When most people picture an "emergency kit," they think of flashlights, bottled water, and a few pantry staples. But being a wheelchair user means the basics don't always cut it. Preparedness looks a little different when independence depends on having the right items close at hand.
That's why I keep a wheelchair-ready go-bag packed. It isn't fancy, but it's practical – ready for outages, unexpected delays, or those nights when plans stretch longer than expected.
Why It Matters
Emergencies don't wait for the right timing. They pop up during storms, traffic jams, or the moment you thought the day was finally over. For wheelchair users, being prepared goes beyond peace of mind; it's about confidence and control. Having the essentials nearby means you can handle the curveballs without depending on others for every small thing.
Learning the Hard Way
Years ago, an early snowstorm turned a quick commute into hours on the road. The problem wasn't just the ice, it was the fact I had nothing with me. No blanket. No water. No snacks. By the time I got home, I was cold, exhausted, and determined never to make that mistake again.
The Basics Everyone Should Have
A good go-bag starts with the core items that apply to everyone. At the very least, you'll want to pack:
- Water: enough for at least a day.
- Non-perishable food or snacks: protein bars, trail mix, or whatever works for you.
- Blanket: for warmth and comfort if you're stranded.
- Flashlight and extra batteries: because emergencies rarely happen in daylight.
- First aid kit: even a small one can make a big difference.
These basics form the foundation of your kit. From there, you add the disability-specific items that truly make it work for your needs.
Medications and Disability-Specific Supplies
A reliable go-bag should also reflect your unique situation. In my case, cerebral palsy affects my hand coordination, so a few extra tools are essential:
- Wipes: a quick way to deal with spills and stay clean on-the-go.
- Extra-long straws (~10"): they keep drinks accessible without fishing soggy straws out of bottles.
- A multipurpose opener: handles bottlecaps and pull tabs, sparing me from accidental drink showers.
Individually, these may seem small. Together, they keep emergencies (and everyday life) manageable.
What's in my go-bag
I have cerebral palsy, and as it relates to this article, my fine motor skills are impacted. That means some everyday tasks like opening bottles and cans or even stubborn snack packaging can be a real challenge. So, my go-bag isn't just about having supplies, it's about making sure I can actually use them when I need to. Here's what I keep packed:
- Water bottle: with extra-long straws.
- Protein bars and trail mix: easy to open, easy to eat, and they keep me going.
- Lightweight blanket: compact, but still enough for warmth if I'm stuck somewhere.
- Portable phone charger and cable: because dead batteries don't help anyone in an emergency. I'm also working on acquiring a second charger to leave in my van, so I always have one nearby.
- Flashlight with spare batteries: a must-have when the lights go out.
- Wipes: because spills and messes aren't optional in my world.
- First aid kit: for the basics.
- Multipurpose opener: this little tool saves me from the struggle when I need leverage for caps or tabs.
- Scissors: for snack bags, packaging, or anything that refuses to tear open when I'm hungry.
- Daily medications and a small backup supply of essentials: easy to forget, but the first thing you'll wish you had.
This isn't a one-size-fits-all list, but it's what works for me. It's built around my needs, my body, and my lifestyle. Which is exactly how every go-bag should be.
Keeping It Ready
Store the bag by the door or in your vehicle. Rotate supplies seasonally – especially food and medications. Consider a separate bag for each family member, especially if you have a teenager (they'll find a way to fill it).
Final Thoughts
Preparedness isn't about paranoia. It's confidence in knowing you won't be caught off-guard. A wheelchair-ready go-bag can't prevent every emergency, but it can prevent the helpless feeling that comes when one hits.
What about you? Do you have a go-bag? What's in it?
About the author
Glenn Moscoso is a retired Assistive Technology Coordinator and founder of WheelchairDaddy.com. Combining his professional in accessibility with his personal experience as a wheelchair user, Glenn writes about preparedness, independence, and the everyday realities of rolling through life.