When it comes to natural disaster preparedness, having the best bag for bug out is essential. But with so many options in the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best affordable options in the market. Whether you are looking for a backpack or a duffel bag, we have you covered!
Contents
What Is A Bug Out Bag?
A bug out bag is a survival kit or an actual bag that contains everything you need to survive in an emergency situation. It is not your regular everyday carry. It typically includes items that you need to survive in everyday life like food, water, shelter, clothing, and first aid supplies.
The idea is that if you ever find yourself in a situation where you have to flee your home, you can grab your bug out bag and have easy access to everything you need to survive. Of course, the contents of your bug out bag will vary depending on your specific needs.
But there are some basic items that every bug out pack should contain. For example, you’ll need food and water for sustenance, a way to stay warm and dry, and basic first aid supplies.
By having a bug out bag packed that is ready to go, you can rest assured knowing that you’re prepared for anything. Preparation is generally the deciding factor in any survival situation. It’s easier to deal with the unexpected if you’ve given some thought to “what-if” scenarios in advance.
The so-called “bug-out” bag or go bag is the most essential survival gear in this scenario. Anyone can appreciate a well-stocked tactical bag; you don’t have to be a military member or some hysterical prepper to see its value.
Types Of Bug Out Bag
Bug Out Bag
A real bug out bag has everything you’ll need to survive in an unfamiliar environment for up to 72 hours amid tense situations. Essential food, water, medical supplies, fire starters and sheltering equipment.
Also, user-specific goods such as rain ponchos, multitools and solar phone chargers can all be stored in these packs. If you reside in an urban, suburban, or rural area, you’ll be able to use them with ease.
Get Home Bag
Even while the get-home bag is technically distinct from the 72-hour bag, its function and needs are nearly identical (usually). Bug-out bags are often referred to as a “get-home bag” since they contain everything you need to make it back to your planned location.
This includes your workplace, in the event of an emergency. Because most people spend less than three days away from home, a get-home bag tends to be smaller and less stocked than their larger counterparts.
Assault Pack
An assault pack is a pack that provides you and your team with the essentials during conflict and the initial approach to fight. An assault pack can hold between 10 and 30 liters. Assault pack is best summarized as “securing victory while planning for failure.”
Double-stitched military assault pack has heavy durable zippers and utility-style cord pulls, side and front load compression systems. Moreover, it has a comfortable padding back area and ventilated mesh padding shoulder straps.
As a hydration backpack, an assault pack is a military backpack that is hydration compatible and works well with a 2.5L hydration bladder.
The Cost Of A Bug Out Bag
Even if a high-quality bug out bag isn’t cheap, it also shouldn’t cost a lot of money like those expensive packs in the market. A good-quality bag with a lot of compartments and pockets will cost you roughly $50, give or take a few dollars.
However, a well-built bug out bag or equivalent non-tactical gear can easily cost over $150. All of this, of course, does not include the expense of your other gear or food. It’s possible to buy a “prepackaged” assault pack that includes the minimal requirements like food, water, along with a first aid kit.
At the very least, these bags will set you back at least $150. It’s important to note, however, that you will still need to supplement these packs with other supplies. They’re well worth it to certain people because of the ease they provide.
The Best Bug out Bag Features
Durable And Made Of Strong Material
There are a lot of reasons why you should make sure your bug out bag is durable and made of strong solid bug materials. For one, you want your bag to last as long as possible.
If it’s made of flimsy material, it’s more likely to tear or break, which could leave you stranded in an emergency situation. Additionally, a durable bag will better protect your belongings from the elements.
If you’re caught in a rainstorm or have to cross a river, you don’t want your belongings getting soaked or swept away. Strong materials will also provide some protection from animals or other people who might try to take your things. So, if you’re looking for the best bug out bag, make sure it’s made of durable, strong materials.
Water Resistant
One of the key features of a bug out bag is an essential piece of gear for any outdoors enthusiast. It allows you to carry all of the essentials for survival in one convenient package, and it can be easily accessed in an emergency.
However, one often overlooked aspect of a bug out bag is its water resistance. In a survival situation, water is critical for hydration, sanitation, and cooking.
