When disaster strikes, having the right supplies can make all the difference. Most people would agree that being prepared with a well-stocked 72 hour bug out bag is essential.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with a complete bug out bag checklist so you can confidently face any emergency.
You'll learn the critical items, from food and water to first aid and tools, that go into an effective 72 hour kit. With the right emergency essentials packed and ready to go, you'll have peace of mind knowing you and your loved ones can safely evacuate at a moment's notice.
Introduction to 72 Hour Emergency Preparedness
Being prepared with a 72 hour bug out bag containing the essentials to survive for 3 days during an emergency evacuation is critical. This bag, sometimes called a go-bag, is designed to sustain an individual or family when disaster strikes and they need to leave their home quickly. Having one pre-packed eliminates precious minutes wasted gathering supplies during a crisis.
Understanding the 72 Hour Bug Out Bag Concept
A 72 hour or 3 day bug out bag is a portable kit that contains everything a person or family would need to survive for 72 hours when evacuating from a disaster. It is designed to be easy to grab and go in case of a crisis like a hurricane, flood, or other emergency situation requiring evacuation. These bags provide food, water, shelter, first aid, and other basic survival items to bridge the gap until first responders can provide additional support or it's safe to return home.
The Necessity of a Home Emergency Kit
Every household should have a 72 hour bug out bag prepared in case of unexpected emergencies requiring evacuation, such as fires, floods, storms or power grid failures. Having supplies and shelter already packed eliminates panic and wasted time in a disaster. Proper preparation can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. Assembling a go-bag also makes individuals more conscious of potential risks and the supplies they would need if basic services and utilities were interrupted.
Determining the Best Bug Out Bag Contents
72 hour bug out bags should contain supplies grouped into essential categories like food, water, shelter, first aid, tools, hygiene products and clothing. Food items like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts provide nutrition. Cases of bottled water account for drinking and sanitation needs. Shelter gear includes tents, sleeping bags and portable stoves. Basic first aid kits treat minor injuries. Tools for survival include knives, duct tape and fire starters. Hygiene products like toilet paper, toothbrush and feminine products boost health. Extra socks, jackets, hats and gloves deliver comfort.
Accessing Your 72 Hour Bug Out Bag Checklist PDF
To help prep the perfect 72 hour kit, a downloadable checklist PDF outlines all recommended items to include, organized by category. This printable packing list contains important survival basics so evacuees have sustenance, shelter and critical supplies during the first critical 72 hours of an emergency. Personalize it by adding medications, infant formulas or equipment for pets.
What should be in a 3 day bug out bag?
A 72 hour bug out bag is designed to provide critical supplies to survive the first 3 days of an emergency situation. The key categories to focus on are:
Environmental Protection
Having the proper clothing and gear to protect you from the elements is essential. Key items include:
- Weather-appropriate clothing layers (jackets, pants, gloves, hats)
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes
- Emergency shelter (tarp, tent, or bivvy sack)
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad for insulation
Water Purification
Clean drinking water is vital for survival. Pack the following:
- Portable water filter or purifying tablets
- Collapsible water containers and water bottles
- Water purification chemicals like bleach or iodine
Food Supplies
Pack high-protein, lightweight, and non-perishable foods:
- Canned goods and MREs (meals ready to eat)
- Protein/granola bars and dried fruits
- Nuts, beef jerky, and peanut butter packets
Sleeping Gear
Be ready to sleep in the wilderness with:
- Warm sleeping bags and pads
- Lightweight tarp or tent
- Paracord, rope, duct tape to build shelter
First Aid Supplies
Injury and illness can quickly become life-threatening without basic medical supplies:
- First aid kit with bandages, ointments, medicines
- Splints, slings, trauma items for injuries
- Prescription medications you normally take
Focus on these key categories to build an effective 72 hour bug out bag. Customize based on your climate, health needs, and possible disaster scenarios. Check expiration dates every 6 months and replace as needed. With thoughtful preparation, you can weather the first critical days of an emergency.
What should be in a 72 hour emergency kit?
A well-stocked 72 hour emergency kit is essential for disaster preparedness. Here are some of the most important items to include:
Water
- Store at least 2 liters of water per person per day. Include small, portable water bottles that are easy to grab if you need to evacuate quickly.
Non-perishable Food
- Stock up on canned goods, energy bars, dried foods, and other items that do not require refrigeration. Replace food once a year to ensure freshness.
Manual Can Opener
- Electric can openers will be useless in a power outage, so have a manual opener on hand.
