When starting out as a new prepper, assembling an effective bug out pack can seem like a daunting task.
But having the right essentials in your go bag can greatly improve your ability to respond and adapt during an emergency.
In this guide, you'll discover the must-have items for new preppers building their first bug out pack, ensuring you have the core supplies and gear to handle a range of survival scenarios.
Introduction to Bug Out Packs
A bug out pack, also known as a go bag, is an essential part of an emergency preparedness plan. This type of backpack contains supplies and tools to help you survive for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly.
Bug out packs are often tailored to the owner's specific needs, but there are some essential items that every pack should include. Here is an introductory guide to bug out pack basics for those new to prepping:
Water and Water Purification
Having potable water is critical in an emergency situation. A bug out bag should include at least one gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. Methods of purification like water purification tablets, a LifeStraw, or a Sawyer water filter are also essential in case you need to source water while on the move.
Food/Rations
Look for lightweight, high-calorie foods that won't expire quickly such as protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and MREs. The food should be enough to sustain you for at least 72 hours.
First Aid Supplies
A first aid kit tailored for wilderness use is key. At minimum it should include bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, latex gloves, and any necessary personal medications.
Navigation/Communication
Having multiple forms of navigation (map and compass, GPS device) and communication (emergency radio, flare gun, signal mirror) can help you find your way or get rescued if needed.
This covers some of the basic items that every bug out bag should contain. Of course, additional gear suited to your climate, terrain, skill level, and specific risks should be added as your experience grows. But this foundational supply list is a good starting point for novice preppers.
What is usually in a bug out bag?
A bug out bag, also known as a go bag or 72-hour kit, contains essential supplies to survive for at least 3 days in an emergency situation. Here are some of the most important items that every bug out bag should include:
Food and Water
Having enough food and water is critical in an emergency. Experts recommend packing at least 1 gallon of water per person per day, along with high-calorie non-perishable foods like protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat).
First Aid Supplies
A comprehensive first aid kit can help treat injuries and illness when professional medical care is unavailable. Important components include bandages, gauze, trauma supplies, medications, tools (scissors, tweezers), etc.
Tools and Gear
Equipment to build shelter, start fires, navigate, and repair gear is essential. This includes a tent, sleeping bag, matches/lighter, compass, knife, duct tape, and a multi-tool. Signaling devices like mirrors, whistles, and flares are also recommended.
Light Sources
Pack multiple light sources, like flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps. Having backup batteries/charging methods is also wise in case one light source fails.
Personal Items
Bug out bags should be customized to the user's specific needs. Important personal items include copies of identification/documents, cash, hygiene/sanitation products, medications, pet supplies, and irreplaceable keepsakes.
Following FEMA guidance while packing suitable tools, food, first aid, and other gear can create a reliable bug out bag for withstanding disasters both big and small. Continually monitoring and replacing expired items helps ensure your bag is ready whenever disaster strikes.
What does the term bug out bag mean?
A "bug out bag", also known as a "go bag", is an emergency kit filled with critical supplies and gear meant to sustain someone in a survival situation. It contains items one would need if required to evacuate quickly or "bug out" from a disaster, which is where it gets its name.
The contents of a bug out bag enable one to be self-reliant for at least 72 hours when away from regular supplies and infrastructure. It is tailored to provide basic necessities such as food, water, first aid, shelter, navigation, and other fundamental survival needs. The goal is to have the essentials prepacked so that precious time and energy is not wasted gathering items during an emergency scenario requiring rapid action.
For those new to emergency preparedness, a bug out bag forms the foundation of a robust survival strategy. It serves as an indispensable resource should catastrophe strike, buying critical time while adapting to infrastructure failures and developing longer-term contingency plans. With the right supplies, skills and knowledge, a well-equipped bug out bag drastically increases one's ability to effectively respond, endure and overcome dire emergencies.
How many days should a bug out bag last?
A bug out bag is designed to provide the essentials to survive for 72 hours or 3 days while you seek more permanent shelter and resupply. The key is being prepared so that everything is ready to go at a moment's notice.
Here are some tips on packing your bug out bag to last 3 days:
- Water - Pack at least one gallon per person per day. Water purification tablets or a portable water filter allow you to replenish from natural sources.
