10 vital items for your bug out bag
How long do you think it would take you to put together a bag of items you could carry on the run that would keep you safe, warm and, most important, alive in an emergency? A few hours? A week? A month? Now, think about how much time you might have to escape an emergency situation and then survive for 72 hours. A day? An hour? Two minutes?
If you compare those time frames, it will become clear that the time to prepare a Bug Out Bag is now, not after a crisis occurs. The biggest difference between a survivalist and others is that the survivalist is prepared for the inevitable disaster. Survivalists have thought ahead and determined what they will need to get by for three days until disaster relief organizations may be able to reach people affected by whatever crisis has erupted. And as we’ve stated previously, it’s not about “if” an emergency will occur, it’s “when.”
In a Survivalcache.com article titled “The 7 Types of Gear You Must Have in Your Bug Out Bag” (see link below), the author focuses on the most important items you need to survive for 72 hours. Also known as a “grab bag,” a “battle box” or a “GOOD (Get out of Dodge) bag,” this portable kit contains the things that you are mostly likely to need in order to still be standing in three days. Please read this article, thinking about whether the author has successfully covered all of the basic necessities. Meet you on the other side.
http://survivalcache.com/bug-out-bag/
One of the reasons I like the list presented in this article is because it’s SHORT. The author remains within his original parameters, sticking with a three-day survival situation. I’ve seen other 72-hour kit lists that boast a more comprehensive collection but they include so many items that they would require a couple of large suitcases to haul them! That’s completely unrealistic for someone who might need to physically carry these items while on the move and in very possibly less than ideal conditions.
Still, if space allowed, I would add a few more small items to the seven listed in the article that would make the extra weight worthwhile. My 10 Vital Items for Your Bug Out Bag are:
- Water (Editor’s note: check out Water4Patriots for our top choice of personal water filtration.)
- Food
- Shelter
- Clothing
- First-Aid Kit. I’d add medicines, vitamins, hand sanitizer, bug repellent and sun block to this kit.
- Basic Gear
- Weapons
- A File Folder filled with maps, travel information, IDs and a disaster plan that includes locations of emergency centers, evacuation routes, and cell phone numbers of family members and friends
- Small Tool Kit, including a hammer and nails, screwdriver, wrench, etc.
- Crank-Operated Radio. In an emergency, this might be your only link to announcements regarding where aid is available and other important information.
Everyone’s priorities are different, so your Top 10 list may look different than mine. Which items would be in your Bug Out Bag and why? Let me know in the comments!
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I’ agree with several of those postings. I, myself would sacrifice any or all the choices if I could have my King James Bible in my bag. No matter the problem or the threat, GOD has the answer.
I agree
Sir do you have solar power flashlights. Small generators for campers. And security lights ? Do you have any specials for seniors ?? Thank you
Look on wish.com they have items under camping and led that I keep in my kits.
My grab and go bag is always under in a state of update. I tend to put things in that are multi functional, tools, cooking, shelter etc. I have a separate tin for fire making, that contains a magnifying lens, 2 Bic lighters, matches, Ferro Rod, I also added a small pencil sharpener for making tender. I have a Seychelle water filter bottle with extra filters. A wide mouth stainless steel water bottle, for carrying water or for boiling water in to purify it, also for cooking. I tend to follow Dave Canterbury’s 10 C’s of Survivability as a guideline as to what to put in my G&G bag. Finally There’s a Food 4 Patriot’s 72 hr. pouch for each of us, and one in each of our vehicles with a separate get home bag.
one more thing I go to the Dollar Tree in Miami there everything mentioned you can get for literally $1 per item, including hygiene items, band aids, ointment scissors everything you can imagine in my bag I also have toilet brush, toilet cleaner, and cloro wipes, if I need to clean a bathroom I can! also, wipes everyone mentioned toilet paper but the wipes are great refresher if you can’t bathe, also serves as toilet paper, a box of kleenex is also essential and paper towels a single roll, and napkins a 250 pack at Dollar Tree, it is all there for a $1. I also keep in my trunk a bucket a one gallon size it’s amazing how handy it is and paid $1 for it. Items like water proof matches, and certain camping no but everything else they got. Including screw drivers hammers, nails goggles, you can go all out. I also have the Alexapure water bottle and of course the straw. I always carry my lunch but the small cans of tuna is good to have as well. BJ’s or Costco, I get the packs, plus soups, nuts, etc…in my to go bag and of course I got my Food4Patriots…as back up for home.
