Bug Out Bag Essentials List: Core Survival Items

Preparing a well-stocked bug out bag is vital for emergency preparedness, but it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

This article provides an essentials list so you can build a bug out bag tailored to your needs, with guidance on key categories like shelter, water, food, first aid, tools, communication, and more.

You'll get actionable advice on choosing durable supplies, accounting for family members' needs, and regularly updating your kit so when an emergency strikes, you'll have the essentials for survival.

Introduction to Bug Out Bag Essentials

A bug out bag, also known as a go bag, is an essential emergency preparedness item. This bag contains supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours in the event of a disaster or emergency situation where you need to evacuate quickly. Having a well-stocked bug out bag can truly be the difference between life and death in an unexpected crisis.

When creating your bug out bag, the key is prioritizing survival basics first. Focus on including gear and supplies that meet your fundamental needs for shelter, water, food, first aid, fire, navigation and communication. Customize your bag based on your climate, location, skills and specific risks you may face. Update and refresh it regularly since certain items can expire.

With the right essentials in your bug out bag, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're ready to handle whatever comes your way. This guide covers the core items your survival bag should contain.

Understanding Survival Priorities

When prepping your bug out bag, you need to understand the hierarchy of survival needs. Prioritize gear for:

Shelter: Lightweight tarp, tent, bivvy sack, sleeping bag
Water: Water purification tablets, collapsible water bottle
Food: High-calorie protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, MREs
First Aid: First aid kit, medications, bandages, gloves
Fire: Waterproof matches, fire starter, lighter, tinder
Navigation: Map, compass, GPS device, signal mirror
Communication: Emergency whistle, radio, satellite communicator

These form the foundation of survival preparedness. Choose versatile items that serve multiple purposes when possible.

Crafting Your Personalized Survival Bag List

While the basics are universal, customize your bug out bag to your situation. Factors like your climate, location, skills and potential risks should guide your packing list. An urban prepper's needs differ greatly from someone in a remote wilderness area. Build your list around likely emergency scenarios based on your environment.

You'll also need to tailor it to your family or group size if applicable. For example, be sure to pack enough food, water and medical supplies to sustain each person for at least 72 hours. Planning for pets? Include food, bowls and restraints for them too.

Update your list at least twice a year as needs evolve. Mark expiration dates and replace expired items as required.

The Importance of Regularly Updating Your Bug Out Bag Essentials

Disaster preparedness is an ongoing process. As your skills, location or family size changes, reevaluate your bug out bag. Key reasons to review and update it include:

Expired food/medicine: Replace anything past expiration dates
New gear: Take advantage of innovations in emergency equipment
Skill assessment: Adjust based on new skills like fire starting, navigation or first aid
Location change: Customize for new climate, terrain and potential risks
Group size change: Scale up or down for more/less people & pets

Get in the habit of reviewing your bug out bag at least every 6 months. This ensures you have the most up-to-date essentials that meet your current disaster preparedness needs.

Bug Out Bag Essentials List Printable Guide

As a preparedness resource, we've created a downloadable bug out bag checklist PDF. It summarizes the key categories of supplies with space to inventory your items and mark expiration dates.

Having this bug out bag essentials list printable enables you to easily track the state of your go bag. Download it to help guide your packing and replacements. Customize it by adding or removing categories based on your specific situation and needs.

Use the checklist to build a foolproof survival kit for handling life's unexpected emergencies. Click here to download the free PDF bug out bag essentials list now.

What do I need in a bugout bag?

A bugout bag contains essential items to help you survive in an emergency situation where you need to evacuate quickly. Having the right supplies can be the difference between life and death. Here is a list of fundamental bugout bag essentials focused on core survival priorities:

Shelter

A lightweight tarp or emergency shelter serves multiple critical purposes. It can be configured into a makeshift shelter to protect you from the elements. Bright colors can also be used for signaling rescuers. Key options to consider include:

Lightweight mylar blankets
Standard tarps
Tube tents
Emergency bivvy sacks

Having the ability to orient yourself and navigate to safety is vital. Be sure to pack:

Topographical map of your area
Compass
GPS device (if accessible)

Water

Water purification tablets allow you to make non-potable water drinkable. These should be combined with a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder to store water.

