When building an emergency preparedness kit, most would agree that having the right supplies on-hand is critical for survival in a crisis.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to assembling the perfect "go bag" with all the essentials you need.
You'll learn what to include for water, food, first aid, navigation, and more, ensuring you have a well-stocked bug out bag ready for any emergency situation.
Introduction to Prepper Go Bag Essentials
This post provides an overview of key items to include in a prepper "go bag" or emergency survival kit. Having the right gear and supplies on-hand can be crucial for enduring disasters and emergencies.
Understanding the Prepper Go Bag and Bug Out Bag
A prepper go bag, also known as a bug out bag or survival kit, contains gear and provisions for emergency preparedness. This portable bag allows one to quickly evacuate or take shelter during a crisis. It is tailored to an individual's needs, climate, likely risks, and means of transport.
Essentials often include food, water, first aid, tools, and navigation aids. This enables self-reliance when normal infrastructure is unavailable. Go bags empower readiness - key for responsibly facing uncertain times.
Objectives for Building Your Ultimate Survival Kit
When assembling a go bag, first consider probable emergencies and how long supplies must sustain you. If evacuating is likely, pack light for mobility. In a shelter-in-place scenario, more provisions may be sensible.
Next, tailor gear for likely transport - hiking necessitates hardy shoes and topographical maps that a commuter bag wouldn't need. Finally, include redundancy for critical items like water, medicine, and first aid.
With thoughtful planning and essentials covered, a prepper go bag offers confidence to handle adversity. The above foundation helps equip any emergency kit.
What do you put in a go bag for evacuation?
When preparing a go bag for evacuation during an emergency, there are some key categories of essential items to include:
Food and Water
- Pack non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. Choose items that don't require refrigeration or preparation.
- Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. Water pouches or bottles are convenient and packable.
Shelter and Warmth
- Pack an emergency foil blanket and hand warmers to prevent hypothermia if exposed to cold weather.
- A poncho or rain jacket can provide protection from wind and rain.
First Aid
- A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc. can treat injuries and illness.
- Pack 3-7 days' supply of critical prescription medications you rely on.
Tools and Gear
- Pack a flashlight, lighter, multi-tool, batteries, duct tape, and rope. These provide lighting, ability to start fires, and basic repairs.
- Whistle and compass for navigation, signaling, and location in case you get lost.
The key is to plan for your basic survival needs - shelter, water, food, first aid. Prioritize lightweight, high-calorie, non-perishable items. Update your go bag every 6 months to keep it ready for an emergency evacuation.
What do you put in a doomsday bag?
A doomsday or disaster preparedness bag, often called a "bug out bag", is essential for emergency situations. Here are some of the most important items to include:
Water and Food
Having access to clean water and non-perishable food is critical in a disaster scenario.
- Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs
- Choose calorie-dense foods with a long shelf life like granola bars, canned goods, nuts, and dried fruits
Communication and Navigation Tools
Being able to receive emergency notifications, navigate to safety, and signal for help can be lifesaving.
- Pack a battery-powered or hand crank radio to receive weather and news alerts
- Have an emergency whistle and compass for navigation and signaling
- A flashlight is also essential, along with extra batteries
First Aid Supplies
Even minor injuries can become serious without proper medical supplies.
- A complete first aid kit is a must, including bandages, gauze, ointments, latex gloves, scissors, tweezers, thermometer, etc.
- If you take prescription medications, pack at least a week's supply. Include copies of prescriptions as well.
Shelter and Utilities
Preparing your home and having backup shelter plans are important steps.
- Identify and prepare a shelter location in case you need to leave your home
- Have a plan to safely turn off utilities like gas, water and electricity if needed
Packing the right doomsday bag can literally save your life in an emergency. Focus on the basics like food, water, first aid, communication tools, and navigation when prepping your go-bag.
What should be in an emergency grab bag?
When preparing for an emergency, having a grab-and-go bag with essential supplies can make all the difference. This bag, sometimes called a "bug out bag" or "go bag", should contain items to help you survive for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place.
