When emergency or disaster strikes, having a well-stocked go bag backpack can make all the difference in one's ability to evacuate safely and meet basic needs until help arrives.
This comprehensive guide on go bag backpack essentials will equip readers with the knowledge to prepare the perfect bug out bag tailored to their unique needs and situation.
We'll explore the critical items to include to ensure you're ready for any emergency, with a focus on practicality and efficiency when packing your go bag.
Introduction to Emergency Go Bag Backpacks
Having a well-stocked go bag backpack ready in case of an emergency evacuation or disaster situation is critical for survival preparedness. This article will provide an overview of what to include in your go bag, tips for choosing the best backpack, military-grade options, and a checklist of essential bug out bag items.
Understanding the Importance of a Go Bag
A go bag, also known as a bug out bag, is a backpack filled with emergency preparedness supplies and survival gear. Having one prepped and ready to go is important for quickly evacuating from sudden emergency situations like fires, floods, storms, or civil unrest. Go bags should contain critical items like food, water, first aid, tools, and other essentials to survive for at least 72 hours. Preparing go bags for your household ensures you have the necessary supplies for short-term survival off-the-grid.
Choosing the Best Go Bag Backpack
When selecting a backpack for your go bag, key features to consider include:
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Durability: Choose durable, water-resistant fabrics that can withstand the elements. Look for reinforced stitching and zippers.
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Comfort: As you may need to carry your bag for long distances, prioritize thick padded straps, breathable back panels, and a hip belt to distribute weight.
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Accessibility: Multiple exterior pockets allow quick access to items you’ll need most. Dedicated pockets help organize gear.
Look for bags around 30-50 liters to fit 3+ days of supplies. Military-grade and hiking backpacks typically make ideal go bag options.
Go Bag Backpack Military-Grade Options
Military bug out bags provide rugged and high-quality options designed for extreme situations. Features of military go bags include:
- Durable 1000D nylon or cordura fabric
- MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches
- Hydration bladder compatibility
- Modular components and detachable straps
- Camouflage color options
Top military backpack brands to consider include 5.11 Tactical, REEBOW GEAR, and Monoki.
Ultimate Survival Kit: Bug Out Bag Essentials
The following items comprise an well-rounded bug out bag essentials list:
Water and Food
- 3+ liters of water
- Water purification tablets
- High-calorie protein bars and dried foods
Emergency Items
- First aid kit
- Emergency blanket and sleeping bag
- Fire starter kits and waterproof matches
- Flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries
Tools and Gear
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
- Paracord
- Emergency whistle
- Weather radio
- Backup battery pack and charging cables
Customize your bag based on your climate, terrain, skill level, and potential risks in your area. Get home safely by being prepared with a fully-stocked go bag.
What should be in my go bag?
A well-stocked go bag backpack is critical for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most essential items to include:
Water and Food
Having bottled water and non-perishable food like granola bars ensures you have vital sustenance if you need to evacuate quickly. Pack enough for several days as you may not have access to food or clean water.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, wet wipes, tissues, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, feminine products, and extra underwear can help maintain health and hygiene in an emergency.
Tools and Supplies
A flashlight, hand-crank or battery AM/FM radio, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags, zip ties, rope, and a portable phone charger equip you with critical tools and power sources.
Navigation
Pack paper maps for your local area in case digital navigation fails. A compass and whistle can also be useful.
Shelter and Warmth
Having an emergency blanket, gloves, warm socks, hat, rain poncho, and even a compact sleeping bag can prove invaluable if you must brave the elements.
First Aid
A first aid kit, medications, bandages, gauze, tweezers, trauma shears, antiseptic, and burn cream help treat injuries.
Adjust your go bag contents based on your needs, environment, and possible risks. The goal is having the essentials for short-term survival ready to go at a moment's notice.
What's the difference between a go bag and a bug out bag?
Both go bags and bug out bags are designed for emergency preparedness, but they serve slightly different purposes.
A go bag is a small, portable backpack filled with critical supplies to get you through the first 72 hours of an emergency. Go bags are meant for evacuation situations when you need to leave quickly and may not be able to return home for several days.
