Essential Bug Out Bag Contents Guide

Preparing a well-stocked bug out bag is an essential step for emergency preparedness.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with a complete bug out bag packing list, covering all the critical survival gear and supplies you need.

You'll learn the must-have items for medical aid, food, water, shelter, navigation, power, and more, with specialized recommendations for families, pets, urban areas, and extreme climates.

Introduction to Bug Out Bag Essentials

This section provides an overview of bug out bags - what they are, who they're for, and what essential items should be included to ensure survival preparedness in an emergency. The focus is specifically on bug out bag essentials for 2023.

Understanding the Bug Out Bag

A bug out bag, sometimes called a go bag, is a portable kit that contains survival supplies and equipment. It is designed to be grabbed quickly in an evacuation scenario to sustain an individual or family during the initial period of displacement. Bug out bags help provide basic necessities if you need to leave your home for an extended time.

It's important for a bug out bag to be customized to possible emergency situations in your region. For example, those living in hurricane zones need to prepare differently than those in cold winter climates. Having the right supplies can be the difference between life and death.

Determining the Right Bug Out Bag Contents

There are many factors to consider when choosing items to include in your bug out bag:

Environment - Gear suitable for a desert will differ greatly from a wet/cold environment. Prepare based on risks and conditions in your area.
Personal needs - Age, health status, pets - account for medications, equipment, specific nutrition/supplies your situation requires.
Expert recommendations - Resources like FEMA or the Red Cross publish updated annual bug out checklists reflecting innovations in lightweight, multi-use survival tools.

Focusing your bug out bag on survival essentials recommended for 2023 helps ensure you have versatile, durable gear for medical aid, hydration, navigation, shelter, fire, communication and other critical needs.

Customizing Your Bug Out Bag

While expert lists provide crucial guidance, personalization is key for bug out bag effectiveness. Fine tune your bag and supplies to your skills, locale, and who will depend on it. Key customizations include:

Urban environment - More compact, inconspicuous gear for navigating streets and shelters
Families - Supplies suitable for children and pets; packing strategies for distributing weight
Minimalists - Streamlined options if you need to travel light and fast

No matter what items you choose, the most useful bug out bag is the one you can grab at a moment's notice and quickly take with you, while having what you need to survive.

Bug Out Bag List 2023 PDF: A Downloadable Checklist

For a comprehensive, printable checklist reflecting the latest expert recommendations on critical supplies, download this PDF bug out bag list from the CDC. Customize it by checking off the gear that best matches your situation. Post it or keep it with your bag for easy reference when packing or updating items.

What documents do you put in a bug out bag?

Having important documents in your bug out bag provides critical information needed for identification, travel, medical care, finances, and pets during an emergency evacuation. Here are some of the most essential documents to include:

Passports & Visas - For identification and travel authorization
Birth certificates - To prove citizenship and identity
Driver's licenses - For identification and authorization to drive
Insurance policies - For coverage of health, property, vehicles, etc.
Medical records - For proof of vaccinations, medical conditions, prescriptions, etc.
Bank account info - To access funds and manage finances
Titles & registrations - To prove ownership of vehicles and property
Wills & power of attorney - For management of assets and custody arrangements
Pet records - To prove ownership and vaccinations

The key is to include documentation that proves your identity, manages your assets and obligations, facilitates travel, and handles healthcare and pet needs. Keep copies in a waterproof bag or container to protect from weather and wear-and-tear on the go. Update documents as needed to have the most current versions ready to take at a moment's notice.

What food to put in a bug out bag?

When packing food for your bug out bag, focus on non-perishable, calorie-dense options that are lightweight and easy to prepare. Some essentials to include:

Clean drinking water - Pack water purification tablets or a portable water filter to ensure access to clean water. Dehydration is a major risk in emergency scenarios.
High-calorie granola/protein bars - These compact bars pack a lot of calories and nutrients to fuel your body on the move. Choose options with long shelf lives.
Canned goods - Canned meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, and soups provide important vitamins while lasting for years. Prioritize calorie/protein-dense options.
MREs or freeze dried meals - Pre-packaged meals ready to eat provide balanced nutrition conveniently. Look for lightweight choices to save pack space.
Oatmeal packets or dehydrated meals - These cook with just hot water for quick, energizing meals.
Peanut butter - Calorie, protein and nutrient-dense while needing no refrigeration.

When deciding what food to include, focus on nutritional content, weight, shelf life, and ease of preparation given limited resources on the move. Avoid foods that could spoil without refrigeration or be too heavy to transport. Having the right food supplies can be a crucial survival factor if forced to evacuate quickly in an emergency.

