Bug Out Supplies Checklist for New Preppers

Assembling an effective bug out bag is an essential step for anyone looking to be prepared in an emergency situation.

This article provides a comprehensive bug out supplies checklist covering all of the gear you need to create a well-stocked bug out bag for emergency preparedness.

You'll learn the purpose of a bug out bag, who benefits from having one, the essential supplies you need, how to choose the right backpack, and specific recommendations across categories like shelter, water, food, first aid, navigation tools, and other critical survival gear.

Introduction to Assembling Your Ultimate Survival Kit Bug Out Bag

A bug out bag, also known as a go bag, is a portable emergency kit that contains critical supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours when evacuating a crisis situation. Assembling a well-stocked bug out bag is an essential part of emergency preparedness for natural disasters, civil unrest, or other unexpected events that force you to leave your home quickly.

Understanding the Purpose of a Bug Out Bag

A bug out bag enables you to grab and go with the gear you need to meet basic survival needs, including:

Shelter and warmth
Water and food
First aid
Navigation
Tools
Self-defense

The purpose is to buy you enough time to get to a secure location by having bug out supplies ready to sustain you for 72+ hours. You may need to camp or hike to safety, so choose durable gear.

Who Benefits from a Bug Out Bag?

Anyone focused on emergency preparedness can benefit. This includes:

Families concerned about natural disasters like fires, floods or storms
Outdoor enthusiasts venturing into the wilderness
City dwellers worried about infrastructure failure
Suburban neighborhoods preparing for civil unrest
Rural communities isolated from quick emergency response

Essential Bug Out Bag Supplies Checklist

Base your bug out bag list on survival basics:

Shelter and Warmth

Tent, tarp, or bivvy sack
Sleeping bag or blankets
Extra socks, gloves, and warm layers

Water

Collapsible water bottle
Water purification tablets or filter

Food

High-calorie protein bars
Dried fruits and nuts
MREs (meals ready-to-eat)

First Aid

First aid kit
Medications
Antiseptic wipes

Map and compass
Emergency whistle and flares

Tools

Knife
Fire making kit
Rope and duct tape
Multi-tool

Self Defense

Pepper spray
Tactical flashlight
Tactical pen

Choosing the Best Bug Out Bags Backpack

Look for durable, comfortable backpacks with plenty of storage such as:

Hiking backpacks (internal frame recommended)
Tactical assault packs
Hunting daypacks

The best bug out backpack for you depends on your budget, features needed, and how much gear you expect to carry. Shop around to find your perfect bug out bag.

What is needed in a bug out bag?

When assembling your first bug out bag, there are some essential items you'll want to include to ensure you have the basics covered for survival and emergency preparedness. Here's a checklist of key bug out bag essentials:

BUG-OUT-BAG ESSENTIALS

Tarp or emergency shelter (can be used for shelter and signaling)
Map and compass to navigate without GPS if needed
Water and high energy / low weight foods (like MRE's or energy bars) to maintain nutrition and hydration
Extra socks to prevent blisters when hiking
Multi-tool for repairing gear and other general uses
LED flashlight for lighting and signaling
Magnesium fire starter to spark fires for warmth and cooking
Hand cranked radio for weather reports and emergency broadcasts when off the grid

It's also important to prepare first aid supplies for your bug out bag including bandages, gauze, medications, etc. As well as basic sanitation and hygiene items like toilet paper, toothbrush, and soap.

Having the right bug out bag supplies is crucial, but you also need the bag itself - choose a durable and comfortable bug out bag backpack with plenty of storage and compartments to organize all your gear. Molle webbing allows you to attach additional pouches as needed.

As you advance in your prepping journey, you can build upon this initial bug out bag checklist with more specialized gear - but having these fundamental survival items will give you a flexible foundation to start from. Let us know if you have any other questions about assembling your first bug out bag!