Food

Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods that are lightweight. Good options include:

Energy bars
Trail mix
Peanut butter packets
Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs)
Meal-replacement shakes

Clothing

Extra socks allow you to keep your feet dry in case of rain, river crossings, etc. This helps prevent debilitating blisters and infections.

Tools

A multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife solves a wide variety of unexpected problems. Look for one with features like a knife, pliers, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and wire cutters.

Light

LED flashlights and headlamps allow hands-free light for set up and night time visibility. Choose reliable waterproof models.

Fire

Magnesium fire starters enable you to start fires without matches for cooking, warmth, and signaling. Practice fire starting techniques before an emergency.

Communication

A hand crank or solar powered radio keeps you connected with emergency broadcasts when electronic devices fail.

Prioritize weight, portability, durability, and multi-functionality in your bugout bag essentials list. The ability to survive until you reach safety requires thoughtful planning and preparation using this checklist. Adjust your exact items based on your geographic area, season, and specific risks you may face.

What essentials should be in a go bag?

A well-stocked go bag, also known as a bug out bag, is crucial for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most essential items to include:

Food and Water

Having food and water is critical in an emergency situation. Ideal items to pack include:

High-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, trail mix, peanut butter packets, and canned goods. Prioritize compact, lightweight options.
Water purification tablets to make found water drinkable
A reusable water bottle

Aim for enough food and water to last 3 days. This will provide sustenance until you can reach safety or supplies.

Shelter and Warmth

Staying warm and having shelter is vital for survival. Key items include:

A lightweight mylar blanket to retain body heat
Hand/foot warmers that provide 12+ hours of warmth
A durable, waterproof tarp or tube tent to create an emergency shelter

Having multiple layers of clothing can also help regulate body temperature.

First Aid Supplies

Pack first aid basics like bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, latex gloves, scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, and any essential medications. This prepares you to treat injuries until advanced medical care is available. An emergency whistle can also be used to call for help.

Customize your go bag for your needs, adding tools, a radio, cash, copies of important documents, and other gear. Regularly inspect and resupply items to ensure they are usable when needed most. With preparation, your go bag can provide life-saving support during disasters.

What food is good in a bug out bag?

When packing food for your bug out bag, focus on items that are calorie-dense, non-perishable, lightweight, and easy to prepare. Some good options to consider include:

Tinned fish and meat: Small cans of tuna, sardines, salmon, or corned beef provide protein and nutrients. Look for pull-tab lids.
Canned fruits and vegetables: Fruits like peaches or pineapples and vegetables like green beans or carrots offer fiber, vitamins, and variety. Choose fruit packed in juice rather than syrup to reduce weight.
Trail mix and granola: Pack high-calorie dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and even chocolate or coconut for an energy-boosting trail mix. Look for vacuum-sealed pouches to prevent spoilage.
Protein or granola bars: Seek out bars with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat to keep you feeling full and energized.
Peanut butter: An excellent source of calories, fat, and protein. Get single-serve pouches to limit weight and mess.
Crackers: Pack sturdy crackers like Triscuits or Whole Grain Wheat Thins for a satisfying crunch.
Powdered milk and drinks: Carry powdered forms of milk, coffee, tea, or electrolyte drinks to save weight and space while still providing nutrients.

The key is packing a variety of foods that meet calorie, protein, vitamin, and mineral needs in case you need to rely on your bug out bag for an extended time. Prioritize portable, non-perishable items tailored to your tastes and dietary needs.

How much cash should you have in a bug out bag?

