insurance cards in the hidden back pocket for easy access and added security.

Packing Tips: Keep It Simple and Accessible
I’ve found that organizing items in small pouches keeps everything tidy and easy to find. Frequently used items, like my phone charger and snacks, go in the front pocket for quick access, while more critical items like cash and IDs stay in the hidden back pocket. To ensure I’m always prepared, I’ll make it a habit to check my bag every couple of weeks to recharge tech and restock anything I’ve used.

Preparedness is Peace of Mind
This whole experience reminded me that being prepared is more than just having the right gear—it’s about having it ready when it counts. My Tomtoc sling bag now serves as my emergency kit, and it’s given me a bit of peace knowing that I won’t be caught off guard again. I hope this setup helps me stay prepared for future emergencies, and it could do the same for you. You don’t need to buy anything new—just repurpose what you have and keep it all in one place. In the end, a little preparation goes a long way.