Here are some of the most important things every grab-and-go bag should include:
Food and Water
- Pack non-perishable, high-protein foods like granola bars, nuts, beef jerky, and canned goods with pop-top lids.
- Have at least one gallon of water per person for 3 days. Water pouches or bottles work well.
Tools for Self-Reliance
- Pack a manual can opener, pocket knife, duct tape, and multi-tool. These will help you open food, make repairs, construct shelter, etc.
- Roadside emergency tools like jumper cables, tire patch kit, flares, flashlight, and leather work gloves can also be invaluable if evacuating by vehicle.
Navigation and Communication Resources
- Have a battery-powered radio and plenty of extra batteries to stay updated about the situation.
- Pack a compass, local maps, permanent marker to trace routes.
- Include an emergency whistle and signaling mirror.
- If possible, throw in a prepaid phone card, portable cell phone charger, and extra charging cord.
Medical and Sanitation Supplies
- A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, OTC meds, latex gloves, and any necessary personal medications.
- Bar soap, toothbrush, towel, toilet paper, and other hygiene necessities.
- Garbage and ziplock bags have many uses, from keeping things dry to waste disposal.
Other Essentials
- Extra clothes, hat, sturdy shoes, emergency blanket, towels
- Spare keys, cash in small bills, important phone numbers/docs
- LED flashlight, candles, waterproof matches/lighter
- Paper, pens and permanent marker to leave notes, trace routes
Check your grab-and-go bag every 6 months to replace expired items and update for seasonal needs. With these essentials, you'll be ready to handle an emergency evacuation or temporary shelter-in-place situation.
Do I really need a go bag?
In an emergency situation where you need to evacuate quickly, having a go bag prepped and ready to go is essential. Here are some key reasons why every household should have a go bag:
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Ensures you have critical supplies when needed - A go bag contains important items like food, water, first aid supplies, tools, etc. Without it, you may not have what you need to survive.
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Saves precious time - In a crisis scenario, time is of the essence. Having a pre-packed bag avoids wasting precious minutes gathering supplies.
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Prepares your family - Go bags should be made for each family member. This ensures everyone has what they specifically need if you get separated.
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Provides peace of mind - There is comfort knowing you have a bag ready for disasters like fires, floods, storms or civil unrest. Reduces panic and stress tremendously.
The bottom line is go bags can be vital lifesavers in an emergency. Invest time to make thorough go bags for each person. It will give your family the best chance to endure a crisis scenario. Choose a sturdy, easy to carry backpack or duffel for your go bag.
Choosing Your Tactical Bug Out Bag
Selecting the right tactical bug out bag is crucial to creating an effective emergency preparedness kit. The bag should be durable, comfortable to carry, and properly sized to fit the essential gear and supplies you may need in an evacuation scenario.
Bug Out Bag Backpack: Type and Size
When selecting a bug out bag, consider the following:
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Backpack style: Choose a backpack over other bag styles for the most comfortable weight distribution on your body. Backpacks allow you to carry heavy loads and leave your hands free.
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Capacity: Choose a bag that can fit approximately 3 days' worth of critical survival supplies while not being overly large or heavy when fully packed. Generally 25-40 liters is sufficient.
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Pockets and organization: Select a bag with multiple external pockets and internal dividers to organize gear efficiently. Pockets allow quick access to items.
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Straps and suspension: Prioritize thick padded straps and a ventilated back panel for comfort when carrying heavier loads. Sternum and waist straps also help stabilize the load.
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Fabric durability: Opt for durable, water-resistant fabrics like nylon or polyester that can withstand rugged use in emergency scenarios. Ripstop fabrics help prevent tears.
Bug Out Bag Builder: Weight Distribution and Comfort
When packing your bug out bag, follow these tips:
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Place heavier items high up and close to your back to properly center the weight's load path. This helps prevent back strain.
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Distribute weight evenly from side to side to maximize comfort and balance when carrying. Avoid packing all heavy items to one side.