Having emergency cash on hand is an essential part of any bug out bag. Here are some tips on how much to include:

Keep a minimum of $500 cash - This gives you a buffer to pay for food, fuel, lodging, or other necessities if ATMs and credit cards become unusable. $500 can go a long way if spent frugally.
Bring small bills - Keeping smaller denominations like $5, $10, and $20 bills makes transactions easier if change is limited in a crisis.
Have a mix of cash - While smaller bills are useful, also keep some $50 and $100 bills for large purchases or unforeseen costs.
Set cash aside specifically for your bug out bag - Don't raid your regular emergency fund. Allocate separate cash so your bug out money stays intact.
Store cash securely - Use a concealed money belt or build a hidden compartment in your pack to safeguard it from loss or theft.
Consider alternate currencies - In dire situations, cash may lose utility. Useful backups are silver coins, gold coins, or barter items.

Following this advice helps ensure you have versatile, protected emergency cash to rely on if the unexpected occurs. Adjust amounts based on your personal situation, but $500 is a sensible starting point.

Shelter and Comfort

Shelter is crucial for survival, providing protection from the elements. When choosing shelter items for your bug out bag, focus on durable, lightweight, and insulating gear.

Choosing a Durable and Lightweight Shelter

A standard tarp is a versatile bug out bag shelter option. Tarps are waterproof and wind-resistant. Opt for a lightweight tarp made of ripstop nylon or silicone-coated polyester. Reinforced corner grommets and perimeter tie-out points maximize durability. A tarp's adaptability allows various shelter configurations. Survival priorities dictate shelter size. Smaller tarps conserve weight. Larger tarps increase shelter options. Consider a tent for more protective enclosure. Dome tents maximize interior space while resisting wind.

Insulation with Mylar Blankets and Sleeping Bags

Proper insulation prevents hypothermia. Pack a lightweight mylar blanket to retain 80% body heat. Mylar's tear-resistant, waterproof, and windproof properties provide supple, adaptable insulation. For colder conditions, include compact sleeping bags. Goose down bags offer maximum warmth for minimal weight. Synthetic bags retain some insulation when wet. Stock waterproof stuff sacks to keep gear dry.

Securing Your Shelter with Cordage and Stakes

Secure shelter against gusts using durable cordage and tent stakes. Nylon paracord resists rot and mildew. Paracord rated for 550 lbs sustains substantial tension. Aluminum and plastic stakes withstand substantial downward force when anchored in soil. Consider snow stakes for frozen ground. Carry several feet of cordage and 8-10 stakes to erect shelters.

The Role of Clothing in Survival

Clothing directly impacts survival. Wool and synthetic blends retain warmth when wet. Softshell jackets resist wind and light precipitation. Waterproof rain gear prevents hypothermia from heavy rain or snow. In hot weather, breathable fabrics mitigate heat exhaustion. Include multifunctional layers for variable conditions. Clothing supplements shelter in protecting you from the elements. Choose apparel to match anticipated environments.

Water Purification and Storage

Water is essential for survival. Having methods to purify and store water in your bug out bag can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

Water Purification Tablets and Filters

Water purification tablets like iodine or chlorine dioxide tablets are lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. They kill bacteria and viruses to make non-potable water safe for drinking. Water filters like LifeStraws and Sawyer filters also remove contaminants through a physical barrier and are reusable. Consider packing both purification tablets and a water filter in your bug out bag.

Collapsible Containers for Water Storage

Collapsible water containers with handles are convenient for transport and storage. Brands like Platypus and Hydrapak make containers ranging from 1-10 liters to meet different needs. Opt for BPA-free plastic or silicone models. The bags roll up small but expand to store substantial quantities of water when needed.

Hydration Systems and Water Bottles

Hands-free hydration systems allow you to drink water without stopping. Camelbak and Platypus are reputable brands. A good water bottle like Nalgene or Klean Kanteen also works. Choose BPA-free bottles in durable materials like stainless steel or plastic. Look for insulated bottles to keep water cool.

