Preparing an emergency bag with essential supplies is an important step for anyone new to disaster preparedness.
This guide will provide a beginner-friendly checklist of must-have items to include in your bug out bag so you can be ready for any situation.
We'll cover the basics like water, food, first aid, navigation tools, and more, focusing on the core elements every survival pack needs without becoming overwhelmed.
Introduction to SHTF Bags
A SHTF (S**t Hits The Fan) bag, also known as a bug out bag, is an emergency kit filled with supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours if a disaster strikes. It's an essential part of emergency preparedness, especially for beginners who are just getting started with prepping.
Understanding the SHTF Bag Concept
The purpose of a SHTF bag is to provide you with adequate food, water, shelter, navigation tools, and other gear to endure a temporary evacuation or disaster scenario. It can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation where you need to leave quickly or get stranded without access to everyday amenities. Key items to include are:
- Water and water filtration: Stock at least one gallon per person for 3 days. Consider portable filtration devices.
- Food: Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, etc.
- First aid: Include a first aid kit, medications, bandages, ointments, etc.
- Tools: Pack a knife, flashlight, fire starter, duct tape, paracord, and other versatile tools.
- Navigation: Have an analog compass, maps, pens and paper for leaving notes, signaling devices, GPS device if possible.
Assessing Your SHTF Bag Needs
Your SHTF bag should be customized based on your family's unique needs. Key factors to consider:
- Number of people and pets
- Ages, health issues, medications required
- Climate and seasonal considerations
- Likely disaster scenarios for your region
Adjust your supplies accordingly. Having contingency items is also wise.
The Beginner's Checklist for a Bug Out Bag
Here is a simplified checklist highlighting the basics to include in your beginner SHTF bag:
- Backpack, duffel bag or other portable bag
- 3 days supply: water, food, first aid items
- Flashlight, radio, batteries
- Multi-tool knife
- Emergency blanket and poncho
- Cash in small denominations
- Map of the area and a compass
- Permanent marker, paper, and pencil
- Extra socks, hat, sunglasses and gloves
- Basic toiletries: toothbrush, small towel, tissues
- Duct tape and parachute cord
- Whistle
- Camp stove and mess kit
Sourcing Your SHTF Bag Components
Quality gear is key for your SHTF bag. Shop at outdoor recreation retailers for durable and field-tested supplies. Buy extras of essentials like lighters, batteries, socks to have backups. Consider buying a pre-assembled bug out bag if unsure about sourcing components. Test and tweak your bag before an emergency strikes.
What is a SHTF bag?
A SHTF (S**t Hits The Fan) bag, also known as a bug out bag or go bag, is an emergency preparedness kit designed to provide critical tools and supplies in a crisis scenario. As the section context mentions, it is essentially a short-term survival kit packed into a portable backpack for quick evacuation and sustained self-reliance if disaster strikes.
Here are some key things to know about SHTF bags:
- Purpose: To enable survival for 72+ hours by providing basic necessities like food, water, shelter, first aid, navigation, lighting, communication, tools, and defense equipment. Allows mobility and rapid response in an emergency bug out situation.
- Portability: Designed to be carried at all times or ready for immediate access. Durable, lightweight backpack format aids transport and mobility if evacuation becomes necessary.
- Customization: Contents can be tailored to your unique needs, skills, climate, potential threats, and number of people covered. But most bags contain common essentials like food, water, first aid, fire, shelter, navigation, lighting, tools, etc.
- Accessibility: Stored in a quickly accessible spot like near the home exit, in vehicle, at workplace, or even carried daily. Allows you to “grab and go” at a moment's notice if disaster strikes.
- Affordability: Creating your own DIY shtf bag allows customization and budget control. You can build one affordably with bargain shopping and multi-purpose items. But pre-packed commercial kits are available too.
Having an emergency SHTF bag prepped and at the ready can be a lifesaver if a crisis scenario unfolds quickly. It enables rapid response and equips you with the basic provisions to survive and operate self-sufficiently off-grid if evacuation becomes necessary.
What should be in a survival bag?
A survival or shtf bag contains essential items to help you get through a disaster or emergency situation. As a beginner prepper, focus first on gathering basic supplies for your bag.
Water and Food
Having water and food is critical in an emergency. Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for several days. Choose non-perishable foods like granola bars, canned goods, beef jerky, and trail mix. These foods do not require refrigeration and have a long shelf life. Consider special dietary needs as well.
