Toxic Relationship Escape Kit

 Estimated Cost: $260–$410

You may print this page or save it to your phone. Check off items as you collect them. Items can be adjusted based on size, need, and availability.

What This Is

This is a practical emergency preparedness checklist for adults — especially parents — who may need to leave home quickly due to abuse, sudden instability, medical crisis, or unsafe conditions.

It is more than a packing list.
It is a plan made in advance to reduce stress during a crisis.

Why It Matters

When someone must leave quickly, there is often no time to think clearly. Common questions come up fast:

• What do I take?

• What does my child need right now?

• How will I charge my phone?

• What about medications?

• How do I function tomorrow?

Preparing ahead of time removes guesswork. It replaces panic with a clear plan.

What Makes This Different

1. It Protects Dignity
This kit includes basic comfort items — pajamas, hygiene supplies, headphones, notebooks, hair care, and glasses care.
Safety matters, but so does feeling human.

2. It Recognizes Children’s Needs
Children are not just “included.” They need routine, comfort, and stability.
Items for children may include familiar clothing, comfort objects, and basic daily needs.

3. It Reduces Decision Fatigue
In crisis, decision-making becomes harder.
This checklist helps pre-decide what matters so nothing important is forgotten.

4. It Can Be Used by Communities
This guide can support:

Mutual aid groups

Domestic violence shelters

Case managers

Faith communities

Families helping families

Why This Helps Survivors of Abuse

Abuse often creates confusion, isolation, exhaustion, and financial control.
Preparation restores a sense of control.

This checklist:

Anicipates practical needs

Protects children’s stability

Keeps communication possible

Makes leaving safer and more organized

Simple Explanation

This is an emergency escape kit designed to help people leave safely without losing their dignity, their children’s stability, or their ability to function in the days that follow.

Escape Kit Essentials

Important Documents

Birth certificates

Social Security cards

Identification (ID)

Passports or immigration papers

Protection order

Custody paperwork

Store originals or copies in a waterproof folder if possible.

Money and Legal Essentials

Emergency cash

Debit/credit cards

Bank account information

Lease or rental agreement

Car title and insurance documents

Clothing and Personal Items

Change of clothes

Comfortable shoes

Pajamas

Toiletries

Child’s favorite toy or blanket

Health and Medication

Prescriptions and medications

Glasses or contact lenses

Basic medical records (if available)

Small first-aid kit

Phone and Communication

Phone charger

Backup battery pack (if possible)

Written list of emergency contacts

Local shelter and resource numbers

Keys and Access

Extra house keys

Extra car keys

Access information for a safe place

Emergency Essentials

Water bottle

Non-perishable snacks

Small amount of emergency cash

Emotional Support Items

Small keepsakes or photos

Notes with encouraging reminders

Comfort items for children

Safety Reminder

Store the kit in a place where it cannot be easily found.
If possible, leave it with a trusted person.
Practice a safe exit plan when it is safe to do so.

If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services right away.