Military Bug Out Bag Essentials

When building a military bug out bag, most will agree that having the essential gear for survival and emergency preparedness is critical.

This article explores the must-have items for a tactical go bag, focusing on the key components that ensure you are ready for any situation.

You will learn the purpose of a military bug out bag, what should be included, and how to tailor your kit for different climates and personal needs. Additionally, the article provides a checklist of navigational tools, illumination devices, versatile cutting implements, fire starters, communication equipment, and other vital survival gear.

Introduction to Military Bug Out Bags

A military bug out bag is designed to provide critical supplies for survival in emergency situations. Key features include durability, versatility, and accessibility of gear. This article explores essential elements to include in a tactical bug out bag.

Understanding the Best Military Bug Out Bag

The ideal military bug out bag is durable, versatile, and provides quick access to supplies. Key factors include:

Durable materials such as 1000D nylon cordura fabric can withstand rugged use
Modular components allow customization of gear for specific needs
MOLLE compatibility integrates with modular lightweight load-carrying equipment
Accessible design makes retrieving gear efficient without unpacking bag

Choosing a bag built for military, law enforcement, or tactical use ensures critical survival features.

Key Components of a Tactical Bug Out Bag

Essential tactical elements of a military bug out bag include:

Modular design for attaching pouches and gear
Ample storage with large main compartment and multiple pockets
Hydration compatibility for hands-free drinking water access
Attachment points for securing extra equipment to exterior
Tough materials like durable fabrics, zippers, and buckles
Neutral coloration blends into natural environments

Incorporating these tactical features creates a versatile bug out bag ready for rough handling.

Military Bug Out Bag List: The Essentials

A well-stocked military bug out bag should contain:

Water and water purification supplies
High-calorie non-perishable food rations
First aid materials and medications
Fire starting tools like matches, lighters, kindling
Light sources such as flashlights, glow sticks, headlamps
Navigation items including map, compass, GPS device
Shelter solutions like emergency blanket, tarp, bivvy sack
Multi-tool, knives, paracord, and other essentials

Customize your bag based on expected duration away from supply lines.

Comparing Civilian and Military Bug Out Bags

While civilian bags focus on light weight, military bags prioritize durability and modularity:

Civilian bags emphasize ultra-light materials to reduce fatigue
Military bags use thick fabrics, zippers, and buckles to withstand abuse
Civilian bags have limited organizational compartments
Military bags integrate MOLLE panels for attaching modular pouches
Civilian bags hold 3 days of critical supplies
Military bags expect longer duration from supply lines

Choose the bag suited to your intended use.

What does the term bug out bag mean?

A "bug out bag" refers to a backpack or bag that contains critical supplies and gear meant to help someone survive for at least 72 hours in an emergency situation. The term "bug out" refers to needing to urgently leave an area due to a disaster, emergency, or other threat.

The essential idea behind a bug out bag is having a bag ready to go at a moment's notice that contains everything you might need to survive for several days. This allows you to quickly evacuate from a dangerous situation while still having access to crucial supplies like food, water, first aid, tools, and other gear.

Some key things to know about bug out bags:

They are focused on portability and essentials for short-term survival needs
Typical components include food, water, first aid supplies, shelter, navigation tools, and other gear
They should contain enough supplies to last 72+ hours as a minimum
Tailoring the bag to your needs and situations is important
They are sometimes called "go bags", bail out bags", "72-hour kits" or other names along those lines

The idea is that in an emergency, having a pre-packed bag with survival essentials allows you to focus on the urgency of evacuating rather than trying to gather supplies. Bug out bags provide crucial short-term survival insurance in situations where you need to urgently get away from a disaster or other threat.

What is usually in a bug out bag?

