25 Must-Pack Items in our Event Planner’s Emergency Kit
Pro Tip: Bookmark this event planner’s kit checklist with Amazon links
Event planning is equal parts preparation and improvisation. Despite months of planning, anything can happen on event day—and often does. That’s why a well-stocked event planner’s emergency kit is your secret weapon.
Think of it as your prepared-for-anything toolkit, ready to solve problems before they become disasters.
What is an Event Planner’s Emergency Kit?
An event planner’s emergency kit is a collection of essential tools and supplies designed to help you manage minor issues on-site—quickly and calmly. It’s the kit that steps in when things don’t go to plan (and trust us, they rarely do).
The contents of your kit will vary depending on your event type.
Film & TV sets lean on gear like multitools and cable wraps.
Outdoor festivals might include mallets, trolleys, or even sandbags.
Weddings often call for make-up kits, wardrobe fixes, and discreet personal care items.
Whatever your sector, your kit should reflect the realities of your event.
Other names for this kit include:
Event Kit
Production Kit
Show Box
Event Tool Box
Event Manager’s Survival Kit
Event Tool Kit
Pro Tip: Everyone’s Emergency Kit is a little different—and that’s okay. The key is to tailor it to your needs and keep it event-ready at all times.
Start Here: with the Container
Before you start compiling your Event Planner’s Kit, you need to select your preferred type of container. Choose your container wisely.
At our agency, we use 45-litre (12-gallon) plastic storage tubs—durable, stackable, and easy to label. We also keep a few empty tubs on standby for last-minute additions during bump-in.
Size & Style Matter
Think about where you’ll be using your kit and how often you’ll need to move it.
Backpacks are great for light, mobile setups.
Toolboxes offer durability and structure.
Tubs with wheels save your back on large sites.
Aim for that sweet spot: large enough to fit your essentials, but still manageable to lift and transport.
Event Planner’s Kit Shopping List
Once you’ve got your container sorted, it’s time to stock it!
Here are 25 must-pack items our team won’t go on-site without:
Essential Items
▢ Office stationery – pens, scissors, notepads Buy
▢ All kinds of tape – GAFFA, double-sided, Velcro Buy
▢ Batteries – assorted sizes Buy
▢ Clipboards & folders – enough for staff/volunteers Buy
▢ Cable ties + scissors or box cutter Buy
▢ Electrical items – flash drives, chargers, printer Buy
▢ Basic cleaning supplies – hand wash, surface spray Buy
▢ Tools – hammer, pegs, screwdriver set, wrench Buy
▢ Key paperwork – permits, plans, contact lists, run sheet Buy
Personal Care & Snacks
▢ Sewing kit Buy
▢ Aspirin or pain relief Buy
▢ Mints or chewing gum Buy
▢ Tampons or pads Buy
▢ Deodorant Buy
▢ Granola bars / snacks Buy
▢ Bottled water Buy
▢ Beauty items – brush, comb, bobby pins, hair ties Buy
Basic Incident Response
▢ First Aid Kit Buy
▢ Hazard/ safety tape Buy
▢ Torch or mini flashlights Buy
▢ Megaphone/ loud speaker + whistle Buy
▢ High-vis vests and warden hats Buy
▢ “No Entry”/ “Danger” signage Buy
▢ Safety cones/ bollards Buy
▢ Personal Protection Equipment – gloves, masks, etc. Buy
Having your own Event Planner’s Emergency Kit won’t stop things from going wrong, but it will help you handle it like a pro. Stock it, update it regularly, and take it with you to every event. You’ll thank yourself later.
*As an Amazon Associate, I might receive a commission at no cost to you, generated when you buy something through my affiliate link.
You Might Also Like
Meet Your Mentor
Hey! I’m Rachella — founder of Event Kit and an Event Consultant with 25+ years of experience running world-class festivals and public events. I created Event Kit because I knew there had to be a smarter, less overwhelming way to plan pro-level events.
EVENT KIT LIBRARY
Guides & Tutorials: Expert Insights & Event Planning Inspiration
Your go-to for practical event planning advice, from beginner basics to smart professional development.
Recent Articles
