Bug Out Box Essentials for Emergencies

Preparing for emergencies is something we all understand is important.

Having a well-stocked bug out box provides essential supplies to handle unexpected situations and keep you safe in a crisis.

In this article, we'll explore the key items your bug out box should contain, including tools, first aid, shelter, water, lighting, and more to ensure you have what you need if disaster strikes.

Introduction to Bug Out Box Essentials

This post provides an overview of essential items to include in a bug out box, a kit prepared for emergency evacuation. We'll explore key survival gear, first aid supplies, and other components to help safely and efficiently evacuate during a crisis.

Understanding the Bug Out Box Concept

A bug out box, also called a go bag, contains pre-packed items for quick evacuation in emergencies. It embodies best practices for readiness. Key elements include:

Portable bag for mobility
3-day supply of food/water
First aid materials
Navigation/communication devices
Shelter supplies
Personal hygiene items

Careful planning and preparation are crucial to assemble an effective bug out box.

Key Elements of a Comprehensive Bug Out Box

Essential bug out box items include:

Water purification: A Lifestraw filter allows drinking from questionable water sources. Carry 3 liters per person.
First aid: Bandages, ointments, medications. A first aid guide is useful.
Shelter: Tube tent, tarp, duct tape, emergency blanket provide portable shelter.
Fire: Storm-proof matches, lighter, fire starter are vital for warmth/cooking.
Light: Flashlight, glow sticks, headlamp allow safe navigation at night.
Tools: Multitool knife, paracord, whistle, duct tape have many uses.
Navigation: Map, compass, GPS help plot evacuation route.
Personal items: Extra clothes, toiletries, medications.

Customize your bug out box based on evacuation needs. Prepare and pack carefully for emergency readiness.

What is the meaning of bug out box?

A bug out box is a bag packed with essential survival supplies and gear to be kept ready in case an emergency situation requires rapid evacuation or "bugging out".

The term "bug out" refers to quickly and urgently leaving a dangerous location in order to reach safety. A bug out box contains items one would need to survive for at least 72 hours when evacuating without being able to return home.

The purpose of having a bug out box prepared is to equip yourself with the necessary tools and provisions during a crisis scenario. It allows you to focus on getting to safety rather than scrambling to gather supplies.

Some key items that are commonly included in well-stocked bug out boxes are:

Bottled water and non-perishable food rations
First aid medical supplies
Flashlights, batteries
Multi-tool, pocket knife
Weather-appropriate clothing, gloves, hat
Emergency shelter (tent, tarp, bivvy sack)
Fire starting materials (matches, lighter, tinder)
Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS device)
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, feminine products)
Cash in small denominations

The exact contents of your bug out bag should be customized to your personal needs, skill level, climate conditions and potential risks in your region. But having it stocked and at the ready can be a lifesaver if you need to evacuate at a moment's notice.

Why is it called a bug out bag?

The term "bug-out bag" refers to a portable kit that contains critical items needed to survive for at least 72 hours when evacuating from a disaster. The origins of the term come from military aviators who carried "bail-out bags" with emergency supplies in case they needed to eject from their aircraft.

Over time, the term evolved into "bug-out bag" in civilian prepper culture. A bug out bag allows someone to quickly evacuate from a disaster while having the gear needed to survive until they reach safety.

Some key reasons why it's called a bug out bag:

Bugging Out: Preppers use the term "bugging out" to describe urgently leaving an area due to a disaster or emergency. A bug out bag contains the vital items you'll need while bugging out.
Portability: Bug out bags are designed to be portable and worn on your back. This allows for mobility while evacuating on foot from a disaster scene.
72 Hour Supply: A bug out bag should contain enough critical survival supplies to last ~72 hours. This provides a buffer to reach a long-term shelter location.
Evacuation Kit: The purpose of a bug out bag is to provide an evacuation kit for disasters that requires immediately leaving an area by vehicle or on foot.