Go bag essentials typically include:
- Bottled water and non-perishable food
- First aid supplies
- Flashlight
- Radio
- Extra batteries
- Cash
- Medications
- Multi-tool
- Map
- Emergency blanket and poncho
A bug out bag contains enough gear and supplies to survive for an extended period of time, usually 5-7 days or longer. While go bags focus on short-term evacuation, bug out bags prepare you for a longer-term disaster scenario where you may need to travel significant distances by foot to reach safety.
Bug out bags include all the essentials in a go bag plus additional items like:
- Tent/shelter supplies
- Cooking equipment
- Fishing line and hooks
- Fire starting tools
- Weapon/tools for defense
- Water filtration/purification system
The main difference is go bags provide the bare minimum supplies for a short-term emergency evacuation while bug out bags equip you for a longer-term, mobile survival situation covering all your basic needs. Both are critical pieces of an emergency preparedness plan.
Is it smart to have a go bag?
No matter where you live, every home should have a “go bag” and a “stay bin.” The go bag is what you grab when you have to leave the house in a hurry, whether to get to the emergency room or to evacuate because of a fire or a hurricane. Having a well-stocked go bag backpack ready for emergencies is one of the smartest ways to prepare for the unexpected.
Here are some key reasons why a go bag backpack is an essential part of emergency preparedness:
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It allows you to evacuate quickly. In a crisis situation like a natural disaster or home emergency, you may only have moments to leave your home. Having a pre-packed bag with essential supplies eliminates precious evacuation time.
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It provides critical survival items. A go bag should contain food, water, first aid supplies, tools, and other gear to sustain you for at least 72 hours. This buys time until you can reach safety or additional help arrives.
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It gives peace of mind. Knowing you have a grab-and-go solution for emergencies can reduce panic and support clearer decision making when seconds count.
The key is packing your go bag intelligently so it includes versatile supplies to meet a wide range of needs. Focus on the essentials like food, water, first aid, tools, and weather protection. Regularly inspect and refresh your bag so contents stay in working order. Follow expert packing lists but customize based on your climate and needs.
With a well-stocked go bag backpack, you gain confidence that you can handle the unexpected. It's one of the simplest ways to take control and be proactive about emergency preparedness.
How long should a go bag last?
A go bag backpack should contain enough supplies to sustain you and your family for 72 hours or 3 days in an emergency situation. This timeframe allows for initial response and recovery efforts to begin mobilizing while providing you with adequate resources to maintain safety and meet basic needs.
Here are some tips on packing your go bag to last 72 hours:
- Include 1 gallon of water per person per day. This equals 3 gallons total per person. Water packets or portable filtration systems help save space.
- Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and crackers. Figure for at least 2000-2500 calories per day.
- Include basic first aid items plus essential medications and prescriptions for 3 days.
- Pack flashlights, batteries, lighter, emergency blankets, hand warmers, and other gear.
- Have copies of important documents like ID cards, insurance info, contacts list etc.
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the climate, plus hygiene and sanitation items.
The key is packing smart - dense nutrition, versatile tools, and other efficient items that meet survival needs without weighing you down. Test and rotate the contents every 6 months to keep them in working order. With preparation and practice, your go bag can support you and your family during those crucial first 72 hours of an emergency.
Shelter and Warmth
Prioritize protection from the elements with these critical items for shelter and warmth in your emergency go bag.
Emergency Blankets and Bivvies
Emergency blankets and bivvies are essential items to pack in your go bag backpack to retain body heat and provide immediate shelter in an emergency situation. Mylar emergency blankets are lightweight, compact, and designed to reflect 90% of your body heat. Pair a mylar blanket with a bivvy sack for durable and waterproof portable shelter.
Consider packing multiple mylar blankets in case others need one. Bivvy sacks come in different warmth ratings, so choose one suited for your climate. A bivvy paired with an insulating sleeping pad will keep you warm and dry. Test and practice setting up your bivvy shelter beforehand so you know how to use it effectively.
Sleeping Bag Selection
Choose a lightweight and compact sleeping bag rated for the climate you live in to include in your go bag. Down and synthetic sleeping bags differ in weight, compressibility, cost, and insulation when wet. Test out sleeping bags to find one that balances these factors for your situation. Consider packing a waterproof stuff sack for your sleeping bag as well.
If possible, have a summer and winter sleeping bag option ready to go depending on conditions. An emergency blanket can boost insulation if needed. Take time to learn how to properly roll, pack, and take care of your sleeping bag for longevity.