If your bag is not water resistant, it could be at risk of being damaged by rain or sweat. Waterproofing your bug out bag will help to ensure that your gear stays dry and protected, no matter what the conditions are.
There are a variety of ways to waterproof a bug out bag, so be sure to choose the best option for your needs. By taking the time to make your bug out bag water resistant, you can be confident that you have everything you need to survive in any situation.
Comfort Is Essential In A Bug Out Bag
When it comes to purchasing a bug out bag, search for a comfortable pack. For days on end, you’ll be lugging around your bug-out bag if you’re planning on bugging out. Some bags may restrict your movement, causing discomfort. That is why it is important to look for a pack that can comfortably carry all your survival essentials.
External Straps that are designed with ergonomics in mind are a necessity for anyone who has carried a pack for an extended time period. Wider compression straps cushion your body from the bag’s weight, making it more comfortable to carry. The distance you can carry your survival kit if you wear a narrow belt is significantly reduced.
Sternum Straps help properly secure and counterbalance the weight of the bag. In order to keep your padded shoulder straps in place and prevent them from slipping off your shoulders, you need a sternum strap.
The sternum strap balances the weight by properly distributing the weight in your body. The more weight that is displaced, the tighter the sternum strap must be.
In addition to the main compartment, a good go-bag should have a hip belt. The hip belt will alleviate some of the strain on your shoulders by distributing the weight over your hips. Your back and shoulders will thank you for this as well. Make sure to choose a padded hip belt to ensure your hips won’t get strain from so much pressure.
Lightweight
A bug out bag is a survival kit that is designed to help you survive in the event of an emergency. The best bug out bag is one that is lightweight and easy to carry. This is because you may need to walk long distances with heavy loads, and you will not want to be weighed down by a heavy bag.
It also makes sense that a lightweight bag will also be easier to carry if you need to run or climb. In addition, a lightweight bag will not tire you out as quickly, and it will be easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
With Proper Back Ventilation
A bug out bag is a necessity for any passionate outdoorsman – after all, you never know when you’ll need to bug out in an emergency. But what many people don’t realize is that a bug out bag also needs to have proper ventilation to ensure that your back can breathe.
In hot weather, a bag that doesn’t allow air to circulate can quickly become unbearable, and in cold weather, it can cause you to sweat and get chilled.
That’s why the best bug out bags always have some form of ventilation – whether it’s mesh panels or perforated fabric. So if you’re looking for the best bug out bag, make sure it has some form of ventilation to keep you comfortable in any conditions.
Big Bag With Enough Storage Space
All of your necessities should fit in your bag without the need for additional storage spaces. There are several variables that determine how much room you’ll need in your backpack. Most of the weight of the supplies is determined by the number of persons who will use them. Thus, the size of the bag is determined by this.
A larger bag would be necessary if you wanted to bring along extra gear necessities. A user’s strength is also a factor in determining how much gear they can fit in their backpack. This means that you need to think about how many others will be accompanying you and how many can’t carry their own luggage.
For a typical three-day trip, we recommend a backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters, but if your circumstances call for it, you may wish to go as high as 65 liters.
It is important to think about how you will organize and access your goods once you have decided on the bag size. Surviving equipment comes in a variety of forms and functions. It would be a waste of storage space to store all of these items in a single area.
A large compartment for heavier supplies and multiple smaller compartments are common features in the finest bug out bags. This makes storing and retrieving your goods much simpler.
Organization
Disorganized bug-out bags can also have a negative impact on morale and the likelihood of successful evacuation procedures. Scouting skills or SERE training can make starting a fire a simple exercise in Boy Scout skills if all the things and gears needed are easily reached and located inside the bag.
With Padded Straps
A bug out bag is designed to help you survive in the event of an emergency. It should be packed with everything you need to sustain yourself for at least 72 hours, including food, water bottle, shelter, first aid kit, sleeping pads and clothing. But one of the most important features of a bug out bag is its external padded straps.
These include padded shoulder straps that distribute the weight of the bag more evenly, making it more comfortable to carry.
They also help to keep the contents of the bag from shifting around, which can be a lifesaver if you need to access something in a hurry. So when you’re purchasing your bag, make sure to look for a pack with external padded straps. They could make all the difference in a survival situation.