Communication and Light Sources
Staying connected and having light sources are also vital. Pack a battery-powered or hand crank radio to get weather updates and news. A flashlight and extra batteries provide light when power is out. Whistles can be used to signal for help if needed.
First Aid Supplies
Include a first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. This allows you to treat injuries when medical care may not be available. Basic first aid knowledge is also useful to have.
Additional Tools
Consider adding a multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags, gloves, blankets, cash, and maps. These miscellaneous items can provide shelter, warmth, and help with navigation or repairs. Customize your shtf bag based on your needs, skills, and environment.
What should be in a 3 day bug out bag?
A well-stocked bug out bag is essential for disaster preparedness. Here are some of the key items to include in a 3 day bug out bag for beginners:
Food and Water
Having enough food and water is critical in an emergency situation. Experts recommend packing:
- 3 days worth of non-perishable, high-calorie foods like granola bars, nuts, jerky, and canned goods. Choose items that are lightweight and easy to transport.
- 3 liters of water per person, per day. Water packets or portable water filters can help conserve space.
First Aid Supplies
A first aid kit can help treat injuries and illness when professional medical care is limited. Be sure to pack:
- Bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, latex gloves
- Medications like pain/fever relievers, anti-diarrhea meds, prescription meds
- First aid instruction manual
Tools and Gear
Equipment to build shelter, start fires, navigate, and send signals are essentials when bugging out. Have these items on hand:
- Fire starting tools like matches, lighter, fire starters
- Signaling devices like mirror, whistle, flare
- Multi-tool, knife, paracord
- Emergency tent or tarp, sleeping bag
Focusing on the basics helps create a practical, lightweight shtf bag. As your skills improve, you can add more advanced items. But having food, water, first aid, tools and shelter gear provides a solid starting point when building your 72-hour preparedness kit.
What is a good bug out bag?
A good bug out bag starts with choosing the right backpack. Look for a durable, waterproof backpack with padded straps and a hip belt to make carrying heavier loads more comfortable. The bag should be large enough to fit 3-5 days worth of essential survival supplies, but not so big that it becomes unwieldy.
When packing your bug out bag, focus first on the critical basics - shelter, water, food, first aid, fire, light, and navigation. Useful items to include are:
- A compact tent or tarp shelter
- Water filtration system like a LifeStraw
- High calorie, lightweight foods like protein bars
- First aid kit with bandages, gauze, medications
- Fire starting kit with matches, lighter, tinder
- LED flashlight or headlamp
- Map of the area and compass
You'll also want to include some paracord, a multi-tool, duct tape, garbage bags, a change of clothes, and a basic hygiene kit. Tailor the contents to your climate, terrain, skills, and possible evacuation scenarios. Update and refresh perishable items like food and medicine regularly.
The key is having the essential gear you'd need to survive several days on your own, all packed neatly into a single grab-and-go bag. With some thoughtful planning and preparation, a good bug out bag can give you a fighting chance in an emergency situation.
The Core Elements of Your SHTF Bag
An SHTF (Shit Hits The Fan) bag, also known as a bug out bag, is essential for emergency preparedness. As a beginner prepper, having the core survival elements in your bag can mean the difference between life and death in a disaster scenario. This section covers the fundamental categories of gear that every SHTF bag should contain.
Water Purification and Storage
Having access to clean drinking water is critical in a disaster situation. Your SHTF bag should include:
- A portable water filter or purification tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide) to clean found water
- A durable water bottle and water bladder to store and carry water
- A folding bucket or water bag for collecting water from streams or other sources
Aim for at least 1-2 liters capacity to carry water with you. Replace and refresh water purification supplies annually.
Nutrition: Caloric Needs and Food Sources
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable food in your bag to maintain energy levels:
- Canned goods with pop-top lids
- Protein-rich bars, jerky, nuts and trail mixes
- Powdered milk, cereals, or meal replacement shakes
Focus on compact, lightweight options that still provide nutrition. Calculate for at least 2,000 calories daily for a 72-hour SHTF scenario.
Shelter and Protection from the Elements
Having shelter from the elements can save your life. Prioritize these items:
- Compact tent or tarp
- Sleeping bag rated for coldest expected temps
- Emergency blanket and hand warmers
- Rain poncho, hat, and extra socks/base layers
Choose durable and insulated options to prevent hypothermia. Test and practice setting up your portable shelter ahead of time.