A typical military bug out bag contains gear and supplies to help personnel survive for at least 72 hours in an emergency situation. Some essential items usually found in a military bug out bag include:

Food and Water

MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) - lightweight, self-contained meals with ~1200 calories per pack
Water pouches or canteens - durable and portable water storage
Water purification tablets - remove bacteria and viruses from found water sources

Shelter and Sleep System

Tent or tarp - provides overhead shelter
Sleeping bag - retains body heat in cold environments
Sleeping pad - insulates from the ground

Map and compass - for navigation without GPS
Two-way radios - communicate with team members
Signal mirrors, whistles, flares - visual/audio signaling devices

First Aid Supplies

Tourniquets - stop severe bleeding
Gauze, bandages, tape - treat wounds
Medications - pain relief, antibiotics

Tools and Utility Items

Knives - cut, prepare food and materials
Fire starting kits - matches, lighters, firesteel
Paracord - building shelters, securing items

The exact contents may vary based on branch, unit, climate, and mission. But these categories cover the military bug out bag essentials for initial survival and self-reliance when evacuating a base or disaster area.

What is a SHTF bag?

A bug out bag, also known as a SHTF (S**t Hits The Fan) bag, is an emergency preparedness kit designed to provide critical tools and supplies in a crisis situation.

This type of bag is intended to be grabbed at a moment's notice in case you need to evacuate quickly. It contains gear to help you survive for at least 72 hours when you may not have access to food, water, or other basic necessities.

Some key characteristics of a quality SHTF bag include:

Portability - able to be easily carried or worn for long distances
Durability - made of sturdy, weatherproof materials
Customization - tailored to your unique needs and climate
Sustainability - includes 3+ days worth of food, water, first aid, etc.
Practicality - focuses on versatile items with multiple uses
Organization - contents compartmentalized for quick access

The exact contents of your bag should align with possible emergency scenarios you may face. This depends on factors like your location, skill level, budget, and more.

When building your SHTF bag, be sure to prioritize life-sustaining basics before specialized tools or comfort items. The top priorities are shelter, water, fire, food, first aid, navigation, and protection.

With the right emergency kit, you can better handle disasters from blizzards to earthquakes and anything in between. A well-stocked SHTF bag provides much-needed confidence to deal with the unexpected.

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

A go bag and a bug out bag serve similar purposes, but have some key differences.

A go bag is designed for short-term emergencies where you may need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place. It contains supplies to last around 72 hours. Go bags are more general purpose and focus on essentials like food, water, first aid, etc.

A bug out bag is specifically for survival situations where you need to leave quickly and be self-reliant for an extended period of time. Bug out bags prioritize gear and supplies for wilderness survival and outdoor activities. The goal is to allow someone to remain mobile and survive outdoors indefinitely after evacuating.

Some key differences:

Duration: Go bags are for 72 hours max, bug out bags are designed for indefinite wilderness survival
Portability: Bug out bags emphasize lightweight and compact gear to allow for greater mobility
Focus: Go bags focus on sheltering and short-term essentials, bug out bags focus on longer-term survival supplies suited for outdoor living
Customization: Bug out bags are often specialized based on climate, terrain, user skills, etc. Go bags are more generalized.

The military takes the specific bug out bag approach, tailoring the contents for outdoor survival in diverse environments. Military bug out bags incorporate specialized gear to allow soldiers to be self-sufficient as they navigate to safety.

Whether you need a general emergency kit or a specialized survival pack, understanding the differences between go bags and bug out bags helps ensure you build the right bag to meet your specific needs.

The Ultimate Survival Kit: Bug Out Bag Breakdown

A bug out bag, also known as a tactical, go bag, or 72-hour kit, contains the essential items you need to survive an emergency evacuation or disaster scenario. Assembling the perfect bug out bag requires careful consideration of your unique needs, but these fundamentals provide a framework to get you started.

Navigational Necessities for Survival

Map and compass: Analog navigation tools help you find your destination without relying on technology. Choose a detailed topographic map of your area.
GPS device: A GPS device with spare batteries pinpoints your location if you become lost. Consider a GPS watch or handheld unit.
Signal mirror: A lightweight signal mirror flashes to attract attention from afar. Useful for signaling rescuers.

Illumination Implements

Headlamp: Hands-free lighting lets you work in the dark. Choose an LED headlamp with different lighting modes.
Flashlight: A durable, waterproof flashlight provides portable light. LED is preferred for efficiency.
Glow sticks: Chemical glow sticks provide 360° illumination for 12+ hours. Store as emergency backups.

