When it comes to survival scenarios, most would agree that dealing with insects and bugs can be a serious challenge.
By understanding bug out basics and crafting the right bug out bag, you can effectively prepare for handling bugs during a survival situation.
This article will cover key aspects of dealing with bugs when bugging out, including grasping bug out concepts, building customized bug out bags, utilizing natural repellents, and applying real-world survival tactics.
Embarking on Your Bug Out Survival Journey
Preparing for survival situations starts with understanding potential threats. Bugs may seem like a minor issue, but they can quickly become dangerous without the right precautions. As we embark on building skills for outdoor survival, it's important to cover the bug out bug basics - from repellents to first aid.
This post will provide a comprehensive guide to dealing with bugs when planning for survival scenarios. We'll cover key information to help you start your journey prepared.
Grasping the 'Bug Out' Concept: Essentials for Survival
The "bug out" philosophy focuses on being ready to evacuate quickly into nature. This could mean dealing with bugs, snakes, inclement weather and more. Here's what you need to know:
- Learn your region's bugs - Research what insects are common where you live and their behaviors. This allows you to identify them quickly and respond appropriately if they become a threat during an evacuation.
- Natural repellents - Make DIY repellents at home before a disaster strikes. These usually contain oils like citronella, lemon eucalyptus or peppermint. You can also pack herbs like lavender or rosemary.
- First aid essentials - Bandages, antiseptic creams, antihistamines, and epinephrine can treat stings, bites and allergic reactions. Know basic first aid protocols.
Mastering these survival skills ensures you're ready for the outdoors during a disaster bug out.
The Ultimate Survival Kit: Crafting Your Bug Out Bag
Your bug out bag should contain key items to deal with insect threats:
- Protective clothing - Pack tightly woven long sleeves, pants, hats, and gloves to create a barrier against bugs. You may need lightweight breathable fabrics for hot environs.
- Mosquito nets/tarps - Carry lightweight netting to create a bug-free shelter. Nets with built-in floor flaps are useful. Waterproof tarps also provide overhead protection.
- Containers - Sealable plastic bins keep pests out of your food. You'll need containers big enough for a few days' supplies.
Prioritize these when building your bug out bag. With the right preparation, you can start your survival journey confidently. We hope these bug out bug basics have illuminated what to expect and how to respond. Let us know if you have any other questions!
What does BugOut mean?
BugOut is slang that refers to departing or retreating hurriedly from an area, typically in an emergency situation. In a survival or disaster preparedness context, "bugging out" refers to evacuating your current location with your bug out bag and supplies and moving to a secure location.
A bug out bag, sometimes called a "go bag" or survival bag, contains the essential supplies you need to survive for several days outside your home. The contents of your bug out bag allow you to safely evacuate an area and meet your basic needs until you are able to reach a secure long-term shelter or location. Things like food, water, first aid, tools, clothing, camping and survival gear are standard items to include.
Having a comprehensive, well-stocked bug out bag is a fundamental aspect of emergency preparedness. Knowing when and how to properly execute your bug out plan during a disaster could mean the difference between life and death. It enables you to leave at a moment's notice and sustain yourself until you find shelter or help arrives.
What does it mean when someone is bugged out?
When someone is "bugged out" in a survival scenario, it typically means they are behaving erratically or irrationally due to high stress and anxiety levels. This reaction is commonly triggered by frightening situations where basic needs are threatened, like lack of food/water or exposure to the elements.
Some common signs of being "bugged out" include:
- Panicking easily over minor issues
- Having trouble focusing or making logical decisions
- Displaying nervous tendencies like pacing repeatedly
- Becoming withdrawn and non-communicative
- Experiencing tunnel vision or impaired reasoning
Being in survival mode can certainly cause anyone to feel on-edge. However, allowing panic to set in makes it much harder to access our higher executive functions needed to react well. This inhibits strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
It's important to recognize symptoms of being "bugged out" early and have personal or group mechanisms to promote calming. For instance:
- Taking a few deep breaths
- Drinking water
- Eating to maintain blood sugar/nutrients
- Using mantras or mental imagery to stay grounded
Keeping centered in a crisis is key. Having go-to relaxation aids and a level-headed community can help you avoid getting fully "bugged out".