Excellent information! I started my bob bag a while back since I manage properties for a living and having tools and toilet paper is important especially if prop is empty, flashlight, and other items, like tape, and ointment, aspirin etc are in there, but the cotton balls with Vaseline is a great idea and will add for the just in case…as well as other items, everything here is super informative.And truly agree that hunkering down is key but a go bag is very important for just in case and in my case sometimes I am out there and having food water and items in a first aid kit has come in handy even around town with nothing going on but life. again all this is great and great ideas have been picked up!
Peace
I have a question — where are all of these people going and where do they get gas when required?
In the event you have to evacuate your location, it depends on the event causing the need to evacuate. In some cases, emergency workers will guide you to safety. If not, the emergency radio or TV announcement will guide you to safety. Just in case there isn’t guidance available, have a plan for several different events. I. E. Flooding, earthquake, valcanic eruption, tornado, fire etc. You can talk to your local city planning commissioner to get a good idea of what their plans are for a large emergency event. As for gas, there are several ways to safely store small to large quantities of gas for your vehicles. Talk to your local fire department to get good information.
Virginia, simply never let your gas tank get below half a tank. It’s an old police trick.
That’s very minimal. You also want raingear, something for toilet paper, and more than first aid. Needle and good thread, you can stitch up a gash. I carry therapeutic grade oils for water purification (lemon) in addition to the life straw. Also for illness, , viral, trauma etc. Plus some coffee filters, and Himalayan salt.
What is a life straw?
How about a knife and machete
All of the above mentioned I guess says it all in a bug-out scenario and if I may add my two cents worth on the fire starting, here is an idea I got from “Hedgehog” take some, natural jute twine and cut them into 5″ or 6″ strips, then take a bar of gulf wax or household paraffin wax,, melt it in a pot (caution on stovetop) until dissolved you then take the strips of twine (one by one) and dip them in the wax (let them get well saturated) take out and let dry, when dry, stuff them in a nalgene wide-mouth 8oz. bottle or tin box to keep them dry (I prefer bottle) when ready to use, just take a strip and pull it apart into shreads and watch it light up, really cool. I want to add one more thing to this comment and that is: “Two is one and one is none” try and take 2 of the most important items exp: knife, handgun & rifle, etc. cause you will never know if you’ll loose one along the way. Peace to all and good bugging out…
Good article! In my BOB, I have the following:
Camelbak bottles (stuffed with protein bars), water filtering devices and survival starws
Duct tape, para cord
Flash light and extra batteries
Knife (camper type Swiss Army)
Flint/steel, waterproof matches, lighters, and flares for signaling and fire starting
Adhesive for repairs and fire starters (flammable)
Survival blankets, survival sleeping bags, and shelter (takes up little room)
First aid kit, including Blood Clot
For my 72 hours its; water, shelter, and fire. Beyond that, you’ll need a bigger pack, or vehicle.
Flashlights and batteries, good heavy wool blankets.
Military type wool to keep you warm even if they get wet
Frank :
I would ad a means of making a fire. I feel that a fire is one of the utmost survival things you can do
All I need is a big ass shotgun so I can take all that crap away from you – so pack something for self defense and
don’t trust anyone
get a dog for security, you do have to feed it, but the dog can also find his or her own food
The in thing is bug out bags and such. If you really have to bug out you are in trouble. Your home should be the safest place to be. More likely a get home bag is needed. One of the most important items is clothing, if you are a suit person you need heavy duty clothing and good walking shoes or boots, second is water and a personnel weapon.