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. Having the necessary medical supplies on hand could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation where professional medical care is unavailable. Here are some of the key items your bug out bag first aid kit should contain:

Bandages and Wound Care

Adhesive bandages of multiple sizes
Gauze pads and rolls
Medical tape
Antibiotic ointment
Alcohol wipes
Butterfly closures
Trauma pads
Tourniquet

Medications

Pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen
Anti-diarrhea medication
Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Electrolyte tablets or powders

Tools and Other Gear

Scissors
Tweezers
Safety pins
Thermometer
Medical gloves
CPR mask

Tailor the exact contents to your specific medical needs. Having the bug out supplies on hand to treat injuries and illness can buy you precious time in an emergency until you can reach more advanced medical care. Prioritize portable, multi-use items that take up little space. Inspect and replace expired medications regularly.

What food to put in a bug out bag?

When packing food for your bug out bag, it's important to focus on non-perishable, calorie-dense options that are easy to prepare and will sustain you in an emergency situation. Here are some of the best foods to include:

High-Calorie Dense Foods

Granola bars
Protein/meal replacement bars
Beef jerky or other dried meats
Nuts and trail mixes
Peanut butter and other nut butters

These foods pack a lot of calories into small, lightweight packages while still providing protein to help you maintain energy levels.

Easy-to-Prepare Meals

Canned meats, fruits, vegetables
Instant oatmeal or dehydrated backpacking meals
Pasta sides or rice mixes
Canned soups and chili
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)

Having some easy, just-add-water type meals helps ensure you can get the nutrition you need without much fuss, even in stressful situations.

Other Essentials

Electrolyte mixes to prevent dehydration
Water purification tablets or filter
High-calorie emergency food bars
Comfort foods like tea, coffee, or broth cubes

Don't forget about keeping hydrated and boosting morale with some comforting foods as well.

Focus your bug out bag food supplies on shelf-stable, nutrient-dense options that perfectly balance lightweight portability with the calorie intake you'll need to keep going in an emergency. Test out various foods during hiking or camping trips to find your personal favorites.

How do you prep for a bug out?

Preparing for a potential emergency evacuation or "bug out" starts with assembling critical supplies in an easy-to-carry bag. Here are some key steps for new preppers:

Research and Plan Your Bug Out Bag

Determine your basic needs for 3+ days such as food, water, first aid, etc. Use FEMA's emergency kit list as a starting point.
Research the best bug out bag options and essential gear to include based on your climate, terrain, possible scenarios, and group size. Customize accordingly.
Map out evacuation routes and destinations ahead of time. Identify landmarks, water sources, and shelters along the way.

Assemble Your Bug Out Bag

Start with a durable, comfortable backpack with waist and chest straps for weight distribution. Water-resistant material is ideal.
Pack high-protein, lightweight, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruit, nuts, jerky, and MREs. At least 2,000 calories per day.
Carry at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day in durable bottles and water bags with water filters/purifiers.
Include basic first aid supplies: bandages, gauze, medications, sanitation items, etc. A comprehensive med kit is essential.

Customize Your Bug Out Bag

Consider your climate and add appropriate layers, rain gear, hats, gloves, boots, etc. to regulate body temperature.
Pack signaling items like a whistle, flare, mirror, brightly colored cloth, GPS devices to call for help if needed.
Choose gear that serves multiple purposes when possible such as a knife, paracord, duct tape, and multi-tool.

Following these fundamental steps will help equip new preppers with critical bug out supplies for emergency preparedness. Be sure to practice using your bug out bag as well.

The Foundation of Your Bug Out Kit: Shelter

Pack shelter items to protect yourself from the elements during an evacuation. Having adequate shelter in your bug out bag is essential for survival.

Selecting a Tactical Bug Out Bag Shelter

When selecting a shelter for your bug out bag, look for a lightweight, compact tent or tarp that can provide critical protection from wind, rain, snow, and other elements. A tube tent is a great option to consider since it packs down very small but can be set up quickly for emergency shelter. The Snugpak Stratosphere 1 Man Dome Tent is a good quality and affordable pick.

Other key features to look for in a bug out shelter include:

Waterproof and durable fabric
Fast and easy setup
Packable into a small stuff sack
Ventilation options
Lightweight (under 3 lbs)

Insulation Essentials: Emergency Blanket or Bivy

It's critical to retain body heat if caught in cold weather during an evacuation, so pack an emergency blanket or bivy sack. A mylar emergency blanket reflects 90% of radiated body heat back to you. The Sol Emergency Blanket is a top choice.