- Food - Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. MREs or freeze dried meals are great options.
- First Aid - A basic first aid kit, medications, bandages, and tools to treat injuries. This will allow you to survive common injuries while mobile.
- Navigation - Map of the area, compass, GPS device to help you get to your destination. Having multiple navigation tools is important for redundancy.
- Shelter - Pack a tent, tarp, emergency blanket or bivvy sack to protect from the elements at your temporary site.
- Clothing - Extra layers, socks, rain gear stored in waterproof bags will keep you warm and dry.
- Tools - Knife, lighter, flashlight, paracord, duct tape etc will help you gather resources, make repairs, or signals if needed.
The key is packing smartly with versatile items that take care of your basic survival needs for 3 days until you can reach more permanent shelter and supplies. Maintaining and taking inventory of your bug out bag is also essential.
What food to put in a bug out bag?
When packing food for your bug out pack, it's important to focus on non-perishable, nutrient-dense options that are easy to transport and prepare. Here are some of the best foods to include:
Canned and Pouched Foods
Canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups are convenient bug out bag items. Look for pull-top lids that don't require a can opener. Pouched tuna, salmon, chicken, and veggies are other great options. Prioritize high-protein foods to support energy and fullness.
High-Calorie Bars
Granola, protein, and meal replacement bars provide a substantial calorie boost in a tiny package. Seek bars with at least 200-300 calories and a mix of carbs, protein and healthy fats to sustain energy.
Dried Fruits and Nuts
Raisins, cranberries, apricots and banana chips supply key nutrients. Mixed nuts and seeds boast protein, fiber and good fats. They store easily, making them perfect bug out pack additions.
Oatmeal and Whole Grains
Single-serve oatmeal packets, rice cups, quinoa pouches and other fast-cooking whole grains are worthwhile bug out bag components. They give you an easy way to make a hot, comforting meal on the go.
Water and Electrolyte Beverages
Having potable water is critical in an emergency scenario. Pack durable bottles, water purification tools, electrolyte tablets to prevent dehydration and powdered sports drinks.
Focus your food choices on stability, ease of preparation, dense nutrition and reasonably long shelf life. Test products at home first and routinely cycle out items in your bag to ensure freshness.
Understanding the Essentials of a Bug Out Pack
A bug out pack, also known as a bug out bag or go bag, is an essential part of emergency preparedness, especially for those new to prepping. This backpack contains supplies and tools to help you survive for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly.
The Role of a Bug Out Pack in Survival
Having a well-stocked bug out pack is crucial for the following reasons:
- It allows you to leave quickly if there is an emergency evacuation order or you need to escape a dangerous scenario. You'll have crucial supplies on hand instead of trying to gather them last minute.
- It contains necessities like food, water, first aid, and navigation tools to survive several days without access to other resources. This buys you time until you can reach safety or resupply.
- It is tailored to your needs and location. You can customize the gear for the climate, terrain, and potential risks where you live.
- It serves as an ultimate insurance policy for unexpected crises. Natural disasters, accidents, societal breakdowns, and other emergencies can strike suddenly, making a bug out pack vital.
Bug Out Pack Essentials for Effective Preparedness
Certain categories of gear are considered essentials for any quality bug out bag:
Water and Food - Pack enough water and high-protein food like protein bars, beef jerky, and canned goods to last 3+ days. Water purification tools are also important.
First Aid Supplies - A comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. can save your life if injured.
Navigation Aids - Maps, a compass, GPS device, and other navigation equipment will help you find your way if you must travel by foot.
Shelter and Fire - Pack a tent, sleeping bag, and fire-starting supplies like matches, lighter, kindling, and tinder. These meet basic survival needs for shelter and warmth.
Self Defense Items - Consider pepper spray, a knife, flashlight, or other gear for self defense and protection.
Other Essentials - Flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, emergency blanket, radio, gloves, and whistles are also useful.
Tailoring Your Bug Out Bag Supplies
While those categories make up core bug out bag items, you can tailor your specific gear to your climate, terrain, skill level, and potential risks:
- Clothing - Pack clothing suitable for the weather and environment where you live. Think layers, moisture-wicking, etc.