Versatile Cutting Tools

Pocket knife or multi-tool: Choose a quality locking blade knife or multi-tool. Useful for preparing food, making repairs, and other survival tasks.
Machete: A full-tang machete clears brush and harvests wood. Consider one with a sawback for added functionality.

Fire-Starting Essentials

Waterproof matches: Strike-anywhere matches light in wet conditions. Store in a waterproof case with striker paper.
Lighter: Butane lighters are reliable for starting fires. Bring extra fuel canisters.
Fire starter: Specialized fire starter aids ignition. Options include ferrocerium rods, tinder tabs, and solar igniters.
Tinder: Cotton balls, dryer lint, and wax-soaked twine catch a spark to start a fire. Keep tinder material dry.

All-Weather Wearables

Jacket: A waterproof, windproof jacket protects against rain, wind, and cold. Gore-Tex offers proven weather protection.
Pants: Rugged, weatherproof pants stand up to outdoor use while blocking wind and moisture.
Boots: Sturdy leather or synthetic boots with aggressive tread provide traction and ankle support.
Gloves: Insulated gloves keep hands warm and protected during outdoor activities.
Hat: A wide-brimmed hat shields from both sun and rain. Choose synthetic for wet conditions.

With survival basics covered, customize your bug out bag with additional mission-specific gear to meet your needs.

Bugout Bag Survival Kit: Security and Defense

For defense, surveillance and signaling, be sure to include:

Self-Defense Solutions

A firearm, pepper spray or other protective weapon can provide an extra layer of security when faced with dangerous wildlife or people in a disaster scenario. However, any self-defense solutions should only be carried by those properly trained and licensed. Consider alternative deterrents like bright flashlights, alarms, or walking sticks.

Communication Capabilities

Pack a hand-crank or battery-powered radio to monitor emergency broadcasts and communications when cell towers are down. Two-way radios are useful for communicating with group members.

Signaling Devices for Rescue

Carry a whistle, signal mirror, glow sticks and other visual/audible devices that can help alert rescuers to your location. Know proper signaling techniques like SOS arm waves, ground signals, and triangle torch fires.

Observation Optics

Compact binoculars allow you to survey terrain, spot threats, or identify shelter from a safe distance without compromising your location. Look for binoculars that are fog-proof, waterproof, and shock-resistant.

Monetary Means

Have small bills and coins in case you need to purchase essential supplies when evacuating. However, keep cash minimal as it can be stolen. Prioritize bartering goods, skills, and connections over carrying excessive cash in a disaster scenario.

Bugout Backpack: Organizing for Rapid Deployment

Carefully pack all items to optimize space and allow quick access:

Selecting the Best Bug Out Bag Backpack

When selecting a bug out bag backpack, durability and comfort are key. Look for bags made of abrasion-resistant materials like 1000D nylon or Cordura fabric, with reinforced stitching. Internal frames with padded shoulder straps and waist belts distribute weight more comfortably for long treks.

Prioritize storage capacity to fit all your gear, with large main compartments and multiple external pockets for organization. Compression straps allow you to cinch down the load when partly empty. Choose a bag between 30-50 liters to balance capacity with mobility. Dark, neutral colors blend into surroundings better than bright hues.

Top backpack picks include the 5.11 Rush72, Direct Action Ghost tactical backpack, and REEBOW GEAR military assault pack.

Strategic Packing for Quick Access

Use organizer pouches, stuff sacks, and plastic bins to group related items in your bag. Place essentials like your first aid kit, flashlight, fire starter, and navigation tools towards the top or in external pockets for rapid access without unpacking everything.

Waterproof important documents and electronics by storing them in sealable plastic bags before packing. Consider color coding pouches or marking them with duct tape labels for easy identification of contents when reaching into your pack.

Power Preservation Strategies

Pack extra batteries for electronics and communication devices. Storing batteries in waterproof containers will extend their shelf life. Rechargeable lithium battery packs offer redundancy when disposable CR123 and AA batteries run out.