Locating Water Sources with a Map of Your Area

Having a detailed map of your region helps locate potential water sources like lakes, rivers, springs, and creeks. Study the map thoroughly to identify water access points. Mark locations on your map. Natural water should still be treated before drinking as it may contain contaminants. A map also helps find civilization if you need to evacuate.

Including water purification tools, storage containers, and a map in your bug out bag provides access to safe drinking water if SHTF. Prioritize portable, durable, reusable items that meet your drinking water needs.

Food and Nutrition

Maintaining energy and health is critical in survival situations. This section details nutritious and practical foods to include in your bug out bag.

High-Calorie Energy Bars and Trail Mix

Energy bars and trail mix provide a lightweight, non-perishable calorie source to maintain energy levels on the go. Look for bars and mixes high in protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. Prioritize variety to obtain different vitamins and minerals. Consider options like:

Peanut butter energy bars
Mixed nuts and dried fruits trail mix
Protein bars with oats, nuts, and chocolate

Aim for 200-300 calories per serving. Pack bars and trail mix that are individually wrapped to avoid spoilage.

Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) for Convenience

MREs offer a convenient, self-contained food option, as they do not require cooking or refrigeration. Key benefits include:

Balanced nutrition with carbs, protein, and vitamins
Long shelf life of 3-5 years
Portability as an all-in-one meal
Heating mechanism to warm food when possible

When space allows, MREs nicely complement compact foods like energy bars.

Meal-Replacement Shakes and Nutritional Supplements

To round out your food supply, consider meal-replacement shakes and vitamin supplements.

Powdered shakes provide protein, carbs, vitamins and minerals
Compact, lightweight, and non-perishable
Mix with water on-the-go
Multivitamins fill any nutritional gaps

These options help ensure adequate caloric and nutritional intake.

Long-Term Food Storage Solutions

For extended survival needs, also pack long-shelf-life staples like:

Canned goods (meats, beans, vegetables, fruits)
Dried grains (rice, quinoa, oatmeal)
Powdered milk, eggs, or butter

Rotate these out at least once per year to maintain freshness. Properly stored, they can sustain you for months or years if needed.

With a balanced combination of compact, nutrient-dense foods, your bug out bag can help fuel and nourish you in an emergency situation. Prioritize caloric energy sources plus vitamins and minerals vital for health.

First Aid and Health

A well-equipped first aid kit can be a lifesaver in an emergency situation. Having the proper medical supplies on hand allows you to treat injuries, prevent infection, and maintain health when professional medical care is not available. This section covers some of the essential components to include in your bug out bag's first aid kit.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit Contents

A comprehensive first aid kit for your bug out bag should contain supplies to treat cuts, burns, sprains and other common injuries. Recommended items include:

Adhesive bandages
Gauze pads and rolls
Triangle bandages
Elastic wrap bandages
Antibiotic ointment
Antiseptic wipes
Medical tape
Scissors and tweezers
Safety pins
Thermometer
Medications like ibuprofen, antihistamines

Having these basic medical supplies on hand will allow you to clean and dress wounds, immobilize injuries, take vital signs, and manage pain.

Personal Medication and Prescriptions

If anyone in your family takes daily medications or has important prescription drugs, be sure to pack at least a week's supply in your bug out bag. Having access to necessary medications for chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma can be crucial. Make a checklist of all essential meds and refill prescriptions before they expire.

Hygiene Supplies and Sanitizers

Maintaining personal hygiene is key to preventing illness and infection when living in survival conditions. Pack hygiene basics like:

Hand sanitizer
Bar soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Feminine products
Extra glasses or contacts

Proper sanitation helps minimize contagious diseases that tend to spread more easily when living in close quarters after a disaster.

Emergency Medical Reference Guide

Consider packing a pocket guide like the SAS Survival Handbook or Where There Is No Doctor which outlines common medical issues and treatments. These can provide life-saving information for dealing with health emergencies when professional medical care is not available. Knowing how to identify symptoms, properly disinfect wounds, set fractures, deliver babies, and more can be invaluable.