What do you put in a doomsday bag?

When preparing a doomsday or bug out bag, focus first on packing the essentials - items needed to survive for at least 72 hours. These basics include:

Water - Pack at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Consider packing water purification tablets as a backup.
Food - Pack at least a 3-day supply of lightweight, high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, peanut butter, and canned goods.
First Aid Kit - A basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
Tools - Pack a multi-tool, duct tape, plastic sheeting, a tarp, and other supplies for temporary shelter, lighting fires, and basic survival needs.
Navigation - Include an area map, compass, and other navigation tools to travel safely.
Power - Pack spare batteries, a crank or solar powered charger, and charging cables for devices.
Clothing and Bedding - Pack weather-appropriate clothes, gloves, sturdy shoes, socks, emergency blankets, sleeping bags, etc.

Customize your bag based on your climate, terrain, skills, health needs, and potential risks in your area. Prepare for likely emergency scenarios by packing situation-specific tools like masks, medications, pet supplies, etc. Update and inspect kit contents regularly.

With the basics covered, additional useful items may include hygiene products, entertainment, important documents, and more, depending on your situation. The key is having the essentials for short-term survival while being able to safely evacuate.

What items are in the go bag?

A well-stocked go bag should contain essential survival items to help you get through the first 72 hours of an emergency situation. Here are some of the most important things to include:

Food and Water

Having enough food and water is critical in an emergency. Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like:

Energy bars
Trail mix
Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs)
Meal replacement shakes

Aim for enough food for 3 days. Also be sure to pack 3 liters of water per person. Consider including water purification tablets as well.

Shelter and Warmth

Staying warm and having shelter is vital for survival. Pack:

Emergency blanket
Hand warmers
Poncho
Tarp
Respirator masks

These will help regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements.

First Aid

Having the ability to treat injuries is a must. Include:

First aid kit
Medical gloves
Pain relievers
Bandages
Gauze
Antibiotic ointment

Also pack any necessary prescription medications and copies of prescriptions.

Tools

The right tools can be extremely useful when facing an emergency:

Multipurpose knife
Emergency whistle
Duct tape
Work gloves
Flashlight
Radio

These will help with navigation, signaling, repairs, and more.

Hygiene and Sanitation

Maintaining proper hygiene prevents illness. Have:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Wet wipes
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper
Feminine products
Diapers if needed

Proper sanitation reduces disease risk in emergencies.

With these basic survival items, your go bag will help you effectively endure an emergency situation for 72 hours until help arrives. Be sure to check expiration dates and replenish as needed.

Water & Sustenance Essentials

Ensuring access to clean water and nutritious food is vital for survival during an evacuation. This section details key items to pack to meet hydration and nutritional needs.

Water Purification: Tablets and Filters

Water purification tablets and portable filters are compact, lightweight options to ensure access to potable water. Tablets like iodine or chlorine dioxide work to kill bacteria and viruses. Filters with hollow fiber membranes or ceramic elements physically remove contaminants. Depending on your situation, consider packing both for redundancy.

When using tablets, follow instructions and wait the recommended contact time before drinking. Check if your filter meets NSF/ANSI standards for water treatment. Learn how to backflush and maintain your filter to extend its lifespan. Consider packing spare cartridges.

Food for Survival: Energy Bars and MREs

Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods that don't require cooking. Energy bars with oats, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate provide carbohydrates for energy. Trail mixes with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit also supply protein and good fats.

Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) are self-contained, shelf-stable meals with entrees like pasta, rice, or beans. MREs provide ~1200 calories and include snacks like crackers, spreads, desserts, and powdered beverages. Don't forget eating utensils and a can opener.

Reusable Water Containers

Pack durable, BPA-free water bottles and collapsible containers that hold 1-2 liters. Choose wide-mouth bottles for easy cleaning. Ensure caps seal tightly. Consider a 5+ gallon collapsible jug for vehicle evacuation. Bring a hose or tap adapter to siphon water if needed.

Nutritional Considerations: Meal-Replacement Shakes

For lightweight nutrition, pack single-serving meal replacement shakes like Ensure, Boost, or Soylent. Shakes provide balanced macro- and micro-nutrients. The powdered form only requires water. Ready-to-drink bottles are convenient but heavier.

Staying fed and hydrated is critical in an emergency. Prepare by packing compact, calorie-dense foods and tools to source and purify water.