Having a well-stocked bug out bag prepares any prepper to safely and efficiently "bug out" from emergencies without leaving the survival essentials behind. The portability and purpose of evacuation align with the term "bugging out", making "bug out bag" an apt description.

What is in my bug out bag?

A bug out bag, sometimes called a go bag, is an emergency kit filled with gear and supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours if a disaster strikes. Having a well-stocked bug out bag ready to go is an essential part of emergency preparedness.

When packing your bug out bag, focus on including gear that covers your basic survival needs:

Shelter and Sleep System

Tent or tarp shelter
Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
Emergency bivy sack for retaining body heat

Water and Food

Collapsible water bottle and water purification tablets
High-calorie protein bars and freeze-dried meals
Mess kit including cup, bowl, and spork

Light and Communication

LED flashlight with extra batteries
Crank or solar-powered radio to receive emergency broadcasts
Whistle for signaling

First Aid Supplies

Adhesive bandages, gauze, trauma pads
Antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
Medications, medical tape, gloves

Tools and Other Gear

Multi-tool with pliers, knife, screwdrivers
Fire starting kit with matches, lighter, tinder
Paracord, duct tape, zip ties
Compass, map of the area
Extra socks, gloves, hat

Customize your bug out bag with additional gear based on your climate, terrain, skills, and likely risks. The key is having the essentials covered so you can evacuate quickly and meet your basic needs until you find safety.

What should be in a bug out first aid kit?

A well-stocked first aid kit is an essential component of any bug out bag. At a minimum, your first aid kit should contain:

Bandages: Assorted adhesive bandages, gauze pads, rolled gauze, and medical tape to treat cuts, scrapes, and abrasions.
Antibiotic ointment: To prevent infection in minor cuts and scrapes. Look for antibiotic ointments containing Bacitracin or Neosporin.
Antiseptic wipes: To clean wounds and prevent infection. Choose individually wrapped alcohol wipes or antiseptic towelettes.
Pain medication: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen to relieve pain and reduce fever. Avoid aspirin if possible.
Medical gloves: Nitrile gloves to protect yourself when treating others.
CPR mask: A pocket mask or other barrier device to protect yourself if you need to perform CPR.
Trauma shears: Sturdy medical scissors designed to cut clothing or bandages.
Tweezers: For removing splinters and other small objects.
Thermometer: A digital thermometer to check for fever.
QuickClot: Helps stop bleeding quickly. Can be lifesaving for major cuts or injuries.

Customize your first aid kit based on your skill level, environment, and specific medical needs. Having the right supplies on hand can help you effectively treat injuries when professional medical care is not available. Be sure to check expiration dates and replace items regularly.

The Ultimate DIY Bug-Out Bag

Assembling your own bug out bag allows you to customize it to your specific needs and ensure you have all the essential gear. When choosing a backpack, look for durable, water-resistant materials and enough storage capacity to fit all your supplies.

Choosing the Right Bug Out Bags Backpack

When selecting a bug out bags backpack, key features to consider include:

Durability: Choose a rugged, abrasion-resistant material such as cordura nylon that can withstand the elements
Water resistance: Look for a water-repellant bag or one with a rain cover to keep contents dry
Storage capacity: Make sure there are enough pockets and storage options to organize all your gear
Comfort: Prioritize an ergonomic design with padded straps and a hip belt to ease carrying heavy loads

A good option is a tactical or hiking backpack around 30-50 liters, which provides flexibility to pack 3+ days worth of essentials.

Bug Out Box Survival Gear Checklist

Stock your DIY bug out bag with these fundamental supplies:

Water purification: Pack portable water filters or purification tablets
Food: Include high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars
Lighting: Carry waterproof matches, a flashlight, and glow sticks
First aid: Have bandages, gauze, medications, etc.
Tools: Add a Swiss Army knife, duct tape, zip ties, and a multi-tool
Navigation: Bring maps, a compass, GPS device, and walkie-talkies
Shelter: Have an emergency tent, sleeping bag, and bivy sack
Power: A portable solar charger and extra batteries are essential

With careful planning and preparation, you can assemble a DIY bug out bag equipped to handle any emergency situation. Evaluate your needs, organize critical supplies, and ensure everything fits neatly into an enduring, comfortable backpack.

