When facing an emergency, having the right gear can make all the difference in staying safe and secure.
This article explores the essential items for a survival go bag, from water and food to first aid and navigation tools, that will prepare you for unexpected situations.
You'll learn the key components every bug out bag should contain, how to customize your kit to your specific needs, and develop the proper mindset to handle emergency scenarios.
Introduction to Survival Go Bag Essentials
A survival go bag, also known as a bug out bag, is an essential emergency preparedness item. This grab-and-go kit contains supplies to help you safely evacuate or shelter in place during a disaster.
Understanding the Ultimate Survival Kit
A well-stocked survival go bag provides basic necessities if you need to leave your home for an extended period. Recommended items include:
- Water and non-perishable food
- First aid supplies
- Flashlight, radio, and batteries
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
- Emergency blankets and shelter
- Basic hygiene items
- Extra clothes, shoes, and hats
- Cash in small bills
- Important documents in waterproof bag
Customize your bag based on your needs, skills, climate, and potential risks in your area. Aim for a bag that's comfortable to carry and not too heavy.
Key Components of a Bug Out Bag List
When building your bug out bag, focus on the survival basics:
Water - Having clean water is critical. Pack at least one gallon per person per day. Include a filter or purification tablets.
Food - High-protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and MREs are lightweight and non-perishable.
First Aid - Pack first aid supplies plus any needed medications and personal care items.
Tools - Include a knife, duct tape, fire starters, flashlight, radio, batteries, and other gear.
Shelter - Pack an emergency tent, sleeping bag, and blankets suitable for your climate.
Navigation - Have a map, compass, permanent marker, and mobile phone charger.
Customize your survival go bag based on your skills, climate, and potential risks. Prepare now so you're ready for the unexpected.
What do you put in a survival go bag?
A well-stocked survival go bag is essential for emergency preparedness. At a minimum, your go bag should contain the following:
Water
Having access to clean drinking water during an emergency situation is critical. Pack at least one gallon of water per person per day for several days. You'll need water not only for drinking, but also for food preparation and sanitation. Consider packing commercially bottled water or portable water filtration systems.
Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, canned goods, and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Choose foods that don't require refrigeration or preparation. Aim to have at least a 3-day supply.
Communication and Light Sources
Staying informed and having light sources during an emergency is vital. Be sure to pack items like:
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- NOAA weather radio with tone alert
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Whistle for signaling help
First Aid Supplies
Having basic first aid supplies on hand allows you to treat injuries until you can get medical care. Essentials include bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain medication, latex gloves, trauma shears, and a first aid instruction manual.
Extra Gear
Round out your survival go bag with other key items like multi-purpose tools, emergency blankets and shelter, fire starters, compass and maps for navigation, duct tape, garbage bags, toilet paper, and any necessary medications.
Customize your survival go bag based on your needs, skills, environment, and potential risks. The goal is to have the essential gear on hand to safely get through several days until help arrives. Be sure to check expiration dates and replenish any depleted items in your go bag regularly.
How to get free emergency kit?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit to help individuals and families prepare financially for emergencies.
To get your free emergency financial kit:
- Go to ready.gov/financial-preparedness
- Click on the "Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK)" section
- Click the "Download the EFFAK" button
- The EFFAK PDF will download to your device
The EFFAK covers important financial preparedness information including:
- Inventory and documentation guidance
- Emergency contacts and key resource lists
- Worksheets and forms to track critical household information
Having an emergency financial kit is an essential part of an overall preparedness plan. It ensures you have vital information and resources organized and easily accessible if an emergency strikes.
The EFFAK is a simple yet comprehensive way to start your financial preparedness journey. Combine it with other critical supplies like a survival go bag for an integrated preparedness plan.
What are 10 items in a survival kit?
Having the right items in your survival go bag can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Here are 10 essentials to include:
-
Flashlight - A flashlight with extra batteries allows you to see in the dark and signal for help. Choose an LED flashlight for efficiency.
-
Whistle - A loud whistle can alert rescuers to your location from farther away than using your voice. Get one that attaches to your bag or clothing.
-
Dust mask - A dust mask protects your lungs from smoke, ash, and airborne particles if evacuation routes are dusty.
-
Maps - Local trail maps help you navigate unfamiliar terrain and locate alternate evacuation routes if needed.
