Building a Bug Out Bag: Essential Items

When crisis strikes, having the right supplies can make all the difference for survival.

This comprehensive bug out bag checklist outlines the exact items you need to build an effective 72-hour emergency kit.

You'll discover the top 10 essentials like food, water, first aid, fire, shelter and more to equip yourself for emergency scenarios.

Introduction to Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for an emergency situation is critical to ensure safety and survival. A bug out bag, also known as a 72-hour kit, contains essential supplies to sustain an individual or family during evacuation or disaster scenarios. Assembling the right bug out bag provides peace of mind and readiness for the unexpected.

Understanding the Concept of a Bug Out Bag

A bug out bag is designed to contain everything a person would need to survive for 72 hours when evacuating from an emergency or disaster. It is prepared ahead of time and ready to "bug out" or evacuate at a moment's notice. Key factors in preparing a useful bug out bag include:

• Portability - The bag should not exceed 50 pounds so it is manageable to transport by vehicle or by foot over long distances
• Customization - Tailor the bag's contents based on likely risks in your region, number of people in your family, ages, health considerations, etc.
• Redundancy - Pack backup options for critical items like water purification, fire/light sources, navigation/communication devices.
• Organization - Use pouches, compartments, and packing techniques to optimize space and accessibility of gear.

Key Considerations for Bug Out Bag Essentials

When deciding what to include in a bug out bag, focus on the survival basics:

Shelter

Pack durable, lightweight, waterproof tents or tarps along with rope, duct tape, and portable sleeping bags rated for extreme weather.

Water

Pack enough water for each person to have 1 gallon per day. Include water purification tablets or filters in case caches run out. Choose durable water bottles and hydration bladder systems.

Food

Pack calorie-and-nutrient dense non-perishables like protein bars, dried fruits/meats, nuts, powered milk, and military MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat).

First Aid

Stock trauma kits with bandages, gauze, tourniquets, wound care solutions, OTC meds, etc. Tailor based on specific medical needs.

Tools

Choose a quality fixed blade knife, compact shovel, rope/cord, duct tape, multi-tool, emergency blankets, flashlight, radio/batteries, fire starters, compass, paper maps.

Clothing

Pack layers: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, waterproof outer shell, hat, gloves, extra socks.

Personal Items

Don't forget critical daily medications, hygiene items, contacts/glasses, identification documents, cash/cards, family photos.

Prioritizing survival necessities in a bug out bag provides crucial preparation for unexpected emergencies. Customizing contents based on risks and needs ensures you have what it takes to safely evacuate.

How do you make a good bug out bag?

When building a bug out bag, it's important to include the essentials for survival recommended by experts like FEMA. The key is having the right supplies to sustain yourself for at least 72 hours in an emergency situation.

Here is a checklist of must-have items to include in your bug out bag:

Food and Water

• Pack at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
• Choose non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts
• Don't forget a can opener and mess kit/cutlery

Shelter and Warmth

• Pack an emergency tent or tube tent
• Include a sleeping bag or blankets for insulation
• Have extra socks, gloves, hat, and rain poncho to stay dry

First Aid

• Adhesive bandages, gauze, trauma pads
• Antibiotic ointment, anti-diarrheal medication
• Prescription medications if necessary

Tools and Supplies

• Flashlight, radio, and extra batteries
• Multi-tool, pocket knife, paracord, duct tape
• Water purification tablets, portable stove, lighter
• Signaling items like whistle, flare, mirror

The key is tailoring your bug out bag to your needs and possible scenarios, while keeping it light and mobile. Follow this checklist as a starting point when assembling yours.

What is needed in a bug out bag?

