Best Go Bag Essentials for Quick Evacuation

When an emergency strikes, having a well-stocked go bag can mean the difference between safety and grave danger.

In this roundup, we'll explore the most critical items to include in your emergency evacuation pack so you're fully prepared when seconds count.

From first aid essentials to navigation tools, survival food to protective gear, we'll cover everything you need to outfit your bug out bag for rapid response and maximum safety in any situation.

Introduction to Go Bags and Emergency Readiness

A "go bag", also known as a bug out bag, is an emergency kit filled with critical supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours if disaster strikes. Having a go bag prepped and ready to grab at a moment's notice is an essential part of emergency preparedness.

When catastrophe hits, whether it's a hurricane, wildfire, or other crisis, you may need to evacuate immediately. A go bag allows you to leave quickly with the gear you need to sustain yourself until you find safety. Key items to include in any go bag fall into several essential categories:

Water and Food: Having potable water and non-perishable food is vital to meet basic nutritional needs during an emergency.
First Aid: A first aid kit, medications, and other medical necessities will allow you to treat injuries and illness while away from professional medical care.
Tools and Gear: Equipment like flashlights, batteries, a radio, and multi-tool provide critical resources for survival scenarios.
Clothing and Shelter: Extra clothes, shoes, blankets, tents or tarps prepare you for diverse weather and shelter needs.
Hygiene and Sanitation: Toilet paper, soap, feminine products, and other personal items promote health and wellbeing.

Carefully curating a go bag with supplies from each of these categories will empower you to handle a wide range of emergencies and evacuation situations.

What is the best bug out bag on the market?

When choosing the best bug out bag for your needs, key factors to consider include durability, capacity, organization, and weather resistance. Here are some top options to consider:

The Best Overall Bug Out Bag: Mystery Blitz 30

The Mystery Blitz 30 is a versatile, durable, and affordable bug out bag. Key features include:

30L capacity
Durable 600D polyester material
Multiple compartments and pockets for organization
Integrated rain cover for weather protection
Padded shoulder straps for comfort

This bag strikes the perfect balance of capacity, durability, and price for most people's needs.

The Best Bug Out Bag on a Budget: Condor Tactical Response

If you're looking for an affordable bug out bag option, the Condor Tactical Response is a great choice. It offers:

34L capacity
Durable nylon construction
PALS webbing for attaching additional gear
Hydration bladder compartment
Compression straps to adjust size

While not as feature-rich as pricier options, it provides good value for a budget-friendly bug out bag.

The Bug Out Bag With the Highest Capacity: Kelty Coyote

For those needing to pack more gear and supplies, the Kelty Coyote offers a cavernous 85L capacity. Additional features include:

Top loading design with front panel access
Aluminum frame for load support
Ventilated back panel and hip belt for comfort
Stowable straps and back panel for checked airline travel

With its high capacity and comfortable load carrying design, the Coyote works well as a bug out bag for extended trips or hauling lots of gear.

What should you have in a go bag?

A well-stocked go bag is critical for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most essential items to include:

Water and Food

Bottled water - 1 gallon per person per day
High-calorie non-perishable food like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits

Hygiene and Sanitation

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Wet wipes
Deodorant
Feminine products
Heavy duty garbage bags for waste

Tools and Supplies

Flashlight with extra batteries
AM/FM radio to receive emergency alerts
Portable phone charger
Paper maps in case GPS fails
Pen and paper for leaving notes
Multitool or Swiss Army Knife

Emergency whistle
Reflective vest
Compass
Fire starter kit
Pepper spray

Clothing and Shelter

Extra socks and underwear
Rain poncho
Emergency sleeping bag or blanket
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection

Customize your go bag based on your climate, destination, and specific needs. The goal is having the essentials for 1-3 days of independent survival until you can reach safety or help arrives. Check and refresh your bag every 6 months.

What is the best color for a go bag?

When choosing a color for your go bag, earthy tones that blend into natural environments are best. Avoid camouflage patterns, as they could be mistaken for military gear.

The most practical go bag colors are:

Black - Blends into many environments and is harder to spot at night. A versatile choice.
Beige/Tan - Blends well into deserts, woods, and urban settings.
Dark Green - Blends into wooded areas and forests.