I totally agree with you Randy.
I am a widow in my 80’s live alone use a walker and do not drive but have been trying to get survival bag together, i also do not own a gun, as i would have to take classes on how to shoot to get a gun permit, what would be a good weapon for me to have and where can i get it
Each needs to consider their abilities. In your case, like my mother-in-law you are more likely to be at home and thus don’t need to look at a bug out situation but more of a hunker down where you are plan. I don’t know what state you live in, but even in th emore restrictive states you can usually find an indoor firearms range that offers instruction as well as will rent several varieties of firearms for you to test. Your personal strength and how you can handle both the weight and recoil of a firearm will be a determining factor only you and your firearms instructor can identify. That said, if you can actually handle it, a small shotgun in .410 guage is what i set up for my sister who is dissabled and needs to use a cane. This is in case of an intruder / home invassion issue. I hope this helps point you in the right direction
Hi Nan, you ask about getting a gun.
Really if you are looking for a hand gun first thing is to decide between a revolver (only 6 shots) or a semi auto (a few more shots but can you rack the slide?) Next see if it is a good fit to your hand. And remember a large caliber gun is only effective IF you hit the target. Better a smaller size round and hitting bulls-eye. If you only want home defense you may want to look into a shot gun. A shorter barrel for indoor use. The gun store should only have legal to purchase fire arms. And be able to set you up with a safety course and a marksmanship program. Also you would want to look at a 20 gauge to reduce kick. With shot guns the smaller the number the bigger the shell, I.E. a 10 gauge is way bigger than the 20 I recommend. Oh and get a pump if you go this route or a semi-auto…more rounds before reload.
See if there is a gun range near you (yellow pages) that may rent guns and you can try several. Most gun stores, people are happy to help someone get what they need and pass on knowledge. Even if you do get a shot gun still take the safety class.
Hope it goes well.
Mike
Nan, IF You’ll be at Home put some water back using Your
our milk bottles as You empty them…if older drop a couple drops of bleach in them a gun ?
get Yourself a 22 hand gun or rifle will allow You to protect Yourself You can buy them now but they could run out.get some canned food in chicken noodle soup or a can with meat & vegtables in it do Not panic.
just wait & watch & see what happens [email protected] RD
Nan, have you considered getting yourself a taser gun?
You can use them without having to touch the aggressor like a stun gun.
Many items in your home can be used as a weapon. Though I would suggest a Taser Gun. Cost is about the same. A lot less practice needed and you can keep it in your walker since it is always with you.
Only one peripheral mention of… TOILET PAPER!!
I only saw one mention of super glue in the comments.
while super glue has a multitude of uses, it would be in my bag for first aid purposes. it’s your best choice for wound closure and stopping bleeding. (don’t glue your fingers to the wound)
Phil
I recently went to a craft store and bought a bag of popsicle sticks for my fire starting kit. Great dry tinder to get that fire started
The best fire starter isn’t made from wood at all. Vasoline soaked cottons balls are FAR superior.
Every time I go to the oriental restaurant, I take home the cheap chopsticks. A good supply of small tinder. You can, of course, buy them, but I go out to eat often enough that it’s become a good supply.
Another cheap alternative is just strips of an old cardboard box you can cut up yourself.
Go to a used store and get the bags of “raffia” or other wood-based materials they sell for a buck or two.
Any candle makes a great fire starter – put it under the pile of tinder and light it – the candle takes care of the rest.
try dryer lint goes up like gas
Read all comments above. Good advise, but…what do you advise for 83 year old woman who lives alone. Especially if you cannot drive out to a safe place or get to my son who lives several (45 min to an hr. drive) miles away?
You need to make your home your fortress. Most emergency events only require Bugging In. If you can survive out of your house (in the vast majority of cases) you can survive. You should think less about what to take with you and more about what you can hole away.
