What Should I Put in a Bug Out Survival Bag
Introduction
A bug out bag is a must for anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency situation. But what should you put in your bug out bag? That can be a difficult question to answer, especially if you are not sure what type of emergency you might face. In this blog post, we will discuss the contents of a basic bug out survival bag. This will help give you an idea of what items you need to include in your own bag.
1. Food
The best emergency food on the market today is the ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply. All you do is add water and ready to eat. In the 6kg pack there are 124 servings. So, although bulky it is all you require to keep you going for several weeks in need be.
2. Water
Clean water is essential for survival and therefore one of the most important items to consider. Along with bringing enough water for several days the best water filtration systems is the ‘Membrane Straw Water Filter‘. You should definitely keep one of these for each member of the family.
Some water purification tables such as Coghlan’s Drinking Tablets are a good idea to have on hand.
3. Shelter
Lightweight tent, the ones that compact to a very small size are also more expensive but may be worth investing in a good one.
4. Clothing
Underclothes not outer clothing is what I mean here. They don’t take as much space and keeping clean is essential is staying disease free.
5. First aid kit
This goes without saying, invest in a good first aid kit.
6. Fire starter
Along with your fire starter keep a box of matches
7. Knife
There are a multitude of uses for a knife in a survival situation. It can be used for hunting, self-defense, or to cut through debris. A good knife should be durable and easy to use.
8. Multi-tool
A multi-tool is a handy tool to have in any situation. It includes a variety of tools that can be used for various purposes,
9. Flashlight
Have one of those high lumens flashlights that are relatively small.
10. Compass
Having a compass is fine but make sure you know how to use it along with your maps.
11. Extra batteries
I know these items are heavy but if you carry battery powered gadgets than having no battery makes them useless.
12. Maps
A map(s) of the surrounding environment you will be in and together with a compass.
13. Radio
Having a portable radio is essential to keep abreast of any news that relates to your situation. My post on 6 crankshaft flashlights is a good read as some of them contain a radio. Being crankshaft they don’t rely on batteries
14. Signaling device
A device such as a whistle, flashlight, signal mirror is what’s required here. Keep all 3 items in your bug out bag as they a many more uses than signaling.
15. Money
This may become obsolete but it never hurts to be prepared.
16 Small fishing Kit
This should be small an lightweight, it should contain the bare essentials for the ability to catch your food. Items such as fishing line, hooks, small sinkers should be all the items you need.
17 Waterproof ziplog bags
Good for storing items that need to stay waterproof and other such items
18 Small axe or hatchet
Cutting wood and thick rope could be a necessity where you will be.
19 Sharpening stone
A necessity for keeping your knife and axe sharp
20 Rain poncho
You can get those ponchos that wrap up to the size of you fist.
21 Bug out Bag
My favorite for the lowest price is the Tru Salute Military Tactical Backpack. This bag holds a tone of stuff and is durable enough to withstand almost anything. And the reason why I love it the best is it’s relative cheap, seriously you can’t go wrong with this bag.
This is probably the most important item and that’s knowledge. It doesn’t take any space in your bug out bag but can be the difference. Attaining knowledge about the environment you will be bugging out at. Knowing which wild foods are edible and if and where there is flowing water. Knowledge to hunt and how to prepare and cook it. Having knowledge of natural medicines and herbs are also very important. There are some great books around that you can start reading and learning some basic survival skills today. You just never know when you might need the knowledge to help save you or your family.
Final Thoughts:
Bug out bags can be an important part of your survival plan. What you put in your bug out bag will depend on a variety of factors, including where you live and the types of emergencies you are most likely to face. The items we’ve listed should give you a good starting point for putting together your own bug out bag. Remember, this is just a guide – customize your bag to fit your specific needs. Now that you know what to include in your bug out bag, it’s time to start packing!