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Pack efficiently with like items together while being mindful of weight distribution goals. This allows for quick access and gear organization.
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Consider comfort when carrying a fully loaded pack. Conduct trials with weighted loads when possible to test fit. Adjust and repack as needed.
Properly packing your tactical bug out bag ensures you can travel efficiently with the emergency gear you need when SHTF. Test and adjust your load's weight distribution for optimal mobility and comfort.
Water Purification and Storage
Water is critical for survival, so your prepper go bag should include gear for both purification and storage.
Hydration Gear: Containers and Bladders
- Pack durable BPA-free plastic or stainless steel water bottles in various sizes like 32 oz and 64 oz to meet different needs. Consider collapsible options to conserve space.
- Collapsible water bladders like Platypus brand allow you to carry significant water reserves efficiently. Ensure the mouthpiece is detachable for cleaning.
- Carry a portable water filter straw like the LifeStraw in case you need to drink from unknown water sources.
Emergency Water Purification Methods
In an extended emergency, you may need to treat found water to make it potable:
- Pack water purification tablets like Potable Aqua. Follow instructions for treating clear vs cloudy water.
- A UV water purifier pen like SteriPen destroys pathogens via ultraviolet light. Prefilter extremely cloudy water first.
- Assemble a basic DIY purification kit with coffee filters, bleach, and an eye dropper for precise measurements.
Prioritize redundancy in water access and purification. Dehydration severely impacts judgment and physical ability essential for survival. With the right hydration gear and purification tools, your prepper go bag will help you safely access this critical resource.
Nutrition: Packing Food for Survival
Maintaining adequate nutrition is critical for survival in an emergency situation. The right foods in your bug out bag can provide the energy and nutrients you need to stay healthy. When packing food, it's important to choose non-perishable, high-calorie options that will last for extended periods without refrigeration.
Selecting Non-Perishable Bug Out Bag Supplies
Focus on compact, lightweight foods that pack a nutritional punch. Some good options include:
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Dried fruits and nuts - raisins, cranberries, almonds, cashews. Rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
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Nut butter packets - Peanut or almond butter gives you protein and calories in a tiny package.
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Granola, protein bars, or jerky - These foods pack calories and nutrients in lightweight form. Look for whole food options without lots of added sugar.
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Crackers - Whole grain crackers provide carbs for energy and often come in single-serve packs.
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Powdered milk, coffee, or soup - Rehydrate with water for a quick meal.
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Hard cheeses - Parmesan and cheddar will keep without refrigeration.
The Role of Meal Replacement Bars in Your Survival Kit
Meal replacement bars are a convenient option to include in a bug out bag. Benefits include:
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Balanced nutrition - Many contain a mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats to substitute for a full meal.
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Lightweight and non-perishable - Bars take up little space and store for years in your kit.
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Easy to eat - No prep needed. Just unwrap and eat when you need quick nourishment.
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Pack varieties - Choose bars tailored for energy, protein, low-sugar, or other needs.
When packing food for an emergency kit, focus on lightweight, nutritious, and filling options that meet your nutritional needs. Include a variety of foods and don't forget utensils, a can opener, and a portable stove so you can prepare meals. Renew food items yearly to ensure freshness. With the proper supplies, you can maintain your health and energy during a survival situation.
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Fire Creation Tools
The ability to create fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling in an emergency. Having reliable fire starting tools in your bug out bag can make the difference between life and death in a survival situation.
Essential Ignition Sources for Your Bug Out Bag
When packing fire starters for your prepper go bag, focus on stormproof and waterproof options that will work even in wet conditions. Useful items to include are:
- Stormproof matches - These matches have longer stems and strike-anywhere tips that will light even when wet. Store in a waterproof case.
- Butane lighters - Affordable and easy to use. Bring a couple in case one fails.
- Ferrocerium rods - Also known as ferro rods or fire steel, these produce hot sparks to ignite tinder. Strike with the included scraper.