Other considerations when selecting a go bag color:

Avoid bright colors that stand out. Earth tones and darker shades are lower profile.
Consider the climate and terrain where you live. Pick colors suited to those environments.
Don't choose colors associated with authority roles like police or military, unless you want to be mistaken for personnel.

The color of your go bag is an important choice that impacts visibility and functionality. Opt for subdued earth tones that blend in, enabling swift and discreet evacuation when needed.

Are premade bug out bags worth it?

Premade bug out bags can make emergency preparation much easier for families. They come equipped with enough supplies to last 3 days, providing a solid foundation to build upon. However, those wanting more customization may prefer to create their own.

Here are some key considerations when deciding between a premade or custom bug out bag:

Benefits of Premade Bags

Save time and effort compared to sourcing each item individually
Often affordable and cost-effective
Contains vetted essentials like food, water, first aid, tools
Easy for beginners overwhelmed with preparedness

Customization Allows

Tailor supplies to your family's unique needs
Include preferred brands and personalized items
Adjust pack weight and space optimization
Adapt bag over time as situation changes

Those new to prepping may appreciate the convenience of premade bags. But for maximum utility, building a custom bug out bag with the right essentials for your family is ideal. Add and remove items over time to optimize. The right option comes down to your budget, time, and willingness to customize.

Selecting the Best Go Bag for Survival in 2023

When selecting an emergency go bag, key features to prioritize include durability, capacity, and comfort. The bag needs to withstand the elements while carrying adequate supplies to sustain you for at least 72 hours. Choosing ergonomic straps and backing ensures the fully packed bag remains wearable over long distances.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Emergency Backpack

Consider the following criteria when selecting an emergency backpack:

Size: Aim for 20-40 liters capacity. Too small, and it won't fit essentials. Too large, and it becomes cumbersome.
Material: Look for abrasion-resistant fabrics like 1000D nylon or Cordura that withstand harsh conditions. Waterproofing helps too.
Compartments: Multiple compartments keep gear organized and easily accessible. Key lockable sections provide security.
Comfort: Padded straps prevent digging. Look for adjustable straps and hip belts to distribute weight. Breathable backing prevents excessive sweating.

Best Go Bags for Different Scenarios

Go bags tailored for specific scenarios optimize preparedness:

Natural disasters: Waterproof with external straps to attach bulky gear like tents or axes. Durable.
Law enforcement: Molle paneling attaches modular pouches. Security features like hidden pockets. Reflective patches for visibility.
Family evacuations: Multiple color options stay organized. Fun patches personalize. Kid-friendly necessities like glowsticks add comfort.

Ultimate Survival Kit: Packing Your Bug Out Bag

An ultimate 72-hour survival kit in your bug out bag contains:

Water: 2 liters of water plus water purification tablets
Food: High-calorie bars, MREs, freeze-dried meals
Light: Headlamp, flashlight, glow sticks
Navigation: Map, compass, GPS device, signal mirror
Shelter: Tent, emergency blanket and sleeping bag
Tools: Knife, paracord, duct tape, fire starter
Medical: First aid kit, medications, gloves, mask

Rotate perishable items every 6 months.

The Get Home Bag: A Sibling to the Bug Out Bag

The get home bag prepares for unexpected emergencies when away from home. It contains minimal 2-day supplies focused on mobility versus long-term sustainment. Key differences versus bug out bags:

Smaller and lighter
Emphasis on navigation, communications, cash
No tents or stoves - focuses on getting home

Both bags share basics like first aid, food, water, and tools tailored for their distinct purposes. Having both expands preparedness coverage.

Essential Survival Food and Water for Your Go Bag

When packing your go bag for emergency evacuation or survival situations, including adequate food and water is critical. The key is to choose options that are lightweight, nutritious, non-perishable, and easy to transport.

High-Energy Survival Food Options

Focus on high-calorie foods that will provide energy and sustenance in an emergency:

Protein/granola bars
Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
Beef jerky or other dried meats
Peanut butter packets
Canned goods like beans, vegetables, or fish
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)

Pack foods you enjoy and that agree with your digestive system. Bring extras in case your evacuation lasts longer than expected.