A bivy sack is a lightweight, waterproof outer layer that helps insulate you. The Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy is very durable. Consider your climate needs when choosing insulation.

The Versatility of Paracord in Survival Situations

Paracord is essential for setting up tarps, securing gear, or even building an emergency shelter. Bring at least 100-200 ft. of strong paracord like TOUGH-GRID 750lb Paracord in your bag. The inner strands can also be used for fishing line or sewing if needed.

Additional shelter items to consider packing:

Ground tarp or footprint
Trekking poles
Tent stakes
Duct tape

Having quality shelter gear can be the difference between life and death if forced to bug out. Invest in durable, portable options that meet your climate and terrain needs.

Hydration Strategies: Securing Water in Your Bug Out Bag

Having access to clean drinking water is critical in an emergency situation. When bugging out, it's recommended to pack at least 1 gallon of water per person for 3 days as a bare minimum. This water should be stored in durable, leak-proof containers.

The best options are BPA-free plastic bottles or collapsible bags that take up less space. Look for containers that hold 1-2 gallons each for efficiency. Popular picks are the Reliance RhinoPack and Platypus Collapsible Water Tank, which roll up small but hold over a gallon when filled.

In addition to your stored water supply, you’ll need a way to filter, purify, or treat water from natural sources like lakes, streams, or rainwater. Rivers, ponds and other bodies of water can harbor bacteria, viruses, parasites and other contaminants. Treating any “found water” before drinking is crucial.

Choosing a Water Filter for Your Bug Out Bag Survival Kit

Water filters should be compact enough to pack in a bug out bag while removing dangerous contaminants. The Sawyer Squeeze, Katadyn BeFree and LifeStraw Personal filters are top choices for portability, ease of use and effectiveness.

Look for a filter that removes bacteria, protozoa and viruses - a 0.1 micron pore size is ideal. Though expensive, filters that meet this spec like the Katadyn Pocket Filter give you ultimate peace of mind when drinking from natural water sources in an emergency.

Importance of Water Purification Tablets

As a backup to your water filter, pack water purification tablets like Potable Aqua. These chlorine dioxide tablets inactivate bacteria, viruses and protozoa in suspect water.

Water filters can clog or fail unexpectedly. Having purification tablets on hand ensures you can continue to make water safe for drinking. They're lightweight, long-lasting and an essential supplement to a water filter in any bug out bag.

Collapsible Water Containers: Saving Space and Storing Water

Storing and transporting water requires durable, leak-proof bottles or bags designed for the task. Collapsible containers are ideal for bug out bags since they take up less space.

The Vapur Eclipse 1 Liter Collapsible Bottle holds over 30 oz when full but packs down to just 1 inch thick. Larger-capacity options like the 2-gallon HydroBlu Versa Flow Water Bag are great for base camp water storage. Used with a hose bib, this bag lets you easily fill up directly from a water source.

Having both stored water and on-demand filtration/purification prepares any prepper to secure hydration when out in the field. Don’t let a lack of clean water leave you high and dry in an emergency situation.

Nutrition on the Go: Food Essentials for Your Bug Out Kit

Packing the right foods in your bug out bag is critical to survival. When disaster strikes, you need nutrient-dense foods that will keep you energized and healthy. Here are some key food items to include in your bug out kit.

Energy-Boosting Snacks: High-Calorie Protein Bars

Protein bars are lightweight, non-perishable, and packed with nutrients. Look for bars that have at least 10-15 grams of protein as well as complex carbs and healthy fats. Some good options include:

Clif Bars - contain 70% organic ingredients and nutrients like calcium and iron
PROBAR Meal Bars - vegan bars made with real food ingredients like fruits and nuts
Pemmican Bars - made with grass-fed bison, cranberries, and organic honey

Aim for bars with natural ingredients. Avoid bars high in sugar and preservatives.

The Role of Canned Goods in Your Bug Out Bag

Canned goods are durable, long-lasting, and provide calories and nutrients. Focus on pull-top cans that don't require a can opener. Some nutritious options include:

Canned tuna, salmon, chicken - high in protein
Canned beans - fiber, plant-based protein
Canned vegetables - vitamin C, antioxidants
Canned soups and stews - look for low sodium options

Canned fruit packed in juice provides essential vitamins and carbs. Avoid added sugars.

