Living where we do, we're actually working on a plan of "what to take if we must evacuate" (for a wildfire, for instance).

We plan to mark various things, such as the computers (you don't need the monitors, keyboard or mouse), as "primary takes." Now, some of these would seem silly to some people -- for instance, the pistols my wife's father carried during WW2 are on the "primary take" list. So are the family photos and the flag from my father's casket. We're going to get a safe deposit box for things like the insurance papers, deed, and so on (and that is REALLY the best way to keep things that are truly valuable, and not just of sentimental value).

One suggestion, if you can afford it: get about US $1,000 in travelers' checks and put them in the safe deposit box. That way you'll have money available if/when you REALLY need it.

Oh, yeah -- keep the car's gas (petrol) tank at least half full all the time.