- Regional Tools - Snow shoes for heavy winter snow? Snake bite kit if in desert terrain? Specialized gear improves chances.
- Redundant Essentials - Backup fire starters, water purification, first aid kits improve resilience.
- Personalized Medical Items - Pack prescription medications, eyeglasses/contacts, etc. that you need.
Customizing your supplies based on your situation makes a bug out pack even more valuable when disaster strikes.
Prepping for Beginners: Building Your First Bug Out Pack
As a new prepper, the process of building your first bug out bag can seem daunting. Follow this guidance to assemble an effective, affordable bug out pack:
- Use the category checklists above to compile a list of needed gear and supplies. Consider your personal needs too.
- Research to find versatile, durable, and cost-effective survival tools and bags to fill each category. Avoid cheap gimmicks.
- Pack layers of supplies in easy-to-carry backpacks, bags, and containers to stay organized.
- Test gear and bags by taking practice hikes or even setting up an emergency camp in your yard. This surfaces what works, what doesn't.
- Upgrade and iterate over time. Swap less useful items for better gear as experience grows.
Start basic with proven essentials for your first bug out pack. Learning proper use of core tools takes practice but is essential during real crises. Slowly build up customized enhancements after mastering the basics.
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Selecting the Best Bug Out Bags Backpack
Choosing the right bug out backpack is critical for comfort and efficiency when bugging out. The optimal backpack will allow you to carry the necessary survival items without weighing you down.
Size and Capacity: Balancing Load and Mobility
When selecting a bug out backpack, consider how much gear you need to carry. A good general range is between 35-65 liters. Too small, and you won't fit essentials. Too large, and the heavy load will slow you down. Find the sweet spot based on your personal needs.
Prioritize space for shelter, water, food, first aid, tools, and navigation. But don't overload the pack - traveling light is ideal. Test pack different loads to find the maximum weight you can carry without fatigue over long distances.
Material and Durability: Ensuring Long-Term Use
Choose a backpack made of durable, weatherproof materials like vinyl, canvas, cordura nylon, or leather. These can withstand years of heavy use and harsh conditions.
Key areas to check are waterproof zippers, reinforced stitching, padded shoulder straps, and a sturdy frame. These features enhance longevity so your pack stays intact when you need it most.
Fit and Comfort: The Foundation of a Go Bag
An improperly fitted go bag will quickly become unbearable. When worn, the hip belt should sit just above the hips and shoulder straps adjusted to hold the pack close to the back.
The pack should not shift or bounce when moving. Take the time to carefully adjust the straps and load lifters so the bag remains stable. This prevents fatigue and blisters over long evacuations.
Field test your loaded pack to ensure optimal comfort and mobility when bugging out during an emergency. Fine tune adjustments as needed.
Sustenance: Emergency Food Supplies and Water Purification
Ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration is critical in an emergency scenario. When packing your bug out bag, focus on non-perishable, calorie-dense foods as well as methods to procure and purify water.
Nutrition in Emergencies: Choosing the Right Food
When building your emergency food supply, prioritize lightweight, nutrient-rich, non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration or preparation. Some good options include:
- Canned goods (meats, beans, fruits, vegetables)
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Protein/granola bars
- Peanut butter
- Crackers
- Beef jerky
Look for foods that provide a substantial amount of calories and nutrients to fuel you in a survival situation. Avoid foods that could dehydrate you or provide empty calories without sustained energy.
Hydration Strategies: Water Storage and Purification
In addition to food, having access to clean drinking water is critical. Ways to ensure safe hydration include:
- Pack durable water bottles and water storage containers like foldable bladders or water pouches. Consider durability, weight and capacity when choosing.
- Pack water purification tools like water purification tablets, Lifestraws or portable water filters to clean found water sources.
- Know how to procure water safely from natural sources and purify through boiling, filtration or disinfection.
Storing water and the ability to make found water potable are both vital capacities for your go bag.
Meeting Special Dietary Needs in a Survival Scenario
If you follow a special diet, you can still prepare compact, non-perishable emergency food supplies. Some suggestions include:
Gluten-free - Pack gluten-free granola/protein bars, nuts, canned fruits/vegetables, peanut butter and dried fruit. Ensure all packaged foods are certified gluten-free.