Shelter and Comfort Items

Ensuring protection from the elements is critical, which is why your bug out box should include items for shelter and comfort.

Compact and Efficient Shelter Solutions

Pack lightweight and durable shelter options such as a Tyvek bivy sack to provide immediate protection from the elements. The Tyvek material is waterproof yet breathable, keeping you dry while preventing condensation buildup.

Other compact shelter solutions to consider include:

Ultralight tarp
Emergency tube tent
Reflective sleeping bag liner

When space is limited, choose shelter items that pack down small but offer ample coverage and durability.

Choosing a Good Sun Hat and Clothing

A good sun hat and appropriate clothing are vital for protection against harsh weather conditions.

Look for the following features in a sun hat:

Wide brim to block sun rays
Chin strap to secure in windy conditions
Breathable fabric
UPF rating for UV protection

For clothing, focus on:

Lightweight, quick-dry, and moisture-wicking fabrics
Long sleeves and pants to prevent sun exposure
Layers that can be added or removed

The right sun hat and clothing selection will regulate body temperature, prevent sunburn, and keep you protected across seasons and environments when bugging out.

Water Purification and Storage

Access to clean drinking water is a priority in survival situations, making water purification and storage a top consideration for your bug out box.

LifeStraw Peak Series Filter: A Must-Have

The LifeStraw Peak Series filter is an essential item to include in your bug out box to ensure access to safe drinking water in any environment. This award-winning filter removes bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and more from water sources like lakes, streams, and puddles.

The Peak Series filter:

Is lightweight and portable at only 2 oz
Has advanced hollow fiber membrane technology
Filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water
Removes 99.99% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of protozoan parasites
Filters down to 0.2 microns to eliminate microplastics

With the ability to filter water from virtually any source, the LifeStraw Peak Series filter is a must-have prepper item for your bug out box. Having this type of portable water filtration system could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

Durable Water Containers

In addition to water purification, having durable and leak-proof water storage containers is critical for an emergency bug out scenario. Look for containers that:

Are BPA-free and made from food-grade plastic
Have a wide opening for easy filling
Include measurement markings
Have a carrying handle and spout for pouring
Are collapsible for compact storage

Good options are 6-10 liter collapsible canteens or water bags that can withstand rugged use. Rotate water every six months and inspect containers periodically for cracks or leaks. Having robust water storage is just as vital as purification when building your bug out box.

Fire Starting and Lighting Equipment

Being able to start a fire and provide illumination are critical for survival, so having reliable tools for these tasks in your bug out box is essential.

Storm-Proof Matches and Alternative Ignition Sources

When packing storm-proof matches in your bug out box, make sure to get ones that are waterproof and windproof, with long-burning heads to stay lit in tough conditions. Good options are UCO Stormproof matches or coghlan's Storm Proof matches.

It's also smart to include a couple alternative ways to start fires as backup, like a magnesium fire starter, ferro rod, or even a small lighter. Having multiple ignition sources makes it more likely you'll get a fire going if your matches get wet or lost.

Multiple Forms of Lighting

Don't rely on just one flashlight in your bug out box. Make sure to pack both a handheld LED flashlight for portability and a headlamp so you can have hands-free light. Choose durable, water-resistant models with long battery life.

Also consider packing a glow stick or two, which provide dim area lighting and can be used for signaling. Battery-powered lanterns are another option for area lighting in a fixed camp location.

The goal is having redundant light sources in various form factors - handheld flashlight, headlamp, glow stick, etc. That way if one fails or gets lost, you have backups to navigate and signal for help.

Tools and Multipurpose Gear

Versatile tools and multipurpose gear are essential components of a well-stocked bug out bag, allowing you to address a wide range of basic survival needs from shelter building to fire starting. Having the right equipment can make a crucial difference in an emergency situation.

