When disaster strikes, having the right supplies can mean the difference between life and death. Most people would agree that being prepared with a well-stocked bug out bag is crucial.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to packing the essential items to survive up to 72 hours in an emergency situation. You'll learn the top priorities for shelter, water, food, navigation, medical needs, and other vital categories.
We'll cover decision-making frameworks for building your own custom bug out bag based on your location, skillset, and potential scenarios. By the end, you'll have actionable checklists and recommendations to prepare your go bag for any SHTF event.
Introduction to SHTF Go Bag Essentials
A "SHTF" (S**t Hits The Fan) go bag contains essential supplies to help you survive an emergency situation where you need to bug out quickly. Having a well-stocked go bag can mean the difference between life and death in a disaster.
This article will cover the key categories of essentials to include in your go bag: shelter, water, food, fire, navigation tools, medical supplies, defense items and multi-purpose tools. We'll explore minimalist and family-focused packing lists to create a custom bug out bag for your needs. With the latest 2023 gear recommendations, you'll be equipped to handle urban and outdoor survival scenarios.
Understanding the SHTF Scenario
"SHTF" refers to a major disaster that disrupts normal society. This could be a natural disaster, economic collapse, pandemic, or other emergency situation. Having a go bag prepared means you have the basic supplies to survive if you need to evacuate quickly. It allows you to focus on safety rather than gathering last-minute items.
The Minimalist Bug Out Bag List
Packing light is important for mobility and ease of transport. A minimalist go bag contains only the absolute essentials:
- Shelter: Emergency blanket, tarp
- Water: Filter, collapsible bottle
- Food: High-calorie bars, foraging tools
- Fire: Weatherproof matches, lighter
- Navigation: Map, compass, paracord
- Medical: First aid kit, medications
- Defense: Pepper spray, pocket knife
- Tools: Multitool, duct tape, cordage
This basic loadout cuts excess weight without sacrificing survival necessities.
Bug Out Bag Checklist Family Edition
For families, adapt your go bags to suit children's needs:
- Add entertainment items like books, games, stuffed animal
- Pack extra food and water rations
- Include appropriate clothing and shoes
- Have individual first aid kits
- Carry family photos and important documents
Planning for a family ensures everyone's safety and comfort.
Urban Bug Out Bag List
An urban go bag is designed for navigating city disasters:
- Face masks, gloves to mitigate virus spread
- Cash, coins for payphones, vending machines
- City map to locate shelters, supply points
- Crowbar, bolt cutters to clear debris, obstacles
- Dark, nondescript clothing to avoid attention
Customize your supplies to the unique challenges of an urban environment.
With these essentials covered, your go bag will empower you to handle a range of emergency scenarios. Prepare now and rest easy knowing you and your family have the gear to survive.
What should be in a 3 day bug out bag?
A well-stocked 3 day bug out bag is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the key items your bag should contain:
Shelter and Sleep System
Having basic shelter and a place to sleep is critical in a survival situation. Your bug out bag should include:
- Tarp or emergency blanket
- Compact sleeping bag or bivy sack
- Foam sleeping pad for insulation
Water and Filtration
You can only survive about 3 days without water. Pack enough for your family or group, plus filtration/purification supplies:
- 3+ liters of water per person
- Portable water filter or purification tablets
- Collapsible water container
Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable food that is easy to carry:
- Canned goods + can opener
- Protein bars
- MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
First Aid
Being able to treat injuries is vital. Your first aid kit should contain:
- Bandages, gauze, tape
- Antibiotic ointment
- Medications, painkillers
- Emergency blanket
Tools and Navigation
You'll need basic gear for survival and navigation:
- Knife, lighter, flashlight, batteries
- Map, compass, GPS device
- Multitool, duct tape
Customize your 3 day bug out bag to your needs, adding other critical items like weapons, radios, clothing, and hygiene supplies. The goal is having the essentials covered to survive 72+ hours.
What do you put in a survival go bag?