Tents and Tarpaulins
For portable shelter, pack a small 1-2 person tent or durable tarp in your emergency go bag. Tents provide insect and weather protection while tarps are adaptable shelters to craft based on your situation. Consider a tent/tarp hybrid that incorporates the best features of both.
When buying a tent or tarp, evaluate material durability, weight, packed size, and ease of setup. Waterproof ratings are also critical if relying on the shelter in a storm. Take time to repeatedly set up your shelter option to ensure you can do so efficiently when needed.
Insulating Clothing
Include insulating clothing layers in your go bag to maintain warmth and prevent hypothermia during an emergency. Materials like wool, fleece, and down retain heat even when wet. Choose insulating jackets, hats, gloves, and base layers suited for your climate.
Having multiple insulating layers allows you to adjust based on temperature. Hand and foot warmers can also boost warmth in cold weather. Make sure to have clothing sizes to fit all family members in your go bag if applicable. Test clothing in outdoor scenarios to evaluate true warmth and quick-drying properties.
Hydration and Water Purification
Ensuring access to clean water is a top priority; include these items to manage your hydration needs.
Water Bottles and Hydration Packs
Select durable and lightweight water bottles or hydration packs that can carry adequate water for your needs. Look for BPA-free plastic or stainless steel bottles that won't break if dropped. Hydration packs with bladders and drinking tubes allow easy access to water without stopping. Choose capacity based on your situation - opt for larger 3L hydration packs for longer trips.
Water Purification Methods
Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua are lightweight and convenient options to make non-potable water drinkable. They work via chlorination. Water filters like LifeStraws allow you to drink directly from lakes or rivers. Gravity filters with replaceable cartridges like Sawyer or Platypus are useful for larger quantities.
Collapsible Water Containers
Pack collapsible water bags or bottles to conserve space. These can fold down small but hold 1-5 liters when full. Brands like Vapur and Hydrapak make durable containers; double bagging prevents leaks. Carry a mix of rigid and collapsible containers for versatility.
Boiling Equipment
As a last resort, carry a small backpacking stove, solid fuel tablets like Esbit, or a simple metal pot for boiling water. Boiling is one of the most reliable methods of purification when other options aren't availalble. Have a method to start a fire as an emergency backup.
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Nutrition and Sustenance
Maintaining adequate energy and nutrition during an emergency situation is critical. Having the right foods and supplies in your go bag backpack can make all the difference.
Energy Bars and Meal Replacements
Energy bars are lightweight, non-perishable, and packed with calories to help keep your energy up. Look for bars with a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Some good options are:
- Clif Bars
- Protein bars like Quest or ThinkThin
- Meal replacement bars like Twennybars
Bars take up little space and give you an energy boost when needed.
Non-Perishable Snacks
Supplement bars with other non-perishable snacks like:
- Trail mixes with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
- Beef or turkey jerky
- Peanut butter packets
- Canned nuts, fruits, or vegetables
These snacks provide extra calories, nutrients, and variety.
Cooking Supplies
If possible, pack compact cooking supplies like:
- Lightweight backpacking stove and fuel canister
- Metal cup or pot for boiling water or heating meals
- Plastic utensils
- Lighter or waterproof matches
This allows you to heat food, boil and purify water, and cook hot meals.
Utensils and Mess Kits
A mess kit or spork lets you cook and eat without needing a full kitchen setup. Portable options include:
- Collapsible cup/bowl combos
- Inflatable sink bags
- Compact utensil sets
- Metal sporks
Choose mess gear that packs down small and cleans up easily after use.
Having the right mix of nutritious foods and ways to prepare them can make a significant difference during an emergency. Stock your go bag backpack with non-perishable but nutrient-dense options tailored to your needs.
First Aid and Health
A well-stocked first aid kit and personal health items are indispensable for any emergency preparedness supplies. Having these critical items on hand can help treat injuries and illnesses during an emergency situation.
Comprehensive First Aid Kit
A comprehensive first aid kit is essential for any go bag backpack. Be sure to include bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, and anything else you may need to treat cuts, burns, sprains, and other minor injuries. It's also a good idea to add any personal medications you take on a regular basis.
Personal Medications and Prescriptions
If you take prescription medications, make sure to have at least a week's supply in your go bag backpack. This includes medications for chronic conditions as well as acute needs like antibiotics or antihistamines. Check expiration dates periodically and refill as needed. Having backup doses of critical medications can be extremely important during an emergency.