The Importance of a Multitool with a Serrated Blade

A high quality multitool with a serrated blade is an indispensable addition to any bug out bag. The serrated edge allows you to saw through materials like wood, plastic, and light metal with ease, enabling essential survival tasks like building shelters, traps, and fires. The multiple tools consolidated into one compact device also provide an array of functionalities like pliers, screwdrivers, bottle openers, scissors, and more. This versatility makes a serrated multitool one of the most useful pieces of gear to have on hand.

When selecting a multitool, prioritize ones with durable stainless steel construction, smooth accessible tools that lock securely into place, and an ergonomic grip for safe handling. Highly rated options to consider are the Leatherman Signal and Gerber Suspension.

Other Essential Tools for Survival

In addition to a quality multitool, a well-stocked bug out bag should contain other fundamental tools to meet critical needs:

Rope or Paracord: Strong rope is vital for shelter construction, binding items together, and gear repairs. 550 paracord is a popular choice for its durability, versatility, and light weight.
Duct Tape: The handyman's secret weapon also has a multitude of uses in survival contexts from patching holes to securing bandages. Waterproof duct tape is ideal to withstand elements.
Folding Shovel: Compact folding shovels help efficiently dig latrines, traps, fire pits, and can even chop wood in a pinch. The Gerber E-Tool is a sturdy, portable option.
Pocket Knife: A simple, fixed-blade pocket knife can be employed for preparing food, cutting cordage, and protection. Stainless steel blades resist corrosion.

Assembling survival tools like these into your bug out bag provides solutions for various critical situations you may encounter, greatly enhancing resilience. Evaluate your unique needs and conditions to determine additional worthwhile tools.

Communication and Power

In an emergency, being able to communicate and maintain power for your devices is crucial. Your bug out box should help you stay connected and operational.

Walkie-Talkies and Electronic GPS Devices

Include Walkie-talkies for local communication and an electronic GPS for navigation when traditional methods fail. Walkie-talkies enable communication over short distances without relying on cell towers or other infrastructure. Make sure to get a set with sufficient range and battery life for your needs. An electronic GPS device can pinpoint your location and provide navigation assistance when cell phone reception is unavailable. Choose a rugged, waterproof model with preloaded regional maps.

Some top-rated options to consider include:

Motorola Talkabout T800 Two-Way Radios
Garmin eTrex Touch 35 Handheld GPS
Cobra ACXT545 Walkie Talkies

When packing these items, include any necessary batteries, charging cables, or accessories to keep them powered up. Test them to ensure proper functionality as well.

Portable Solar Chargers and Power Banks

A portable solar charger ensures that your devices remain charged even when off the grid. They can replenish small USB power banks that you can use to charge phones, GPS units, radios, and other electronics.

Look for solar chargers that are lightweight, durable, waterproof, and provide enough wattage to meet your needs. Some top options are:

BigBlue 28W Solar Charger
Anker 21W 2-Panel Portable Solar Charger
GOAL ZERO Nomad 20 Solar Panel

Pair solar chargers with high-capacity power banks from reputable brands like Anker and INIU. Consider getting multiple power banks so one can charge via solar while the other powers your devices.

Proper charging and communication gear will keep you connected and aware of your situation, enabling better decision making during an emergency scenario. Invest in quality gear and learn how to use it effectively beforehand.

Personal Protection and Security

In emergencies, personal safety can be threatened. Equip your bug out box with items that can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

Tactical Bug Out Bag Additions for Personal Safety

Consider adding tactical gear like pepper spray, a sturdy knife, or even personal defense training manuals to your bug out box. Having the right tools and knowledge can help keep you safe in an emergency situation.

Pepper spray is an excellent non-lethal option for self defense. Make sure to get police-grade pepper spray that can shoot a strong, focused stream up to 10 feet. This allows you to keep a safe distance from an attacker.