Having the right first aid supplies and medical references in your bug out bag provides crucial capacity to maintain health and treat injuries in disasters. Focus on the basics that will allow you to stabilize medical issues, control infections, and manage pain when professional help is not available. These measures can save lives.

Tools and Self-Defense

The right tools can make all the difference when trying to survive in an emergency situation. Having versatile, reliable, and practical tools in your bug out bag is essential.

Multipurpose Tools for Versatility

A good quality multipurpose tool like a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife allows you to accomplish a variety of survival tasks with one compact item. These tools commonly include implements like pliers, screwdrivers, can openers, scissors, and knives. The versatility of a multipurpose tool makes it an excellent addition to any bug out bag. Consider your likely tasks and choose a model with the tools you are most likely to need.

Reliable Cutting Tools: Knives and Saws

Having reliable cutting tools is vital for survival purposes like building shelters, harvesting resources, preparing food, and making repairs. A fixed blade knife with a 4-6 inch stainless steel blade can serve as your primary survival knife. Folding saws are lightweight and pack down small while still being capable of cutting branches, harvesting firewood, and building shelters. Include at least one good quality knife and a folding saw.

Self-Defense Options and Considerations

In a disaster scenario, you may encounter dangerous people as order breaks down. While no one wants violence, personal defense items can act as a deterrent and protect you from harm if needed. Consider pepper spray, a stun gun, or a firearm for self-defense. Keep in mind any legal restrictions in your area on certain self-defense items. Only include what you are comfortable using responsibly.

Building and Repair Supplies

Duct tape, super glue, zip ties, paracord, and similar supplies have many uses for building, repairs, and improvising solutions in survival situations. A variety of fasteners like screws, nails, nuts and bolts are also handy for building shelters. Include a selection of materials tailored to your likely needs and skill level.

Being able to communicate and navigate can be crucial in an emergency. This section covers the technology and tools needed.

Portable Radios and Communication Devices

Portable radios allow you to stay informed about emergency situations when cell phone networks may be unavailable. Consider packing a hand crank radio that does not require batteries. Popular options include:

AM/FM radios with NOAA weather band access
Two-way GMRS radios for communicating with your group
CB radios for long-range communication
Emergency radio with hand crank or solar charging

The right radio keeps your group coordinated and aware of threats during a disaster.

Maps, Compasses, and GPS Devices

Navigation aids are essential backup tools in case your phone's GPS fails. Having an old-fashioned paper map of your area can help orient yourself if electronic devices malfunction. Make sure to pack a compass as well. Some options for navigation include:

Topographic maps of surrounding area
Lensatic or baseplate compass
Handheld GPS device with extra batteries
Waterproof map containers

Test your navigation skills ahead of time so you can navigate without relying solely on technology.

Emergency Whistles and Signaling Devices

Packing an emergency whistle can alert rescuers to your location if you become stranded or injured. Other sound and visual signaling devices include:

Safety whistles with lanyard
Signal mirrors
Flares
Strobe lights
Reflective trail markers

Use signaling devices to indicate your position if you cannot call for help verbally.

Power Sources: Batteries and Solar Chargers

Your devices will be useless unless properly charged. Carry extra batteries or consider a foldable solar panel charger. Prioritize charging gear like:

Two-way radios
GPS devices
Flashlights
Headlamps

Solar chargers allow you to recharge gear directly from sunlight. Having backup power prevents your critical communication tools from failing when you need them most.

Personal Protection and Safety

Safety is a top concern in any emergency situation. Having the proper protective gear and safety equipment in your bug out bag can help ensure your wellbeing during a disaster.

Respirator Masks for Airborne Threats

Respirator masks are essential for protection against smoke, dust, pathogens, and other airborne particulates. N95 and N100 masks are recommended as they filter out at least 95% and 99.97% of tiny particles respectively. Make sure to get masks that form a tight seal on your face for maximum protection.

