Todd,

Here are my thoughts...

First, create a Mini-BOB (this should please those folks that have all their other kits done and are looking for a new challenge).

To keep things light, I think my Mini-BOB would look like:

-Passport- Accepted world-wide as ID. You can also keep an expired a drivers license as back up ID (it has a pic and is better than a doc without pics).

-I may include photocopies of Birth certificates.

-A single sheet of paper with all my important account numbers/passwords. Include financial account phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and web sites so re-establishing contact is possible. I do this in MS Word and save to a CD so there is no record of this info in my PC to be stolen/hacked.

I would consider printing this account list and birth certificates on National Geographic waterproof map paper.

-In my wallet, I print up 2 sided business cards with all my important phone numbers and e-mail contacts. I list several phone card numbers for communications. I list my personal e-mail addresses and passwords (separated for confusion purposes) so I can get e-mails from any web functioning PC. It contains birthdates and social security numbers for all family members. This info is scrambled and made to look like bank account numbers. It would be unintelligible to others. Be selective on what info you put on this card for security purposes and to keep the font large enough to read on this small card. I cover this card in poor-mans laminate (Rubbermaid clear shelf liner). I would put a spare copy of this in my Mini-BOB.

-A Single DVD/CD with scans of important documents, as well as back-ups of my e-mail/address book, and any other crucial Word docs.

-I maintain a little used credit card account (with a high limit) as a back up for my primary card. This goes the Mini-BOB in the event that my primary card becomes unusable or lost. A spare ATM card is probably a good idea too.

-Cash is always king. Put in a $20, (2) $10, (2) $5, (10) $1 bills then forget about it. Don't touch it except in a crisis (that does not mean a good deal on a Sebenza) <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

-Keep the whole lot in a waterproof wallet bag.

The waterproof bag would be in the Mini-BOB that is easily accessible and can be carried even if injured. A shoulder strap is crucial to allow hands free movement. This Mini-BOB would contain a roll of quarters for phone/vending machine use. Toss in a permanent medium tip marker to write social sec # on concealed spot on all family members if separation is imminent.

The mini-BOB can always be kept nearby (less likely with a big backpack or duffle). Mini-BOB first, Maxi-BOB if you have the time and health.

Another thought to consider is keeping crucial info safe in a looter/shelter environment: I would get one of the around-the-neck document holders used by world travelers. In this I would keep the $ bills, passport, Birth certificate, paper copy of all account numbers, and the info business card. Each family member can carry one of these with personal ID, contact numbers, and some cash (in case they get separated from you).

This setup is minimal, yet goes a long way to helping you get functioning again in a crisis.

Good luck, TR