Rotate stock every 6 months ensuring freshness.

MREs: The Pre-Made Bug Out Bags Meal Solution

MREs or "meals ready to eat" are portable, self-contained meals created for the military. Civilian MREs provide roughly 1200 calories and include entrees like pasta, rice, beans, and more.

Key features that make MREs a good bug out bag food option:

Long shelf life of 5+ years
Just add water, no cooking fuel needed
Optional flameless heaters to warm meals
Packets of crackers, spreads, seasonings

Check MRE reviews to find tasty options. Shop surplus stores for affordable deals.

Having the right nutrition will give you strength and resilience when SHTF. Pack foods that are calorie-dense and loaded with protein, complex carbs, vitamins, and minerals.

Medical Aid: First Aid Kit and Supplies for Your Bug Out Bag

Prepare to treat injuries away from professional medical care with a well-stocked first aid kit. Having the right supplies on hand could make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit for Emergencies

A complete first aid kit is an essential component of any bug out bag. Be prepared to treat cuts, burns, sprains and other common injuries with:

Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes
Sterile gauze pads
A triangular bandage for making slings
Roller bandages to secure dressings
Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds
Nitrile gloves to protect yourself
A CPR breathing barrier or shield
Trauma shears for cutting clothing
Tweezers for removing debris from wounds

Make sure to have enough supplies for multiple people if traveling in a group. Inspect and replace expired items regularly.

Medication Management in Your Bug Out Bag

Pack a small supply of basic medications:

Painkillers like ibuprofen help relieve aches from injuries
Anti-diarrhea medication prevents dehydration
Antibiotics fight infection if a wound gets infected
Antihistamines treat allergic reactions

Be sure to check expiration dates and rotate stock before medications expire. Consult your doctor about including prescription medications if necessary.

Splinting Supplies and Techniques for Field Injuries

Pack SAM splints or inflatable splints to immobilize sprains and fractures when professional medical care is unavailable. SAM splints are lightweight moldable strips that stiffen when bent to support injured limbs. Inflatable splints provide support and compression when inflated.

If no commercial splints are available, look for rigid objects like branches or boards to immobilize injuries. Use roller bandages or torn clothing to securely tie improvised splints in place. Apply splints gently to avoid further injury. Elevating injuries above heart level helps reduce swelling.

With the right preparation, you can effectively handle medical situations even without access to professional care. A well-stocked first aid kit tailored to your needs helps ensure safety.

Having reliable navigation tools in your bug out bag is crucial for finding your way if you need to evacuate an area during an emergency. When crisis strikes, you can't rely on cell phone signals or other electronics. That's why every bug out bag should include old-school navigation essentials like paper maps, a compass, and other manual tools.

The Importance of Paper Maps for Bushcraft and Survival

Paper maps may seem outdated, but they could save your life if you need to navigate without power or cell signals. Detailed topoographic maps of surrounding areas let you track terrain, landmarks, potential shelter locations, water sources, and more.

Don't rely solely on electronics - Paper maps work when phones and GPS fail
Navigate cross-country - Topo maps highlight terrain contours, vegetation, landmarks
Bring maps of multiple areas - Have regional maps to navigate to safety
Write your route - Trace your planned or current path using a map and compass

Having paper backups of critical maps can provide orientation and awareness if you lose access to digital mapping tools and navigation apps during an emergency situation.

A baseplate compass is a versatile, inexpensive tool for traditional land navigation using a paper map. The transparent rectangular base allows you to orient the compass against map features and landmarks. The magnetic needle indicates North, while the dial displays precise degree bearings.

Set declination - Correct for difference between True and Magnetic North
Plot bearings - Align to landmarks and trace forward path
Triangulate position - Use 3 reference points to pinpoint location
Determine direction - Verify bearing before moving to avoid getting lost

With repeated practice and map orientation techniques, a quality compass can provide accurate guidance across all types of wilderness and urban settings when electronics fail.

GPS Devices: A Modern Tool for Bug Out Bag Builders

While less reliable than analog options, a handheld GPS device can provide backup navigation and tracking. Look for waterproof models with long battery life. While convenient, keep in mind that GPS depends on satellite signals which could fail in some emergency scenarios.