Flashlight
- Crank or battery-powered flashlights are key for lighting when the power goes out. Bring extra batteries.
Radio
- Battery-powered or hand crank radios will allow you to stay updated on news and weather alerts if cell towers and internet go down. Pack spare batteries.
Be sure to customize your 72 hour kit based on your family's unique needs, accounting for medications, pet supplies, etc. Check expiration dates every 6 months and replace as needed. Having these essentials on hand could make a world of difference in an emergency scenario.
What is the difference between a bug out bag and a 72 hour kit?
A 72 hour kit, also known as an emergency preparedness kit, is designed to sustain an individual or family for the first critical 72 hours after a disaster or emergency situation. It contains basic survival items like food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, and other gear.
A bug out bag, or BOB, takes the 72 hour kit a step further. It is intended for evacuation purposes and contains equipment and supplies needed to survive for several days or longer if you need to leave your home due to a disaster.
The main differences between a standard 72 hour kit and a bug out bag include:
- Purpose: 72 hour kits are for sheltering in place, while BOBs are for evacuating and enduring harsher conditions
- Portability: Bug out bags are designed to be highly portable, compact, and lightweight for travel by vehicle or on foot
- Duration: 72 hour kits sustain for 3 days, but well-stocked BOBs can last weeks
- Gear: BOBs include more protective items like weapons, tactical equipment, tools for foraging/hunting
- Customization: Bug out bags are often specialized for the owner's needs, regional climate, likely risks, and survival skills
So in summary, 72 hour kits provide basic provisions for short-term emergencies while bug out bags offer versatile, customizable gear to evacuate and endure longer-term, severe situations. Integrating aspects of both kits into your preparedness plan ensures you can shelter in place or evacuate as needed.
How do you make a 72 hour bug out bag?
A 72 hour bug out bag, also known as a survival or emergency kit, contains essential supplies to sustain an individual or family for 3 days in case of a disaster or emergency situation. When building your 72 hour kit, focus on including gear and provisions that will meet your basic survival needs.
Water
Having potable water is critical in an emergency. Pack at least one gallon per person for a minimum of 3 days. Water purification tablets or a portable water filter can make found water sources safe to drink. Durable water bottles and water bladders with hoses are useful for storing and accessing water on-the-go.
Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, canned goods, peanut butter, and crackers. Focus on items that are compact, lightweight, and have a long shelf life. If possible, include some comfort food as well to lift spirits.
First Aid Supplies
A first aid kit tailored to your needs is vital. At minimum, it should contain bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, safety pins, scissors, cotton swabs, and latex gloves. Personalize your kit to include necessary medications, treatments for existing medical conditions, etc.
Tools and Gear
Equipment to overcome unexpected situations is key. Have a radio, flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, fire starters, emergency blankets, duct tape, and a whistle for signaling. Choose durable, waterproof, and portable gear. A backpack or duffel bag to carry everything is essential.
Following basic guidelines when packing your 72 hour bug out bag ensures you have lifesaving essentials at the ready for those critical first 3 days of an emergency. Customize your kit based on your family's unique needs.
Essential Food & Emergency Water Supplies
Selecting Long-Lasting Food Options
When packing food for your 72 hour bug out bag, it's important to choose options that have a long shelf life and don't require refrigeration. Some good choices include:
- Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, and meats. Opt for pop-top lids that don't require a can opener.
- MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) which are self-contained, vacuum-sealed meals designed for emergencies. They can last 5+ years.
- Dried foods like jerky, dried fruit, nuts, trail mix, and granola bars. These are lightweight and non-perishable.
- Comfort foods like peanut butter, jelly, crackers, and cereal bars can provide morale.
Rotate and replace food in your bag every 6-12 months to ensure freshness. Also pack a manual can opener just in case.
Packing High-Energy Snacks
Having quick, nourishing snacks on hand is important to maintain energy levels in an emergency. Some great options include:
- Protein bars and granola bars for a boost of calories and nutrients.
- Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for an energy kick.
- Beef jerky or other cured meats for protein.
- Applesauce pouches and fruit cups which pack easily and don't require a can opener.
- Peanut butter and crackers for quick carbs and protein.
Choose compact, non-perishable snacks that pack a nutritional punch. They can make all the difference in an emergency situation where access to food is limited.
Securing Safe Drinking Water
Having access to safe, clean drinking water is critical in any 72 hour emergency scenario. There are several methods to treat questionable water sources:
- Water filtration straws remove bacteria and particulates from water sources like streams or ponds. The Lifestraw is a popular portable option.
- Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide to kill waterborne pathogens. Easy to pack and use.
- Boiling water vigorously for 1-3 minutes will kill most bacteria, viruses and parasites.
You'll also want to pack bottled water and fluids like Gatorade or Pedialyte in your bug out bag to prevent dehydration in an emergency.
Storing Emergency Water in Your 72 Hour Kit
In addition to water treatment and purification methods, it’s vital to have water storage options in your 72 hour bug out bag:
- Collapsible water bags and bottles allow substantial water storage without taking up much space in your pack.
- Durable water bottles made of aluminum, stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Look for leak-proof lids.
- Water storage pouches and bladders equipped with spouts for easy drinking access.
Experts recommend having 1-2 liters of water per person per day minimum for survival needs. That means at least 6 liters stored in your bag. Rotate water every 6 months.
Having reliable access to food and water in an emergency can literally save your life. Pack energy-dense nutrition and ample water storage in your 72 hour kit.
Shelter & Tactical Sleep System Essentials
Your ability to safely shelter and sleep is vital when bugging out. Having the right gear can make all the difference during an emergency situation. This section will recommend essential items to pack for shelter and sleep.
Choosing a Compact and Durable Tent
When choosing a tent for your 72 hour bug out bag, you'll want one that balances portability and durability. Look for lightweight backpacking tents made of ripstop nylon or silicone-treated fabrics. A basic 1-2 person tent around 3-4 lbs is a good option. Brands like ALPS Mountaineering, MSR, and Big Agnes offer quality, compact tents. Make sure to seal the seams and test waterproofness before packing.
Selecting Sleeping Bags for Various Climates
The climate you live in will determine what temperature rating you need for a sleeping bag. A rating of 20°F to 30°F provides versatility for 3-season use. Down fill sleeping bags offer warmth while remaining compressible, though synthetic bags perform better when wet. Brands like Kelty, Sierra Designs, and Marmot have excellent mid-range options. Include a foam sleeping pad for insulation from the ground.
Packing Emergency Blankets for Survival
Mylar emergency blankets are a must for your 72 hour bug out bag. Weighing only a few ounces, these blankets reflect 90% of radiant heat to prevent hypothermia. Smaller bivys like the SOL Emergency Bivvy provide overhead coverage when shelter is not available. Having multiple blankets creates redundancy if one gets damaged.
Creating a Minimalist Bug Out Bag Shelter List
If you need to pack ultra-light, here is a minimalist shelter list:
- Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
- Paria Outdoor ReCharge UL Sleeping Bag
- Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest SOLite Foam Sleeping Pad
- S2S Ultralight Poncho Tarp
This list maximizes warmth and coverage under 5 lbs while remaining budget-friendly. Test gear beforehand to ensure it meets your needs. Having shelter and sleep gear can be a life-saver when bugging out for 72 hours.
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First Aid and the Ultimate Survival Kit
Packing a first aid kit is critical when preparing a 72 hour bug out bag. Having the necessary medical supplies and medications can literally make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Let's explore some essential components to include in your first aid kit.
Essential First Aid Kit Components
When building your 72 hour bug out bag first aid kit, be sure to pack:
- Adhesive bandages of multiple sizes
- Gauze pads and rolls
- First aid tape
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Scissors and tweezers
- Digital thermometer
- Pain medication like ibuprofen
- Anti-diarrhea medication
- Electrolyte packets
- Medical gloves
These basic first aid items will allow you to treat cuts, scrapes, sprains, and other minor injuries. Having them on hand can help prevent infections and promote healing until you are able to get more advanced medical care.
Personal Medications and Health Supplies
In addition to standard first aid gear, your 72 hour bug out bag should contain any personal medications, prescriptions, and health items that you need on a regular basis. For example, be sure to pack:
- Prescription eyeglasses, contacts, solution
- Prescription medications
- EpiPens for severe allergies
- Inhalers for asthma
- Insulin for diabetes
Packing an extra 72 hours' supply of your vital health maintenance medications and supplies will ensure you have what you need, even if you are unable to refill prescriptions or buy over-the-counter products during an emergency.
Building an Ultimate Survival Kit within Your Bug Out Bag
To upgrade your 72 hour bug out bag first aid capabilities even further, consider adding bonus survival items like:
- Tourniquet
- Emergency blanket
- Splinting materials
- SAM splint
- Burn gel
- Eye wash
- Elastic bandages
- Triangle bandages
With these additional supplies, you will be equipped to provide more advanced first aid, potentially saving someone's life if professional medical treatment is delayed. Building a robust 72 hour bug out bag survival kit takes your readiness to the next level.