When building a bug out bag, having the right essential gear and supplies can mean the difference between life and death in a disaster scenario. Here is a checklist of some of the most critical items to include:

Shelter

• Tarp or emergency blanket
• Can be used to create basic shelter or signaling

Navigation

• Map and compass
• Ensure you can navigate to safety without relying on technology

Sustenance

• Water pouches or portable filtration device
• High-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars or MREs

Clothing

• Extra socks
• Helps prevent blisters when traveling long distances

Tools

• LED flashlight (plus extra batteries)
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife
• Magnesium fire starter
• Duct tape

Communication

• Hand cranked AM/FM radio
• Can access emergency broadcasts when other communication is down

The exact contents of your bug out bag will depend on your needs, but this list covers many of the critical survival gear and tools required for emergency preparedness. Customize based on factors like climate, terrain, group size, and likely risks in your area. The key is having versatile equipment to handle diverse survival scenarios.

How do you make a 72 hour bug out bag?

A 72 hour bug out bag is essential to have on hand for emergency preparedness. Here are the key items to include:

Water

Having water is critical in a survival situation. Pack at least one gallon per person for a 72 hour period. Water purification tablets or a portable water filter can help ensure safe drinking water from questionable sources if needed.

Food

Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. These will provide needed energy in an emergency scenario.

Communication and Light

A hand crank or battery-powered radio and flashlight are must-haves. Pack extra batteries as well. A whistle can also be used to signal for help if needed.

First Aid

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is vital. Include bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, safety pins, scissors, latex gloves, and other medical essentials.

Navigation

Include an emergency blanket, compass, maps of the area, permanent marker to leave messages, and other navigation tools.

The key is preparing for scenarios where you may need to evacuate quickly or be without power and utilities for several days. Tailor your 72 hour bug out bag to your needs, adding any specific medications or personal items as well. The goal is being ready to survive on only what you can carry.

What's the difference between a go bag and a bug out bag?

Both go bags and bug out bags contain emergency supplies for survival situations. However, there are some key differences:

• Purpose: A go bag is designed for short-term evacuation from a specific threat like a fire or flood. A bug out bag prepares you for a longer duration, like 72+ hours, and more uncertain situations like societal collapse.

• Portability: Go bags are more portable since bug out bags carry more gear to be self-reliant for longer periods. Go bags focus on bare essentials you can grab quickly.

• Customization: Bug out bags are customized to your specific needs, risks and scenarios. Go bags take a more general approach for broader disasters.

• Duration: Go bags sustain you for up to 24 hours until you reach safety. Bug out bags plan for at least 3 days of survival self-reliance if you need to evacuate and can't return home.

The bottom line is go bags provide basic survival items to get you through a short-term emergency. Bug out bags help you survive for several days or more if societal functions are disrupted and you can't depend on external help. Both are useful emergency preparedness tools with different purposes.

Bug Out Bag List: Food and Water Essentials

Selecting Non-Perishable Food for Survival Scenarios

When preparing your bug out bag, it's crucial to pack high-calorie, non-perishable food items that will sustain you in an emergency situation. Focus on lightweight, nutritious foods with a long shelf life such as:

• Protein bars: Look for options with at least 10g of protein and limited sugar. CLIF Bars, PROBAR Meal Bars, and RxBARs are excellent choices.
• Nuts and trail mixes: Packets of almonds, cashews, peanuts, etc provide protein and healthy fats. Trail mixes with dried fruit add carbohydrates.
• Canned meats: Spam, canned chicken, tuna, and salmon are packed with protein. Choose pouches when possible to save weight.
• Canned beans: Black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas offer fiber, protein, and nutrients.
• Canned vegetables: Carrots, green beans, corn, and mixed veggies provide key vitamins.
• Canned fruits: Look for fruit packed in juice rather than syrup for an energy boost.
• Crackers: Saltines, graham crackers, and high-fiber options add carbohydrates.
• Powdered foods: Powdered milk, eggs, broths, mashed potatoes, etc. Add water to prepare.

Focus on the essential food groups to supply your body with adequate nutrition during an emergency bug out situation. Pack familiar foods you already enjoy to provide comfort.

Water Purification Solutions

Having methods to purify found water sources is a critical component of your bug out bag preparations. Useful options include:

• Water purification tablets: Tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide. Easy to pack and lightweight.
• Water filtration straws: The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter allows you to drink directly from lakes, rivers or streams.
• Squeeze water filters: These filter out bacteria and protozoa. Popular picks are the Sawyer Squeeze and Survivor Filter.
• UV water purifiers: Devices like the SteriPEN use ultraviolet light to kill pathogens. Require batteries.
• Emergency stove boiling: As a backup, boiling found water vigorously for 1 minute will kill most germs.