The External Frame Provides Plenty Of Compartments
To transport extra items like a tent, and blanket when on a camping trip, many people use external frames backpacks. The backpack can bear much more weight thanks to the exterior frame support.
With external frames, you’ll be less likely to perspire than you would with a tighter fit inside your backpack. That way, you can easily organize your belongings in your own bug and have quick access to the items you need.
Smaller compartments are great for storing things like matches and lighters, while larger ones can hold items like first aid kit, gadgets, clothes and food. And if you need to carry more than one bag, having different size compartments can be a lifesaver.
So when you’re shopping for the best bug out bag, make sure it has a variety of compartment sizes. That way, you’ll be prepared for anything.
Strong And Durable Internal And External Frames
A bug out bag is one of the most important things you can have if you’re prepared for an emergency situation. It’s a pack that contains all the essentials you need to survive, like food, water, and shelter. And one of the best ways to make sure your bug out pack is up to the task is to choose one with durable external frames.
There are a few reasons why external frames are ideal for a bug out bag. First, it helps distribute the weight of the pack more evenly, so you’re less likely to get tired carrying it. Second, it makes it easier to attach other gear to the pack, like sleeping bags or tents.
And third, an external frame helps keep the bag’s contents from getting crushed. So if you’re looking for the best bug out bag, make sure it has a durable external frame.
Best Budget Bug Out Bag For Those In Tight Budget
Osprey Farpoint 55 / Fairview 55
- Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 55L total volume
- Detachable daypack with designated laptop and tablet sleeve and scratch-free stash pocket
- Stowaway backpanel, shoulder straps and hipbelt with zippered rear flap for protection when checking
Some people do emergency preparedness ahead of time. Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 are the ideal packs for those who want to camp in the woods or have a remote mountain hideaway of their own. It’s a gray man concept with backcountry-friendly characteristics included into these 55-liter packs.
The semi-custom internal frame works in conjunction with the adjustable, padded shoulder straps with sternum strap and padded hip belts to distribute weight evenly and comfortably in each pack’s ripstop nylon to provide a strong barrier between your goods and the elements.
A zip-off daypack makes this pack even more versatile, as there are numerous compartments and pockets for quick and easy access. Finally, the compression straps and locking zippers make these packs ideal for flight travel.
Tacticon Armament 24BattlePack
- ✔ COMBAT VETERAN OWNED COMPANY! I stand by and produce only the products that I use myself as a soldier.
- ✔ WATERPROOF LINING, RUGGED MATERIAL, OVERSIZED ZIPPERS - Only the highest quality, comfortable padded and breathable mesh with double-stitched seams was used in this over-engineered design to...
- ✔ CONCEALED CARRY READY, LAPTOP SAFE, HYDRATION BLADDER COMPATIBLE - Built-in universal ccw hand gun holster for use as part of your EDC and a large padded 17 inch (and smaller) compatible...
Tacticon Armament’s 24BattlePack includes everything you need to bug out or get home safely. There is a basic volume of 20 liters and maximum capacity of 40, but there is also an ample number of Molle webbing-compatible nylon to further expand the cargo area of this rucksack.
The waterproofed cotton inside and double-stitched seams of this bag keep your gear and other belongings safe from the elements. In addition to the waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and sternum straps, this backpack features a hydration pack bag, and external pouches to store water bottle, rain gear and aid kits.
A CCW holster, and glove-friendly zippers that make it a practical choice. In order to bolster your faith in this go bag, the maker offers a lifetime warranty that covers everything from stitching to zippers, so you can rest easy knowing that this pack can take everything that comes its way.
Osprey Jet 18
- Top load access to main compartment with external reservoir sleeve (reservoir sold separately)
- Dual stretch mesh side pockets and large front pocket
- Small external zippered pocket for small items
Given the anxiety that goes along with bugging out, it’s a good idea to give your middle and elementary school students their own Osprey Jet 18 bug out bag. Given that your youngsters will be counting upon you to ensure that they stay dry (in case of rain), and on track, this 18-liter bag is an excellent way to distribute provisions throughout your group while still offering some additional room for other necessities like rain gear and/or a tiny stuffed animal.