- Magnesium fire starter - Shave off magnesium flakes with a knife to ignite. Burns at over 5000°F.
The key is packing multiple redundant sources of ignition, as failure rates can be high in survival scenarios.
Tinder and Kindling: Fire Starting Supplies
While ignition sources generate initial sparks or flame, you need proper tinder and kindling to grow an ember into a sustainable fire. Useful fire starting aids include:
- Cotton balls - Fluffy and easily ignited. Can be combined with petroleum jelly for water resistance.
- Wax-soaked twine - Twine fibers catch sparks to ignite wax. Burns slowly like a candle.
- Dryer lint - Extremely flammable light fibers that ignite easily. Must be kept dry.
- Wood shavings - Curl thin wood strips to increase surface area. Better than paper.
Tinder bundles should be kept in waterproof pouches to ensure they stay dry until needed. High quality fire starting supplies can make even damp wood usable as fuel.
Having the right combination of ignition sources, tinder, and kindling is key to emergency fire creation. Test gear ahead of time to verify reliability.
Shelter and Bedding Essentials
Protection from the elements is a priority in any survival scenario. Having adequate shelter and bedding in your prepper go bag can help ensure your safety and comfort if you need to bug out.
Insulation and Warmth: Choosing the Right Sleeping Gear
When packing sleeping gear for your bug out bag, focus on items that provide insulation from the cold ground and retain warmth, while remaining lightweight and compact. Useful options include:
- A lightweight sleeping bag rated for cold weather. Look for one that compresses down small. - An insulated sleeping pad to cushion and insulate you from the ground. Inflatable pads pack very small. - A bivvy sack as an emergency shelter and warmth layer.
Test out your sleep system ahead of time to ensure the temperature rating is adequate for your climate and the gear compresses down for packing.
Bug Out Bag Shelter Options
In addition to your sleeping gear, be sure to pack shelter options to protect yourself from the elements, such as:
- A durable tarp for quick overhead shelter from rain, wind, or sun - Lightweight emergency tent or bivy shelter for more complete protection
- 550 paracord to rig tarps and secure shelters
- Aluminum tent stakes - Reflective emergency blanket for retaining heat
Look for waterproof, tear-resistant shelters made of silnylon or similar materials. Test assemble them at home so you know how to set them up quickly if needed during an emergency.
Having versatile, reliable shelter and insulation in your bag will help you safely and comfortably endure nearly any environment should you need to bug out.
Medical Aid: Bug Out Bag First Aid Kit
A comprehensive first aid kit is essential for any prepper go bag to address injuries and health emergencies when SHTF. Having the right medical supplies can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.
Bug Out Bag Medical Kit List: Wound Care
When building a first aid kit for your bug out bag, be sure to include supplies to treat wounds, including:
- Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes
- Gauze pads and rolls in various sizes
- Medical tape and butterfly closures
- Antibiotic ointment
- Anti-itch cream
- Nitrile gloves
- Trauma shears
- Tweezers
Bandages, gauze, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, and nitrile gloves will allow you to clean and dress wounds. Butterfly closures can hold deeper cuts closed. Tweezers can remove debris and splinters. Trauma shears are useful for cutting clothing or bandages.
Having the ability to treat cuts, abrasions, burns, blisters, splinters, embedded objects, and other wounds is vital when medical care may be delayed or unavailable.
Including Prescription Medications and Over-the-Counter Drugs
In addition to wound care supplies, be sure to pack over-the-counter medications and any necessary prescription meds in your bug out bag first aid kit, such as:
- Pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
- Antidiarrheals
- Electrolyte replacements
- Basic antibiotics
- Any personal prescriptions
Having the ability to manage pain, allergies, dehydration, diarrhea, and common infections can prevent minor issues from becoming serious medical emergencies when professional medical care is limited or unavailable.
Prepping your first aid kit with wound care essentials, OTC meds, and prescription drugs provides necessary medical aid when bugging out.