Water Purification and Storage Solutions

In addition to water, pack:

Water purification tablets to make found water drinkable
Portable water filters like the LifeStraw
Collapsible water containers and bladders to transport and store water

Aim for 1-2 liters per person per day minimum. Bring extra in case supplies run low.

Long-Term Water Solutions: Purification Tablets

Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua are essential for making found water drinkable in an emergency. They kill bacteria, viruses and protozoa that can cause illness.

Follow product instructions, then let the water sit for 30+ minutes after adding a tablet before drinking. These small, lightweight tablets are ideal for packing in go bags.

Nutrition for Quick Evacuation: Energy Bars and More

Focus on non-perishable, high-calorie options for short-term survival, like energy bars. Clif, Kind, and other brands make bars with nutrients to sustain energy. Dried fruits and trail mix also pack well.

For longer evacuation scenarios, pack more robust foods like MREs, canned goods, and jerky. Lightweight and nutritious foods are essential go bag components for emergency readiness.

First Aid Basics for Emergency Preparedness

Having basic first aid supplies on hand is a critical part of emergency preparedness. Being able to provide first aid in a crisis situation could help save a life. This section will overview some of the most essential first aid items to include in your go bag.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit Checklist

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have prepper essential. Be sure your kit includes supplies to clean and dress wounds, such as:

Alcohol wipes and antiseptic ointments
Assorted adhesive bandages and gauze pads
Medical tape and butterfly bandages
Trauma pads and wound closure strips
Scissors, tweezers, and safety pins

You'll also want to pack over-the-counter medications, which we'll discuss more in the next section.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Quick Access

Having basic OTC medications on hand for emergencies is vital. Be sure to pack meds to help treat pain, allergies, upset stomach, and other common ailments. Recommended items include:

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain relief
Antihistamines like Benadryl for allergic reactions
Antacids like Tums for heartburn or nausea
Anti-diarrheal medication
Electrolyte tablets for dehydration

Only include medications you have experience taking. Consult your doctor for guidance if needed.

Specialized First Aid Supplies for Families

If you're prepping an emergency go bag for your family, consider each member's unique needs. For example, pack:

Infant and children's medications
Diapers, wipes, rash ointment
Extra epinephrine auto-injectors for those with severe allergies

Having the right first aid gear for your family's health conditions could be critical during an emergency evacuation or disaster scenario.

First Aid for Law Enforcement Officers

For law enforcement officers, specialized first aid gear may be necessary. Items like tourniquets, chest seals, and hemostatic agents can treat severe trauma. Having the training to use these items correctly is essential.

No matter your situation, tailor your first aid kit to the likely needs of those you're preparing for. A well-stocked kit can assist with critical treatment during an emergency.

Survival Tools and Gear for Every Bug Out Bag

Having the right tools and gear in your bug out bag can make a crucial difference in an emergency situation. Here are some versatile items to consider including that serve a variety of needs:

Multi-Tool with a Serrated Blade: A Must-Have

A good multi-tool or pocket knife is an essential item for any bug out bag. Look for one with multiple functions like pliers, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and best go bag essentials like a serrated blade. The serrated edge allows you to cut through tough materials like rope, plastic and wood much easier. It's also useful for opening canned food. Compact multi-tools easily fit in your pack.

Some top options to consider:

Leatherman Wave Plus
Victorinox Swiss Army Knife
Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier

Lighting the Way: Flashlights and Headlamps

Having a reliable light source is vital to navigate safely in the dark. Pack both a flashlight and headlamp to keep your hands free. Choose LED flashlights for efficiency and long battery life. Headlamps allow you to direct a beam hands-free while doing other tasks.

Also consider packing:

Glow sticks - inexpensive and long-lasting emergency lighting
Extra batteries
Solar-powered flashlight chargers

Staying Warm: Emergency Blankets and Sleeping Bags

Staying warm is a critical survival need. An emergency best go bag should contain both a lightweight, heat-reflective emergency blanket and a compact sleeping bag. The foil emergency blankets trap body heat to prevent hypothermia. Sleeping bags provide insulation for colder weather. Consider temperature ratings when selecting a bag.