Hygiene Products
Maintaining proper hygiene prevents illness and infection when living in close quarters or unsanitary conditions post-disaster. Pack bar soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, feminine products, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes. Items like sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm, and foot powder also help promote health.
Protection Gear
Respirator masks, latex gloves, and protective goggles shield you from smoke inhalation, chemical exposures, biohazards, and airborne illnesses. Having proper protection gear on hand allows you to assist others safely if you come across accident scenes or contamination areas. They take up little room in a pack and can prove invaluable.
Tools and Survival Gear
Equip your go bag with tools and survival gear to handle a variety of tasks and emergency situations.
Multi-Tool and Knives
A versatile multi-tool like a Leatherman and a fixed blade knife are essentials for your go bag. Choose durable and lightweight options that offer features like pliers, screwdrivers, bottle openers, knives, scissors, and more. Consider corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction. A good knife serves various purposes from preparing food to constructing shelter. Look for full tang knives with 4-6 inch blades for strength and usability.
Paracord and Duct Tape
Paracord and duct tape have a wide range of emergency uses from securing items, to making repairs, to constructing basic structures. Paracord is strong, versatile rope that can be used for lifting, hauling, securing loads, making traps, and other tasks. Duct tape allows quick repairs for damage, leaks, rips, holes, cracks and more. A good go bag should have plenty of both.
Fire Starters and Ignition
Reliable fire starting capability is a critical survival need for warmth, purifying water, signaling, and cooking. A variety of waterproof matches, reusable lighters, flint strikers, and tinder items are important to include. Tinder like cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly allow sparks to easily ignite fires. Windproof lighters and waterproof match cases ensure ignition capability even in storms.
Fishing and Trapping Supplies
For longer-term survival situations, compact fishing and trapping gear can help acquire food. Useful items include fishing line, hooks, compact rods, small wire traps, bait/lures, and multi-use tools like line cutters and knot tying capability. Consider collapsible trap and rod options that take up less space. Prioritize critical components over convenient extras.
Lighting and Signaling Devices
Stay visible and able to navigate with the right lighting and signaling devices in your emergency items list.
Flashlights and Headlamps
Flashlights and headlamps are essentials for any emergency go bag. Choose durable models with long battery life. Waterproof and impact-resistant units are ideal. Pack extra batteries or consider solar/crank powered lights. Headlamps free up your hands for other tasks.
Emergency Whistles and Mirrors
Whistles allow you to signal for help loudly. Get a rescue whistle with a lanyard to wear around your neck. Signaling mirrors enable you to reflect sunlight to attract attention from afar. A quality mirror with sighting hole is compact and lightweight.
Glow Sticks and Flares
Pack glow sticks and flares to aid visibility and signaling in the dark. Chemilight glow sticks provide long-lasting illumination to mark your location. Orion safety flares shoot high intensity red light to signal aircraft and rescuers.
Battery or Solar Chargers
Having power for electronics is vital. Pack external battery packs and solar chargers. Goal Zero's Sherpa 100PD Qi Power Bank provides wireless charging and Power Delivery. The SunJack 14W Solar Charger efficiently charges devices using the sun. Choose versatile and durable chargers.
Communication and Information
Maintain the ability to receive information and communicate with others during a disaster with these emergency backpack items.
Emergency Weather Radio
Include a weather radio in your go bag to stay informed about severe weather conditions and emergency alerts. A hand crank or battery-powered weather radio allows you to receive NOAA broadcasts even if the power goes out. Consider models with AM/FM bands, flashlight or lantern functions.
Two-Way Radios
Pack two-way radios in your emergency backpack for communication with family or group members. Opt for long range FRS/GMRS models with NOAA channels. Waterproof radios are ideal in case of flooding or storms. Include extra batteries.
Smartphone and Power Bank
A smartphone can provide access to emergency information as long as it remains charged. Include a high capacity portable power bank and charging cable to keep devices powered. Download useful emergency apps and set phone to low battery mode. Bring an extra battery pack for extended outages.
Maps and Compass
Paper maps and a compass enable navigation if GPS systems become unavailable. Laminated state maps are waterproof and reusable. Learn how to read topo maps showing terrain, landmarks, and potential shelter locations. Choose a quality compass designed for wilderness navigation.
