What's best for the Jones' isn't always what's best for you, so don't be surprised that you're unimpressed when your neighbor claims to have purchased the best emergency kit on the market. There is no such thing as the "perfect" emergency kit. In fact, the perfect kit for you or your family is relative to the personal needs of each family member. You and your neighbor can both have the very best kits for your families, and yet the supplies inside can be far from similar.

When it comes time to choose a kit for your family, make sure you consider the personal needs of each and every family member. Just because Tom and Betty across the street are packing three inhalers doesn't mean you need to. The best way to build the perfect kit for you, or your family, is to start with the basics. Every kit needs the essentials: food, water, shelter, first aid supplies, and warmth. Depending on where you live, you may need more, or less, blankets and warm clothing than a family in a more northern or southern location. Make sure you pack in preparation for your specific climate.

After you have packed the essentials, it's time to decide what supplies your family would need in the event of an emergency. Make sure you pack daily medications, as well as medication for those who struggle with seasonal allergies or migraines. Include supplies you might overlook: for example, flashlights, extra batteries, a cell phone with solar charger, sanitation supplies, a hand crank radio and glow sticks. If you have young children, you may want to include a coloring book or a deck of playing cards, as well. If you want to purchase your family's emergency kit, Survival-supply.com offers the best emergency kits online. Survival-supply.com has kits designed for disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes, kits designed for your car, and even kits specifically put together with provisions for your household pet.