Fire Creation and Maintenance Tools
The ability to create fire provides warmth, light, and cooking capabilities:
- Windproof lighter and waterproof matches
- Fire starter cubes, tinder, and accelerant
- Folding pocket knife or multi-tool with a blade
- Small folding stove with fuel canisters
Store fire-starting items in a weatherproof bag. Know multiple techniques for starting fires with limited supplies.
Essential Clothing and Personal Gear
Round out your SHTF bag with these key items:
- Sturdy hiking shoes/boots and extra laces
- Work gloves, protective eyewear
- Flashlight, radio, batteries
- Whistle, compass, duct tape
- Personal medications, hygiene items
- Cash in small denominations
Choose versatile, durable clothing and footwear appropriate for outdoor activity and the climate. Include small comforts like a hat, socks, or neck gaiter.
Having these baseline elements secured in your SHTF bag means you have the life-sustaining basics covered during an emergency situation or evacuation. Assess your skills through practice drills and refresh your bag contents annually.
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Personal Safety and Defense
Personal safety and security should be top priorities when preparing for emergency situations. However, it is important to act lawfully and avoid escalating conflicts unnecessarily.
Self-Defense Equipment and Training
Having basic self-defense tools and knowledge can provide confidence and deter threats. Consider legal pepper spray, whistles, and flashlights. Seek professional training to responsibly handle any defense equipment.
Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance
Remaining alert and avoiding dangerous areas or people can help prevent many conflicts. Have an exit plan and know where to find safety if needed. Move away from escalating situations when possible.
Emergency Signaling and Communication Devices
Carry a charged cell phone, whistle, signal mirror, and flare. Share your location and travel plans with someone. Have alternate communication methods in case cell towers fail.
Legal Considerations for Defense Tools
Pepper spray, firearms, batons, and other weapons have legal restrictions in most areas. Research your local laws and obtain necessary permits. Improper use could result in criminal charges. Consider less-lethal options.
Health and Medical Preparedness
Essential first aid supplies and knowledge you need to address injuries and maintain health when professional medical help isn't available.
Building a Basic First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is a critical component of any SHTF bag. Start by gathering basic wound care supplies like gauze, bandages, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, trauma shears, tweezers, and gloves. Be sure to include medications you may need like pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, and any personal prescriptions. Having a first aid instruction manual or even taking a first aid course can provide the knowledge needed to properly utilize your supplies. Build your kit in layers with easy to access top layers for minor issues, and supplemental items for more serious wounds. Store your kit in a waterproof bag or case.
Hygiene Essentials to Prevent Infection
Maintaining personal hygiene is extremely important to prevent illness and infection when SHTF. Pack soaps, feminine products, toothbrush and toothpaste in your bag. Bring extra socks and underwear, as keeping private areas clean is essential. Hand sanitizer, sunscreen, insect repellant also help prevent issues. Having a small shovel, toilet paper and waste bags allows you to properly dispose of personal waste. Learn techniques like washing clothes in boiling water and creating latrines. Proper hygiene takes effort but can literally save your life if SHTF.
Chronic Medication Management
Those dependent on medications for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders etc, must have an emergency supply and a plan to store them properly in a SHTF scenario. Discuss building at least a 90 day supply with your doctor. Get prescriptions filled for the maximum days allowed. Research alternate medications that are shelf-stable. Many drugs still work years after expiration if unopened and stored properly in cool, dark places. Have plans in place for natural remedies as backups. Managing critical medications takes forethought but is essential for certain preppers.
Emergency Medical Training and Resources
Take the time to gain emergency medical knowledge - it could save a life. Study first aid manuals, watch online training videos, take classes in your community. Learn how to stop bleeding, immobilize fractures, recognize heart attacks, perform CPR, assist in childbirth etc. Print manuals and resources for offline access. When SHTF, most will be unprepared to handle severe trauma. Having the skills and confidence to help in medical emergencies makes you an invaluable community member. Connect with others who have medical expertise such as doctors, nurses and EMTs. An ounce of emergency medical preparedness is worth a pound of cure.
Land Navigation and Route Planning
Land navigation and route planning are critical skills for evacuation preparedness. Having reliable navigation tools and planned routes can mean the difference between reaching safety or getting lost in a disaster scenario.
