I keep a small emergency kit in my bag for commuting to Tokyo. This time, I’ll show you exactly what I carry with me.
Why I Carry It
During the Great East Japan Earthquake, I was working in a small office in Jimbocho. Fortunately, the building remained intact, but trains stopped running immediately, leaving me stranded.
Based on this experience, I created this emergency kit designed for situations where a major disaster prevents me from returning home. It’s intended for spending the night in the office and walking home the next day.
Of course, I also use it for unexpected heavy rain, cold spells, or any other time it might be needed, even without a major disaster.
What’s Inside My Pouch
Small Radio
Even if my cell phone signal gets weak, I can still get information from the radio.
Portable Battery
Having a spare battery is reassuring since we use our smartphones for everything—contacting family, gathering information, and more.
Compact Poncho
Not only for rainy days, but also for keeping warm. You can find them at 100-yen shops like Daiso.
sanitary products
Disposable hand warmers, paper soap, band-aids, disposable toothbrushes, and spoons.
Small stationeries
A memo pad and pen-shaped scissor.
Why It’s Small on Purpose
Since I commute by train, I don’t want to carry anything too heavy. So I chose items that are the bare minimum, as small as possible, and functional.
A little Habit
You never know when a disaster might strike in Japan? That’s true, but I don’t live my life constantly thinking about disasters. It’s just a little habit I have—pouch that’s always in my bag, and it brings me a little peace of mind.
Everyday Tokyo 