Introduction
When creating a bug out bag, there are many factors you need to take into account in order to create the most effective bag for your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know in order to create a top-notch bug out bag, including what items to pack, how to pack them, and where to store your bag.
What is a Bugout Bag?
Your bug out bag is a carefully packed and organized backpack containing all the gear, tools, and food items you need to survive for 72 hours in the event of an emergency evacuation or other unforeseen disaster.
The contents of your bag will depend on a number of factors including the specific disaster you are preparing for, your geographical location, the climate, your own personal preferences, and any special needs you or your family may have.
A well-stocked bug out bag should include everything you need to maintain a basic level of comfort and safety in an emergency situation. Essential items such as food, water, shelter, and first aid are a good place to start, but you should also consider adding items such as clothing, cooking gear, hygiene products, important documents, and cash.
Why You Need a Bugout Bag
Do you have a plan in place for disaster strikes? If not, you need to start thinking about putting together a bugout bag. A bugout bag is a portable kit that contains everything you need to survive for 72 hours in the event of an emergency.
Your bugout bag should be tailored to fit your specific needs, but there are some items that every bag should include. Here are a few things to get you started:
-Water: You should have at least one gallon of water per person, per day.
-Food: Non-perishable food items that require no cooking or refrigeration.
-Shelter: A tent, tarp, or other means of protection from the elements.
-Clothing: Extra clothes to keep you warm and dry.
-First Aid: A basic first aid kit to treat minor injuries and illnesses.
-Fire: A lighter and/or matches for starting a fire.
-Tools: A knife, multi-tool, or other tools that can be used for repair and/or self-defense.
A bugout bag is only useful if you have it with you when disaster strikes, so it’s important to keep your bag in an easily accessible location. Make sure everyone in your family knows where the bag is and how to use the contents. Regularly check and update your bag so it’s always ready when you need it.
How to Assemble a Bugout Bag
Whether you call it a bugout bag, a get-home bag, or a go-bag, the idea is the same: to have everything you need to survive for 72 hours stored in one backpack that you can grab and go if you need to evacuate your home in an emergency.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that every household have a bugout bag ready in case of evacuation. But where do you start when assembling your own? What should you include?
Here are some suggestions to get you started:
-A three-day supply of non-perishable food and water
-A basic first-aid kit
-A flashlight and extra batteries
-A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
-A whistle to signal for help
-Personal hygiene items like toilet paper and hand sanitizer
-Clothing and bedding for warm and cold weather
-Important documents like ID, insurance cards, and proof of address are stored in a waterproof container
-(Optional) Items like cash, maps, and GPS if you live in an area prone to disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes
What to Include in a Bugout Bag
A bugout bag is a bag that contains all the items you need to survive in an emergency situation. It should be lightweight and easy to carry so you can grab it and go if you need to evacuate your home. Your bugout bag should include items like food, water, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and more.
Food and water
Food and water are the two most important things you will need in a bugout situation. You can live without food for weeks, but you will only survive without water for a few days.
Your bugout bag should include enough food and water to last you for at least 72 hours. If possible, try to include enough for a week or more.
Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit are excellent choices for a bugout bag. You should also pack a manual can opener if you are relying on canned goods.
Water is even more important than food. Pack at least one gallon of water per person, per day in your bugout bag. If possible, pack even more. A water filter or purification tablets are also good items to include in your bugout bag.
Shelter
The shelter is one of the most important aspects of survival. In most disaster scenarios, you will be displaced from your home and will need to find a way to protect yourself from the elements. A bugout bag should always include some form of shelter, whether that is a tent, tarp, or even just a space blanket.
In addition to shelter, you will also need something to keep you warm. A good sleeping bag or some extra blankets can make all the difference in a survival situation. Some other items to consider for your shelter are a hatchet or saw (for making repairs or building a shelter), rope (for tying down your shelter), and a flashlight (for finding your way in the dark).
Clothing
Clothing is an important part of your bug out bag list. You may be surprised by how quickly the weather can change, or you may have to walk further than you anticipated. It’s important to have the right clothing to keep you dry, warm, and protected from the elements.
- A change of clothes: Choose clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in. If possible, pack clothes that are made of natural fibers like cotton or wool, as they will be more breathable and won’t hold onto sweat and moisture as synthetic fibers can.
- Footwear: comfortable walking shoes or boots that are broken in. Bring an extra pair of socks as well.
- Outerwear: A jacket or coat for cooler weather, a raincoat or poncho, and a hat or scarf to protect you from the sun and wind.
First aid
No matter where you live or what kind of natural disasters are common in your area, every bug out bag should include first-aid supplies. This could include bandages, antiseptic wipes, ointment, gauze, pain medication, etc. The goal is to be able to treat any minor injuries that may occur while you are away from professional medical help.
Tools
While you may not be an experienced survivalist, there are some tools that everyone should have in their bug out bag. These tools can help you with a variety of tasks, from making a fire to self-defense.
-Multi-tool: A multi-tool is a small, handheld tool that contains a variety of functions. Look for one that includes a knife, pliers, scissors, and a saw.
-Flashlight: A flashlight is an essential tool for any situation, but it’s especially important in a bug out bag. Choose a flashlight that is durable and has long battery life.
–First aid kit: A first aid kit is a must-have for any bug out bag. Be sure to include bandages, gauze, pain medication, and antiseptic wipes.
-Firestarter: A fire starter can be essential for survival in many situations. Choose a fire starter that is easy to use and waterproof.
-Map and compass: A map and compass can help you navigate unfamiliar territory. Be sure to include a map of the area you are bugging out to as well as surrounding areas.
-Water bottle: A water bottle is crucial for staying hydrated while on the go. Choose a water bottle that is durable and leakproof.
Fire
When putting together your bugout bag, fire is one of the most important things to consider. You’ll need a way to light a fire in order to cook food, boil water, and stay warm in emergencies.
Here are some things to include in your fire kit:
-Matches: Include regular matches and waterproof matches. You can also include a lighter, but make sure you know how to use it and that it has fuel.
- Fire starter: A fire starter is a must-have in any fire kit. You can use it to start a fire even if you don’t have matches.
- Tinder: Tinder is small, dry material that burns easily and ignites quickly. It’s used to help get a fire going.
- Fuel: Fuel is any combustible material that you add to a fire to keep it burning. Wood is the most common type of fuel, but you can also use coal, gasoline, or oil.
Navigation
A good bugout bag should include some form of navigation, whether that’s a paper map and compass, or a handheld GPS device. If you choose to go with a paper map, make sure it’s of an area that you’re familiar with, and that you have marked out your route in advance. If you’re using a GPS, be sure to keep the batteries charged and have a backup map just in case.
Money
One of the most important things to include in your bugout bag is money. This will be essential for buying supplies, food, and other essentials if you find yourself in a situation where you need to bug out. Include a mix of cash and traveler’s checks so that you can access funds no matter what.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is a lot to consider when creating your bug out bag. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you will be well on your way to creating a bag that will serve you well in any emergency situation.