Tools, Self Defense, and Tactical Bug Out Bag Considerations
Selecting a Reliable Survival Knife
Having a fixed blade survival knife is an essential item for any 72 hour bug out bag. A good quality knife can be used for preparing food, making shelters, and even self-defense if needed. When selecting a survival knife, look for one with a thick, full tang blade made of durable steel like 1095 high carbon or 420 stainless steel. The handle should have a solid grip texture for wet conditions. A 4-6 inch blade length offers versatility. Make sure to keep the knife sharp and clean for reliability. Consider a folding saw like the Bahco Laplander as a lightweight complement to process wood.
Fire Starting Tools for Survival
The ability to start a fire is critical for signaling, warmth, purifying water, and cooking. Pack matches in a waterproof case as a primary fire starter. Include a peel-and-stick fire starter like WetFire cubes as a reliable backup. Round out your fire starting capability with a magnesium alloy flint striker, which can throw 3000 degree sparks to ignite even damp tinder.
Tactical Equipment for Self-Defense
While firearms have limited utility in a 72 hour scenario, tactical pepper spray offers an effective non-lethal self defense option without taking up much space. The Sabre 3-in-1 pepper spray contains a powerful stream spray and UV dye to aid police. A tactical pen like the Gerber Impromptu can serve as an emergency glass breaker. A tactical flashlight with a strike bezel provides another self defense tool. For more serious situations, some preppers opt to pack compact pistols like the Glock 43 in a bug out bag. Consider your environment, local laws, and level of training when deciding what self defense items fit your needs.
Clothing Essentials and Hygiene for the 72 Hour Backpack
Layering Clothes for Variable Weather
Having the right layers of clothing is essential when packing a 72 hour bug out bag. The layering system allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions. Base layers that wick moisture away from the skin are key, like synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. Mid layers such as fleece jackets and pants provide insulation. Outer shell jackets and pants made of waterproof, breathable fabrics block wind and rain. Don't forget a warm hat and gloves.
Choosing the Right Footwear for Evacuation
Proper footwear enables you to walk long distances while evacuating. Look for waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes with ankle support and rugged outsoles. Wool hiking socks can prevent blisters. Having comfortable, broken-in footwear is vital.
Maintaining Personal Hygiene in Emergencies
Pack hygiene items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, feminine products, and hand sanitizer. Baby wipes are great for quick cleanups without water access. Being able to attend to sanitation needs boosts morale when evacuating.
Bug Out Bag Essentials for Hygiene in 2023
Some of the latest hygiene products helping preppers build the ultimate 72 hour survival kit include collapsible portable toilets, solar powered rechargeable electric toothbrushes, compressed towel sheets, and antimicrobial soaps. When choosing what to include, prioritize lightweight, packable, reusable, and eco-friendly options.
Illumination: Lighting Up the Path Ahead
Reliable lighting is critical when packing your 72 hour bug out bag. Having multiple lightweight and durable lighting sources will allow you to navigate safely in low-light conditions. We'll explore top lighting options to illuminate your path ahead.
Choosing the Best Flashlights for Emergencies
When selecting flashlights, LED models provide the brightest and most energy-efficient beams. Look for waterproof and impact-resistant casing to withstand tough conditions. Top choices include:
- Streamlight ProTac HL USB: 850 lumens output from C4 LED technology. Integrated USB port for recharging.
- Fenix PD35 V3.0: 1000 lumen max output from Cree XP-L LED. Uses 18650 rechargeable or CR123A batteries.
- Olight Warrior Mini 2: 1500 lumens from advanced LED. Rechargeable 21700 battery included.
Choose lights accepting common battery types like AAA, AA or 18650 rechargeable cells. Stock up on extra batteries or consider solar charging options.
Advantages of Headlamps in Bug Out Scenarios
Hands-free headlamps allow you to perform tasks while illuminating your surroundings. Benefits include:
- Frees up hands for cooking, equipment repairs, medical treatment, etc.
- Can be worn under a hat to avoid detection.
- Angled beam reaches ground area directly in front.
- Red or green night vision modes preserve natural night vision.
Look for adjustable straps to fit all head sizes securely. A tilt or swivel mechanism makes it easy to aim the light. Top headlamp picks include the Black Diamond ReVolt and Petzl Actik Core.
With reliable and durable lighting sources packed, you'll be prepared to navigate the 72 critical first hours of an emergency situation. Choose lights with expected battery life exceeding 72 hours of intermittent use.