-
Manual can opener - Pack a simple manual opener to open canned goods without power.
-
Emergency radio - A hand cranked or battery-powered radio provides weather updates, emergency instructions, and morale-boosting entertainment.
-
Games/books - Quiet activities reduce stress for children (and adults) while sheltering. Choose compact travel games.
8. **First aid kit** - A first aid kit allows you to treat minor injuries. Stock supplies like bandages, ointment, scissors, tweezers, gloves, and medications.
9. **Water** - Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Consider water filtration or purification methods too.
10. **Food** - High protein, lightweight, non-perishable foods provide needed calories. Think protein bars, dried fruit, nuts, peanut butter, and canned goods.
Having these 10 items in your survival go bag provides critical gear for navigation, health, safety, nutrition and communication in an emergency situation where you need to shelter in place or bug out bag. Customize further by adding prescription medications, specific tools, or other personal survival kit items. Being prepared can save your life!
What is a doomsday bag?
A doomsday bag, also known as a bug out bag (BOB), is an emergency kit designed to provide critical supplies for at least 72 hours in a disaster scenario. The key goal of a BOB is to allow you to evacuate quickly and reach a safe location where you can shelter-in-place until help arrives.
At its core, a doomsday or bug out bag contains survival basics like food, water, first aid supplies, tools, and navigation aids. It gives you a fighting chance by meeting your fundamental needs if the unexpected happens. Let's explore some essential items to include:
Food and Water
Having nutrition and hydration is vital in an emergency. Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat). For water, have at least 1 gallon per person for 3 days. Consider packing water purification tablets too.
First Aid Supplies
A comprehensive first aid kit can literally save lives if someone gets injured. Essentials include bandages, gauze, medications, sanitation wipes, trauma shears, and more. A first aid guide is also useful.
Tools and Navigation
Tools for survival like knives, a flashlight, fire starters, rope, and duct tape are a must. Navigation items like a map, compass, GPS device, or even a survival guide can be invaluable if you need to find your way.
The exact contents of your bag depend on your needs. But these basics help ensure you and your loved ones stay safe if disaster strikes unexpectedly.
Water: Hydration in Emergencies
Having an adequate water supply is crucial when bugging out or sheltering in place during an emergency. Staying hydrated allows your body to function properly and can help you think clearly in stressful situations.
Emergency Water Sources
When packing your survival go bag, be sure to include items that will allow you to procure and purify water from multiple sources. Useful items include:
- A metal water bottle or collapsible water carrier to collect and transport water. Look for BPA-free and durable models.
- Water purification tablets to make non-potable water safe for drinking. Choose an EPA-registered brand.
- A compact personal water filter that removes bacteria and parasites. The Sawyer Squeeze is a popular choice.
- A metal cup or pot for boiling water. Boiling is an effective emergency purification method.
With these items, you can obtain drinking water from rain, streams, ponds, and other sources when tap water is not available.
Storing and Carrying Water
Properly storing water helps preserve quality and prevent contamination. Some tips:
- Store water in opaque, BPA-free plastic or stainless steel containers - clear plastic allows light degradation.
- Replace stored water every six months. Mark rotation dates.
- Fill water containers to 95% capacity before sealing to allow for expansion.
- Pack water containers vertically in your bag, surrounded by clothing for insulation and padding.
Collapsible and soft-sided bottles easily fit into pack spaces. Rigid containers hold up better to impact. Choose the type of water carrier that best fits your pack style and space constraints. Having multiple small containers also provides redundancy if one develops a leak. With an adequate water supply and purification tools, you can overcome one of the most pressing risks when bugging out - lack of safe hydration.
Food: Sustenance for Survival
Having sufficient food is critical for maintaining health and energy during an emergency situation. When packing your survival go bag, focus on nutrient-dense, non-perishable foods that will sustain you if access to supplies is limited.
Selecting Nutrient-Dense Foods
Aim for a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and micronutrients. Some good options include:
- Canned meats like tuna, chicken, or salmon
- Canned beans, lentils, chickpeas for plant-based protein
- Nuts and nut butters for healthy fats
- Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots
- Whole-grain crackers, cereal, or granola bars
- Powdered milk, shelf-stable soymilk, or nut milks
- Meal replacement shakes or protein bars
Focus on items with a long shelf life that provide nutrition and energy. Avoid overly processed snack foods.