Is it better to bug in or bug out?
The decision of whether to bug in or bug out depends greatly on the type of disaster scenario. Bugging in, or sheltering in place at your home, can provide familiarity and utilize your existing stockpile of supplies. However, some catastrophic events like wildfires or floods may force you to evacuate. Consider these key factors when deciding:
Security
If facing civil unrest or societal breakdown, your secure homestead likely offers better protection than being on the move. Reinforce doors/windows, organize neighborhood watches, and keep a low profile. However, uncontrolled spread of contagion may necessitate isolation elsewhere.
Supplies
With adequate food/water to sustain your family, bugging in utilizes your stockpiled prepper supplies best. Conserving/rationing is easier than transporting bulk goods to another location that may lack amenities.
Severity assessment
Can utilities, medical care, supply chains and civil order be reliably maintained? If so, sheltering at home through a temporary crisis can minimize disruption. But a true SHTF scenario like nuclear fallout demands careful consideration of each bug out location’s risks.
Family obligations
Bugging out requires transporting children, elderly or disabled dependents, pets and necessary medications with you under duress. If remaining in place safely accommodates their critical needs best, avoiding hazardous journeying is advisable. Establish backup points-of-contact outside immediate evacuation zones should separation occur.
There is no definitive right or wrong - analyze the unique conditions of the disaster and how it impacts your family’s best chances according to your contingency plans. Achieving group consensus quickly is vital. Fair assessment and flexibility give you the best odds of safely persevering no matter which option you undertake. Regularly reviewing all scenarios with family prepares you for critical decision-making should calamity strike.
Why is it called bugging out?
The term "bugging out" in relation to prepping and survival likely originated in World War II. Some sources suggest it may have been inspired by 1930s cartoons that showed bugs rapidly fleeing or scattering when threatened by an impending foot or boot.
The imagery captures the hurried, disorganized, and somewhat panicked nature of bugs suddenly bolting in all directions to avoid capture. This compares well to a scenario in which someone may need to urgently evacuate or leave an area due to impending danger or disaster. Like scattering bugs, they must depart in haste, often without much order or planning involved.
So calling it "bugging out" conveys this frantic sensation of needing to get out quickly before catastrophe strikes. Over time in prepper circles it became shorthand for grabbing your bug out bag essentials and immediately exiting your current location in favor of heading to a safer bug out location or survival shelter away from harm.
The term "bugging out" succinctly symbolizes that moment when monitoring risks and being prepared intersects with an imminent threat, requiring rapid action to preserve safety through strategic retreat. Just as bugs reflexively flee impending capture by a boot, so must the well-prepared survivalist be ready to transition in a moment's notice from preparation to mobilization.
sbb-itb-b932644
Building the Tactical Bug Out Bag: Bug Edition
Equip your bug out bag with bug nets, permethrin treatment, sealed containers, and other key items to limit bug exposure.
Choosing Your Pack: Tactical Bug Out Bag Essentials
When building a bug out bag for survival scenarios with lots of insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and flies, choosing the right tactical backpack is crucial. Here are some key features to look for:
- Durable, lightweight materials like 1000D nylon cordura or ripstop fabric can withstand scrapes through brush without tearing. Lighter bags won't tire you out during long hikes.
- Molle webbing on the exterior lets you securely attach more gear with carabiners and straps. Extra storage options are vital for bug spray, head nets, and sealed food containers.
- Water-resistant construction keeps your gear dry if caught in rain, and prevents bugs from getting in. Look for waterproof zippers and seam tape technology.
- Multiple compartments and pockets help organize gear for quick access. Keep insect repellent and first aid close at hand in exterior pockets.
Some excellent tactical bug out bag options are the Direct Action Ghost backpack, 5.11 Rush72 backpack, and the REEBOW GEAR assault pack.
Bug Out Bag List: Insect Protection Must-Haves
When prepping your bug out bag for survival, be sure to include these insect defense essentials:
- Permethrin pre-treatment to apply to clothes, tents, and gear keeps bugs away for up to 6 weeks and through multiple washes. It's non-toxic when dry.