Choose purification solutions suitable for your region and scenarios. Pack backups like tablets as a fail-safe.

Hydration Storage Tactics

To store purified water, use durable, portable containers:

• Reusable water bottles: Wide-mouth bottles allow ice cubes and for cleaning. Choose BPA-free plastic or stainless steel.
• Collapsible water bags: These fold down small but hold 1-5 gallons. Reliable brands include Platypus and Hydrapak.
• Water bladders: Hydration reservoirs with hoses allow hands-free drinking on the move. Brands like CamelBak are trusted.
• Canteens: Stainless steel holders store 1-2 quarts securely. Add nesting cups to boil water.

Carry an ample water supply in your bug out bag for your region and situation. Consider packing multiple container types for versatility. Rotate stock every 6 months.

First-Aid Basics for Your Bug Out Bag

A well-stocked first-aid kit is an essential component of any bug out bag. Having the necessary medical supplies and knowledge to treat injuries or illnesses can literally make the difference between life and death in a survival situation. This guide covers the basics and beyond for assembling a first-aid kit tailored for bug out needs.

Essential Medications and Treatments

The following medications and treatments should be included in every bug out bag's first-aid kit:

• Pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to reduce pain and fever
• Anti-diarrheals to treat gastrointestinal issues
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Antibiotic ointments to prevent infection in wounds
• Sterile gauze and bandages to control bleeding and wrap injuries
• Adhesive tape and butterfly bandages to seal and close wounds
• Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds and prevent infection
• Nitrile gloves to protect hands when treating others

Focus on small, lightweight options that pack the maximum treatment power. Having basic meds can alleviate symptoms and stabilize medical issues during evacuation or survival scenarios.

Wound Management Supplies

The ability to effectively manage wounds may be critical, making these supplies vital additions:

• Steri-strips or sutures to close gashes
• Hemostatic agents to stop heavy bleeding
• Burn cream and dressings for thermal injuries
• Splints to stabilize fractures or sprains
• Safety pins, scissors, and tweezers for removing debris
• Extra gauze, pads, roller bandages to clean and wrap wounds

Prepare for a wide range of injuries from minor cuts to lacerations and burns. Stop bleeding rapidly, close gashes, prevent infection, and stabilize injuries with these wound care items.

First-Aid Tools and Accessories

Round out the first-aid kit with these key tools and accessories:

• Digital thermometer for monitoring temperatures
• Emergency blanket for treating shock
• Medical tape for securing dressings
• Sam splint to stabilize broken bones
• CPR mask for delivering emergency breaths
• EMT shears for cutting away clothing
• Medical gloves to protect hands from bodily fluids
• First-aid manual as reference during treatment

Use these tools to assess and deliver prompt, appropriate medical care. Having critical accessories improves the ability to diagnose issues and intervene effectively across emergency health situations.

With the basics covered along with tools to handle more advanced issues, this first-aid supply list helps ensure you can manage medical situations and save lives with your bug out bag preparation. Adjust contents based on specific needs like medications and additional training.

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Fire Starting Tools and Techniques

Fire is an essential survival element for warmth, cooking, and signaling. Having the proper fire starting tools and techniques can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. This section explores key fire starting gear to include in your bug out bag, as well as best practices for gathering tinder and kindling to start a fire even in adverse conditions.

Ignition Sources for Emergency Fire Starting

When building a bug out bag, it's critical to pack multiple ignition sources capable of starting fires in various conditions. Recommended options include:

• Lighter - Pack a few Bic lighters in a waterproof case. Cheap and reliable.
• Waterproof matches - Longer burn time than lighters. Store in a waterproof container.
• Flint and steel - Creates sparks to ignite tinder. Takes practice but doesn't require fuel.
• Magnesium fire starter - Shave magnesium to create a flammable spark. Burns even when wet.