Medical Bug Out Bag List: First Aid & Hygiene

Outlining the critical medical supplies and hygiene products to include in your bug out bag for health and sanitation.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries and illnesses while bugging out. Be sure to pack a variety of bandages, gauze pads, wraps, antiseptic wipes, antibiotics, pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and medical tools. Having a first aid guide or reference book can also come in handy. Some key items to include are:

Adhesive bandages
Gauze rolls
Elastic wraps
Antibiotic ointment
Antiseptic wipes
Ibuprofen/acetaminophen
Anti-diarrheal medication
Antihistamines
Sterile gloves
Tweezers
Scissors
Safety pins
Thermometer
First aid instruction manual

Hygiene Supplies: Staying Clean in a Crisis

Maintaining personal hygiene is critical for health and sanitation, especially when bugging out. Be sure to pack soaps, toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine products, toilet paper, and other items to meet hygiene needs:

Bar soap and washcloth
Travel-size toothbrushes and toothpaste
Feminine hygiene products
Packs of moist towelettes
Roll of toilet paper
Small pack of baby wipes
Travel-size deodorant
Nail clippers with file
Comb or brush

Specialized Hygiene Items

Don't forget hygiene supplies for infants, small children, pregnant women, and those with incontinence issues. These may include:

Diapers
Baby wipes
Diaper rash ointment
Extra menstrual supplies
Adult incontinence pads

Having extras of these specialized items can prove invaluable.

Health Maintenance: Prescriptions and Allergy Medications

If anyone in your party takes prescription medications or has severe allergies, be sure to pack an ample supply of these vital medications in your bug out bag. Having extras can account for travel delays. Also pack:

List of medical conditions/medications
Extra prescription eyeglasses/contacts
EpiPens for severe allergies
Prescription medications
OTC allergy medications

Keeping health conditions in check is key when bugging out for extended periods.

Shelter & Warmth: Protecting Yourself from the Elements

Having adequate shelter and warmth is critical for survival, especially when bugging out into harsh conditions. Selecting the right gear can make all the difference.

Emergency Shelter Options: Tarps and Tents

Packing a lightweight tarp or tent provides emergency shelter if you need to quickly get out of the elements. Tarps are versatile, easy to set up, and take up little pack space. Inflatable tents offer shelter while remaining compact when stored. Consider your climate and choose shelter that will protect from rain, wind, snow, etc.

Insulation and Warmth: Mylar Blankets

Mylar blankets retain up to 90% of body heat and fold down small enough to stash in any bug out bag. They can be used as a blanket or to line an emergency shelter for added warmth. Mylar reflects heat back to the body, making it invaluable for retaining warmth in cold conditions.

Weather Protection: Plastic Sheeting

Include heavy duty plastic sheeting to waterproof your shelter. It can be used as a ground cover or secured over your shelter. The plastic barrier helps block wind, rain, and snow. It also adds an extra layer of insulation to retain warmth.

Fire Creation Tools: Lighters and Waterproof Matches

Having multiple fire starting tools is vital to create warmth and cook food. Pack several BIC lighters as well as weatherproof matches. Store matches in a water-tight case to ensure they light when needed. Prioritize fire creation items to protect against harsh weather.

Discussing the essential tools and navigation aids necessary for survival in unfamiliar or challenging terrains.

Multipurpose Tools: The Versatility of a Swiss Army Knife

A multipurpose tool like a Swiss Army knife is a must-have for any bug out bag. These compact tools contain knives, screwdrivers, bottle openers, scissors, and other implements that allow you to accomplish a variety of survival tasks. The versatility of a good multipurpose tool means you can use it for making shelters, preparing food, making repairs, opening cans/bottles, cutting rope or bandages, and countless other jobs. Having one tool that serves many functions also reduces weight and saves space in your bag. Brands like Victorinox and Leatherman make durable, reliable options designed specifically for survival and outdoor use.

When choosing a multipurpose tool, look for stainless steel construction, a comfortable grip, and tools that match your likely needs (knife blades, pliers, screwdrivers, etc.). Aim for a compact, lightweight option that fits easily into your pack or bag. Consider supplementing your main tool with a small backup option in case you lose or damage the primary one. With the right multipurpose tool, you'll have an indispensable survival asset at your fingertips.

Finding Your Way: Maps and Compasses

When packing your bug out bag, include a map of your area and a compass for navigation in case normal technology like cell phones or GPS fails in an emergency. Paper maps allow you to plot routes without relying on electronics, while a compass provides directional guidance when landmarks are unclear. Choose a durable, waterproof map that covers your region and mark it with potential bug out locations, supply caches, water sources, and other key waypoints. Select a quality compass designed for hiking/survival rather than a basic option - liquid-filled models with adjustable declination settings tend to be more accurate and reliable.

