Member Article

Bug out Bag List: List and Bag Them

Every responsible prepper knows that the first 72 hours after a disaster strikes is the most crucial stage in survival and a bug out bag plays an important part in the fight. Several experts have come up with their own bug out bag packing list but they generally have the same contents, they only differ in their size, weight and quantity.

What is a Bug out Bag?

A bug out bag contains everything that you would need to survive certain disasters and similar situations. It is not made to address your needs in the long run but it should have enough supplies to last the next 72 hours.

The bag would have just the bare essentials plus some specialized tools or items to help you get by. One important factor to consider when building your own BOB is the weight. The bag’s full weight should not hinder you when you’re escaping and should not be a burden to carry.

What Kind of Bag?

Backpacks are the most ideal bug out bags since they free up your hands for support and movement. The material should be lightweight and strong enough to withstand different stresses and normal wear and tear. It should also have different compartments for your essentials and must contain as much as possible with sacrificing its size and strength. Waterproofed backpacks are also available as a bug out bag.

Bug out Bag Checklist

A true bug out bag should be able to support you for 72 hours minimum and here are some essentials that you need to have in it.

Telecommunication – these can be an old cellular phone or a ham radio. Just make sure that the batteries are made to last and are always fully charged. Water – man cannot live without water and any BoB should have provisions of water that will last for about 72 hours. If you are a water source nearby, you have the option of just bringing enough for one day (about two to three liters) and refill your containers at the end of each day. Water Filter – you cannot know the condition of water sources after a disaster and this is why it is important to have a portable water filter in your bug out bag, Food – a bug out bag should have enough food for the 72 hours but the food should be something that is ready to eat and will not require any fire to cook or tenderized. Granola bars, instant coffee, biscuits and crackers, nuts and crackers are some of the food that you may want to consider; these are lightweight and can fit in your pockets. Canned meat and fish are also a welcome addition to this list. Shelter – although optional, tents serve as a great temporary outpost for the enterprising prepper but you should also identify a much stronger place of refuge. If your bag can still hold more items, consider adding a sleeping bag to the list. Clothing – a change of clothes or two will fit in nicely in any BoB but the clothes that you would pack should be lightweight and can dry up pretty quickly. Fire and Light – a flint and some tinder are sometimes hidden in a parachute core bracelet but it does not hurt to have a second pair in your bag. Lighters and waterproof matches should be included too as well as flashlights and headlamps. These should have rechargeable batteries. Tools – a multi-tool kit fits in nicely in any BoB checklist but make sure that the tool you have has the essentials like screwdrivers and a mini-saw for cutting. First Aid Kit – a most sensible addition, a first aid kit should have the basics when it comes to providing first aid like bandages and thermometers. Include some medications specific to yourself as these may not be available after a disaster strikes. Hygiene – hygiene should not be last on the list but forego bringing along large bottles or containers of your toiletries. Pack smaller packages and use smaller containers if a small pack is not available. Sachets are also available and can be used for this purpose. Self Defense – no bug out bag is complete without any weapons. This can be a small hand gun, a long knife or a retractable stick. These are all alright; just make sure you have the necessary permits for them. Cooking Implements – this can be a portable camping stove or some raw materials for a makeshift grill. Spoon and forks will also be needed. Documents – it is highly important for you to include copies of your pertinent documents as you might be starting over again once the disaster ends.

The list can go on as these are just the basics. You can always add more items, but make sure that you really need them as the goal is to keep the bag light and flexible while on the move.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Samuel Funt .