Until the first Molotov Coctail hits.
I am an 81 year old woman who has heart, lung, (oxygen 24/7), kidney disease, seizures and have had a stroke. I use both a walker and sometimes a wheel chair, but I’m a tough old bird. I prepare for both at home and having to flee. I have signed with our county for emergency evacuation, contacted the electric company for what ever emergency needs that pertain to them and have made evacuation plans with members of my church. The oxygen 24/7 is my only concern if the emergency is for longer than a few days, but no matter what even if there is no way for me to get out if needed I am prepared and will continue to improve until I’m gone. I’d rather be prepared and have nothing happen than to have something happen and not be prepared. A little is better than nothing , and just remember to keep building on to that little and it will become a lot.
I just read through my comment and discovered that I am also alone but I want to make sure to those in my age group that we have to prepare differently tan younger healthy people, but we do need to prepare
Have an evacuation plan set up with several of your neighbors. Most people have room for one more. Make a meeting plan with your son at the same time. Get something with wheels that you can put your bug out bag in for easy go like a folding cart.
Charcoal Tablets, Capsules or Powder in a plastic bottle with a lid. Charcoal cleanses the body of all bacteria, etc. Drink with water and keep drinking water at the first sign of upset stomach. Paper towel poultice on an infected wound. Keep some rubber bands to hold it on or a roll of bandage to tie it on. A zip lock bag of rubber gloves for clean hands when dressing a wound. Maps and ID etc in zip lock bag keeps them clean and dry. A small pair of scissors in a sheath and plastic toothpicks. Large 33 gal or bigger garbage bags with ties. Make sleeping warm perfect. Cut a hole in the bottom for your head and sides for your arms if you need to get them out put your legs and feet in a second bag and tie the both at the waste. Snug as a bug and dry even in freezing weather. Keep your matches, candles, plastic hags in a tin can or tin cuo with a plastic lid or a plastic jar with a lid with some tea bags. You can use the candle to light a fire or heat some water in the can for hot tea to warm up when it is cold. It is quick and easy till you can set up your shelter. The Vaseline cotton balls would be great for this with a few small rocks to set the can or cup on.
on the inside of an eggshell is a thin white film on the eggshell. This can be pulled off carefully and a bigger piece of it can be placed over abscess and will act as a poultice to draw out infection. Works great on small boils
CLEAN, DRY SOCKS!!! Thank me later.
A hard lesson learned at Basic Training: have a pocket full of quarters so that you can coax chips, candy, drinks, whatever out of unsullied vending machines. Swiss Army knives are great, but arm yourself with a model that sports a magnifying glass. Be damn sure your 1st Aid kit has a decent pr of tweesers…surgical quality. Instead of a wad of paper money, stock your kit with 1/10 oz gold coins.
How can this apply to me and my husband. He has dementia and I only small car. We are in our eighties. Husband is ex- military, but unable to drive. Is there a better state to live in than coastal NC.?
this may not help at the moment, but my research tells me that only 3 of the 50 states (PA, LA, MS) do not tax SS benefits, 401k profits, military retired pay and other pensions. i’m just lucky to have stumbled into PA from broken-down and corrupt NJ
Frank, as an Ol’ SF’er our DiDi Mau or DiDi ( Diddy) Bag, Go Bag, whatever was an option but we also had a cache (stash bag) away in a safe location.
Reason being if your location or situation became so compromised or threatened and you had to diddy out then having just your feet under you would be enough and getting to your cache meant survival.
On those 10 items..
Two of the essential elements in any Op order is Security and Communications (TWO WAY). I would definitely put some sort of two way radio (several models come in pairs, lightweight with GPS and emergency channels , like a Marine Radio or hand held CB). Lightweight solar panel to recharge an assortment of items like , lights, phones and radios are available along with some hand-crank recharges.
To add with your 1st aid and other items you listed:
Fire making…magnesium lighter sticks,
Water purification Tabs.