A well-stocked survival go bag is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the key items to include:
Food and Water
- Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. These will provide you with energy in an emergency situation
- Have at least 1 gallon of water per person for a 72 hour period
- Include a portable water filter or purification tablets in case you need to source water
Shelter and Warmth
- Pack an emergency blanket and poncho to help retain body heat
- Hand warmers and winter clothing can help maintain warmth in cold conditions
First Aid
- A comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, gauze, ointments, and medications
- Special medications needed for medical conditions
- Medical gloves to prevent infection
Tools and Navigation
- A multi-tool, knife, fire starter, rope and duct tape have a variety of uses
- A map, compass, GPS device or other navigation gear helps with orienteering
The key is preparing for likely risks in your area, while keeping the bag as lightweight as possible for mobility. Customize based on your situation, but these basics will help you handle most short-term emergencies.
Is it worth having a go bag?
Having a go bag packed and ready in case of an emergency evacuation is absolutely essential. Here are some key reasons why every member of your household needs their own go bag:
- Ensures survival essentials are on hand. A go bag contains critical items like food, water, first aid supplies, tools, and other gear to survive for at least 72 hours. Having quick access to these items can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation where you need to evacuate quickly.
- Avoids panic and delays. When an evacuation order is given, every second counts. If you have to scramble to pack supplies last minute, you risk forgetting something important or wasting precious time. A pre-packed go bag avoids this panic so you can focus on getting out safely.
- Portability for mobility. Go bags are designed to be lightweight and portable backpacks or duffel bags so family members can easily carry them by hand. This allows for greater mobility in case you must travel by foot to safety during an evacuation.
- Customization for individual needs. Each family member can customize their go bag based on their specific needs, accounting for medications, tools, clothing, etc. Kids can even decorate their bags. This personal customization further eases stress during an actual evacuation.
So in summary - yes, having an emergency go bag 100% worth the small upfront effort. Simply packing a bag now avoids huge problems later during a crisis. Follow our go bag checklist to make sure your family is fully prepared with their own go bags.
How much money do you need for a go bag?
Having emergency cash on hand is an essential part of any go bag. Here are some tips:
- $500 is a good minimum to have available. This gives you funds to purchase food, water, shelter, medical supplies, or other necessities in an emergency situation. You may need more or less depending on your specific needs and situation.
- Keep the cash in small bills - $1, $5, $10, $20 bills for example. This makes it easier to use for small transactions if needed.
- Store the cash in a waterproof container or bag inside your go bag. A sealed plastic bag works well. This keeps it protected.
- Also pack any essential prescription medications you need, both for daily use and extras in case you need to evacuate quickly. Having extra supplies of critical medications could be lifesaving.
- Consider packing over-the-counter medications as well - pain relievers, antihistamines, antibiotics, etc. These may be hard to obtain in an emergency.
The exact amount of cash and supplies to include depends on your personal situation. But $500 cash and 2-4 weeks worth of prescription medications is a sensible starting point for most basic go bags. Adjust based on your specific needs and situation. The key is making sure you have critical funds and medical supplies in case disaster strikes.
The Foundation: Shelter and Warmth
Shelter and warmth are critical priorities in a bug out situation. Having the right emergency gear can be the difference between life and death.
Choosing a Survival Shelter
The optimal shelter depends on your climate and bug out location. Focus on portable, weather-resistant shelters like:
- Tents
- Tarps
- Emergency blankets
- Bivvy sacks
Prioritize insulation, waterproofing, and packability.
Insulation and Heat Retention
Staying warm requires proper layering and materials like:
- Wool clothing
- Down jackets
- Thermal underwear
These trap body heat efficiently, even when wet. Hand and foot warmers also help.
Compact and Lightweight Shelter Options
Look for tents, tarps and bivvies designed specifically for bug out bags. Features like:
- Ultra-light materials
- Low packed size
- Easy setup
Make them ideal for survival on the move.
Emergency Blankets and Bivvies
Emergency blankets reflect 90% of radiant heat. Pair with a bivvy sack for insulation underneath. This layered system retains warmth and blocks wind, snow, and rain.
Prioritizing shelter and warmth prepares you to survive anywhere, through any conditions. Choose gear that packs small but insulates big.
Water Purification and Storage
Water is the most essential element for survival. Without clean drinking water, dehydration and waterborne illnesses can quickly take hold. Having robust water purification and storage methods are critical for any SHTF go bag.