- Head nets and bug jackets create a protective barrier when venturing into swarms. Try the O2 Cool breathable mesh mosquito hood.
- Essential oils like citronella, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass work as natural bug repellents. Use with bracelets, sprays or lotions.
- Sealed food containers prevent bugs from getting into your food rations. Look for gaskets and locking lids.
Having the right bug out bag bug protection is crucial for outdoor survival. Research what works for different regions and environments when prepping your gear.
Natural Defenses: The DIY Bug Out Bag Kit
Making your own plant-based bug sprays can be simple, affordable, and effective. Discover recipes with essential oils, herbs, and other natural ingredients that can help protect you from bug out bugs when building your survival strategy.
Homefront Tactics: Crafting Natural Repellents
When prepping your bug out bag (BOB), having natural and non-toxic bug repellents is essential. Not only are DIY options often cheaper, they avoid harsh chemicals. Here are some easy homemade repellent recipes to include in your survival kit:
- Essential oil spray - Fill a spray bottle with 2 cups of apple cider vinegar and 10-15 drops of eucalyptus, lemon, or citronella essential oil. The strong herbal scents drive bugs away naturally. Spray over exposed skin.
- Herbal sachets - Place dried lavender, mint, rosemary, and lemongrass in small muslin bags. The aroma wards off mosquitoes and flies when worn on clothing or placed around your shelter at night.
- Plant-infused oils - Steep crushed cloves, thyme, geranium leaves, or catnip in a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil. After 2 weeks, strain and apply the infused oil directly to skin as an effective repellent lotion. Reapply every few hours.
These natural options utilize the insect-repelling properties of certain plants to create affordable and portable bug deterrents perfect for your BOB. Not only do they help evade bites, but the calming aromas can provide comfort in stressful situations.
Bug Out Bag Builder: Assembling Your Natural Kit
When organizing your bug out bag, make sure to pack your homemade repellents efficiently:
- Store essential oil sprays in leakproof bottles with spray nozzles for easy application on-the-go. Mini travel sizes work well.
- Wrap herbal sachets tightly in plastic wrap then small zip bags to contain aromas. Place near top of bag for accessibility.
- Transfer infused oils into small, reusable containers like lip balm tins for mess-free transport and use.
Also include protective items like lightweight long shirts and pants, mosquito netting, all-natural bug bite relief sticks, and herbal salves to treat any irritation. Having this natural defense kit means you don’t need to rely solely on harsh chemical options when dealing with bug out bugs.
Assembling your own plant-based solutions allows customizable and affordable prep while avoiding toxic ingredients. With some simple recipes, you can create an effective, safe bug defense strategy for your next outdoor survival trip or bug out situation.
Military Bug Out Bags for Sale: Commercial vs. Custom
When it comes to bug out bags, having the right gear can make all the difference in an emergency. Military-grade bug out bags offer rugged construction and useful tools, but commercial options don't always meet everyone's needs. Building a custom bug out bag allows you to tailor your kit to your specific situation.
Assessing Pre-Made Military Kits
Pre-made military bug out bags provide a ready-to-go option with useful features like MOLLE webbing and durable fabrics. However, commercial kits often lack specialized insect repellents and protective netting that is vital for keeping bugs at bay in a survival setting. Evaluating each bag's inclusion of bug sprays, treated netting, and other anti-insect gear can inform your purchasing decision.
Some key aspects to review:
- Included insect repellents - Many kits omit essential bug sprays and treated clothing. Having effective natural repellents on hand is crucial.
- Mosquito nets and netting - Netting treated with Permethrin can provide an extra layer of protection from mosquitos and other biting insects when sleeping or stationary.
- Water purification - A military bug out bag should contain portable water filters or chemical treatments to prevent sickness from contaminated water, which insects can spread.
Choosing a bag with ample defenses against bug out bugs will reduce your risks substantially when bugging out.
Customizing Your Military Bug Out Solution
While some commercial military backpacks contain nice survival features, customizing your own bug out bag kit allows you to address any gaps for your situation.