Communication Gear for Your 72 Hour Emergency Survival Kit
Having reliable communication devices and backups in your 72 hour emergency kit ensures you can receive critical notifications and updates during a crisis. We'll recommend some affordable two-way radio options to help you stay connected when cell towers and internet may be unavailable.
Essential Two-Way Radios for Emergency Communication
Two-way radios are essential for communication when cell networks are overwhelmed or unavailable. Here are some recommended options:
- Baofeng UV-5R - An affordable and popular handheld two-way radio for short range communication. Reliable up to 2-5 miles depending on terrain. Runs on rechargeable batteries or AA batteries as backup. Can be programmed to pick up emergency frequencies. Costs around $25-35.
- Motorola Talkabout T800 - Rugged, waterproof two-way radios with a 20 mile range in open areas. Uses radio frequencies outside cell networks. Recharges on micro USB. Useful for coordinating within a small group. Costs around $80 for a pair.
- Midland GXT1000VP4 - Long range two-way radios with 50 mile range capabilities. Allow communication between base camp and scouting groups. Use rechargeable batteries or AA batteries. Around $55 per radio.
No matter which two-way radios you choose, make sure to test reception in your area and program in any emergency channels. Having backups to charge the radios is also critical. With the right communication gear, you can stay informed and coordinate effectively even if cell networks go down in an extended emergency scenario.
Miscellaneous Gear to Round Out Your Bug Out Bag List
The Versatility of a Quality Multi-Tool
A good multi-tool like a Leatherman can serve countless functions, making it an invaluable addition to any 72 hour bag. Its compact size belies its usefulness - with built-in pliers, screwdrivers, knife blades, scissors, and more, it can help you repair gear, construct shelters, prepare food, cut cordage, and much more. Consider versatile models that offer both standard and serrated knife blades for diverse cutting tasks.
When selecting a multi-tool, prioritize quality over quantity of features, as cheaper models may fail when you need them most. Stainless steel offers durability and corrosion resistance. Look for locking mechanisms on the pliers and blades for safety and security while using them. The best multi-tools strike a balance between practical, survival-oriented functions and packable size.
The Many Uses of 550 Paracord in Survival Situations
550 paracord can serve a wide variety of critical functions in a bug out scenario. Its high strength makes it ideal for securing shelter constructs, repairing gear, lashing together poles to build traps or stretchers, and more. When unraveled, the interior nylon strands can be used as fishing line or to sew up ripped packs or clothing.
With its flexibility, water resistance, and high tensile strength, five-fifty cord essentially enables you to temporarily fix or secure nearly anything. It weighs almost nothing and packs down small, easily fitting in bags or wrapped around gear. As a versatile, durable asset that can potentially save lives if creatively leveraged, quality 550 paracord is a must-have supplement for all 72 hour kits.
Bug Out Bag List PDF: A Comprehensive Gear Checklist
Having a printed bug out bag checklist can help ensure you don't forget any critical items while packing your 72 hour go-bag. Download our complete bug out bag PDF list here for a comprehensive reference guide you can print out and check items off as you pack them into your bag.
The PDF checklist organizes gear by category such as water, food, first aid, tools, and more for easy reference. It notes recommended quantities where applicable, along with columns for checking off items as packed. Having this comprehensive list printed out lets you methodically build your 72 hour bag based on expert recommendations for fundamental survival preparedness.
Final Thoughts on Preparing Your 72 Hour Kit Backpack
Assembling a well-stocked 72 hour bug out bag is an essential step in emergency preparedness. By having critical supplies and survival tools on hand, you'll be ready to safely endure the first critical days of any crisis situation.
Here are some final tips to ensure your 72 hour kit backpack is prepared:
- Re-evaluate your bag every 6 months. Replace expired food, water, and batteries. Upgrade gear as needed.
- Pack compact, lightweight items to avoid overloading your bag. But don't compromise on crucial tools.
- Store your bag in an easily accessible spot. You may need to grab it at a moment's notice.
- Practice using your 72 hour kit. Test out the gear on camping trips to improve your skills.
- Invest in quality survival tools. Well-constructed bug out bags withstand years of storage and handling.
- Customize your bag based on likely risks in your region. Prepare for weather extremes, earthquakes, storms, etc.
Having a well-stocked 72 hour kit provides confidence and peace of mind no matter the situation. Follow emergency preparedness experts' checklists and tailor your bag to your needs. With practice, the right mindset, and quality gear, you'll be ready to handle any emergency scenario.