Water Filters and Purification Tablets
Water filters like the Sawyer Mini and Lifestraw are extremely portable and allow you to drink directly from lakes, rivers, and streams. Combining a filter with purification tablets like Potable Aqua gives an added layer of protection against viruses and bacteria when collecting natural water sources.
Durable Water Containers
Collapsible and lightweight water bags and bottles made of durable BPA-free plastic are important for carrying clean water. Choose containers that hold 1-2 liters each for redundancy. Reliable name brands like Hydro Flask, Nalgene, and Camelback are ideal.
Natural Water Collection Techniques
Being able to identify and collect potable water from nature can be a lifesaving skill. Safe natural sources include:
- Rainwater
- Flowing streams and rivers
- Certain trees and vines
Always pre-filter and disinfect any found water before drinking.
Hydration Strategies for Survival
Storing a minimum 3 day supply, 1 gallon per person per day is recommended. Beyond storing water, conservation techniques like drinking only when thirsty, finding shade to prevent perspiration, and avoiding overexertion preserves supplies.
Having multiple methods to collect, filter, disinfect and store clean water is non-negotiable for bug out bag preparation. Investing in durable gear and learning skills to utilize natural water sources provides resilience regardless of the situation.
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Sustenance: Food Essentials
When building your SHTF go bag, including high-calorie, non-perishable food is crucial for survival. Having the right food selections and proper storage can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.
High-Energy Food Selections
Focus on compact, calorie-dense foods that provide long-lasting energy:
- Granola/protein bars
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Beef jerky
- Powdered milk
- Peanut butter
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, spam)
- MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat)
Prioritize items that are lightweight, have a long shelf-life, and don't require refrigeration or preparation.
Long-Term Food Storage
To maximize freshness and shelf life of your food items:
- Use air-tight containers or Mylar bags
- Include oxygen absorbers to remove oxygen
- Store in cool, dark locations if possible
- Regularly check expiration dates and rotate stock
Proper storage can extend most dried/canned foods 1-5 years past printed expiration dates.
Cooking Gear and Utensils
Carry basic cooking/eating tools:
- Lightweight backpacking stove + fuel canister
- Metal cup/pot for boiling water
- Spork for eating
- P-38/military can opener
- Aluminum foil
Choose compact, multipurpose items that take up minimal space.
Foraging and Hunting Basics
Consider learning skills for finding/procuring food from the land:
- Identifying edible plants, mushrooms, and berries
- Setting snares and traps
- Angling and spearfishing
- Bow/slingshot hunting small game
Nature can provide sustenance when supplies run out. Even basic skills can make a difference.
Having the right combination of high-calorie food, efficient cooking gear, and foraging/hunting knowledge in your SHTF go bag provides insurance against starvation in a disaster scenario. Choose foods with long shelf lives, store them properly for freshness, and learn techniques for living off the land. These measures can save lives if normal supply chains are disrupted.
Fire Creation and Management
Creating and maintaining fire is an essential survival skill. Having the ability to start a fire provides warmth, light, a way to purify water, cook food, and signal for help if needed. When packing your shtf go bag, be sure to include fire starting tools and materials.
Fire Starters and Tinder
Essential items for starting a fire include:
- Stormproof matches - reliable and waterproof
- Flint and steel - create sparks to ignite tinder
- Magnesium fire starter - shavings ignite at low temperatures
- Cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly - excellent tinder
- Commercial tinder like dryer lint or wax-soaked twine
Prioritize compact, lightweight options that are not easily damaged.
Fire Safety and Etiquette
When building any open fire, safety should be the top concern. Choose an open site away from overhanging branches and dry grass or brush. Clear a perimeter around the fire pit and do not leave an open flame unattended. Maintain noise discipline and light discipline to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Follow the mantra: "Drown, stir, feel - repeat." Extinguish fires completely before abandoning camp.
Portable Stoves and Fuel
Portable camp stoves like Esbit or propane offer a lightweight, efficient means of boiling water and cooking. Solid fuel tablets, propane canisters, and small bottles of alcohol fuel can sustain cooking over longer periods. Consider the weight, burn time, and ease of use for different models.