Choose ignition sources that don't rely on fuel and practice using them before an emergency. Pack tinder to help ignite fires with sparks.

Gathering and Using Tinder and Kindling

Tinder and kindling are key elements for starting a successful fire. Here are tips for collecting and preparing these materials:

• Tinder - Look for dry grass, bark, fungus, cotton balls, dryer lint. Must ignite quickly with a spark.
• Kindling - Collect dry twigs, sticks, bark, pine cones, etc. Start with pencil width pieces.
• Prepare materials - Shred bark/twigs to increase flammability. Fluff up tinder materials. Keep dry.
• Arrange materials - Create a nest of tinder and build a teepee of kindling over it to allow oxygen flow.

Even damp materials can be used with proper preparation and an intense ignition source like magnesium. Practice fire starting using only natural materials to hone this critical survival skill.

Compact Cooking Gear for Bug Out Scenarios

In a bug out situation, it's important to pack lightweight, portable cooking gear in your bag. Useful items include:

• Pocket/folding stove - Many models weigh only a few ounces and pack down small. Use with fuel tabs or small propane canisters.
• Lightweight cook pot - Carry a titanium or aluminum pot for boiling water and cooking meals.
• Spork - Saves weight over a knife and fork. Useful for meals on the go.
• Can opener - Choose a compact keychain style opener to access canned goods.

Look for multipurpose items that can be used for prep, cooking, and eating to save space and weight in your emergency go-bag. Consider including lightweight utensils, a hobo stove, or a cup with built-in water purifier.

Navigation Tools for Bug Out Preparedness

Navigating unfamiliar terrain during an emergency can be challenging. Having the right navigation tools in your bug out bag is essential to find your way and reach safety.

Topographic Maps and Compasses

Topographic, or topo, maps show details like elevation and terrain that standard road maps do not. Learn how to read contour lines on topo maps to determine slopes and identify landmarks. Select maps with a scale appropriate for your area.

The best compasses for navigation have a rectangular base, liquid damping, and adjustable declination. Sighting compasses allow you to align map features for accurate orientation, while baseplate compasses can plot routes by measuring distances. Carry both for redundancy.

Emergency Signaling Devices

Signaling devices visually or audibly pinpoint your location so rescuers can find you. Useful options include:

• Mirrors and signal flares: Reflective surfaces that glint light get attention. Carry various colors for visibility in different conditions.

• Whistles: Loud, penetrating sound that carries farther than voice shouts. Strobe lights and beacons also amplify visibility.

• Satellite messengers: Send SOS messages with your GPS location via satellite networks. Though expensive, they work anywhere with a clear view of the sky.

Communication Equipment for Survival Situations

When facing uncertain conditions, being able to communicate can save lives. Consider packing:

• Multi-band radios: Allow two-way communication across FRS, GMRS, and ham radio frequencies. Select models with NOAA weather channels.

• Satellite phones: Expensive but offer coverage beyond cell networks. Iridium devices work anywhere with open sky. Some support SMS messages.

• PLBs and satellite messengers: Personal Locator Beacons use satellites to transmit emergency SOS beacons with GPS coordinates. Satellite messengers also enable 2-way text communication.

The right mix of navigation tools, signaling devices, and communication equipment can prove invaluable if you become lost or separated from help. Choose gear after assessing your environment, budget, and training.

Portable Shelter and Clothing for Survival

Protection from the elements is crucial in a survival scenario. Having adequate shelter and clothing in your bug out bag can help ensure your safety and comfort if you need to evacuate quickly.

Choosing a Portable Shelter System

When building a bug out bag, it's important to have a portable shelter system that is lightweight and packs down small. Some good options to consider include:

• Tents: Look for compact backpacking tents that are easy to set up and can withstand various weather conditions. A basic 1-2 person tent is usually sufficient.

• Bivvy sacks: These waterproof outer shells allow you to sleep on the ground while staying dry. They pack down very small.

• Emergency blankets and tarps: Choose heavy-duty emergency blankets and durable tarps in earth tone colors. These can be used for shelter, warmth, and signaling.

