In the wake of TikTok maybe disappearing, it got my wondering about how F*cked I would be if I lost my phone or the internet or both so I made a list of things to get on paper. Being a pre-tech Gen-Xer has prepared me for this task.
10 Most Important Things to Keep on Paper for Digital Disruptions
In our highly digital world, it’s easy to rely solely on our phones, tablets, and computers for everything from staying in touch with loved ones to navigating daily life. But what happens if there’s a digital disruption? Whether due to a power outage, a natural disaster, or a cyberattack, losing access to digital tools can leave us scrambling. That’s why having key information on paper is a simple yet powerful way to stay prepared. Here are the 10 most important things to save on paper to help you navigate any digital downtime.
1. Family and Friends’ Contact Information
Your phone’s contact list is a treasure trove of vital connections. Write down the phone numbers and addresses of close family members, friends, and emergency contacts. In a crisis, you’ll have a way to get in touch even if your phone is out of commission.
2. Emergency Numbers and Services
Compile a list of emergency numbers, including local police, fire departments, hospitals, poison control, and utility companies. This is especially critical if you’re in an unfamiliar area or need immediate assistance during a digital outage.
3. Customer Contact Information
For business owners, keeping a printed list of your customers’ contact information ensures that you can reach out during service disruptions. It’s an invaluable resource for maintaining operations and keeping clients informed.
4. Insurance Policies and Contact Details
Store copies of your insurance cards and policies for health, auto, home, and life coverage. Include your insurer’s contact information and policy numbers. These details can be lifesavers in emergencies like accidents or natural disasters.
5. Bank Account and Financial Information
Have a printed list of your bank account numbers, customer service contacts, and branch locations. While this doesn’t mean writing down sensitive information like PINs, having access to basic banking details can help you troubleshoot issues when online systems are down.
6. Medical Information
Keep a record of medical information for each family member, including allergies, medications, and emergency contacts for doctors or specialists. This is particularly important if you need medical assistance and can’t access your online health records.
7. Paper Maps
GPS and digital maps are convenient but useless without power or internet access. Keep paper maps of your local area and any regions you frequently travel to. Highlight important locations, like hospitals and evacuation routes, to save time in an emergency.
8. Legal Documents and Vital Records
Store copies of legal documents such as wills, powers of attorney, deeds, and birth certificates. These documents can help establish your identity or secure your assets if digital records are unavailable.
9. Passwords and Access Codes
Use a password manager’s export function or handwrite a secure copy of your critical passwords. Be sure to store this list safely to prevent unauthorized access. This backup can help you regain access to essential accounts if you’re locked out.
10. Essential Work and Study Materials
If you’re a student or professional, keep printed copies of key documents, reports, or study guides. These can help you stay productive or meet deadlines even during tech issues.
How to Organize and Store Your Paper Copies
- Use a Binder or Folder: Create a dedicated binder with labeled sections for easy access.
- Store in a Safe Place: Keep your documents in a waterproof, fireproof safe for protection against damage.
- Update Regularly: Review and update your information at least once a year to ensure accuracy.
Stay Prepared, Stay Confident
Having physical backups of essential information can bring peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected. By taking the time to create and organize these paper copies, you’ll have a safety net in place—one that doesn’t rely on batteries, Wi-Fi, or the cloud.