The pack’s waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and sternum strap, together with the ventilated back and hip belt, distribute weight evenly and make it pleasant to use for longer periods. The external hydration bladder bag prevents the contents of the pack from becoming wet, making this a simple and straightforward pack to use. No more “pack” concerns from your kids with the Jet 18.
5.11 RUSH72
It’s not unusual for individuals to panic during the worst case scenario, but with the 5.11 RUSH72, you can get out of town before anybody else has a chance to react. Featuring 3342 cubic inches of storage space and 30 storage compartments and pockets for all your tools and gears such as medical gear, multi tool, fire starter, trash bag, emergency blankets, water bottles and assault pack.
Hence, keeping the user gear ready all the time. This bug out bag is an ideal bag for any situation. In order to last as long as possible and work well in any conditions, it is made of water-resistant 1050 Denier nylon. Self-healing YKK zippers with glove-friendly tabs are used on the whole back of the bag for quick and simple access to essential gear and supplies.
While the sternum strap serves to stabilize and secure the pack, its dual-density, closed-cell foam cushioning shoulder straps and hip belt strap makes the main pack more comfortable to wear. The Shove-It section, as well as the almost endless number of additional pouches, complete this bag.
Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 Premium Emergency Survival Bag
While the vast majority of serious survivalists recommend buying and building out a DIY bug out bag for emergency preparedness situations, there are plenty of pre-packed options available in the market. A very good example of this is the Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 Premium Emergency Survival Bag.
This 72-hour pack includes all the basic provisions a group of four might need in an emergency situation. In addition to 48 packets of drinking water bottle holders, this pack boasts four water purification straws (similar to the LifeStraw), 24 Mountain House meals packs, a portable stove, and a four-pack of bowls and eating utensils.
When it comes to lighting and heat, the kit features a ferro rod, multi tool, fire starters, and LED lantern, and Cyalume SnapLight glow sticks. Furthermore, this bug out bag won’t be complete without a first aid kit, emergency blankets, whistles, a fixed blade knife, and an actual bag or your own bag for toting everything with you. While this bag may not have 100 percent of everything you need, it comes pretty close.
Eberlestock Switchblade
- TACTICAL DESIGN: The Eberlestock Switchblade Pack is made from rugged 500D Cordura nylon and features magnetic openings that allow quick access to concealed carry pouches from either side of the...
- MAXIMUM STORAGE: With a capacity of up to 1,050 cubic inches, this backpack can accommodate all your essential gear. Open the top lid pocket and you will find two magazine pouches, and other...
- COMFORTABLE AND ADJUSTABLE: The Switchblade features a ventilated back panel and padded straps for enhanced comfort during extended periods of wear. The adjustable sternum strap and hip belt help...
During a bug out situation, it’s helpful to blend in and not draw attention to yourself. The Switchblade excels in this area, which isn’t something you’ll find in most bug out bags.
Pockets for managing little goods are thoughtfully included in this seemingly ordinary bag. It also offers enough room to store all of the supplies you’ll need for a night or two of bugging out. The zippers are easy to open and close, as well as ergonomically designed.
This is the finest bug out bag if you’re searching for a tiny pack that can support one or two people for a few days. It has exactly the right amount of room, comes in a variety of colors, and has additional features that any survivalist will love.
Kelty Coyote 85
- The Coyote is a load hauler ideal for extended trips into the backcountry with support for heavy loads while adjusting easily for a custom fit
- Perfect Fit Suspension supplies you w/ customized comfort without the hassle
- Features: Top Loading, Top Lid converts to Sling Pack, Zippered side pockets, front pocket w/ organization, Stretch front pouch, Hydration Compatible
Larger daypacks are required if you’re going to be hauling around a lot of gear. In terms of interior volume and price, the Kelty Coyote 85 is an excellent choice. Allows you to carry enough supplies for several days thanks to the 5,000 cubic inches of storage.
Also, take note of the Molle webbing internal frame and padded hip belt. You’ll like the external pockets for storing necessities like flashlights, water filters, first aid kit, sleeping pad, fishing line and maps.
You should measure your torso length before purchasing this or any other multi-day pack. The pack’s weight distribution will be compromised if your torso length falls outside of the recommended range.
The majority of the pack’s weight should rest on your hips, not your shoulders, if you’ve got it fitted properly. For tall persons, this pack isn’t capable of carrying a hefty load, but it’s a good fit for most people.