Other useful items:

Emergency bivvy sack
Thermal underwear
Wool socks
Winter hat and gloves

Heavy-Duty Garbage Bags: Not Just for Trash

Heavy-duty garbage bags have many uses beyond holding trash:

Rain poncho or shelter
Water collection and storage
Ground tarp
Make-shift pack liner
Transport wet/dirty clothes
Tinder for starting fires

Duct tape also serves many emergency purposes like temporary repairs, securing equipment, blister/wound care, and even fire starting.

Having versatile items that serve multiple needs helps maximize limited space in your best go bag while expanding your survival capabilities. Choose durable, portable tools and gear designed for emergencies.

Reliable navigation tools and communication devices are critical for evacuation preparedness. Here are some key items to include in your go bag:

An electronic GPS can provide navigation in most situations. However, it's wise to also pack paper maps in case batteries run out or signals are lost. Topographic maps of your area are ideal. Know how to read them in case your GPS fails.

Stay Informed: Weather Radios and Emergency Signals

Pack a hand-crank or battery-powered weather radio to receive emergency alerts and weather reports. This will help you stay informed if evacuating. Also pack an emergency whistle. The loud signal can alert rescuers to your location.

Portable Solar Chargers for Sustained Power

Consider packing a compact, portable solar charger. This can provide power to small electronics if you are evacuating for an extended time. Solar chargers utilize free solar energy and avoid reliance on batteries alone. They're a sustainable charging solution while on the move.

Walkie-Talkies: Effective Communication in Dead Zones

Walkie-talkies allow communication in areas with no cell phone signal. They're useful for staying in contact with family if networks are overwhelmed during evacuations. Opt for longer-range walkie-talkies to maintain connections over farther distances.

Clothing and Shelter Essentials for Ultimate Protection

When building your go bag, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and portable shelter items is critical for protection and survival in emergency situations.

Appropriate Attire for Survival Situations

Having the right clothing is key to enduring harsh conditions during disasters or evacuations. Be sure to pack:

Insulated and waterproof jacket and pants to retain body heat and stay dry
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and traction
Wool socks to wick moisture and prevent blisters
Base layers (top and bottom) to wear underneath outer layers
Gloves and winter hat to protect extremities from cold

Portable Shelter: Tents, Tarps, and Emergency Sleeping Solutions

In addition to clothing, having portable shelter in your go bag allows you to set up camp wherever needed. Useful items include:

Lightweight, compact tent or tarp with rope to create shelter
Emergency sleeping bag or blanket to retain warmth overnight
Foam pad or inflatable sleeping pad for insulation from the ground

Weather-Ready Gear for Natural Disasters

Prepare for specific natural disasters by packing:

Hurricanes: Waterproof gear, waders, rope, duct tape, tarp & tent pegs to secure shelter
Wildfires: N95 masks, goggles, bandana, fire-resistant long sleeves and pants

Roadside Emergency Gear for Unexpected Situations

If stranded due to a vehicle breakdown, keep these in your car go bag:

High visibility vest
Flashlight with batteries
Flares or reflective triangle
Jumper cables
Tire repair kit
Car phone charger

Having durable protective clothing, shelter solutions, and weather-specific items ensures you can safely endure harsh conditions during disasters or evacuations. Prepare for anything by packing versatile essentials in your go bag.

Personal Care and Hygiene in Your Emergency Bag

Packing personal care and hygiene items in your emergency go bag is critical for health, sanitation, and comfort if you need to evacuate quickly. Having your specific medications, hygiene necessities, and other personal items can provide much-needed normalcy during stressful situations.

Essential Prescription Medications and Health Supplies

Be sure to pack at least a week's supply of any prescription medications or medical equipment you need, such as inhalers, EpiPens, blood sugar monitors, prescription eyeglasses, and contacts. Having a first aid kit, medical gloves, and basic over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen, antihistamines, antacids, etc. can also help manage health issues. Packing copies of your medical records, insurance information, and emergency contacts provides vital access to care if needed.

Hygiene Products for Health and Comfort

Keep basic hygiene supplies like toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, feminine products, etc. A compact towel, heavy-duty moist wipes, and change of clothes also boost comfort. Items like bug spray, sunscreen, and lip balm protect from the elements.