Essential Tools and Utility Items
A set of versatile tools can be the difference between survival and distress when bugging out. Having the right equipment and knowing how to use it is crucial.
The Importance of Cutting Tools in Your Kit
Packing quality cutting implements in your go bag provides functionality and security. Consider packing the following:
- Folding knives - Pack a few sharp folding knives of different sizes. A 3-4 inch blade fits most tasks, while a 6-8 inch blade can be used for defense or chopping. Choose full tang knives for durability.
- Multi-tools - A good multi-tool like a Leatherman has pliers, scissors, knife blades, screwdrivers, bottle openers and more. It's a compact, versatile tool.
- Saws - A compact folding saw can cut branches for shelter building or firewood. Some have both wood and metal cutting blades.
- Axes - A small, packable axe is useful for chopping thicker branches or logs. Consider a folding axe to save space.
- Sharpening tools - Pack a diamond sharpening stone, ceramic rods or puck sharpener to keep blades razor sharp.
Having quality cutting tools ensures you can create shelter, make fires, harvest resources, prepare food and defend yourself if needed.
Illumination Devices: Keeping Your Bug Out Bag Lit
Being able to produce light is a key survival skill. Ensure your go bag has multiple illumination sources:
- LED flashlights - Choose a small, rugged, waterproof LED flashlight as your primary light. Consider multiple brightness settings. Pack extra batteries.
- Headlamps - Hands-free light from a headlamp allows you to work while holding tools. Choose one with red light to preserve night vision.
- Glow sticks - Toxic-free glow sticks provide 360 degrees of bright chemical light. Use them to mark trails or attract attention.
- Battery bank - Having a portable USB battery bank lets you recharge flashlights, phones or other devices. Get one with at least 10,000 mAh capacity.
With various light sources, you can set up camp, navigate trails, attract help and complete tasks even in pitch blackness. Smart choices provide functionality and security.
Land Navigation Equipment
Finding your way is critical, especially when traditional landmarks are unavailable. Having the right land navigation equipment in your prepper go bag can make all the difference in an emergency situation.
Analog Navigation Tools: Maps and Compass
- Carry topographic maps of your area and surrounding regions in case you need to travel farther. Make sure they are up-to-date.
- A lensatic compass is a must-have tool for orienteering without landmarks or technology. Practice using one beforehand.
- Protractors, pencils, and notebooks allow you to plot courses and log your progress when navigating unfamiliar areas.
Digital Navigation Aids in Your Emergency Supply List
- A GPS device can pinpoint your location via satellite and is useful if cell towers are down. Bring extra batteries.
- A charged mobile phone gives you access to digital maps and emergency contacts. Consider a solar charger.
- Personal locator beacons with GPS can transmit distress signals to emergency responders when activated. These are worth the investment for serious preppers.
Having both analog and digital navigation aids provides redundancy in case one method fails. Regularly test gear and update maps/software to ensure reliability when you bug out. Consider packing multiple compasses, as they are small but vital items.
Defense and Personal Safety
Your go bag should include means of self-defense and signaling for help.
Choosing Self-Defense Gear for Your Bug Out Bag
When packing self-defense items in your prepper go bag, it's important to consider both personal preferences and local laws. Pepper spray and folding knives are common and legal choices in most areas. Tactical batons or stun guns may require special permits. Firearms also have legal restrictions, licenses, and safe handling/storage considerations.
Evaluate your comfort level, training, and experience when selecting gear. Pepper spray offers a non-lethal option to incapacitate attackers at a distance. Knives serve multiple functions but require close contact. As a last resort, firearms provide lethal protection but involve serious legal and ethical consequences if used improperly.
Signaling Devices: Whistles, Mirrors, and Flares
Pack reliable signaling tools like whistles, mirrors, and flares to get the attention of rescuers or communicate over distance where phones may not work.
Whistles are extremely loud, lightweight, and reusable. Aim the sound towards suspected locations of aid.
Mirrors, especially those with sighting holes, can reflect sunlight and create bright flashes visible for miles.