This is the greatest emergency bag for bugging out on foot and carrying around 50 pounds of supplies. All of the elements you’ll need for a large bug-out bag are included in this one, making it an excellent value.
Eberlestock LoDrag II
- Built in tactical weapon carrier
- can be combined with the GSTC Butt Cover (not included but available as a separate accessory)
- Comes with our polycarbonate Gossamer frame, which can be interchanged with the aluminum Intex II frame
With 1800 cubic inches of space, the Eberlestock LoDrag II is the ideal bug out bag with a rifle holder. It provides daypack capacity while also securely and comfortably carrying a weapon.
For optimal weight distribution, the rifle scabbard should be worn tight to your back, with the padded scabbard protecting your rifle and optic. With this scabbard, anyone may carry their heaviest rifles with an ease in their own bug.
The bag’s interior has a shelf that can be used to create two discrete compartments or one enormous space. Could be a compartment to place your sleeping bag, The bag’s 420-denier ripstop nylon construction ensures long-term use and durability.
The polycarbonate Gossamer structure of the pack allows it to carry a considerable amount of weight without becoming overly burdensome. In a survival emergency, this is the ideal bag for carrying enough food and water for one or two days, as well as a rifle for protection.
QT&QY 45L Military Tactical Backpack
- ✅【THE SPACE YOU NEED】This Military Tactical backpack size appro:18inch x 13.2inch x 11.6inch dimensions and appropriately sized 45L capacity, this pack has room for all of your essential...
- ✅【DURABLE & WATERPROOF】Military grade backpack is made from 900D polyester material, tactical assault backpack is reinforced and double stitched at all stress points. Resistant and tough...
- ✅【MOLLE MODULAR DESIGN】 Molle backpack webbing system on front and sides, designed to be used in combination with other equipment, you can attaching extra pouches or gears as tactical...
You cannot use a bug out bag for everyday carry, hiking, or hunting since it needs to be constantly packed and prepared for action. In other words, you can spend lots of money on a handbag that you never use.
Because of this, it is sensible to spend less on a bug out bag than on your regular backpacks. To put it simply, the QT&QY Tactical Backpack is great for those looking for an affordable bug out bag. 45 liters is the perfect amount of space for storing the basics you’ll need while on the road.
After the first mile, if you’ve burdened down this bag, you’ll start to feel it in your shoulders. That’s why I think this bag is a great choice for anyone who is going on a road trip or a bike ride. This is the greatest bug out backpack for the money if that fits into your prepping strategy.
How To Choose The Best Bug Out Bag?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a bug out bag. First, you need to decide what size bag you need. If you plan on bugging out for a week or more, you’ll need a larger bag.
But if you only plan on bugging out for a few days, you can get away with a smaller bag. Second, you need to choose the right type of bag. There are several different types of bug out bags on the market, so it’s important to find one that best suits your needs.
Third, you need to decide what kind of features you want in your bag. Some bags come with built-in compartments and organizational pockets, while others are more basic. Fourth, you need to make sure your bag is comfortable to carry.
Choose a bag with padded straps and a comfortable back panel. And finally, don’t forget to pack some essential items in your bag, like food, water, and first aid supplies. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find the best bug out bag for your needs.
What To Include In Your Bug Out Bag
Air Filtration Mask
In a bug out situation, your number one priority is to ensure your survival. And while there are a lot of items on the bug out bag checklist that can help with that, one of the most important is an air filtration mask.
Why? Because in a bug out situation, you never know what kind of air you’re going to encounter. There could be toxic fumes, hazardous particles, or even deadly chemicals in the air. And without an air filtration mask, you could be putting yourself at risk.
An air filtration mask will help to protect you from all of these potential threats, giving you a better chance of surviving in a bug out situation. So if you’re looking to increase your chances of survival, make sure you add an air filtration mask to your bug out bag checklist.
Tent
Shelter can be difficult to come by in many emergency cases, so it’s important to have a tent on hand. A decent bug out bag must always have a waterproof survival tent, even if a standard tent isn’t an option.
Mylar is an excellent material for making survival shelters since it is both heat- and water-resistant. Stack leaves, grass, or whatever else you find around the area against your tent to provide extra weather protection.