Dairy-free - Rely on foods that do not naturally contain dairy like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, dried meats, rice and oats. Verify packaged foods do not contain milk derivatives.
Vegetarian/Vegan - Good options include dried fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, peanut butter, canned beans and vegetables, granola and cereal. Carefully check labels for animal products if vegan.
With some adaptability and planning, those with dietary restrictions can still create a well-stocked bug out bag for emergency preparedness.
Medical Aid: Assembling a First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any bug out bag. Having the necessary medical supplies on hand could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. When assembling your first aid kit, be sure to include items that address both immediate care needs as well as tools for longer-term survival scenarios.
Essential First Aid Supplies for Immediate Care
- Adhesive bandages: Have a variety of bandage sizes to treat cuts, scrapes, and burns.
- Gauze pads and rolls: Use for controlling bleeding and wrapping injuries.
- Antibiotic ointment: Prevents infection in minor cuts and abrasions.
- Antiseptic wipes: Clean wounds to avoid infection.
- Medical tape: Secure dressings and bandages.
- Scissors and tweezers: Remove debris and splinters.
- Pain medication: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin.
- Anti-diarrhea medication
- Electrolyte packets
- Antihistamines: Treat allergic reactions.
Advanced Medical Aid and Survival Tools
In addition to basic first aid items, also consider:
- Tourniquet: Stop severe bleeding from extremity injuries.
- Emergency blanket: Retains body heat to prevent hypothermia.
- Sam splint: Immobilize fractures.
- Sutures and needles
- Burn gel and dressings
These supplies facilitate treatment for more serious injuries when professional medical care is unavailable.
Customizing Your Medical Kit for Personal Needs
Tailor your first aid kid to your particular situation:
- Chronic conditions: Pack medications, testing supplies.
- Skills/training: Include tools aligned with your competency.
- Environment: Heat/cold weather items.
- Activity: More supplies if traveling with family.
- Duration: More quantities for long-term scenarios.
Regularly inspect and replace expired items in your medical kit. Also consider taking a wilderness first aid course to boost your capability to deliver emergency care.
Self-Defense: Ensuring Personal Safety
Personal safety should be a top priority when preparing a bug out pack. However, one must be responsible when considering self-defense gear. Focus first on non-lethal options that aim to avoid confrontation when possible.
Choosing Non-Lethal Self-Defense Gear
Items like pepper spray and tactical pens can disable an attacker without causing permanent harm. Consider the legal implications in your state, as well as your comfort level using such items. Non-lethal options allow one to avoid confrontation when possible while still providing protection when needed.
Firearms and Lethal Weapons: A Responsible Approach
If choosing to carry lethal weapons, proper training is essential to ensure safety and responsible usage. Also research relevant laws, as requirements for transporting and using firearms vary by location. Only bring weapons one is fully prepared and trained to use. Consider instead non-lethal alternatives that reduce risk of harm.
Martial Arts and Self-Defense Training
Even without weapons, self-defense training can greatly improve one's ability to handle confrontation. Pack lightweight padding to practice moves. Bring resources to refresh technique. Consider also mental and verbal de-escalation tactics. The most effective self-defense comes from avoiding confrontation altogether.
Navigation and Communication Equipment
Effective navigation and the ability to communicate are pivotal in a crisis. Equip your bug out pack accordingly.
Land Navigation: Maps, Compasses, and GPS Devices
Having reliable navigation tools in your bug out pack is essential in case you need to evacuate quickly. Here are some recommended items:
- Maps and atlases - Have both local and regional maps on hand. Make sure they are up to date and highlight evacuation routes.
- Compass - A quality compass like a Suunto or Silva is vital for navigation if you lose access to electronic devices. Learn proper map and compass skills.
- GPS device - While they rely on battery power, handheld GPS units like a Garmin Oregon provide navigation, tracking, and emergency SOS features. Always carry spare batteries.
- Altimeter watch - If evacuating to higher elevations, an altimeter watch can help prevent altitude sickness by monitoring ascent rate and elevation gain. Popular options are from Casio, Suunto, and Garmin.