Personal Documents and Cash
Secure important personal documents and cash in your go bag for identification and transactions during emergencies.
Identification and Legal Documents
Keep copies of identification and legal documents like your driver's license, passport, social security card, and proof of address in a waterproof ziplock bag or container. Having these on hand will help verify your identity if needed.
Emergency Contact Information
Write down phone numbers and addresses for family members, close friends, doctors, and other emergency contacts. Keep this list handy in your wallet or another easily accessible place in your bag.
Cash in Small Denominations
Carry $20-40 in small bills and coins in case you need to make small purchases during an emergency when electronic payments may not be possible. Having singles, fives, tens, and quarters on hand gives you flexibility.
Backup Keys
Pack a backup set of keys for your home, vehicle, safe deposit box, or any other locks you may need access to. Having these keys in your go-bag means you can get into essential places if you had to evacuate quickly.
Practicing with Your Go Bag Backpack
Regularly practicing with your go bag backpack is critical to ensure familiarity and practicality in an actual emergency situation. Here are some tips:
Simulate Evacuation Scenarios
- Conduct practice evacuation drills on your own or with your family/group. Time how long it takes to grab your go bag and leave.
- Do a trial run of your evacuation route and backup routes. Make note of any issues.
- Test different scenarios - practice evacuating quickly, practice staying out for 24 hours, 72 hours, etc.
Adjusting for Comfort and Accessibility
- Load up your go bag and take a practice hike. Make adjustments so it fits comfortably for extended wear.
- Organize items from most to least critical. Make sure you can quickly access water, food, first aid kit.
- Consider attaching carabiners to strap on additional gear. Test ease of access.
Skill Development
- Learn skills like starting fires, purifying water, building basic shelters. Practice regularly.
- Have the right tools in your go bag to enable critical survival skills.
- Take first aid/CPR courses. Keep your skills current.
Periodic Review and Update
- Set reminders to periodically review your go bag contents. Make sure nothing has expired.
- Check that all gear and electronics remain in working order. Replace batteries.
- Update items like clothes for the season or gear to fit your needs.
- Refresh your food/water supply. Use and replace items before they expire.
Practicing with your go bag backpack builds muscle memory and confidence to handle emergencies. Conduct regular drills tailored to possible scenarios to test your readiness over time.
Conclusion: Ensuring Disaster Readiness with Your Go Bag Backpack
A well-stocked go bag backpack is critical for emergency preparedness. As we have seen, the right survival supplies like water, food, first aid, tools, and other gear can make all the difference when disaster strikes.
When creating your go bag, focus on the essentials while keeping practicality and efficiency in mind. Choose versatile, durable items that meet your specific needs. Customize your bag for your climate, potential risks, and personal circumstances.
Review your go bag regularly and replace expired items. Practice using your gear so you know how to handle everything, even in high-stress situations. Preparedness takes continuous effort, but it is vital for you and your loved ones' safety.
Essential Takeaways for Preparedness
The most critical go bag backpack essentials include:
- Water and water purification supplies
- Non-perishable, high-energy foods
- First aid materials
- Emergency blankets and sleeping bags
- Fire starters and energy bars
- Flashlights, headlamps, and batteries
- Multi-tool, paracord, and other versatile tools
- Weather radio, emergency whistle, mobile phone charger
Focus on compact, durable items tailored to your needs.
Customizing Your Go Bag
Consider your climate, potential risks, specialized medications, tools for your profession, and other personal factors when choosing go bag items. An urban earthquake kit differs greatly from a rural wilderness one.
Involve your family in assembling their own bags. Include comfort items for kids. Mark gear with neon tape to quickly identify yours.
Maintaining Readiness
Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine, and batteries every 6-12 months. Replace depleted items.
Practice finding, lifting and carrying your bag. Set up your tent, use your radio and purifier. This builds preparedness skills for real emergencies.
The Role of Practicality and Efficiency
Choose versatile, durable survival gear that packs the most use into the smallest space and weight. Rigorously evaluate each item's practicality. Can it serve multiple functions? Will it realistically improve safety and resilience?
Build efficiency into your preparedness practice too. Make checking and updating your go bag a regular habit.
With smart planning and sustained effort, your go bag backpack can give you confidence to handle disasters from blizzards to earthquakes. Prepare now, before emergencies arise.
