The Ultimate Survival Kit: Must-Have Items for Executive Producers on Set

As an Indie Executive Producer, your role goes far beyond creative oversight and budgeting you’re also the safety net when unexpected issues arise on set. A smooth production requires being prepared for anything from wardrobe malfunctions to medical emergencies. Whether it’s a small indie project or a large-scale production, keeping certain essentials on hand can save the day. Here’s a checklist of items that every Executive Producer should have on set for emergencies:

1. Iron & Steamer

Wardrobe issues can pop up out of nowhere—wrinkles, creases, or ill-fitted costumes. Having a small iron and steamer on hand is essential to ensure talent looks polished for every take. A wrinkled shirt or dress can mess up continuity, so these items are lifesavers for last-minute touch-ups.

2. First Aid Kit & Tylenol

Film sets can be hectic and accidents happen. A first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers like Tylenol is essential. Minor cuts, scrapes, or headaches shouldn’t slow down production, so having basic medical supplies is a must.

3. Wash Bags for Laundry

You might not expect it, but laundry emergencies happen more often than you think on set. If costumes get stained or dirty, quick cleanups are necessary to keep the continuity intact. Wash bags are great for sending items for a fast turnaround with minimal wear and tear.

4. Portable Heaters or Fans

Shooting in unpredictable weather? Be ready with portable heaters or fans. Whether it’s a cold day or sweltering heat, you want the cast and crew to stay comfortable and focused. Extreme temperatures can affect performance and mood, so climate control is critical.

5. Sewing Kit & Wardrobe Tape

Wardrobe malfunctions can be disastrous if you’re not prepared. A simple sewing kit with needles, thread, and fabric glue can fix most minor costume issues. Double-sided wardrobe tape is also handy for quick fixes on hems, straps, or fabric that’s slipping out of place.

6. Extra Chargers & Batteries

In our digital age, dead batteries can bring production to a halt, whether it’s a camera, microphone, or phone. Always have extra batteries and chargers for all types of equipment, especially for essential items like walkie-talkies, camera rigs, and mobile devices.

7. Emergency Snacks & Hydration

Long days on set can leave the cast and crew drained. Keeping a supply of energy bars, bottled water, and electrolyte drinks ensures that everyone stays hydrated and fueled up between takes. Keeping the team energized is a key part of maintaining productivity.

8. Rain Gear (Umbrellas, Waterproof Covers)

Weather can change on a dime, especially during outdoor shoots. Having rain gear like umbrellas, waterproof camera covers, and ponchos keeps both equipment and people protected. A sudden downpour shouldn’t ruin your shoot day.

9. Hand Warmers and Cooling Towels

Hand warmers are invaluable during chilly shoots while cooling towels are great for hot sets. These small, inexpensive items can make all the difference in keeping your cast and crew comfortable and focused.

10. Extension Cords & Power Strips

There’s never enough power on set. Having extra extension cords and power strips allows you to keep all necessary equipment, lights, and gadgets powered up without delay.

Additional Essential Items for Producers:

11. Duct Tape & Gaffer Tape
    These two types of tape can fix almost anything in a pinch—from props to securing cables.
12. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
    Keep the crew connected when filming in remote locations where cell service may be spotty.
13. Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife
    A multi-tool can help solve unexpected equipment issues or small fixes on set.
14. Insect Repellent
    Outdoor shoots can be a nightmare if bugs are constantly bothering the cast and crew. Keep insect repellent handy to avoid distractions.
15. Sunscreen & Lip Balm
    For outdoor shoots, especially in the sun, keeping sunscreen and lip balm available protects everyone from sunburns and chapped lips.
16. Flashlights & Headlamps
    When working late into the evening or in dimly lit locations, having a few flashlights or headlamps can help light the way.
17. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
    Sometimes you need to block out the noise to focus on critical tasks, especially during chaotic scenes or between takes.
18. Wet Wipes & Tissues
    Whether it’s for cleaning up small messes or ensuring makeup stays intact, wet wipes and tissues are a must-have.
19. Tape Measure
    For quick measurements related to set design, camera angles, or wardrobe adjustments, a tape measure is a helpful tool to have on hand.
20. Comfortable Seating (Folding Chairs, Cushions)
    Long days mean long waits between setups for the crew and cast. Having comfortable, portable seating can make the day more bearable.
21. Hand Sanitizer
    • Keep germs at bay, especially during flu season or for hygiene-sensitive shoots.
22. Heat Packs
    • Great for keeping muscles warm, especially for actors doing stunts or physical activities in cold weather.
23. Cold Packs
    • Helpful for minor sprains, bruises, or to reduce swelling in case of on-set injuries.
24. Safety Pins
    • These can fix wardrobe issues or hold props together temporarily.
25. Extra Copies of the Script
    • Always have extra printed copies for anyone who might need one, especially for last-minute adjustments.
26. Feminine Hygiene Products
    • Emergencies happen, and having tampons or pads can be a lifesaver for crew or cast.
27. Portable Phone Charger
    • Battery packs for phones will ensure communication lines stay open.
28. Umbrella Tent
    • If you’re shooting outdoors, a pop-up tent can provide shade or shelter from the rain for equipment or people.
29. Tool Kit (Hammer, Screwdriver, etc.)
    • A small tool kit is useful for fixing props, set pieces, or adjusting equipment.
30. Safety Goggles & Gloves
    • If there are any risky stunts or equipment handling, ensure everyone is properly protected.
31. Sticky Notes
    • For making quick notes or labeling items on set, sticky notes are invaluable for communication.
32. Whiteboard & Markers
    • A whiteboard can help keep everyone organized with schedules, shot lists, or team updates.
33. Towel & Hand Towels
    • For quick clean-ups, drying off, or keeping equipment moisture-free, towels are a good backup.
34. Lighter & Matches
    • Sometimes you need to light candles, burn props, or start a campfire on set—these are great to have.
35. Portable Fan for Makeup
    • A handheld fan can help cool down actors, especially if they’re wearing heavy makeup or prosthetics.
36. Pocket Mirror
    • Quick mirror checks for makeup or wardrobe before stepping on set can avoid major continuity errors.
37. Ear Plugs
    • For anyone sensitive to loud noises on set or during loud scenes, earplugs can provide comfort.
38. Multi-Plug Outlet Adapters
    • When you run out of outlets, multi-plug adapters let you charge or power multiple items from one socket.
39. Tupperware or Ziplock Bags
    • For storing food, small props, or loose items that need to be kept separate.
40. Clorox Wipes
    • These are excellent for sanitizing surfaces quickly and ensuring the set stays clean.
41. Makeup Remover Wipes
    • Handy for actors when they need to quickly change makeup between scenes.
42. Clipboards
    • Keeps paperwork organized and ensures you have a firm writing surface while on the move.
43. Bug Spray
    • Outdoor shoots are often plagued by insects; bug spray can make all the difference in comfort.
44. Cough Drops
    • For those long shoot days when voices start to go, keep these handy for cast and crew.
45. Space Heater
    • For cold weather shoots, a space heater can provide much-needed warmth during down times.
46. Thermal Blankets
    • For keeping cast and crew warm between takes in cold weather, thermal blankets are great to have.
47. Shoe Covers
    • Protect shoes from dirt and mud while filming on less-than-clean locations.
48. Foldable Wagon or Cart
    • When you have lots of gear to move from place to place, a foldable wagon can make the job easier.
49. Velcro Strips
    • For securing cables, props, or set items quickly without damaging surfaces.
50. Mouthwash
    • For those long shoot days when the cast needs a quick freshen-up before shooting.
51. Wet Floor Signs
    • Alert the crew to wet areas to avoid slips and accidents on set.
52. Disposable Face Masks
    • Essential for health reasons, especially when close interaction on set is required.
53. Anti-Itch Cream
    • For bites, rashes, or irritation, this can help cast and crew stay focused.
54. Mints or Gum
    • For actors before intimate scenes or cast/crew needing fresh breath after a long day.
55. Caffeine Pills or Energy Drinks
    • When the crew needs a quick boost, these are easy to distribute.
56. Wardrobe Racks
    • Portable clothing racks are necessary for organizing costumes, especially when space is tight.
57. Memory Cards & Hard Drives
    • Backup storage is a must for any shoot to keep data safe and prevent any delays in filming.
58. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
    • For playing reference tracks or energizing the cast and crew during breaks.
59. Waterproof Cases for Electronics
    • Protect your gear from water damage during rain or water-related shoots.
60. Measuring Tape
    • For set building, costume fitting, or prop placement, a measuring tape is a useful tool.
61. Spare Lenses for Glasses
    • For anyone on set who wears glasses, spare lenses or a backup pair could save the day.
62. Marker Cones
    • Useful for marking positions during outdoor scenes or on larger sets.
63. Sewing Mannequin
    • If your production involves complex costume changes, a mannequin can be essential for quick adjustments.
64. Folding Table
    • A portable table is great for laying out props, scripts, or tools without cluttering the set.
65. Garbage Bags
    • Keep the set clean by having garbage bags ready for waste disposal.
66. Handheld Air Pump
    • For inflating props or other set pieces that need to be filled with air.
67. Sun Hats or Visors
    • Keep the sun out of people’s eyes during outdoor shoots, especially for key crew members like camera operators.
68. Walkie-Talkie Headsets
    • When discretion is needed, walkie-talkie headsets allow for quiet communication.
69. Fire Extinguisher
    • Always have a fire extinguisher on set for safety, especially when pyrotechnics or stunts are involved.
70. Light Reflectors
    • For natural lighting setups, light reflectors are an invaluable tool for getting the perfect shot.
71. Pop-Up Changing Tent
    • Provide a private space for actors to change costumes without needing a full trailer or facility.
72. Backup Monitors
    • In case a monitor goes down, having a spare ensures that production doesn’t stall.
73. Dust Masks
    • Keep dust and debris from affecting crew members when shooting in construction zones or dusty areas.
74. Thermos for Hot Drinks
    • Keep drinks warm during cold shoots, so your team stays cozy and alert.
75. Petty Cash
    • Small cash reserves for unforeseen expenses, like buying additional props or last-minute items, can help keep things running smoothly.

Post image Michael DeStefano 5 First Aid Kits Every Photographer Should Own

Conclusion

Being prepared for any situation on set allows you to maintain control and keep production moving forward. With these 75 items, your toolkit as an Executive Producer will be even more robust, ensuring that no matter what challenge arises, you’ll be ready to tackle it. From health and safety to wardrobe emergencies and equipment malfunctions, every small detail counts in keeping the production on track.