Having multiple navigation tool options increases redundancy. Take time to gain proficiency in using maps, compass, GPS devices, etc. These skills could save your life in an emergency.
Emergency Communication: Radios and Signal Devices
Reliable communication is vital when evacuating. Consider packing:
- Two-way radios - Long range two-way radios will let your group communicate up to several miles apart. Models from Motorola, Midland and DeWalt are reliable.
- Emergency radio - Crank or solar powered radios like the Eton FRX3 allow you to receive weather alerts and other emergency broadcasts when the grid is down.
- Signaling devices - A loud emergency whistle, signal mirror, flares, and glow sticks help visually and audibly signal for help if needed.
- Satellite communicator - A satellite messenger like the inReach Mini by Garmin provides two-way text messaging via satellite when beyond cell phone range. It also has an SOS function.
Having back-up communication options is vital for any bug out scenario. Do research to find the best solutions for your needs and budget.
Developing a Communication Plan for Emergencies
In addition to packing communication gear, having a plan to stay in touch during a disaster can help ensure everyone's safety:
- Pick a rendezvous point - Select a meeting place where your family or group will regroup if separated during an evacuation. Have alternate locations as backup.
- Coordinate communication channels - Decide what devices or platforms you will use to communicate if cell networks are unavailable. This could include two-way radios on a designated channel or satellite messengers.
- Share contact cards - Create emergency contact cards to distribute with key phone numbers, radio channels, addresses etc. Laminate them to be durable.
- Practice occasionally - Occasionally test your evacuation communication plan using your chosen devices or methods. Refine as needed.
Having a solid emergency communication plan prepared ahead of time will minimize confusion and help reconnect if cell towers and internet access go down in a disaster scenario. Be sure to practice it periodically with family or group members.
Survival Gear: Tools and Equipment
Survival gear can make all the difference when an emergency strikes. Having reliable tools and equipment in your bug out pack provides comfort and potentially life-saving capabilities. This section will overview key categories of survival gear to include.
Fire Starting Tools: Creating Warmth and Cooking
Fire serves multiple critical purposes in a survival situation, including warmth, light, signaling, purifying water, and cooking food. Pack reliable fire starters like stormproof matches, a ferro rod, tinder, and a lighter. Cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly make excellent tinder.
Shelter: Portable and Emergency Options
Compact, lightweight shelters that provide protection from wind, rain, snow and cold should be in every bug out pack. A tube tent, tarp, bivvy sack, or emergency blanket takes up little space. Paracord is also useful for erecting shelters.
Versatile Tools: The Importance of Multi-Tools and Paracord
Items that serve multiple functions are invaluable for survival preparedness. A good multi-tool contains pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, knife, and more. Paracord is strong, versatile cordage perfect for setting up shelters, fishing, traps, splints, and other tasks. Every bug out bag should contain a high quality multi-tool and plenty of paracord.
Concluding Advice for Prepper Beginners
Proactive Preparation: Starting Your Prepper Journey
As a beginner prepper, it's important to take a proactive approach to preparing for emergencies. This means making preparations before disaster strikes, rather than reacting after the fact. Start small by creating a basic bug out bag with essentials like food, water, first aid supplies, etc. From there, continually expand your knowledge and skills - take first aid classes, learn navigation techniques, practice setting up camp. The key is to start now, rather than putting it off. Even basic preparation can make a huge difference when every second counts.
Skill Development: Beyond the Bug Out Pack
While having the right gear in your bug out pack is crucial, knowledge and skills are even more vital for survival. Take the time to educate yourself on essential abilities like first aid, navigation, shelter building, water purification, and more. Seek out classes and experienced preppers who can help accelerate your learning. As you gain competency, practice your skills regularly by taking your bug out bag into nature for 24-48 hours. Hands-on application in realistic environments will ensure you can rely on those abilities if ever forced to bug out.
Community Engagement: Learning from Experienced Preppers
As a beginner, don't go it alone. Reach out to online prepper communities, local survivalist groups, and make friends with experienced preppers. Learn from their knowledge and past mistakes so you can avoid pitfalls. Experienced preppers can point you to the best gear, techniques, and training tailored to your region and needs. They can also provide moral support and guidance as you progress on your prepping journey. Invest time into building relationships early on.
