In this day and age, you never know when disaster will strike. Will you be ready if you need to evacuate your home quickly? Now that it’s on your mind you are wondering what supplies you should have in a realistic bug-out bag so you and your loved ones aren’t left unprepared.
To learn what items should be in your bug-out bag continue reading for helpful information that can make an emergency situation go more smoothly.
9 Bug Out Bag Essentials to Get You Prepared
Hopefully, you will never have the need to grab it, but if you do a bug-out bag can save your life and make things a lot easier until you can get somewhere safe in the event of an emergency.
Pick the Right Type Of Bag
The type of bug-out bag you choose is almost as important as what you put into it. The correct bag can make all the difference in the world when it comes time to put it to use.
Failing to carefully consider your options before purchasing a bug-out bag can cause the following issues:
- Damage to your supplies
- Not enough space for essentials
- Poorly constructed bags can tear or break
- Improperly fit straps can cause unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders
- Too heavy of a bag can add extra weight that you don’t need when in a survival situation
Purchasing a high-quality bug-out bag that is durably made is the best option. If opting for a backpack style it is recommended that you try the bag on before buying it to be sure it is comfortable in the event you have to carry it for a long distance.
Tools and Stuff
It is important that you are prepared in the event that something needs repairing or you need to erect a makeshift shelter. The following list of tools and supplies are usually considered to be must-haves when putting a survival kit together.
- Batteries
- Compass
- Emergency flares
- Fire source
- Gun and ammo
- Hunting knife
- Light source
- Map or GPS
- Multi-tool
- Paracord
- Pepper spray
- Whistle
- Repair kit for the bug-out bag
- Satelite phone or two-way radios
- Small ax (can double as a hammer)
Water Storage and Filtration
Since water is one of the most important necessities don’t forget to bring some reusable containers that can be used for water.
It is highly recommended that you invest in a portable water filtration device to be sure your drinking water is safe.
Water purification tables are also a great option for keeping safe while on the run. Stainless steel pots/containers are good because they can double as cooking pots if you need to boil water or warm up food.
A Place to Rest Your Head
You may not have much room so when it comes to getting some shut-eye or getting out of the inclement weather it’s important to be resourceful.
Be sure to bring a large sheet of plastic or a small tent/awning that can be folded into a small space. You may not be able to pack a pillow so you can use your bugout bag or some of your clothes rolled up to put some space between the ground and your head.
Appropriate Clothing for All Climates
When packing a bug-out bag you never know what type of weather you may encounter so it is recommended that you pack clothing that is warm yet lightweight and can dry quickly.
Extra socks are more important than anything. It is really important to be sure your feet stay dry during survival situations so if they get wet it is helpful to have extra socks.
Other items to include on the clothing list for your bug-out bag are extra hats, gloves, and a quality set of rain gear.
Sustenance and Hydration
In addition to bringing containers to capture water, it is a good idea to bring bottled water along if you have the room and strength to carry it.
Food is the second most important thing you need to have covered. The best options for food in a bug-out situation are MRE (Meal Ready to Eat) kits where everything can be cooked and eaten in the package.
Surprisingly, MRE kits are actually pretty tasty and come in a wide variety of meal options. They can be purchased online or at your local military surplus store.
Documents to Keep Safe
It is highly important to leave some space in your bug-out bag for any important documents you may have such as:
- Social security cards
- Birth certificates
- Marriage licenses
- Deeds/mortgages
- Health insurance/Life insurance policies
- Last will/funeral arrangements
- Medication list/doctors
- Emergency contact list
Cleanliness and First Aid
Keeping yourself clean is important when in a survival situation. Dirt can lead to infections, plus nobody wants to smell your body odor. Be sure to pack some sort of antibacterial cleaner or disinfectant soap in your bag.
Dr. Bronner’s soap is also a great option to pack because you can literally use it on anything from brushing your teeth, washing your body, or washing your clothing.
It is completely eco-friendly and safe for human and animal use plus it leaves you feeling minty fresh afterward.
In addition to keeping clean, it is important to keep safe by having a good first-aid kit on hand in the event someone has a wound. A first aid kit can keep the wound from becoming infected before getting medical attention.
Don’t Forget Your Money
You may not think of it but it can be a good idea to keep some cash, change, or a spare credit card on hand in the event you have to bug out unexpectedly.
If the world is coming to end and money may not matter but if you are stuck in a natural disaster it can be super helpful to get a meal or pay for a ride somewhere.
Packing The Right Essentials Without The Extras
Hopefully, this article has given you the tools you need to pack the best bug-out bag for you and your family. Be mindful of what you are packing and consider all scenarios to cover all of your bases. Being prepared for an emergency evacuation situation and practicing common sense can mean the difference between life and death.