When selecting respirator masks, consider factors like breathability, adjustable straps, and nose pieces. Also, avoid valved masks which protect the wearer but not others. Having several masks in your bag allows you to swap out clogged or dirty ones.

Durable Gloves and Protective Eyewear

Your hands and eyes need shielding from cuts, abrasions, burns, and eye injuries during disasters. Pack a few pairs of durable work gloves in your bag to handle debris and protect your hands. Leather, mechanics, and rubber gloves are ideal choices.

Also include protective eyewear like safety goggles, glasses, or face shields. Make sure they fit snugly and have scratch/fog resistant lenses for clear vision. Select durable frames that can withstand impacts.

Emergency Blankets and Body Warmers

Preventing hypothermia is vital for survival. Packing mylar emergency blankets and body warmers helps maintain core body temperature in cold conditions. The lightweight, reflective blankets trap radiant heat while the air-activated warmers release heat for up to 10 hours. Having multiple blankets and warmers ensures sufficient insulation and warmth.

Fire Safety: Extinguishers and Blankets

Packing a small fire extinguisher and fire blanket enables you to quickly suppress flames during an emergency. Opt for a multipurpose, non-toxic extinguisher that is easy to operate. Fire blankets made of fiberglass or wool snuff out flames by cutting off oxygen supply. Use them to wrap burning items or shield yourself from heat and embers when escaping fires. They are compact and reusable.

Family Considerations for Bug Out Bags

Preparing bug out bags for the entire family is vital for emergency preparedness. Each family member, regardless of age, has specific needs that must be accounted for.

Customizing Bug Out Bags for Children

When preparing bug out bags for children:

Pack comfort items like small toys, books, or blankets. These provide security and distraction during stressful situations.
Include kid-friendly, non-perishable foods like granola bars, apple sauce pouches, and trail mix. These are easy for children to eat on the go.
Have basic medical supplies like children's pain reliever, bandages, antiseptic wipes. Children are prone to scrapes and cuts that need first aid.
Choose bright colored bags or attach reflective strips for visibility. This helps keep track of children more easily.

Including Supplies for Elderly Family Members

For elderly family members, ensure to pack:

Extra doses of critical medications and medical items like glucose meters.
Mobility aids like foldable canes, walkers, or knee scooters if needed.
Warm clothing layers and shoes with ankle support for protection and warmth.

Pet Essentials for Evacuation

For safe pet evacuation:

Bring a pet carrier, leash/harness, ID tags, vet records, and recent photos of pets. This aids identification.
Pack a week's supply of pet food and medications. Consistent diet prevents digestive issues.
Include bowls, a manual can opener, plastic bags, litter box supplies. This covers pets' basic needs.

Family Communication Plan and Meetup Strategies

Establish an out-of-town contact to relay information between separated family members.
Have a shared family calendar with identified evacuation sites. This provides a reliable meetup place.
Ensure all family members memorize the designated contacts and meetup details. Test by conducting safety drills.

By accommodating every family member's needs, you can build comprehensive bug out bags to enable group safety and rapid evacuation.

Conclusion: Finalizing Your Bug Out Bag Essentials List

When preparing your bug out bag, focus on the essentials for survival - shelter, water, food, first aid. Customize your bag and supplies to your specific needs and situation. Having the right gear and knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency.

Key points to remember:

Prioritize critical survival items like a lightweight tarp, water purification tablets, high-calorie food bars, and a first aid kit. These can save your life if disaster strikes.
Personalize your bug out bag to your climate, terrain, skills, health needs, and potential risks in your area. One size does not fit all.
Practice using your gear and test different bug out bag packing strategies before an actual emergency. This allows you to optimize.
Stay up to date on the latest bug out bag recommendations and essentials as new innovative survival products become available. Adapt as needed.

Having the right bug out bag can give you confidence to handle whatever comes your way. Continue learning, customizing and practicing with your gear. Be prepared, stay safe, and survive.