Using Maps and Compasses for Navigation
Maps and compasses should be key items in any bug out bag. Even if you primarily use electronic navigation devices, having backup manual options is essential in case of device failure.
- Topographic maps show terrain details that allow you to plot elevation changes and potential obstacles or hazards along your route. Always carry maps for your local area and potential evacuation destinations.
- Road maps highlight major and minor roadways to navigate by vehicle. Have state-level road maps at minimum.
- Compasses let you orient yourself to north/south even without clear landmarks. Select good quality compasses designed for navigation. Learn how to take and follow compass bearings.
Practice navigation skills regularly so they become second nature when needed.
GPS and Electronic Navigation Aids
GPS devices and smartphone navigation apps provide quick, convenient routing and real-time position tracking. However, complete reliance on electronics poses risks if devices lose power or satellite connections fail.
- Carry backup power banks and cables to maintain charge. But also have analog navigation backups.
- Download offline maps and routes ahead of time so GPS works sans cellular signal.
- Learn how to use GPS track-back features if you get lost.
Overall, utilize electronic aids but don't depend on them fully for evacuation navigation.
Creating Evacuation Routes and Alternatives
Careful evacuation trip planning improves chances of successfully reaching your destination.
- Map out primary routes to key destinations like rally points, bug out locations, etc.
- Have at least three alternate routes planned to provide options if certain roads become impassable.
- Plot routes avoiding major highways and urban areas prone to congestion if possible.
- Plan routes that keep fuel stops, rest areas, and emergency services within reasonable distance.
Review and refresh your evacuation routes at least annually as conditions change.
Practicing Navigation Skills in Real-World Scenarios
The best navigation plans only work if properly executed under pressure. Build vital experience through hands-on training:
- Conduct map and compass exercises on local hiking trails and parks without relying on smartphones or GPS.
- Perform simulated evacuations on back roads and rural areas, assessing alternate routes viability.
- Work to consistently improve land navigation speed and accuracy. Confidently estimating position and distance traveled could save your life one day.
Treat evacuation route planning and navigation practice with the level of seriousness merited by potential future need. Prepare accordingly.
Communication and Information Management
Keeping in touch with the outside world and managing critical information during an SHTF event is crucial. Having the right communication tools and protecting important documents ensures you stay informed and prepared.
Emergency Radios and Communication Tools
Emergency radios are essentials in an SHTF bag to receive critical news and weather updates. Opt for hand crank and solar-powered radios so you don't rely on batteries. Two-way radios allow communication with your group over short distances. Signal mirrors, whistles and flares can also be used to call for help.
Protecting Important Documents and IDs
Scan and save digital copies of important documents like IDs, insurance cards, birth certificates etc. Store the scans encrypted on a USB drive in your bag. Keep paper copies in a waterproof bag or container. This ensures you have redundancy if originals are lost or damaged.
Staying Informed Through Various Channels
Battery-powered radios receive AM/FM stations with emergency broadcasts. Shortwave radios get international stations. CB radios enable long-distance communication. Satellite phones and messengers provide coverage when cell towers are down. Monitor news online through a mobile hotspot before grids go down.
Backup Power Solutions for Electronic Devices
Pack external battery packs and recharging devices like hand crank, solar panel and vehicle USB chargers. These maintain power for radios, phones, lights and other gear. Prioritize essential electronics and turn off non-critical ones. Have spare batteries for short-term backup power.
Customizing Your SHTF Bag for Family Needs
When preparing your SHTF bag for your family, it's important to consider the unique needs of each member. This ensures everyone has the supplies they need during an emergency evacuation or situation.
Family-Specific Medical Supplies
Tailor your first aid kit to the medical needs of family members. For example:
- Prescription medications
- EpiPens for allergies
- Inhalers for asthma
- Bandages and antiseptic cream for cuts and scrapes
- Electrolyte solutions for dehydration
Also pack any assistive devices like glasses, hearing aids, braces, etc.
Entertainment and Comfort Items for Children
To help kids stay calm, pack:
- Favorite small toys and books
- Coloring books and crayons
- Portable games like playing cards
- Snack foods they enjoy
Specialized Gear for Infants and Elders
Consider vulnerable groups like babies, toddlers, pregnant women, disabled and elderly. Pack:
- Diapers, formula, bottles for infants
- Mobility aids for the disabled/elderly
- Extra food and water
- Medications
- Warm clothes and blankets
Practicing Evacuation Drills as a Family
Run practice evacuation drills with your family. This ensures everyone:
- Knows where the SHTF bag is kept
- Understands what to do in an emergency
- Is comfortable with evacuation procedures
Rehearsing builds critical muscle memory so reactions are automatic if an actual crisis occurs.