Maintaining Fire in Adverse Conditions
In wet conditions, focus on keeping kindling and fuel dry. Store some tinder in a watertight container or bag. Shield fuel with a poncho or tarp. Opt for wax-soaked twine, chemical heaters, or magnesium as primary ignition sources.
In windy areas, construct a shelter around the fire lay using logs or stones. Dig a shallow pit to keep embers sheltered. Allow adequate ventilation to feed oxygen to the fire.
Land Navigation Gear
Having the proper land navigation gear is crucial for survival in an emergency situation where you need to navigate unfamiliar territory. Reliable navigation tools, signaling devices, and repair supplies should be key components of any bug out bag.
Topographic Maps and Compass
Topographic, or "topo", maps that show terrain details are essential for navigation without reliance on technology. Waterproof and tear-resistant print maps are best. A quality compass is also a must-have to determine direction. Knowing how to read maps and use a compass takes practice. Consider getting professional land navigation training beforehand.
GPS Devices and Solar Chargers
While convenient, GPS devices can fail or lose power. Carry backup batteries or compact solar chargers to maintain charge. However, GPS should not replace traditional navigation skills. View it as a supplemental aid. Practice navigating without GPS periodically to keep those skills sharp.
Signaling Devices for Rescue
Having the ability to signal rescuers greatly improves survival odds if injured or stranded. Whistles, signal mirrors, flares, and brightly colored banners/flags can visually or audibly alert rescue teams to your location from a distance. Know proper use of signaling devices beforehand.
Navigation Skills Training
No amount of gear replaces competent navigation abilities. Enroll in orienteering, land navigation, or other wilderness survival courses. Join hiking, climbing, or search and rescue groups to regularly hone your skills. Hands-on experience navigating unfamiliar areas is invaluable preparation for emergency scenarios requiring overland travel.
First Aid and Medical Preparedness
Having the proper first aid supplies and knowledge to address injuries and illnesses is critical for survival preparedness. Here are some key areas to focus on when developing your medical preparedness.
Comprehensive First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any emergency situation. Be sure to include basic wound care items like bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and gloves. Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and antihistamines are also useful for treating headaches, fevers, allergies, etc. Don't forget instruments like tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and safety pins.
Medications and Prescriptions
If anyone in your family takes prescription medications, having an emergency supply is vital. Work with your doctor to get extra prescriptions filled so you have at least a 90-day supply. Also stock up on basic over-the-counter meds for pain, stomach issues, cough/cold symptoms, etc. Rotate your supply to prevent expiration.
Trauma Management Supplies
For severe injuries like heavy bleeding or broken bones, specific supplies will be needed. Tourniquets, hemostatic agents, splints, and wound closure strips should be in your medical kit. Consider taking first aid classes focused on trauma care like Stop the Bleed training.
First Aid Skills and Training
Simply having supplies is useless without the know-how to properly utilize them. Take courses in first aid, CPR, and wilderness medicine to boost your capability to effectively treat injuries and illness during disasters. Attend refresher classes annually and practice skills at home to keep them sharp.
Self-Defense and Security
Personal security should be a top priority when preparing a go-bag for emergency situations. However, it's important to consider both lethal and non-lethal options responsibly.
Choosing Non-Lethal Defense Options
Non-lethal self-defense tools like pepper spray, stun guns, and alarms can provide protection without causing permanent harm. When selecting non-lethal options, consider factors like legal restrictions in your area, effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.
Firearms and Ammunition
If legally owned, firearms can be included for defense purposes. However, safe handling and storage are extremely important. Consider taking a firearm safety course if you choose to include a firearm.
Tactical Knives and Tools
Multi-tools and tactical knives serve dual purposes - for survival needs and protection. Focus on legality, quality, and practicality when selecting these items.
Security Mindset and Situational Awareness
Developing alertness, quick thinking, and caution can help avoid dangerous situations. Consider taking self-defense courses to hone these skills as well.
Overall, the shtf go bag should enable both survival and reasonable self-protection. But defense options must be responsibly chosen with safety and legality as top concerns.