Space Blanket
These lightweight metal-coated blankets maintain heat well, so they’re perfect for stowing in a bug out bag or emergency preparedness kit. Fasten a paracord to a tree branch or trunk and use your space blanket as a temporary shelter.
Sleeping bag or sleeping pad
If you can find a sleeping bag that is both light and warm, you should consider including it in your bug out pack.
This bag should be packed with everything you need to survive in the event of an emergency, including a water filter, food, medical supplies, and more. Many people overlook the importance of a good sleeping bag or sleeping pad, but these items can mean the difference between life and death in a survival situation.
A sleeping bag will protect you from the cold and provide insulation, while a sleeping pad will prevent you from contracting hypothermia by insulating your body from the cold ground. Hence, this will ensure that you have a comfortable sleep even if the situation is uncomfortable. Make sure to include these essential items on your bug out bag checklist.
Water
Water is one of the most essential elements to survival. Whether you’re stranded in the wilderness or stuck in an emergency situation, having access to clean water can mean the difference between life and death. One of the best ways to ensure you have access to clean water is to use a water filtration system.
Use Water Filtration System
Make any freshwater potable with water filter equipment included in your bug out bag. Keep in mind that the average individual can go without food for weeks, but only three days without water. Avoid being left without adequate hydration, and pack the goods listed above in your bug out bag.
There are a variety of different water filtration systems on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find one that best meets your needs. For example, if your bug out bag checklist includes a water filter, make sure to choose one that is lightweight and easy to carry.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a filtration system for your home, you may want to opt for a more heavy-duty option.
Water Bottle Or Bladder
Our bodies are 60% water, so we can only survive for three to five days without rehydrating ourselves. Flushing out waste, maintaining body temperature, transporting nutrients, and aiding digestion are just a few of the many functions of water in the human body.
As a water bottle/bladder, You’ll need a water bottle or bladder that can withstand the rigors of traveling with it.
Food
There isn’t much room in your bug out pack for a banquet, so food comes in tiny, thick containers. These calorie-dense emergency meals can keep you going for up to three days.
A little fishing kit may come in helpful if your emergency circumstance leaves you trapped near water. An on-the-go fishing solution is possible thanks to a string, hook, and bait that can be attached to anything.
Food To Include
Dried Pastas
Dry spaghetti is extremely light and easy to prepare. Sure, it’ll be tasteless, but a dash of salt will make all the difference. Ramen isn’t just a collegiate meal staple, but it’s also a staple in many BOBs.
Dehydrated Noodles
Foods like “simply add water” can be used in the BOB. Just remember that every cup of water you add to your food is one fewer cup of water you can drink. Having a water filter like a Katadyn Hiker or a Sawyer Mini is essential because of this.
Peanut Butter
Protein and other nutrients in peanut butter help you stay active. Single-serve pouches are preferable to jars since they are more compact and easier to carry for the BOB.
Pouches Of Meat
You may buy a variety of meats in pouches, such as tuna, chicken, and even Spam, a prepper mainstay. Having a choice of foods in a bug-out bag is a tremendous benefit.
If you’ve never had Spam because of your upbringing, give it a try before you pass it up. A bug-out scenario is a time when you may not be able to conduct vigorous activities like exercising because you don’t have enough protein in your diet.
Rice
Rice is an excellent BOB choice as well. It’s a terrific way to bulk up a meal by simply adding water.
Nuts and Dried Fruit
Snacking on dried fruits and nuts is a great way to keep your hunger at bay. Granola and protein bars are also popular. High temperatures, on the other hand, will reduce the shelf life of these products. If you’re storing your go bag in the trunk of your car, be sure to change out the food frequently to keep it fresh.
Caffeine And Sugar.
Keep in mind the likes of tea bags, instant coffee, and drink mixes. Caffeine and sugar might give you a jolt you’ll appreciate. At the very least, individuals who aren’t accustomed to drinking water all day may appreciate the change.
Rationing Of Food In Case Of Emergencies
Datrex Emergency Food Bars, for example, might be a useful addition to your bug out bag’s food supply. Although these bars aren’t meant to be gourmet meals by any stretch of the imagination, they can deliver a substantial amount of calories and a variety of other nutrients to keep you going when the going gets tough.