Knowing how to navigate using landmarks, grid references, and compass bearings takes practice but could save your life in an evacuation scenario. Study your map thoroughly to understand terrain, distances, access roads etc. Test your compass navigation skills on local hiking trails to improve proficiency. Having solid navigation fundamentals will give you confidence to traverse unfamiliar ground if you ever need to leave an emergency zone on foot quickly. Accurate navigation ability could make all the difference.

Durable Repair Items: Duct Tape and Paracord

You'll want to stock your bug out bag with versatile items like duct tape and 550 paracord that can assist with emergency repairs, construction tasks, gear fixes, and more. A mini roll of duct tape takes up virtually no space but allows you to do quick patches, secure tarps/shelters, strap broken equipment, label gear, and even remove splinters. 550 paracord is exceptionally strong given its light weight, and can be used to lash items to packs, make snares, replace broken shoelaces, construct basic shelters, and myriad other functions. You can even unwind paracord for the thin strands inside to use as thread for stitching.

In survival scenarios, the ability to improvise fixes with basic tools and materials can make a huge difference. Duct tape and paracord punch way above their light weight and compact size class when it comes to utility. Consider them essential items that offer problem-solving versatility for all types of unexpected situations in the field. Let your imagination run wild with possible uses for these survival staples.

Digging and Trenching Tools

A compact trenching shovel is a hugely valuable addition to your bug out bag supplies. High-quality digging tools serve many purposes, from quickly digging cat holes to cover human waste, to excavating shelters, hammering tent stakes, chopping kindling, clearing brush, and even using as an improvised weapon if needed. Durability is paramount - look for hardened steel construction on blades and handles tough enough to withstand abuse.

Portability balances utility with pack weight and space considerations - try to find a folding shovel design that locks securely. Serrated shovel heads make digging easier in tough soils, while sawtooth sides can chop through roots or packed earth. Look for a pointed spade end shape that can pry rocks/debris and pierce hardened ground. Optional add-ons like a pickaxe head on the reverse side increase versatility further.

With a quality trenching shovel, you gain an invaluable survival asset - the ability to move earth and rapidly alter terrain to suit your needs. This can be the difference between life and death when shelter, warmth and sanitation are at stake. It's a worthy investment that pays dividends in emergency scenarios.

Communication & Power: Staying Connected

Ensuring you have the means to communicate and power your devices in the absence of traditional power sources is critical when bugging out. Having access to weather and emergency information, signaling devices, power banks, and external storage can make a difference in an emergency situation.

Emergency Communication: NOAA Weather Radio

Carrying a NOAA weather radio in your bug out bag allows you to receive vital weather updates and emergency broadcasting even if cell towers are down. These radios are designed to pick up signals from the National Weather Service and provide information directly from local authorities. Having advance warning of incoming storms, floods, or other hazards could save your life. A hand crank or solar-powered NOAA radio ensures you can power the device if batteries run out.

Portable Power: Power Banks and Charging Cables

You'll want to pack at least one high-capacity power bank and charging cables for your essential electronics like cell phones, GPS devices, radios, and flashlights. Being able to recharge these tools in the field helps you stay connected and operational. Choose a rugged, waterproof power bank designed for the outdoors. Include multiple charging cables so you can power different devices. Regularly recharge your power bank to keep it ready for an emergency.

Signaling for Help: Emergency Whistles

A loud emergency whistle can be a lifesaver if you need to signal for help. The shrill tone carries much farther than using your voice alone. Whistles are extremely lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to operate. Attach the whistle to your pack or clothing so it's readily accessible. Know established rescue signals like three short bursts to indicate your location. Only use the whistle sparingly to preserve its effectiveness and avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Documenting Your Journey: External Hard Drive

An external hard drive lets you digitally archive important documents, manuals, maps, medical records, contacts, and other data to take with you. Store content you may need for navigation, survival reference, coordinating with others, proving identification, or documenting your situation. Choose a durable, shock-resistant hard drive with ample storage capacity. The device should be EMP and waterproof as an added safeguard for such sensitive content. Only carry the hard drive if you have a way to power it with a laptop, tablet, or other reading device.

Family and Pet Preparedness

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of family members and pets is a critical consideration when packing a bug out bag. Having the necessary supplies for children, infants, and pets can alleviate stress in an emergency situation.

