Introduction
A bug out bag is a portable kit that contains all the items you need to survive in an emergency situation. It is also sometimes called a 72-hour kit or a go bag.
The goal of a bug out bag is to help you evacuate quickly and safely in the event of a natural disaster, terrorist attack, or any other type of emergency.
A bug out bag should be designed to help you survive for at least 72 hours on your own. It should contain everything you need to sustain yourself until you are able to reunite with your family or get help from emergency responders.
Food
There are a lot of different things you can include in your bug out bag food supply, but there are 10 survival foods that we think are the most important. These foods will give you the energy and nutrients you need to keep going when SHTF.
- Water: You can survive for up to three weeks without food, but only three days without water. Make sure you have at least a gallon of water per person per day in your bug out bag.
- Non-perishable food: Canned goods, dehydrated foods, and other non-perishable items will help to keep you fed if you can’t find fresh food.
- Protein bars: Protein bars are a great source of energy and nutrients, and they don’t take up much space in your bug out bag.
- Peanut butter: Peanut butter is a good source of protein and fat, both of which are essential for survival.
- Jerky: Jerky is another great source of protein that can help to keep you nourished during a crisis.
- trail mix: Trail mix is a good way to get some essential vitamins and minerals, as well as some calories to help you maintain your energy levels.
- granola bars: Granola bars are another compact and convenient way to get some calories and nutrients into your system when SHTF.
- canned fruits and vegetables: Canned fruits and vegetables can provide you with some much-needed vitamins and minerals during a crisis situation.
- dried fruits and vegetables: Dried fruits and vegetables are another good option for getting vitamins and minerals into your diet during an emergency situation.
- 10 honey: Honey is a great natural sweetener that can also help to boost your energy levels when SHTF
Shelter
One of the Ten Essentials for survival is shelter, and for good reason. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, having a way to stay protected from the elements can mean the difference between life and death. Here are ten different shelter options to consider adding to your bug out bag.
- Tarp – A tarp can be used as a groundsheet, rain fly, windshelter, or emergency stretcher. It’s versatile and lightweight, making it a great addition to any bug out bag.
- Emergency Blanket – An emergency blanket is a must-have item for any type of survival situation. It can be used as a groundsheet, insulation, signaling device, or shelter reflector.
- Bivy Sack – A bivy sack is a waterproof and breathable sleeping bag cover that can be used as an emergency shelter. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to pack in your bug out bag.
- Sleeping Bag – A sleeping bag will keep you warm in cold weather and can be used as an emergency bed in a pinch. Be sure to choose a bag that’s rated for the lowest temperature you expect to encounter.
- Hammock – A hammock can be used as an emergency bed or impromptu shelter. It’s lightweight and easy to set up, making it perfect for bug out bags.
- Tent – A tent is a great option for longer-term camping or if you expect bad weather. Be sure to choose a model that’s light enough to carry in your bug out bag and easy to set up in an emergency situation.
- Cave – In extreme emergencies, finding or creating shelter inside a cave can offer protection from the elements and predators alike. However, caves can be dangerous places so only use this option if you have no other choice.
- Snow Cave – If you find yourself in an area with heavy snowfall, constructing a snow cave can provide much-needed shelter from the cold weather conditions. However, this option should only be used if you have the proper training and equipment required to build a safe snow shelter .
- Igloo – An igloo is another option for winter survival situations . like snow caves , igloos can provide much – needed warmth and protection from the cold weather conditions . However , this option should only be used if you have the proper training and equipment required to build an igloo .
- Natural Shelter – If you find yourself in an emergency situation without any man – made shelters available , using nature’s resources is often your best bet . Trees , boulders , overhangs , and other natural features can provide protection from the sun , wind , rain , or snow . However , always use caution when using natural features as shelters , as they can pose dangers of their own ( such as falling rocks or flash flooding )
Clothing
One of the most important things to pack in your bug out bag is clothing. You never know what the weather will be like, so it’s important to pack items that will keep you warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. Be sure to pack items that are comfortable to walk in and that won’t rub your skin raw.
-A hat or other head covering
-A long-sleeved shirt
-Pants
-A sweater or jacket
-Boots or comfortable shoes
-Socks
-Underwear
-A swimsuit (if you’re bugging out to a beach)
Fire
You need a way to make fire. Not just any fire, but a raging inferno that will allow you to signal for help, cook food, and keep warm in an emergency situation. And you need to be able to do it quickly and easily. The best way to achieve this is with a fire starter. A quality fire starter should be water-resistant, durable, and easy to use. It should also create a powerful spark that will ignite even the dampest of tinders.
