Your Storm Bag Is Your Lifeline
When the call comes in at midnight and you've got two hours to roll out, there's no time to think. Your storm bag needs to be packed, ready, and waiting. The linemen who show up prepared are the ones who work safely, stay comfortable, and keep their crew moving.
We've talked to veterans across the trade and compiled the definitive storm bag packing list. Bookmark this page. Share it with your apprentice. Pack it before storm season hits.
Safety & PPE
This is non-negotiable. Never compromise on your personal protective equipment.
- Rubber gloves — at least two pairs, properly rated for your work
- Rubber sleeves
- Voltage detector / tick tracer
- Hard hat — with your name on it
- Safety glasses — multiple pairs
- High-visibility vest
- Arc flash protection if required by your utility
- Fall protection gear if you're climbing
Clothing & Weather Gear
Storm work means unpredictable weather. Pack for the worst.
- Rain jacket and rain bibs — quality matters here
- Thermal base layers (even in summer — nights get cold)
- 3–5 changes of work clothes
- Extra socks — seriously, pack more than you think you need
- Extra work boots or a boot dryer
- Warm hat and gloves for cold-weather deployments
- Sunscreen and bug spray for warm-weather deployments
Tools & Work Gear
- Headlamp with extra batteries (hands-free lighting is essential)
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
- Electrical tape and basic consumables
- Notepad and pen (yes, old school — phones die)
- Padlocks for your truck or equipment
Food, Water & Personal Comfort
You can't work if you're running on empty. Staging areas and food trucks aren't always reliable.
- Non-perishable snacks: jerky, nuts, protein bars, crackers
- Electrolyte packets or sports drinks
- Instant coffee or energy packets
- Reusable water bottle (at least 32 oz)
- Small cooler if you have room
Personal & Hygiene
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap
- Wet wipes — a storm worker's best friend
- Hand sanitizer
- Prescription medications (enough for 2+ weeks)
- Basic first aid kit: bandages, ibuprofen, antacids
- Earplugs for sleeping in noisy staging areas
Electronics & Communication
- Phone charger + portable battery pack (10,000 mAh minimum)
- Car charger
- Walkie-talkie or radio if your crew uses them
- Backup contact list written down (not just in your phone)
Documents & Admin
- Union card and credentials
- Driver's license and any required certifications
- Emergency contact info
- Health insurance card
The Bottom Line
A well-packed storm bag takes the chaos out of deployment. You show up ready, your crew sees it, and the job gets done safer and faster.
Check out our full Storm Bag Checklist page for a printable version, and browse our lineman gear to rep the trade on and off the job.
Pack smart. Work safe. Bring the lights back on.