Customizing your SHTF bag to your family's needs helps ensure you have the essential gear, supplies and plans to effectively evacuate or manage emergency scenarios. Tailor contents based on factors like ages, health status, disabilities and other special considerations.
Advanced SHTF Bag Considerations
Once you've mastered the basics, explore additional gear and strategies to enhance your preparedness for more complex scenarios.
Bushcraft and Survival Skills Enhancement
Integrating bushcraft tools and knowledge can greatly improve your ability to live off the land in prolonged SHTF situations. Consider adding the following to your bug out bag:
- Folding saw - Cuts branches and logs easier than a knife for shelter building and firewood
- Fishing line and hooks - Allows you to catch fish for food from rivers and lakes
- Snare wire - Can be used to trap small game for food
- Natural cordage - Paracord or plant-based ropes for building shelters and traps
- Bushcraft knife - Fixed-blade knife ideal for processing wood, food, making tools
- Ferrocerium rod - Waterproof fire starter that lasts thousands of strikes
Alongside gear, prioritize gaining wilderness skills like trapping, foraging, tracking, and orienteering. Books like SAS Survival Handbook make great additions too.
Military-Grade Gear for Extreme Conditions
Incorporating military-spec equipment enhances durability and functionality for the harshest environments. Consider:
- Waterproof boots - Prevent trenchfoot; brands like Belleville & Danner excel
- Modular pouches - Attach gear like radios and tools securely to vests/packs
- Durable water bottles - Double-walled stainless steel bottles like Klean Kanteens
- MOLLE packs - Attachment points for modular gear, very durable construction
- Two-way radios - Reliable comms like Motorola XTS5000 for your team
- Water filters - High-capacity gravity filters that remove bacteria, viruses
This equipment is battle-tested and suitable for rugged terrain.
Technological Additions for Enhanced Safety
While technology relies on power, some key devices can aid safety:
- Solar battery pack - Stores power from sun to charge devices
- Emergency locator beacon - Sends GPS location to rescuers if lost
- Two-way satellite communicator - Text messaging via satellite if cell networks fail
- Headlamp - Hands-free light for night navigation
- Multitool - Combines pliers, screwdrivers, knife, and more into one instrument
Use technology judiciously, but leverage it for coordination, navigation, and emergency signals.
Training and Prepping as a Lifestyle
Approach prepping as an ongoing lifestyle, not a project. Commit to:
- Regular practice drills - Test evacuation procedures and use of gear
- Community building - Train and collaborate with like-minded groups
- Continual education - Books, courses, conferences to expand knowledge
- Integrating skills into daily habits - Foraging, orienteering, self-defense
- Gardening and livestock - Produce food and materials for self-reliance
- Physical fitness - Strength, endurance and health to handle rigors
Make preparedness a lifelong journey rather than a checklisted achievement.
Conclusion: Finalizing Your SHTF Bag
As you prepare your SHTF bag, keep these key points in mind:
Focus on the Essentials First
Prioritize critical supplies like water, food, first aid, shelter, navigation tools, and other basics over "nice-to-have" items. As a beginner, aim to have at least 72 hours' worth of essentials covered before expanding your bag.
Quality Over Quantity
Choose durable, reliable gear from reputable brands, even if that means spending more upfront. Cheaper alternatives may fail when you need them most. Invest in quality to avoid having to replace items frequently.
Tailor It To Your Needs
Consider factors like climate, terrain, group size, likely scenarios, and your own skills. Customize your bag so it provides what you specifically require to safely evacuate or shelter-in-place.
Practice Using Your Gear
Simply having the gear is not enough - you need to know how to use it proficiently. Regularly take your bag into the field to test and practice with your equipment so you can operate it confidently if an emergency arises.
Continuously Improve And Adapt
View your SHTF bag as a work in progress. As you gain knowledge and experience, reevaluate and upgrade items that are lacking. The key is to continually enhance your capacity to handle adverse situations.
Stay vigilant and keep preparing - having an SHTF bag with critical supplies can make all the difference when things go wrong. With practice and prudence, you can become self-reliant in the face of uncertainty.