There are many different types of fire starters on the market, so it’s important to choose one that best suits your needs. If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight option, consider a ferrocerium rod fire starter. These rods are made from metal alloy that produces a hot spark when struck with a hard object, making them ideal for camping and hiking trips. Another option is a chemical fire starter, which uses an exothermic reaction to create heat and ignite tinder. These starters are often incorporated into lighters and are great for survival kits because they are small and easy to use. Whichever type of fire starter you choose, make sure you practice using it before you head into the wilderness so you’ll be prepared in an emergency situation.
First Aid
One of the most important things you can include in your bug out bag is a first-aid kit. When an emergency strikes, you may not have time to put together a kit, so it’s important to have one that’s already prepared. Your first-aid kit should be tailored to your specific needs, but there are some essential items that everyone should have.
- bandages of various sizes
- gauze pads
- medical tape
- scissors
- Tweezers
- gloves
- antiseptic wipes or cream
- alcohol pads
- soap
- bug spray
Tools
Tools
One of the most important things you can include in your bug out bag is a good set of tools. From a simple pocket knife to a full-fledged multi-tool, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in a survival situation. Here are 10 essential tools you should never leave home without:
- Pocket knife – A good pocket knife is one of the most versatile and handy tools you can carry. It can be used for everything from opening cans and preparing food to self-defense and first aid.
- Multi-tool – A multi-tool is like a pocket knife on steroids. It includes a variety of different tools in one compact package, making it ideal for survival situations.
- Flashlight – A flashlight is an essential piece of equipment for any bug out bag, as it can be used for everything from signaling for help to finding your way in the dark.
- Survival compass – A survival compass can be a lifesaver if you find yourself lost in the wilderness, as it will help you find your way back to safety.
- Fire starter – A fire starter is an essential tool for any bug out bag, as it can be used to start a fire for warmth, cooking, or signaling for help.
- Water filter – A water filter is a must-have if you want to ensure that you have access to safe drinking water in a survival situation.
- First aid kit – A first aid kit should include everything you need to treat minor injuries and illnesses, and could potentially save your life in a medical emergency.
- Survival blanket – A survival blanket is an excellent item to have in your bug out bag, as it can provide warmth and protection in a variety of different situations.
Navigation
A well-rounded bug out bag should have items for navigation, such as a map of the area, a compass, and a GPS tracker. Navigation is important not only for finding your way to safety, but also for tracking your progress and planning your route. If you have a potential destination in mind, such as a relative’s house or a safe haven, be sure to include directions and/or coordinates for that location.
Miscellaneous
Here are 10 items that you should always keep in your bug out bag, regardless of where you live or what type of disasters are common in your area.
- Water: You can survive for three days without food, but only three days without water. A minimum of one gallon per person, per day is recommended, but more is always better. Store water in clean, food-grade containers and rotate it every six months.
- Food: Non-perishable food items that are high in calories and easy to prepare are ideal for a bug out bag. Think canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, etc. Be sure to rotate your food every six months as well.
- First Aid Kit: A properly stocked first aid kit is a must-have for any survival situation. Bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers and other essentials should be included.
- Flashlight: A good quality flashlight is a must-have for any bug out bag. Choose one that is durable and has a long battery life.
- Radio: A portable radio can be used to stay up-to-date on weather and news reports in a disaster situation. Choose one that can be powered by batteries or hand crank.
- Multi-Tool: A multi-tool is a handy tool to have in any situation and can come in handy for everything from opening cans to fixing broken equipment.
- Knife: A good quality knife is an essential tool for any bug out bag and can be used for everything from self-defense to preparing food.
- Fire Starter: A fire starter is a must-have item for any bug out bag as it can be used to signal for help or start a fire to Stay warm or cook food . Be sure to choose one that is durable and easy to use .
- Shelter: An emergency shelter can be used in case you get stranded outdoors or your home is damaged in a disaster . Be sure to choose one that is lightweight and easy to set up .
- Clothing : Extra clothing items , such as socks , gloves , hats , etc . , should be included in your bug out bag . Be sure to choose items that are durable and comfortable .