Pre-load maps & routes - Download detailed regional maps
Bring rechargeable batteries - Carry spares or pack a power bank
Learn manual use - Practice navigation without touchscreens
Have analog backups - Like maps and compass in case it fails

In your bug out bag, a GPS unit serves as a supplemental tool for tracking distances, generating potential routes to safety, and pinpointing your location. But you should still pack traditional navigation essentials for true redundancy.

Survival Gear: Tools and Defense in Your Tactical Bug Out Bag

Essential non-food items to cut, chop, fix, communicate, and protect yourself.

Selecting a Knife or Multi-Tool for Your Survival Kit

A sturdy fixed-blade knife or multi-tool is an essential item for cutting, chopping, making repairs, and other tasks when bugging out. Consider the following when choosing:

Fixed-blade knife with full tang construction for durability
4-6 inch blade length optimal for most tasks
Stainless steel or high carbon blade holds an edge well
Multi-tool with pliers, knife, screwdrivers for repairs

Top choices like the Gerber StrongArm or Leatherman Wave feature blades and other tools to handle jobs in an emergency situation.

Fire Starting Gear for Warmth and Signaling

Having the ability to start a fire is critical for signaling, warmth, purifying water, and cooking. Pack weatherproof fire starters like:

Windproof lighter as reliable ignition source
Waterproof stormproof matches with long burn time
Fire steel and striker to create sparks for ignition
Tinder like dryer lint, wax cubes to easily catch a spark

Fire gives heat, light, ability to signal rescuers, and boil water if filters are not available.

Communication in Crisis: Two-Way Radios

Cell towers may stop working during an emergency, making two-way radios essential for staying connected with others in your party:

Long range two-way radios to communicate up to 20-50+ miles
NOAA weather radio for reports directly from National Weather Service
Walkie talkies for short range communication

Having multiple methods of communication in a crisis can be invaluable when cell phones are unreliable. Consider getting licensed for ham radio operation for longest range.

Conclusion: Optimizing and Maintaining Your Bug Out Backpack

Customize your bug out bag based on your location, skills and needs. Conduct practice drills to improve readiness. Rotate and replenish perishable supplies annually.

Tailoring Your Bug Out Bag to Your Personal Needs

When preparing your bug out bag, it's important to consider your specific situation and needs. What climate and terrain are you located in? What potential disasters or threats might you face? What are your current skill levels with outdoor survival and first aid?

Tailor the contents of your bag to the answers of these questions. For example, if you live in a hot desert climate, pack more water and electrolyte supplements. If you live in the mountains, include snow shoes or microspikes. If civil unrest is a threat, gear up on defense tools allowed by local laws. Catering your bug out supplies to your environment and possible risks will make your bag more practical.

Also factor in your skill level. If new to prepping, focus on easy-to-use tools and basic first aid supplies. As your skills progress, upgrade to more advanced gear. Building a customized bug out bag takes time and preparation, but the work will pay off when you need to use it.

The Importance of Bug Out Bag Drills and Preparation

Simply having a well-stocked bug out bag is not enough - you need to practice using it to improve readiness. Conduct periodic drills packing up your bag rapidly as if you had to leave immediately. Time how long it takes. Your goal should be under 5 minutes.

Also take your bug out bag on camping trips or weekend hikes. This allows you to test your supplies and skills in outdoor survival situations. You can identify any holes in your pack and improve your ability to live out of your bag if ever forced to bug out. Practicing bug out bag usage develops muscle memory and confidence to handle real emergencies.

Routine Maintenance: Keeping Your Bug Out Bag Ready

Check all batteries at least annually and replace anything under 50% charge. Inspect food/water supplies for expiration dates and swap out anything that will expire soon. For medical items, replace gauze, bandages, ointments, etc. that are past their shelf life.

Go through the entire contents of your bag once a year. Toss anything damaged or no longer needed. Replenish consumables like fire starters, flashlight batteries, duct tape, and cash. Mark the date on the outside of pack after completing maintenance.

A bug out bag is only useful if properly maintained. Make bag inspections part of your yearly emergency preparedness routine. Keep it ready to grab at a moment's notice when disaster strikes.