Pack Organization and Maintenance
Modular Packing Systems
Using a modular packing system with pouches and compartments allows you to organize your bug out bag efficiently. This makes it easier to find items quickly in an emergency. Consider packing categories like shelter, water, food, first aid, tools, etc. in separate pouches. This also allows you to take out pouches and customize your pack for specific trips. Popular modular options are MOLLE panels, removable dividers, and packing cubes.
Waterproofing Essentials
It's critical to keep certain items dry and protected in your go bag. Consider waterproof stuff sacks, dry bags, and waterproof pouches for electronics, fire starters, documents, etc. Spray durable water repellant (DWR) on the exterior of the pack. Use waterproof map cases and water purification tablets. Ziploc bags can work in a pinch.
Routine Gear Checks and Updates
Check your bug out bag every 6 months. Check expiration dates on food, water, medicine. Test batteries, electronics. Replace worn out items. Update with any new prepper gear that could help. Mark calendars for reminders.
Weight Distribution and Comfort
Pack the heaviest items closest to your back and higher up for better weight distribution. Use waist and sternum straps to take weight off shoulders. Choose a pack with padded, breathable back panels and shoulder straps if carrying long distances. Compress items to save space and reduce strain.
Personalizing Your Bug Out Bag
Tailoring your shtf go bag to your specific needs and situation is crucial for effective emergency preparedness.
Individual Medical Needs
Having the right medical supplies customized to your health conditions and medications can be a matter of life-or-death in a disaster scenario. Be sure to pack at least a week's supply of prescription medications, along with basic first aid items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, etc. Those with chronic illnesses should also include backup equipment and extra batteries for medical devices.
Skillset-Based Gear Selection
Choose tools, weapons, and other gear that you are already familiar with using. For example, an experienced hunter may want to include firearms for defense and hunting, while someone with outdoor survival training may focus more on navigation tools, firestarters, fishing line, etc. Leverage your existing skillset when packing your bag.
Family and Group Dynamics
When bugging out with family, especially children, pack extra food, water, clothing, and shelter appropriate to their needs. Also consider entertainment items to maintain morale. Planning for pregnant or nursing mothers is also essential. Forming a survival group can allow for division of labor, but make sure to coordinate equipment needs.
Adapting to Environmental Conditions
The climate and terrain of your area should significantly influence the contents of your go-bag. Those in cold regions need warm layers, winter boots, and other specialized gear, while those in hot climates will require more water storage capacity. Research the environments you may need to traverse during evacuation and pack accordingly.
Conclusion: Essential Takeaways for Your SHTF Go Bag
Summary of Go Bag Essentials
When preparing your go bag, be sure to include these essentials:
- Water and water filtration - Pack at least 1 gallon per person per day. Include a portable water filter or purification tablets.
- Food - High-calorie, lightweight, non-perishable foods like protein bars, nuts, jerky, and MREs.
- First aid kit - Include bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. Know basic first aid and CPR.
- Fire starting tools - Waterproof matches, lighter, fire steel, tinder, etc. Practice fire starting skills.
- Shelter and bedding - Tent, tarp, sleeping bag, and pad for insulation.
- Light sources - Headlamp, flashlight, glow sticks. Have spare batteries.
- Navigation - Map of the area, compass, GPS device if possible.
- Tools and knives - Folding knife, multi-tool, paracord, duct tape, whistle.
- Personal hygiene items - Toothbrush, toilet paper, feminine products, etc.
The Importance of Preparedness Mindset
Adopting a preparedness mindset is key. Be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice, practice survival skills, continuously update your supplies based on seasons and family needs. Getting into this proactive mindset can save lives if disaster strikes.
Continuous Learning and Skill Development
Take first aid classes, learn navigation techniques, practice fire starting and shelter building. Hands-on training will boost confidence and increase chances of enduring an emergency situation. Check your supplies quarterly and replace expired items.
Final Checklist Review
- Update food/water for each family member
- Check medicine expiration dates
- Test battery powered devices
- Practice evacuation readiness
- Replace worn out shelter/bedding
- Add seasonal clothing layers
- Confirm bag contents meet latest recommendations
Following this go bag checklist will ensure you have the essentials to promote safety and resilience.