Food Preparation Tools
Even during an emergency, you'll need to prepare meals. Pack lightweight, durable tools like:
- Can opener
- Spoon, fork, knife
- Tin foil
- Lighter, waterproof matches
- Mini stove and fuel canisters
- Pot, pan, or mess kit
- Water filtration system
With these basic items, you can heat canned foods or boil water for freeze-dried meals. Ensure your food preparation gear is lightweight and packs down small.
Having nutritious food and some preparation tools will help you maintain strength during challenging survival situations. Choose hearty, energizing foods and efficient cooking equipment for your go bag.
sbb-itb-b932644
Shelter and Warmth: Protecting Against the Elements
Adequate shelter and warmth are critical for survival, especially when facing harsh weather conditions. Having the right equipment and knowledge can help you stay safe and comfortable if you find yourself exposed to the elements unexpectedly.
Emergency Shelter Options
There are a few portable shelter options that can be easily packed into a survival go bag:
-
Tents or tarps: Having a lightweight, compact tent or tarp is essential for creating an emergency shelter. Make sure to choose a durable, waterproof shelter designed for backpacking and survival situations.
-
Emergency bivvy sacks: Bivvy sacks are lightweight, heat-reflective sacks that help retain body heat. While less protective than a tent, they take up very little space in a pack.
-
Tube tents: Tube tents are easy-to-carry shelters that can be quickly deployed by inserting trekking poles or branches through sleeves on the sides. These provide ample room and can withstand rain and wind.
When packing a shelter, also remember to include paracord, tent stakes, and sealant tape for emergency repairs. Choosing versatile, packable shelters ensures you have adequate protection in an unexpected overnight scenario.
Maintaining Body Heat
Losing too much body heat can quickly become life-threatening, so packing extra insulating layers and heat sources is vital:
-
Extra clothing: Having dry base layers, socks, jackets, and hats provides essential insulation if you get wet or temperatures drop. Choose moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics.
-
Emergency blankets: These lightweight, low-bulk blankets help retain radiant body heat and keep you dry. They can also be used as a ground cover inside shelters.
-
Hand and foot warmers: These single-use heat packs provide several hours of warmth when activated. They help prevent dangerous cold weather conditions like hypothermia or frostbite.
-
Solid fuel tablets: These compact tablets burn slowly to provide a heat source for warming shelters. Some also contain waterproof matches for fire starting.
Prioritizing body heat retention helps you safely wait out extreme weather in an emergency situation when adequate shelter is not available.
First Aid: Medical Preparedness
A well-equipped first aid kit is essential for addressing injuries and medical issues during an emergency. Having the right supplies on hand can help treat minor cuts and abrasions as well as more serious conditions. Let's explore what should be in your survival go bag's medical preparedness kit.
Comprehensive Bug Out Bag Medical Kit List
When building your bug out bag first aid kit, be sure to include:
- Bandages - Assorted sizes of bandaids, gauze pads, rolled gauze, and medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes - For cleaning wounds
- Antibiotic ointment - To prevent infection
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Pain relievers - Such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen
- Antihistamines - For allergic reactions
- Prescription medications - At least a week's supply
- Medical gloves
- CPR mask
- Trauma shears - For cutting clothing to access wounds
- Tweezers - For splinters and ticks
- Triangle bandage - Can be used as a sling
Having these basic medical supplies on hand will allow you to effectively treat cuts, bruises, sprains, allergic reactions, infections, pain, diarrhea and other common ailments. Be sure to check expiration dates and replace items as needed.
Handling Common Injuries
With your well-stocked first aid kit, you can handle many basic injuries in an emergency situation:
Cuts and Scrapes - Clean with antiseptic wipe, apply antibiotic ointment, cover with a bandage. Watch for signs of infection.
Sprains - Rest, ice, compress with an ace bandage, and elevate. Take an anti-inflammatory medication.
Allergic Reactions - Take an antihistamine, monitor breathing, and seek emergency care for severe reactions.
Pain - Take a pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen per dosage instructions.
Having the right supplies and some basic first aid knowledge can make a difference during an emergency. Be sure to take a first aid class for more advanced training.