• Hammocks: For milder climates, a compact hammock system with integrated bug netting can work well and packs down small.

Consider your intended destination and possible survival scenarios when choosing the best portable shelter for your needs. Prioritize weight, packability, and durability.

Layering Clothing for Optimal Insulation

Having the right layers of clothing is vital to maintain adequate body temperature and prevent hypothermia in an emergency situation. Bug out bag clothing layers should include:

• Base layer - moisture-wicking fabric that keeps skin dry
• Mid layer - insulation like fleece to retain body heat
• Outer shell - waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Head covering - warm hat that covers ears
• Gloves - durable gloves to keep hands warm and protected

The ability to add or remove layers as needed will allow you to regulate body temperature in various weather conditions you may encounter in a survival scenario.

Tactical Bug Out Bag Clothing

Specifically designed tactical clothing has features that make it ideal for a bug out bag, including:

• Durability - reinforced seams and ripstop fabrics withstand rugged use
• Functionality - useful features like large cargo pockets for gear
• Neutral colors - earth tones blend into natural environments
• Moisture wicking - prevents sweat buildup during vigorous activity

Look for tactical pants, jackets, boots, and hats purpose-built for demanding outdoor activities. Having clothing that is tough and practical will serve you well in an emergency situation where your survival gear gets extensive use.

Prioritizing durable shelter and versatile layered clothing in your planning helps ensure you can safely evacuate in a crisis scenario. Customize your selections based on regional weather patterns and your intended destination.

Survival Tools and Gear

Survival tools and gear can make all the difference when facing an emergency situation or bugging out. Having the right equipment and knowing how to use it effectively is crucial for survival preparedness.

Essential Multitool and Cutting Implements

A high-quality multitool is one of the most versatile items you can have in your bug out bag. Consider one that includes pliers, wire cutters, scissors, knives, screwdrivers, bottle openers, and other attachments. This allows you to handle a wide range of tasks from opening cans to making repairs.

Other cutting implements are also useful:

• Pocket or survival knife
• Hatchet or small axe
• Folding saw
• Sharp cutting tool like box cutter

These items aid in shelter building, fire craft, self-defense, and other critical survival needs.

Portable Lighting Solutions

Having multiple portable lighting sources makes life much easier when on the move or setting up camp. Useful options include:

• LED flashlights: Choose durable models with long battery life. Consider including small keychain lights in addition to larger high-powered ones.

• Headlamps: This allows for hands-free lighting which is extremely convenient.

• Glow sticks: These provide dim lighting and can also be used for signaling.

• Candles: Useful for camp lighting and fire starting. Choose long-burning emergency candles designed for survival usage.

Miscellaneous Survival Gear

Several other items complement your primary tools and serve niche needs:

• Paracord: Has versatile uses from shelter building to gear repairs.

• Duct tape: Can patch rips, cracks, holes in essential gear.

• Safety pins, zip ties: Aid in makeshift repairs and hacks.

• Compass, maps: Critical for navigation especially if lost or GPS fails.

• Mirror or whistle: Helpful for signaling rescuers if lost.

• Waterproof container: Keeps matches, maps, documents dry.

Carefully curating this type of survival equipment prepares you for diverse critical situations when bugging out.

Self-Defense Items and Strategies

In some survival scenarios, having basic self-defense skills and gear can be critical. However, when choosing self-defense items for your bug out bag, it's important to select practical, legal, and proportional options.

Choosing Self-Defense Gear for Your Bug Out Bag

When packing self-defense gear in your bug out bag, focus on items that are legal to carry and serve practical, defensive purposes rather than aggressive ones. Useful options can include:

• Pepper spray - An effective and non-lethal option for fending off threats at a distance. Select a quality brand with a 10-15 foot range.

• Tactical flashlight - A heavy, metal flashlight can act as an improvised defensive tool if needed. Choose one that is durable.

• Whistle - Loud whistles can scare off predators and signal for help. Get one that clips onto your pack or clothing.

