Many of the basic items you carry while traveling can be helpful in emergencies. The key is to prepare them so that, in a disaster, you can quickly grab just the essentials. Keep the following items together near the door or bedside.

You can never have too much water, so it's a good idea to keep two additional bottles of water in your hotel room, along with the one you're currently drinking.

Convenience stores are stocked with a variety of long-lasting, ready-to-eat foods such as cup noodles, jelly drinks, and cereal bars, as well as energy-boosting candies and chocolates. It's a good idea to keep some easy-to-eat, non-perishable food items on hand that don't require cooking and can be stored at room temperature for an extended period.

Some retort foods can be prepared with just water and don't require heating, while others can be eaten directly without warming. Canned goods are also a great option. Many are pre-cooked and tasty enough to enjoy even without an emergency, including items like grilled chicken, fish stews, and curry. There are also canned fruits such as pineapples, peaches, and mandarins.

Polybags are incredibly useful in various situations. It's best to have both small and large sizes on hand. These bags can be used for everything from collecting trash and storing dirty items to a multitude of other purposes.

Small polybags can be used temporarily for storing food items or as makeshift disposable gloves. You can also cover dishes with them during meals to avoid washing up.

Large polybags have even more versatile uses. They can serve as makeshift duffel bags for carrying items, temporary cold weather gear if you tear a hole for your face, water containers or buckets, leisure mats, and even as emergency toilets.

From regular dry tissues to wet wipes, including disinfecting wipes with alcohol for hand sanitation, and toilet paper. It's a good idea to have a variety, including those with and without alcohol. The types that dissolve in water are even more convenient.

During a disaster, water is a precious resource. Without water it is difficult to wash hands, clean dishes, or do laundry. Additionally, in evacuation centers, where many people gather, maintaining hygiene is crucial for health. Tissue products are very useful in these situations. Japanese tissues are known for their exceptional quality, with great texture, durability, and water-solubility, making them very handy to have in any quantity.

Food wrap film is surprisingly useful. Like plastic bags, it can be used to cover dishes during meals, saving water by eliminating the need for washing, and it works with all types of dishware, including paper, plastic, and ceramic.

In cold conditions, wrapping it around your body can serve as an emergency insulation layer. Additionally, if you get injured, you can use it as a makeshift bandage. However, since it has excellent insulation properties but poor breathability, remember to wrap it loosely.

Japanese food wrap film is known for its high quality, to the point where Japanese expatriates often request it as a souvenir. It’s a good idea to have some on hand.

When you can't bathe or shower for several days, it can be stressful to feel unclean, especially during hot summer months or if you have long hair. In such cases, body sheets for your face and body are essential. If body sheets aren't available, alcohol-free wet wipes can be a substitute.

For your hair, it's advisable to have dry shampoo in spray, powder, or sheet form, which can be used without water to keep your hair fresh.

Sanitary products are crucial for women, especially in stressful situations where you might unexpectedly start your period or experience a longer cycle. In emergencies, it can be difficult to obtain these items, and asking others for them can be uncomfortable.

Convenience stores always stock compact sizes of sanitary products, so it’s wise to keep some on hand. Additionally, sanitary products are highly absorbent and can serve as a makeshift bandage or cushioning in the event of an injury.

During a disaster, skin care might seem less urgent, but it's still important. Dry skin and chapped lips can affect your mood and, if prolonged, may lead to itching and rashes.

This is especially crucial if you have small children. Keeping lip balm, hand cream, and body lotion on hand is essential.

If you have petroleum jelly (Vaseline), it can be a versatile moisturizer for your face, lips, hands, and body. It also serves as a remedy for minor cuts and burns, making it incredibly useful.

No matter your age or gender, handling toilet needs during an emergency is crucial. It can be difficult to manage, especially if the water supply is cut off and you can't use the flush toilet. Sudden stomach issues or nausea can also occur. For such situations, having diapers, urinary pads, and disposable toilets on hand is essential.

Japanese diapers are known for their high quality, so much so that people often buy them as souvenirs. They’re praised not just for children but also for adults who might find them reassuring in an emergency. If diapers seem excessive, urinary pads can also be a practical solution for urgent situations.

Snacks and toys are often put off as secondary, but they are very important. Those who have experienced disasters often mention that even small entertainment items can greatly relieve stress and distract from the difficulties of evacuation centers. Snacks, candy, card games, and bubble wands are enjoyable for everyone.

If you have a child who needs baby food, this is also a must-have.

For children, witnessing a disaster and being in an unfamiliar environment such as an evacuation center can be even more stressful than for adults, leading to significant emotional distress. Providing items that can ease this anxiety helps not only the child but also provides reassurance to the adults around them.

In cases where air conditioning is unavailable or difficult to regulate in large shelters, it can be challenging to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is especially true for children and the elderly, who may struggle with temperature regulation and become more susceptible to health issues. Women with a tendency to feel cold should also take precautions.

Items that address both cold and heat are recommended. For hot weather, instant cooling packs that can be activated by a quick squeeze are useful, while for cold weather, hand warmers are invaluable. Additionally, blankets and large towels are handy. They can be used to prevent injuries on rough surfaces like debris or wood, as substitutes for rugs or cushions, and as privacy screens or makeshift bedding.

Convenience stores in Japan vary in their product offerings and stock depending on location and store type. While the items listed here are generally available at most convenience stores, it's important to remember that in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, these supplies might be quickly depleted due to high demand.

Therefore, it's advisable to purchase and prepare these essentials ahead of time during your trip to Japan. If you end up not needing them, you can use them as souvenirs or for your own home’s emergency preparedness. The high-quality Japanese products are sure to be valuable!

For more information, visit the Cabinet Office’s disaster preparedness page.