Personal Protection: N95-Certified Respirators

Respirators like N95 masks filter out air pollution and smoke hazards during evacuations, especially for those with respiratory conditions. They protect against dust, chemicals, and infectious diseases too. Choose NIOSH-approved with proper fit and include a few spares.

Sanitation Essentials: Hand Sanitizer and Toilet Paper

Packing hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, toilet paper, and even a plastic bag for waste helps maintain cleanliness and sanitation for health. Proper hygiene prevents illness from spreading when living in close quarters during an emergency.

Special Considerations for Family and Law Enforcement Go Bags

Families and law enforcement officers have unique needs when it comes to assembling an emergency go bag. Having the right supplies tailored to your situation can make all the difference in an evacuation scenario.

Best Bug Out Bag Options for Family Preparedness

When making a bug out bag for a family, be sure to account for each family member by packing:

Extra food and water rations
Weather-appropriate clothing in a variety of sizes
Activities to occupy kids, like books, small toys, puzzles
First aid supplies for treating kids' injuries and illnesses
Special medications, infant formula, diapers if needed

Consider packing a lightweight, compact stroller to help transport young children. It's also wise to have copies of important documents for each family member in a waterproof bag.

Essential Go Bag Items for Law Enforcement Personnel

Those working in law enforcement may require some additional gear in their go bags, such as:

Backup ammunition
Handcuffs and keys
Evidence collection supplies - bags, gloves, tags
Traffic flares and crime scene tape
High-visibility safety vest
Two-way radios for communication
Forms and reporting paperwork

It can also be useful to pack an extra uniform and boots in case the ones being worn get damaged or contaminated at a scene. Having personal protective equipment like goggles, respirators, and protective suits may also be warranted for some law enforcement officers.

Maintaining and Updating Your Go Bag

Regularly checking and updating your go bag is critical to ensuring you are prepared for an emergency evacuation. Having an outdated or ill-equipped go bag could put you in danger when rapid departure is necessary.

Routine Checks: Keeping Your Go Bag Current

Inspect your go bag at least every 3 months to check expiration dates, battery levels, and overall condition of items.
Set reminders on your phone's calendar to prompt you to review your kit.
Check supplies after major weather events or disasters to see if anything needs replacing.
Go through a practice evacuation drill to test your readiness. Time how long it takes to grab your go bag and leave.

Seasonal Adjustments for Your Emergency Kit

In winter, include extra socks, gloves, hats, hand warmers, and blankets.
In summer, pack more water, electrolyte tablets, sunscreen, hats, bug spray.
Check weather reports before trips to pack rain gear, snowshoes, or other location-specific items.
Rotate seasonal clothing and supplies as needed when seasons change.

Technology Updates: Staying Ahead with Modern Gear

Check battery levels and connectivity for phones, GPS devices, radios. Replace as needed.
Update maps and GPS coordinates if evacuation routes change.
Research newer emergency gear like solar chargers or satellite communicators.
Back up important phone data like contacts in case devices are damaged or lost.

Keeping your go bag's contents current and relevant to the season will ensure you have what you need no matter when an emergency strikes. Establish a routine for inspecting and updating your kit regularly.

Final Thoughts on Building the Best Go Bag

When preparing your go bag, the most important consideration is personalization. Customize your bag based on your specific needs and the emergency scenarios you may face. Here are some final tips:

Take inventory of your supplies every 6 months and replace expired or damaged items. Check batteries, food, and water.
Pack layers of clothing appropriate for your climate and season. Having versatile layers will allow you to adapt as conditions change.
Consider your family members or companions. Have basic supplies, medications, and comfort items for children, pets, or those with special needs.
Store your bag somewhere easily accessible in case of a rapid evacuation. Keep it by the door or in your car trunk for grab-and-go capability.
Practice using your go bag on outdoor excursions to identify any gaps in supplies. Testing it out in the field can reveal what's missing.

The exact contents of your bag will vary, but thoughtful personalization is key. Your go bag should empower you to handle diverse emergencies and evacuations with confidence and preparation.