Some customization tips:
- Add natural insect repellents like eucalyptus, citronella, tea tree, and lemon eucalyptus oils.
- Include Permethrin treatment for clothing and extra netting.
- Research the specific insects in your region and pack targeted defenses. Different geographies face diverse infestations.
- Install mesh screen panels on your backpack for additional airflow and keep bug entry points limited.
- Select a bag with an emphasis on anti-insect capabilities if you anticipate severe bug hazards.
Building your own military bug out bag takes more effort yet enables you to assemble the ultimate survival kit to handle the bug out bugs you could realistically face. Weigh your options between turnkey and DIY when preparing your go-bag.
On the Ground: Applying Your Bug Out Bug Strategies
Bugs can pose a significant nuisance and health hazard when out in the wilderness during a bug out situation. Being prepared to deal with them is crucial for comfort and safety. This section covers real-world scenarios you may face regarding bugs during your bug out, along with first aid tips for treating bites and stings using items from your bug out bag.
Real-World Scenarios: When Bugs Strike
You'll likely encounter bugs like mosquitoes, ticks, ants, and bees when bugging out. Here are some common scenarios:
- Mosquito swarms - Mosquitoes breed in standing water and thrive in warm, humid conditions. Protect yourself with clothing, bug spray, and nets. Have anti-itch creams on hand.
- Ticks in foliage - Ticks live in grass and wooded areas waiting to latch onto passing hosts. Check your body regularly and safely remove any attached ticks.
- Ant hills on camp grounds - Watch where you place gear and sleep to avoid encounters with fire ants and other biting ants that can quickly swarm a perceived threat.
- Bees near food sources - Be cautious when drinking sweet liquids or eating ripe fruit. Watch for beehives in camp site vicinity and walk carefully around them.
Situational awareness regarding bugs lets you steer clear or properly handle encounters. Having critical gear and medications in your bug out bag like long clothing, nets/tarps, repellent sprays, antihistamines, gauze, and antiseptic creams will enable you to respond effectively.
First Response: Treating Bites and Stings in the Field
If confronting bugs leads to bites or stings, promptly treat using supplies from your bug out bag such as:
For mild reactions:
- Clean the wound with soap and water
- Apply antibiotic ointment
- Cover with sterile gauze or bandage
- Take antihistamine for swelling and itching
For severe reactions (trouble breathing, swollen face/eyes, chest pain, etc.):
- Administer epinephrine auto-injector if available
- Take antihistamine
- Immobilize the injured area
- Seek medical help ASAP
Having the right medical gear and knowledge lets you respond correctly to bug out bug bites. Check expiration dates of medications periodically while packing your bug out bag essentials. Renew bug spray, nets, long clothing, and other repellent/protection items as needed.
Following these practical measures and treatment tips will help you safely traverse and thrive in the outdoors during your bug out.
After Action Review: Lessons from the Bug Out Experience
When facing an insect threat during a survival situation, having the right gear and a solid plan can make all the difference. As we explore bug out strategies, it's important to emphasize being well-prepared to handle bug issues. Let's recap key takeaways to inform future preparations.
Summing Up Survival: The Bug Out Bag's Role
A well-equipped bug out bag forms the foundation of your insect defense. Key items include:
- Insect repellents like DEET sprays and lemon eucalyptus oils
- Protective clothing like bug jackets with head nets
- First aid supplies for bites and stings
Stashing these items in your go-to survival kit ensures you can quickly access bug solutions when needed. Assembling bug out bag basics ahead of time is vital preparation.
Future Preparations: Adapting and Evolving Your Bug Out Plan
Each bug encounter provides an opportunity to learn. Note what items or tactics worked and what could be improved in your bug out strategy. Over time, evolve your plan by:
- Adding new insect repellents to your bag as they emerge
- Retiring gear that proved ineffective
- Sharing lessons learned about regional bugs with your community
By continually honing your preparations, your bug out bag and know-how will become invaluable survival assets. With vigilance and care in planning, you can handle any insect threats the wilderness throws your way.