• Pocket knife - While not primarily a self-defense tool, a sturdy 3-4 inch folding knife can provide utility for survival tasks while also giving you an option for last-resort defense. However, only utilize if absolutely necessary.

When selecting self-defense items, keep in mind your personal comfort level, local laws, proportionality of response, and primary focus on escape/evasion.

Self-Defense Techniques and Considerations

If faced with threats during a disaster scenario, situational awareness, avoidance, deterrence, and escape should be your goals, rather than direct confrontation or escalation. Recommended strategies include:

• Staying alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Take note of potential exits and unsafe areas.

• Avoiding confrontation if at all possible. Do not engage with threatening individuals. Leave dangerous situations immediately if you can safely do so.

• Using verbal deterrence first if confrontation is unavoidable. Shout warnings and loudly announce that you do not want trouble.

• Utilizing pepper spray or other gear as a defensive tool to allow your escape. Spray and run away towards safety.

• Fighting back with improvised weapons as an absolute last resort only if your life is at risk and you cannot flee. Prioritize escape, not prolonged conflict.

Practice caution and restraint. Only engage in reasonable self-defense as needed to protect your safety during an evacuation scenario.

Bug Out Planning and Preparation

Planning is critical when building an effective bug out bag. Having the right supplies is important, but being organized and prepared to use those supplies makes all the difference in an emergency. Here are some tips for planning your bug out strategy:

Creating a Bug Out Plan

• Identify possible emergency scenarios that may require bugging out, such as natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. Consider your region, location, season, etc.
• Decide on one or more destinations to bug out to, like a family member's remote home, a camping area in another region, etc.
• Map out primary and alternate routes to your destinations. Plan multiple routes accounting for road closures.
• Make copies of important documents like ID cards, insurance papers, etc. Store them in waterproof bags in your bug out bag.
• Pack prescription medications, first aid supplies, and other critical items you use daily.

Practicing Your Bug Out Strategy

• Conduct regular evacuation drills to test your bug out plan. Time how long it takes.
• Test and evaluate the contents of your bug out bag during practice drills. Replace expired items.
• Identify gaps, issues, or improvements needed in your plan and supplies based on practice tests. Refine accordingly.
• Involve family members so everyone understands the bug out plan and their roles/duties. Review and practice periodically.

Maintaining and Updating Your Bug Out Bag

• Take inventory and inspect the condition of your bug out bag contents every 6-12 months.
• Check expiration dates on food, medicine, batteries. Replace anything expired.
• Update supplies to account for regional risks that evolve over time.
• Refresh high-use items like flashlight batteries, socks, medications.
• Review and revise your bug out plan periodically as your needs change.

Following these planning and preparation tips will help ensure your bug out bag and strategy is ready for real-world emergencies. Practicing and maintaining your system is just as important as having the right gear.

Conclusion: The Top 10 Bug Out Bag Essentials

When building your bug out bag, focus on including these essential items to ensure you have the critical necessities for survival:

1. Water and water purification tools: Having access to clean drinking water is vital in an emergency situation. Pack durable water bottles and water purification tablets or filters.

2. Non-perishable, high-calorie food: Pack lightweight, long-lasting foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts to maintain energy levels.

3. First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with bandages, ointments, medications and tools can be a lifesaver if you get injured.

4. Knives and multitools: Pack at least one good quality knife and multitool for preparing food, making shelters, and other survival tasks.

5. Fire starting tools: Stay warm and be able to purify water by packing weatherproof matches, lighters, fire starters and tinder.

6. Shelter: A lightweight, packable tent or tarp can protect you from the elements. Emergency blankets also retain body heat.

7. Navigation tools: Don't get lost in the wilderness. Pack a compass, maps, and other navigation aids.

8. Light sources: Pack flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps so you can see at night and signal for help.

9. Communication devices: A whistle, signal mirror, flare gun, or satellite communication device could save your life.

10. Personal protection: Pepper spray, a tactical pen or a firearm (where legally allowed) provides defense against threats.

Focus your bug out bag on this essential gear for the best chance of survival in an emergency situation. Customize based on your needs, skills and possible scenarios.

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