What is a Bug Out Bag?
A bug out bag is a portable kit that contains everything you need to survive in case of an emergency. It is usually designed to last for 72 hours and can be used in any situation where you may need to evacuate your home or workplace.
A bug out bag should contain enough food, water, and supplies to last for at least 72 hours. It should also be sturdy and easy to carry, with plenty of room for everything you need.
Some people choose to buy their own bug out bags, while others prefer to buy pre-made kits. Whichever route you choose, make sure that your bag is well-stocked and ready to go in case of an emergency.
Why do you need one?
A “bug out bag” (also called a “bail out bag” or “survival bag”) is a portable kit that normally contains the items one would require to live for 72 hours when evacuated from a disaster, although some kits are designed to last longer periods. The focus is on evacuation, rather than long-term survival, distinguishing the bug out bag from a survival kit, a boating or aviation emergency kit, or a fixed-site disaster supplies kit. The kits are also popular in survivalism and prepper subcultures.
The notion of packing a bag with supplies to last multiple days is nothing new, but the idea of having a specific “bug out bag” came into prominence in the late 20th century as part of increased awareness of civil and military emergencies such as nuclear war or terrorist attacks. Such awareness has led to efforts by various governments (including the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency) and non-government organizations to provide resources and advice on preparing for and surviving these events.
While some bug out bags are general purpose in nature and could theoretically be used in any type of emergency, most are designed with a particular scenario in mind, such as fleeing an urban area following a natural or man-made disaster, getting stranded in a rural area due to severe weather or losing power/communications in an outdoor adventure. As such, different bags are packed with different items depending on the anticipated need. For example, someone who plans to bug out during an urban disaster might pack differently than someone who intends to use their bag during a week-long camping trip in the woods.
What should you put in your Bug Out Bag?
A Bug Out Bag, also called a BOB, I.N.C.H Bag (I’m Never Coming Home Bag), Get Out of Dodge Kit (GOOD Kit), or 72-Hour Bag is usually designed to get you out of an emergency situation and allows you to survive self-contained for up to 3 days. A lot of preppers consider their BOB as a way to get away from it all when everything hits the fan, hence the nickname I.N.C.H bag.
The rule of thumb is to pack enough supplies to get yourself and anyone else depending on you through three days without having to leave your bag or search for additional resources. But what goes into a Bug Out Bag? What are the absolute essentials that you need to make sure you have in order to survive those first 72 hours?
While there are a lot of opinions on what should go into a Bug Out Bag, there are some core items that every BOB should have. Here’s a list of the 11 things we think should go into every Bug Out Bag.
-Water: You can’t live without water for more than a few days, so this should be at the top of your list. Make sure to pack enough water for everyone in your group, as well as some water purification tablets or filter straws in case you run out or can’t find clean water sources.
-Food: Non-perishable food items should be high on your list, as you’ll need nourishment to maintain your energy levels and strength while on the move. Pack high-energy foods that won’t weigh you down, such as granola bars, trail mix, jerky, and other dried goods.
–Shelter: If you’re left stranded without shelter, your chances of survival diminish greatly. Make sure to pack a tent or tarp along with some cordage so you can set up camp quickly and easily if necessary. A small amount of insulation will also come in handy in case you find yourself having to spend a night outdoors in cold weather conditions.
-Fire Starters: The ability to start a fire is crucial for both warmth and cooking purposes, so pack several methods of fire starting in case one fails or becomes wet from rain or snow. Matches, lighter fluid, lighters, flint and steel strikers, and even renewable fire starters like magnesium blocks are all good options to include in your BOB.
–Tools: A good multi-tool should be near the top of your packing list because it will come in handy for so many different things while you’re on the move. From fixing gear to preparing food, there’s almost no limit to what sorts of tasks a good multi-tool can help within a pinch. Include other helpful tools like a hatchet or saw if they fit within the weight and space constraints of your BOB.
-First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit is an absolute necessity in any Bug Out Bag since injuries are always possible when SHTF. Be sure to include supplies like bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, scissors, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, etc., so you’re prepared for anything from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious injuries sustained during an escape attempt
How to choose the right Bug Out Bag for you?
There are many different ways to choose the right Bug Out Bag for you. The most important factor is to make sure that the bag is comfortable for you to wear, and that it has enough space to store all of the supplies that you need. Additionally, you will want to consider the climate of the area where you live, as well as the type of terrain that you are likely to encounter. Below are some additional tips to help you choose the right Bug Out Bag for your needs:
-If you live in an area with a lot of trees, consider a bag with a built-in frame for support.
-In hot climates, choose a bag made from breathable fabric to help keep you cool.
-In cold climates, choose a bag with an insulated section for your supplies.
-If you live in an area with a lot of hills or mountains, consider a bag with straps that can help distribute the weight evenly.
How to pack your Bug Out Bag?
A bug out bag is a portable kit that contains everything you need to survive for 72 hours when you are evacuating from a disaster or emergency situation. The focus of a bug out bag is to help you evacuate quickly and safely and survive for three days until you can find help or make your way back home.
When packing your bug out bag, there are some essential items that you should include:
- Water: You should pack at least one gallon of water per person, per day. If possible, pack more.
- Food: Pack non-perishable food that does not require cooking, such as granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and peanut butter.
- Clothing and bedding: Pack extra clothing and bedding in case you get cold or wet.
- First aid kit: A first aid kit is important in case you or someone in your group gets hurt.
- Multi-tool: A multi-tool can be used for a variety of tasks, such as opening cans, cutting rope, and tightening screws.
- Flashlight: A flashlight will be useful if you have to evacuate at night or if power is out.
- Map: A map of the area will help you navigate if you get lost.
- Compass: A compass can be used to help you find your way if you get lost.
Once you have packed these essential items, you can add additional items based on your specific needs and the conditions of the area where you live