Flares shoot high into the sky and ignite brightly to pinpoint your location. Use them sparingly since they burn quickly.
Place these items in easy-to-reach pouches on your bug out bag exterior for rapid access. With any self-defense or signaling gear, get training on proper and legal usage beforehand.
Preparation and Maintenance
Keeping your go bag ready and up-to-date ensures preparedness at a moment's notice.
Routine Checks: Keeping Your Go Bag Updated
It is important to routinely check and update your prepper go bag to ensure everything is in working order and not expired. Here are some tips:
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Once a month, take out all items from your bag and inspect them. Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine and batteries. Replace anything that is expired.
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Inspect your gear like flashlights, multi tool, lighter, radio etc. and test them to ensure they function properly. Replace batteries as needed.
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Check the contents of your first aid kit and medical supplies. Replace used or expired items.
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Update your go bag based on seasons - add warm clothes and blankets in winter or rain poncho in monsoon.
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Mark a checklist of all items in your bag. Check them off during inspections. Add and remove items as necessary.
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Set reminders to periodically inspect your bag so it doesn't slip your mind.
Keeping up with these inspections means your prepper go bag is always stocked and ready for an emergency situation.
Training with Your Gear: Familiarization and Skill Building
It is not enough to just assemble your prepper go bag. You need hands-on practice with the gear to truly be prepared with it. Here are some tips:
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Set up your tent or shelter at home so you know how to use it quickly in an emergency. Practice setting it up at night or in the rain.
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Learn how to start a fire with your fire starter tool and find dry tinder in wet conditions. This is a critical survival skill.
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Use your compass and maps to navigate unfamiliar terrain and find your way back. Practice land navigation skills regularly.
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Take first aid classes and practice wound dressing, applying splints, CPR etc. with the contents of your medical kit.
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Cook a meal outdoors as you would in a bug out situation using your portable stove, cooking gear and food rations.
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Simulate an emergency evacuation from your home using your go bag. Time how long it takes.
Regular hands-on training ensures you have the survival skills and familiarity with your equipment to deploy your prepper go bag effectively when an actual emergency strikes.
Conclusion: The Prepared Prepper's Go Bag
A well-stocked prepper go bag is an essential part of emergency preparedness. Having quick access to critical supplies can make all the difference in an unexpected crisis situation.
The key is to prepare your go bag in advance, rather than waiting until an emergency strikes. Review the contents regularly and replace expired or damaged items. Also set reminders to cycle out food/water every 6-12 months.
Practice carrying your bag and navigating with map/compass. Test gear under various weather conditions if possible. This helps identify any issues with weight, comfort or functionality ahead of time.
Getting into a routine of using and maintaining your go bag is just as important as having one. It translates your preparation into readiness.
Essential Takeaways for Bug Out Bag Readiness
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Pack the 10 survival basics: shelter, water, fire, food, first aid, illumination, tools, navigation, hygiene, and protection. Prioritize these over "nice to have" items.
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Choose durable, lightweight gear that serves multiple purposes whenever possible. Every ounce counts when on the move.
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Store items efficiently to maximize space and accessibility. Use pouches, compartments and strategic packing techniques.
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Know your area's likely risks and pack appropriate mitigations. Prepare for the most probable local scenarios.
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Practice with your bag's contents and carrying comfort. Identify any issues before you need to depend on it.
Final Tips for Optimizing Your Survival Kit
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Customize your bag to your personal needs and local environment. Add any necessary medications, equipment for disabilities/limitations, etc.
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Include some comfort items like morale patches, photos of loved ones, or portable hobbies. These provide mental support in extreme situations.
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Have contingency plans for various situations: multiple rally points, communication methods, pre-staged supply caches, etc.
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Invest in quality gear and replace aging/damaged items. Prioritize key items like your backpack itself over supplementary gear.
Regularly maintaining and practicing with your go bag transforms it from just preparedness supplies into an invaluable, reliable asset you can truly depend on if disaster strikes. The effort required is small compared to the potential need.
