Bug Out Bags
Everything you need to know about building a bug out bag.What is a bug out bag?
A bug out bag (also known as a bail out bag, go bag, or 72-hour bag) is simply a ready-to-go pack of essential survival supplies that you can easily carry in the case of a serious emergency, natural disaster, or any other event that drives you away from your home and out into the environment.
Why would you need a bug out bag?
Let’s face it…there are several scenarios where a bug out bag would be absolutely critical to the survival of you and your loved ones. It is no secret that the United States is prone to several types of natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, tornadoes, etc. Man made situations are also possible such as political unrest, riots, and terrorist attacks. If you and your family found yourselves in any of these situations you want to have the peace of mind that you have a bug out bag full of survival equipment ready to move.
What to have in a bug out bag?
This is the most important question, and the answer is this; it depends…on a lot of factors. Some of those factors are how many people you are traveling with, the climate, the length of time you may be on the move, etc. The answer to this question will be different for every individual so only you truly know what you and your family will need. No matter what you require specifically there are several types of items that you will need to choose from. Once you have those items in place you can build out the rest of your bug out bag to suite your individual needs.
Bag
The bag is obviously one of the most important considerations when building your bug out bag. I mean, the word is in the name! You will need something durable, lightweight, and waterproof. You may be carrying your essential emergency items with you for quite some time or distance so it must be comfortable as well. Click here to check our guide to the best bug out backpacks on the market.
Food
Food is a primary consideration when dealing with any disaster. You must be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours. There are several options for food items that are light enough to carry with you. You may also want to stockpile a larger amount of food at your home in preparation for extended power outages or other conditions. You can find out all about the best food for your bug out bag here.
Water
Water is not only essential to survival, but also extremely heavy! You will want to carry a predetermined amount of water with you in your bug out bag, and you will also want a way to collect and purify water on the go. Click here to learn about the best emergency water purification products that you can carry with you or use in the home.
Survival Gear
From ways to start a fire, chop wood, and hunt or fish you will need to have some tools on hand to assist with these activities. We will talk more about survival gear and what essential items are needed here.
Emergency Medical Equipment
There is no telling when you may have to render aid to one of your party members or yourself. It is imperative to have a lightweight, comprehensive trauma kit at your disposal. Find out all about the best first aid kits to have your bug out bag here.
Shelter
You will need to be able to carry items to build a shelter in your bug out bag. The shelter must be rugged, lightweight, and easy to set up and tear down. I will give you my best picks for bug out bag shelter options here.
Communications Equipment
When the cell phone grids are down you need a way to stay connected to your party members and stay up to date on emergency notifications and weather updates. We will talk all about two way radio communication and emergency radio options. Click here to learn about the best long range two way radios and the best weather/emergency radios you can buy.
There are a lot of possibilities for what you would want or need in your bug out bag there are certain items that I feel are non-negotiable and MUST be included. Get our free bug out bag essential checklist here to find out the no BS kit I go with.
While there are a lot of choices and things to consider when making your bug out bag we are here to help you at every step of the way! We at the Prepper’s Portal are proud to have you as a member of our tribe. While I hope you never have to use your bag in a real world scenario I want you to be prepared if the situation arises. Build your bug out bag today and make sure you and your family are prepared for anything. Don’t wait! The lives of you and your family depend on it.