For longer off-grid trips, carrying a foldable solar panel charger lets you harness the sun’s energy to keep devices powered on. Choose one that can charge multiple items simultaneously via USB ports. Pair it with a backup power bank for nights and cloudy days.

Creating a Cohesive Communications Plan

Develop an emergency communications plan with specific protocols, designated meeting points, and contacts. Share this info with your party to enable regrouping if you get separated during evacuation or disaster scenarios.

Consider carrying two-way radios for short range communications within your immediate area when cell networks are overloaded. Know which radio frequencies and communication codes your party will monitor.

For longer range contacts, a satellite messenger device can send and receive text messages via global satellite network when you have no cell service.

Bugout Gear: Familiarity through Training

Train with your fully loaded bug out bag to confirm all systems work properly while mobile. Repeat drills packing and unpacking your bag quickly. Know exactly where every item is located and practice accessing key gear without taking everything out.

Get in shape for long distance travel with weight on your back. Include river crossings, hiking trails, and off-road terrain in training exercises. Break in hiking boots before relying on them. Confirm your physical capability to effectively handle your bugout bag’s weight over prolonged periods.

Bugout Bag Supplies: Tailoring Your Kit

When preparing your bug out bag, it's important to tailor the contents to your specific needs and the environment you may face. Here are some key factors to consider:

Adapting Your Bug Out Bag for Different Climates

Tropical climates require lightweight, breathable clothing as well as protection from insects, sun exposure, and heavy rainfall. Water filtration/purification is essential.
Arctic climates demand heavy-duty outerwear, gloves, hats, and waterproof, insulated boots to prevent hypothermia. Pack high-calorie foods.
Urban settings may dictate inconspicuous clothing, cash/barter items, and navigation tools if fleeing on foot.

Balancing Weight and Essentials

Aim for a loaded pack weight of no more than 25-30 pounds. Focus first on survival basics - shelter, water, food, first aid. Then determine what mission-critical specialty gear you need.

Incorporating Personal Medications and Needs

Pack at least a week's supply of vital prescription medications.
Include personal hygiene items, eyeglasses/contacts, protective equipment for pre-existing conditions.
Special nutritional needs may require high-protein, gluten-free, or other specialty foods.

Renewable Resources and Sustainable Solutions

Prioritize gear that does not require batteries or fuel, such as:

Water filters over bottled water
Solar chargers over disposable batteries
Reusable utensils over plasticware
Wool, down items instead of synthetic fabrics

This allows you to replenish from the environment and avoids supply depletion.

Key Takeaways

A well-designed military bug out bag prepares you to rapidly evacuate while ensuring you have the essentials to endure rugged situations. Tailor your bag to your needs, organize mindfully and practice protocols to optimize survival preparedness.

Essential Bugout Bag Backpack Checklist

When building your military bug out bag, focus on the critical supplies for survival, including:

Water and food rations - Pack at least 3 days worth of non-perishable, high-protein foods as well as water filtration/purification solutions. MREs are a popular choice.
First aid - A robust medical kit handles injuries and ailments. Include bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. Know how to use these items.
Navigation - Have maps, a compass, GPS device to determine your location and the best evacuation route.
Light sources - Pack flashlights, glow sticks, headlamps. Ensure gear has extra batteries.
Shelter - A durable tent, thermal sleeping bag and pad can prove lifesaving if evacuation takes multiple days.
Tools - A solid knife, paracord, duct tape, fire starter kit equip you for survival situations.

Customize with additional tactical items as needed - communication devices, protective eyewear, escape rope, etc. Only include what you can carry.

The Importance of Regularly Updating Your Kit

As conditions evolve, reassess your bug out bag every 6 months. Replace expired food/medicine, swap outgrown clothing, upgrade faded gear. Doing military-style survival drills with your bag also helps optimize readiness.

Final Thoughts on Building the Best Bug Out Bag Kit

An organized, robust yet portable bug out bag gives necessary insurance if disaster strikes. Assembling your kit systematically and drilling evacuation protocols cultivates readiness and resilience. With your tailored military-grade equipment, you can evacuate rapidly while having provisions to endure the elements.