Bug Out Bag Checklist Family: Essential Items for Children

When packing bug out bags for a family, key items to include for children are:

Extra clothes, jackets, hats, gloves
Comfort items like small toys or books
Kid-friendly non-perishable snacks
Diapers and wipes if still needed
Medications or medical equipment
Flashlight or headlamp

Caring for Infants: Baby Supplies

Caring for infants requires specialized gear. Be sure to pack:

Formula, bottles, nipples
Ample diapers and wipes
Diaper rash ointment
Baby food and snacks
Blankets and extra baby clothes
Pacifiers and small toys

Rotate and check supplies to ensure freshness.

Pet Survival Gear: Food and Accessories

Don't forget about pets! Have on hand for dogs and cats:

Pet food (canned or dry)
Collapsible food/water bowls
Leash and collar with ID tag
Medications
Waste bags
Familiar bed or toys

Top 10 Bug Out Bag Essentials for Families

When prepping bags for households with children or pets, be sure to include:

Infant formula, bottles
Diapers, wipes
Kid-friendly snacks
Pet food, bowls
Baby blankets, clothes
Pacifiers, small toys
Pet leash, collar, ID
Kid medications
Pet medications
Comfort items

Covering these additional basics helps keep families and pets safe.

Specialized Bug Out Bag Variations

Exploring different versions of bug out bags tailored to various needs and situations.

Urban Bug Out Bag List: Adapting to City Survival

Urban environments require bug out bags adapted for navigating streets, buildings, public transit, and other elements not found in nature. Essential urban bug out bag items include:

Detailed maps of the city, focusing on back routes, subway tunnels, utility access points, etc. These help with navigation if normal transit shuts down.
Lock picking tools and door stoppers to access locked buildings for shelter.
Work gloves and protective eyewear to safely traverse damaged structures.
A slim jim for gaining entry into locked vehicles if needed.
Self-defense items like pepper spray or a taser since urban threats include other people.
A gas mask and goggles in case of air contamination from fires, chemicals, etc.

Military Bug Out Bag List: Tactical and Durable Gear

Military bug out bags emphasize ruggedness and efficiency. Key features include:

Durable fabrics like 1000D nylon cordura that resist wear, tear, and weathering.
A modular, MOLLE-compatible design to customize gear storage.
Waterproof dry bags keep essentials functional in adverse conditions.
Rigger's belts and carabiners securely fasten larger items to the exterior.
Camouflage color schemes for tactical concealment.
Helmet, body armor, and gloves provide protection during tactical maneuvers.

Minimalist Bug Out Bag List: The Bare Essentials

To travel light, minimalist bug out bags strip down to just critical survival gear:

Single person shelter like an emergency bivy instead of a full tent.
Water filter straw rather than large filtering pumps.
Rechargeable headlamp using less weight and space than traditional flashlights.
Multifunctional tools like a spork eliminate extraneous dedicated utensils.
Ultralight cookware such as titanium pots with folding handles.
Calorie-dense food rations take up little room but offer substantial nutrition.

Customizing Your Bug Out Bag for Specific Climates

Adjust your bug out bag's contents based on the climate:

In extreme cold, pack extra insulating clothes, chemical hot packs, and a high-rated sleeping bag.
For extreme heat, include electrolyte tablets, sun protective clothing, cooling towels, and a solar still.
In rainy areas, waterproof coverings for gear plus quality rainwear are essential.
For deserts, carry additional water containers and purification methods, and cover exposed skin.

Testing your customized bug out bag via short camping trips helps confirm its effectiveness for local conditions before an actual emergency.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Bug Out Bag Contents

A well-stocked bug out bag is essential for emergency preparedness. The exact contents will vary based on your needs, but some key items include:

Water and food: Having enough water and non-perishable food is vital. Items like water purification tablets, protein bars, and MREs are lightweight and have a long shelf-life.
First aid supplies: A comprehensive first aid kit, medications, bandages, and tools like tweezers will help you treat injuries. Mini first aid guides are also useful.
Navigation tools: Maps of your area, a compass, external battery packs and charging cables for GPS devices can help you find your way if you get lost.
Shelter and warmth: Pack an emergency blanket, tarp, tent or bivvy sack to protect you from the elements. Extra socks, gloves, and a hat are also essentials.

The exact bug out bag contents list will vary for each person or family. The key is customizing it based on your unique situation, needs and possible risks you may face. Maintain and update your bag regularly. With the right emergency essentials, your bug out bag can quite literally save your life one day.