Clothing
In a survival crisis, the clothing on your back may be all you have. The following items should be included in your bug out pack.
Gloves And A Waterproof Jacket
In cold weather, a good pair of gloves will keep your hands warm, protect them from cuts and splinters, and keep them clean so that you don’t get sick from germs. High-quality gloves will allow you to move fallen branches, gather firewood, or make your way through broken glass in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
If you live somewhere where bad weather is a regular occurrence, investing in a waterproof jacket is a must.
Change Of Clothes
A change of clothes is a necessity, especially when it’s raining or snowing. If you get hypothermia while out in the elements, it might be dangerous to be wearing wet clothing.
Having hats that can keep your head warm is essential in the winter. Avoid letting your body heat escape by wearing hats or beanies.
Warmth
It’s essential to have sources of heat on hand when you find yourself in a situation where you’re exposed to the elements.
Hand Warmers
In chilly weather, hand and foot warmers are a convenient way to keep your hands and feet warm. For a little reprieve from the cold, tuck hand warmers into your shoes or grab a hold of them.
Fire Starters
In an emergency, having a supply of matches or a fire starter is a must-have item. Cooking food, keeping warm, and calling for help are all possible uses for fire. Make sure you have waterproof matches and a fire starter in your bug out kit.
Lighting
So when the sun goes down, having lighting equipment is essential. From sunset to sunrise, you can get to any location with the following bug out pack necessities:
- Light sticks made of chemical grade are capable of lasting up to twelve hours and can be seen from a distance of up to a mile. For signaling, keeping animals at bay, and providing basic visibility these robust lighting items have a long shelf life and strong output.
- A flashlight is a must-have item in any bug-out pack. Keep an eye out for a light that’s both lightweight and durable.
- Hands-free illumination is possible with the addition of a headlamp, if space permits.
Keep a map of your immediate surroundings in your bug out pack in case disaster alters the environment, making it difficult to find your way around. In the event of a statewide evacuation, have maps of neighboring states on hand as well.
A good compass can help you keep track of where you’re going. Keep in mind that if you don’t know how to use a compass, you’re wasting your money on one.
The Garmin In Reach GPS tracking system comes in handy if you have the extra batteries or solar charger to power it. Even if your tracking device works, it’s important to know how to use a map and compass if you’re in a life-or-death emergency.
First aid Kit
Imagine you’re on a hike and you twist your ankle. What do you do? If you have a first aid kit with you, then you can simply follow the instructions and fix yourself up. However, if you don’t have a first aid kit, then you’re in for a long and painful hike back to civilization.
First aid kits are essential for any bug out pack checklist because they can help you survive in a variety of situations. For example, if you get lost in the wilderness, a first aid kit can help you treat any injuries or illnesses that you may come across.
In addition, first aid kits can also be used to treat bug bites, cuts, and scrapes. So if you’re looking to be prepared for anything, make sure that you include a first aid kit on your bug out pack checklist.
- Anti-bacterial wipes
- Painkillers
- Gauze pads
- Sunscreen
- Medical gloves
- Instrument kit
- Bandages and Band-Aids
- Sling
- Burn gel
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- First aid instructions
- Tourniquet
Utilizing Multi-Functional Tools
These resources can be used for a wide range of tasks and can assist you in overcoming any obstacles you face.
A shovel, even a small one, should be in every bug out bag. An essential tool in many catastrophe circumstances, the tiny shovel can be used to build fire pits and trenches, dig shelters and dig for self-defense in the event of an emergency.
The versatile axe can be utilized for a variety of tasks, including the construction of a safe haven and self-defense. Having a shovel/axe combo in a bug out bag will make it easier to travel with.
We couldn’t leave out the multi-tool from our list of multi-purpose tools. In addition to pliers and wire snips, a survival multi-tool should have a file, a screwdriver with Phillips and flat heads, a bottle opener, and a carabiner.
There are numerous applications for paracord. Make a snare trap, a bear bag, a shelter, or a fishing line out of it.
Conclusion
It is important to have a bag that will be comfortable for you to carry and can hold all of the supplies that you may need. The bags we’ve listed are some of the best options on the market and they are affordable, too. So what are you waiting for, choose one for yourself now and make your own bug out bag.