Bug Out Bag

bug out bag spread out

What is a bug out bag

People often view the “bug out bag” as something that you grab when the SHTF. This is one way to look at it. Another way is to look at it like a bug out bag is nothing more than a bag that makes you ready for a given situation. I look at them kind of like a first aid kit. You think of what could go wrong, and put the items in the bag that will mitigate the situation, and increase your chances.

Now that I have covered that, let’s talk about some things you might want to consider before making your bag.

What do you need the bag for?

The first thing that you want to consider is: What is my bag for? Do you want it for grabbing in an emergency and leaving the house, never to return? Or are you thinking more along the lines of needing to evacuate for a few days due to weather conditions, like a hurricane. I personally have multiple bags for multiple situations, but let’s start small.

Making your first bag

Getting a bag that is big enough to fit everything that you need is important. You also want the bag to have plenty of compartments so you can be organized, otherwise you might as well just toss your stuff into a pillow case.

The color of your bag might seem like a silly consideration, but think back to what you need it for. I have bags that are bright and easily visible; I also have bags that are black or camouflage, in case I don’t want them standing out.

What goes in?

Now the fun part…filling your bag. There are a lot of really good sources out there with checklists and guides, but here are some “must haves” in your bag:

• Water: you really need about 3 days worth but that is not exactly lite. I personally have a separate bag just for water. Also, water purification tablets aren’t a bad idea to have.

• Food: having enough food in your bag is very important. Make sure that the food will provide the energy you need and that it is easy to prepare.

• Fire: waterproof matches, a lighter, and some kindling. I have a small bag of dryer lint in every bag I have.

• Clothes: being able to put on dry clothes could save your life. Don’t forget socks and boots.

• Multi tool: always have a multi tool in your bag with a knife and screwdriver.

• Protection: having a pistol in your bag could save your life. Don’t forget extra ammo.

• Health: get a small first aid kit.

• 550 cord: type three nylon or 550 cord is a must. It has so many uses. I suggest 100 feet.

• Communication: get yourself a small ham radio. They are cheep and very useful. Baofeng has some good radios.

• Lighting: flashlight/glow sticks.

Nobody can have everything that they need for every situation all in one bag, but just do your best to have the essentials. As you make your bag(s), you will think of more that you might need like a whistle, duct tape, or batteries.. Make a checklist, keep it organized, and know what you have and how to use it. Remember, if you don’t know what you have and how to use it, it won’t do you any good when you need it.

Also not a bad idea to toss one of these in your bag.  Click here

Until next time,

JDK II

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Photo from cmor15, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

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