A fixed-blade knife with a 4-6 inch stainless steel blade is also useful for protection as well as survival purposes like making shelters, cutting rope, or preparing food. Choose one with a textured grip so your hand doesn't slip.

Manuals on self defense, martial arts, or hand-to-hand combat techniques can also help you defend yourself without weapons. Having this knowledge in your mind could mean the difference between safety and harm.

Secure Storage Solutions

Use a waterproof pouch to keep important documents like identification cards, cash, maps, and contacts protected from water damage in your bug out bag. A good pouch will be made of durable vinyl or silicone that keeps contents dry even when submerged.

You can also store electronic devices like cell phones, small tablets, or GPS units in a waterproof case or pouch. Make sure to get one that fits your device model properly while still allowing you to access ports and buttons. Rugged cases with lanyard holes allow you to securely carry your device hands-free.

Having backups of critical data on an external hard drive or flash drive that's stored in a waterproof, shock-proof case is also important for security and redundancy.

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked first aid kit is a vital component of any bug out box, allowing you to effectively handle medical emergencies when on the go. Having the proper supplies and knowledge to provide first aid greatly increases your chance of survival in an emergency situation.

First-Aid Basics for Immediate Care

When building your bug out bag first aid kit, be sure to include basic supplies like:

Adhesive bandages: Have a variety of bandage sizes to treat cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Gauze pads and rolls: Use to control bleeding and dress wounds.
Antiseptic wipes: Clean cuts and scrapes to prevent infection.
Antibiotic ointment: Apply to wounds to prevent bacterial growth.
Medical tape: Secure dressings and bandages.
Scissors and tweezers: Remove debris and cut bandages.
Over-the-counter pain medication: Relieve pain from injuries.
Anti-diarrhea medication: Treat gastrointestinal issues.

Having these basic first aid items will allow you to immediately treat injuries when SHTF. Be sure to check expiration dates and replace as needed.

Advanced First Aid Supplies

For those with medical knowledge and training, consider adding more advanced gear:

Sutures and needles: Close major wounds.
Splints: Stabilize broken bones.
Prescription medications: If you rely on medications, pack at least a week's supply.
Blood pressure cuff: Monitor vitals.
Stethoscope: Check breathing sounds.

With training, these supplies can help save lives in a disaster scenario. However, improper use can cause further harm. Get certified before using advanced gear.

Having the right first aid kit can mean the difference between life and death when disaster strikes. Invest in quality gear and get the knowledge needed to use it properly. Your health is your top priority when SHTF.

Final Considerations and Maintenance

Customizing your bug out bag to your unique situation is key. Focus on versatile gear that covers your basic survival needs, allows you to sustain yourself for 72+ hours, and aids in orienting, navigating, and signaling for rescue. Regularly inspect and update your supplies and rotate perishable items like food and medicine.

Regular Inspection and Practice

It is important to regularly inspect your bug out bag to ensure all gear is functioning properly and nothing has expired. Set reminders to:

Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine, batteries, etc. Replace anything that has expired.
Test equipment like flashlights, radios, fire starters, water filters, etc. Replace batteries or any non-working items.
Take inventory and replace any missing or damaged items.
Practice using all the survival skills and gear in your bag - fire starting, shelter building, navigation, first aid, etc. Muscle memory is key in an emergency.

Conducting regular inspections and drills will confirm you know how to use everything in your bug out box and that all gear will perform when needed most.

Updating Your Bug Out Box with Seasonal Items

The contents of your bug out bag should evolve to account for seasonal and geographic factors where you live. Some suggestions:

Carry extra water and electrolyte tablets in summer.
Pack a compact sleeping bag and bivy sack in colder months.
Include snowshoes or traction cleats during winter.
Adjust clothing layers according to climate and season.
Consider seasonal hazards like storms, heat waves, or fires based on location.

Tailoring your bug out box to the current season where you live ensures you have the right survival supplies year-round, regardless of conditions. Rotate clothing and gear accordingly with each season change.