Tools and Gear: Multipurpose Utility
Having the right tools and gear can make all the difference in survival situations. When packing your survival go bag, focus on versatile items that serve multiple purposes.
Essential Tools for Repair and Construction
A good multi-tool like a Leatherman is a prepper essential. Make sure to get one with pliers, screwdrivers, knife blades, scissors, and other attachments. These allow you to make repairs, construct basic shelters, cut cordage, and complete other survival tasks. A folding shovel also has many functions - from digging latrines to clearing debris for shelter. An axe or hatchet helps with processing firewood and building shelters. Include a roll of duct tape, which can patch holes, make bindings, and much more. Heavy-duty carabiners and pulleys enable rigging and hoisting. A sewing kit mends rips in clothing and gear. Waterproof matches, lighter, and fire starters enable warmth and cooking. Rope, paracord, and zip ties fasten items together securely.
Survival Gear for Fire Starting and Cooking
The ability to create fire is paramount. Pack waterproof stormproof matches, a lighter, magnesium fire starter, and dry tinder like cotton balls with petroleum jelly. A small backpacking stove runs on isobutane canisters and boils water quickly. Alternatively, an Esbit or hexamine solid fuel stove is lightweight and simple to operate. Include a metal cup or pot for heating food and water. Other cooking gear like utensils, plates, and a knife help prepare meals. Water filtration devices like the Sawyer Mini filter bacteria and sediments from found water sources. A collapsible water carrier stores purified water. High calorie survival food bars provide sustenance.
Navigation and Land Navigation: Finding Your Way
Effective navigation is key to moving safely and efficiently in unfamiliar or challenging terrain. Having the proper tools and knowledge can make all the difference in a survival situation.
Map and Compass Basics
Maps and compasses are tried and true navigation tools that every survival go bag should contain. Here are some key things to know:
-
Choose durable, waterproof maps. Make sure any paper maps are printed on rip-proof, water-resistant paper like Tyvek. Laminating paper maps will also protect them.
-
Understand map scales, legends, and orientation. Know how to read coordinates, identify landmarks, read elevation lines, and orient the map to match the ground and compass.
-
Invest in a quality compass. A good compass will have a durable housing and strong magnet that accurately points north. Learn how to set declination and take bearings.
-
Practice essential compass skills. Being able to pinpoint your location, set waypoints, follow a bearing, and more takes practice. Hone these skills ahead of time.
Having proper maps and the ability to navigate with a compass is vital in a survival situation where you may need to traverse unfamiliar terrain to find help, food, water, or shelter.
Modern Navigation Tools
While maps and compasses are extremely reliable, modern navigation tools also have a place in many survival go bags:
-
GPS devices pinpoint your coordinates and location via satellite. They can track movement and save waypoints. However, they rely on battery power.
-
Altimeters measure elevation and altitude changes which can be useful for navigation. Again, have backup batteries.
-
Multi-tools like paracord bracelets, carabiners, and whistles can also assist with navigation, marking trails, signaling, and more.
The key is not to rely completely on electronics. Have both traditional and modern tools available for navigating unpredictable survival scenarios. Practicing with them ahead of time is essential.
Communication and Signaling: Staying Connected
Reliable communication methods are essential for contacting help and staying informed during a crisis. Having the right devices and knowing effective signaling techniques can be critical for survival.
Signaling for Help
When facing an emergency scenario, signaling for help should be a top priority. Carrying a whistle on your person ensures you have an easy way to get attention if needed. Whistles are lightweight, inexpensive, and the shrill sound carries much farther than the human voice.
Other auditory signals like gunshots, flares, signal mirrors, and brightly colored clothing can visually attract attention as well. Learn established visual distress signals that search and rescue teams recognize. The international distress signal is three fires evenly spaced in a triangle, for example. Place signaling devices in visible, elevated areas to increase visibility.
Practice using signaling tools ahead of time so you can quickly and effectively use them when needed. Audible and visual signals are often the fastest way to get help when facing a crisis scenario.
Alternative Communication Devices
When cell towers, internet, radio, and other communication infrastructure goes down, alternative devices are essential. Handheld radios provide short-range communication up to a couple miles. They are battery powered and useful for coordinating within a small group.
