Quick Answer
Including cash in your family go-bag is crucial for unexpected situations where electronic payments are unavailable. It's essential to have a mix of denomination bills to cover various expenses. A reasonable amount is $200 to $500 per person.
Why Cash Matters in a Family Go-Bag
When disaster strikes, ATMs and credit card machines may be out of order or unavailable. In such cases, having cash on hand ensures you can purchase essential items like food, water, and medical supplies. It’s also useful for paying for services like gas or transportation. A good rule of thumb is to include cash in smaller denomination bills, such as $20s, $10s, and $5s, to facilitate transactions at multiple vendors.
How to Store and Organize Cash in a Go-Bag
When storing cash in a go-bag, consider using a waterproof container or plastic bag to protect it from water damage. It’s also essential to keep the cash easily accessible, so store it in a separate, zippered pocket or pouch within the go-bag. To avoid confusion, consider labeling the cash container with the name of the family member it belongs to and the date it was last reviewed. This way, you can ensure everyone has the right amount of cash for their needs.
Best Practices for Including Cash in a Family Go-Bag
When assembling a family go-bag, it’s essential to involve all family members in the decision-making process. Discuss and agree on the amount of cash to include, considering factors like the number of people, the expected duration of the emergency, and the local cost of living. To maintain the cash in a go-bag, conduct regular drills and reviews to ensure everyone knows its location and can access it quickly in case of an emergency.
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