Satellite phones and messaging devices rely on orbiting satellites rather than ground-based infrastructure. They can send texts, make calls, and determine locations when other systems fail. These devices are more expensive but offer reliable crisis communication.
Develop an emergency communications plan that designates meeting spots and frequencies to use. Make sure all members of your group have compatible devices and know protocols. Redundant systems are wise in case certain communication channels become unavailable.
Reliable communication is a lifeline when facing disasters. Invest in durable signaling devices, radios, and satellite-based systems for staying informed and summoning help when it matters most.
Self-Defense: Personal Safety and Security
In an emergency situation, personal safety and security may become a concern. Having non-lethal self-defense options in your survival go bag can provide protection without escalating a dangerous situation.
Non-Lethal Defense Options
When packing your survival go bag, include non-lethal self-defense tools like pepper spray or a stun gun. These can disable an attacker without causing permanent injury. Other options include:
- Whistles - Get attention and scare off attackers
- Tactical flashlights - Temporarily blind an assailant
- Kubotans - Small, hard sticks for applying pressure to disable attackers
Avoid weapons that could escalate violence. Non-lethal options allow escape and buy time until help arrives. Test and familiarize yourself with any self-defense tools before an emergency.
Strategies for Avoiding Conflict
The best self-defense is avoiding dangerous situations completely. Use these strategies:
- Move away from signs of trouble
- Don't travel alone if possible
- Avoid confrontation and resolve disputes peacefully
- Don't resist attackers with weapons or large groups
- Follow instincts and leave uncomfortable situations
Situational awareness helps detect threats early. Pay attention to surroundings and people nearby. Have an escape route planned if confronted. Fighting back is the last resort if unable to flee.
Conflict avoidance and de-escalation are vital for personal safety. Prepare your survival go bag with non-lethal self-defense tools, but focus efforts on prevention through awareness and avoidance.
Customizing Your Bug Out Bag: A Personalized Approach
Every individual's needs are different; learn how to tailor your survival go bag to your specific requirements.
Assessing Personal Needs
When assembling your personalized bug out bag, first take stock of your own unique needs and situation. Important factors to consider include:
-
Health conditions - Pack any necessary medications, medical supplies, mobility aids if needed.
-
Location and climate - If in a cold environment, pack warm layers, gloves, hat. In warm areas, include sun protection, hydrating fluids.
-
Skill level and experience - As a beginner, focus more on evacuation essentials vs. long-term survival tools.
-
Daily prescription medications - Have at least a week's supply packed.
Making a checklist can help identify must-have items based on your personal circumstances.
Premade Bug Out Bag Options
Premade bug out bags provide a ready-made survival kit to build upon. Benefits include:
-
Serves as a checklist covering survival basics.
-
Saves time compared to assembling from scratch.
-
Often durable, weather-resistant construction.
However, one size doesn't fit all. Consider customizing a premade bag by:
-
Adding medications, medical gear you specifically need.
-
Extra food, water, shelter necessities per your situation.
-
Tailoring tools/supplies based on skills, climate, evacuation plan.
Finding the right premade bug out bag that most closely fits your needs can provide a solid framework to then personalize further for the best emergency preparation.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Survival Go Bag Preparation
A well-stocked survival go bag is an essential part of emergency preparedness. By carefully considering the essential items you may need in an unexpected crisis, you can ensure you have quick access to the gear and supplies that could save your life.
Recap of Essential Items
When building your survival go bag, be sure to include:
- Water and non-perishable food
- First aid supplies
- Navigation tools like a map, compass, and flashlight
- Shelter like an emergency blanket or tarp
- Fire starting materials
- Multi-purpose tools and knives
- Medications and hygiene items
Tailor your bag to your specific needs, but this checklist covers many of the critical basics.
The Prepper's Mindset
Simply having a packed bug out bag is not enough. Being truly prepared means adopting a vigilant, proactive mindset focused on survival and self-reliance. This includes not only gathering gear, but also acquiring key skills like first aid, navigation, and shelter building. It means staying informed about potential threats through news and community resources. And it means continuing to re-evaluate and evolve your level of preparedness as circumstances change.
Preparing for the unexpected is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Let your fully stocked survival go bag serve as a reminder to keep this prepper's mindset and continue increasing your capacity to handle emergencies of all kinds.