Collapsible water carrying gear.
Poncho
Solar/Thermal blanket, biggest one they have. Good thing about these they take up no room and compact…until you need to open it and then putting it away
Small cargo net. Used for emergency transport, hammock, fishing, trapping , you name it. That sucker is indispensable.
Mosquito net (lightweight and compact)
Signal mirror. Absolutely
Lightweight Marine flare gun with two shells…one day…one night. wt is less than a lb.
Parachute cord or equivalent ultra strong light bundle of the stuff
machette and hand ax
taser or stun gun/ mace (the good stuff)
Gloves.
breakdown crossbow with arrows (not a firearm problem for those with limitations or scruples)
Impact Eye protection
small telescope or binos with range gradiant on lens built in
fishing packet, hooks, lures
carabiners / small heavy duty pullies.
canteen cup with canteen.
packet of stainless steel fishing leader (heavy duty)
wire hand saw,
Wire cutters…those little babies are so impressive and amazing. Getting through a fence/wire means access or escape…getting out or getting in is a deal maker.
SMALL HOW TO SURVIVE BOOK. Ranger Handbook is what I used. You too I am sure.
NOW BE SURE IT IS ALL IN A GOOD KAYAKER DRY BAG STUFFED IN THE GO BAG or backpack> Waiting for your list of how to pack the Diddy Bag so that bag won’t kill your back if you fall backwards on it or stop and lean back to rest in between movements.
Now all this sounds extensive, but it is not. These things are tiny in mass and essential for a go bag.
The list I saw of the ten items in a pinch will get you out the door as a civilian with his clothes on and his cell phone in hand and a stuffed wallet in his pocket. BUT ONE OF THE TOP TOP ITEMS IS A WAY TO COMMUNICATE AND CALL FOR HELP as well as something to defend yourself with.
Having a two way communications ability means the difference between life and death. Add that one for sure.
Money and I.D. are last , and if you are in foreign country and stuff happens like it did in Ukraine…or tsunami, hurricane…then being able to prove who you are, buy your way passage, or protect yourself can come down to a way to communicate, defend yourself or get what you need.
Whoowah. …oh, I forgot the KITCHEN SINK! (That would be your steel pot :))-)
All good for someone out the door and having their cell phone and a fat wallet I reckon. Ranger Hand Book / First items of an Op Order and key to survival …Security and Communications. I would specify communications gear (two way). Some Marine, CB, and other VHF multiban two comm radios have GPS built in. These are not heavy and some type is essential. Small solar charger or hand crank charger with variety of adapters in a dry bag is a deal maker or deal breaker when it comes to survival. Signal mirror and some other signal device. IF its rescue you want this is a priority. If you are in DiDi Mau mode (E and E to safety) then being able to fend for yourself and stay mobile to a secure location is the key. Long term…have a cache or stash bag out in a secure out of sight location you can make on foot if you gotta bolt damn near naked. Beans n weenies / water ? If you are alive through it to be hungry or thirsty you’ll have the means to provide.Still, Security and Communications. Always and in that order. Will add my quick list after this post. Fiji Base, Out.
Yes, I agree with you 5th Grp, Cpt. S.; Why have a list of contact numbers without a way to contact them? A portable (cellphone size) solar charger like the ones on Amazon are of dire necessity even if we don’t have cell service. I like your post……awaiting your quick list. Thanks!!
My feeling about survival after being put on the street by my neighbors in my Condo opening my roof for an insurance deduction after hurricane Wilma is that I approve of this and agree with every negative you have said about Fema and people in general in an emergency . As to the Energy item , as indicated I live in a Condo in Florida , yes I had to buy another Condo because the Condo would not fix
the disaster Condo they made of my unit .
Condo rules in Florida will not allow generators let alone any other alt devices for energy . Laws in Fl changed after Wilma , so that gas stations and some stores can have generators , but multiple story homes or condos etc. By the way Wilma was so designated as a Class 1 hurricane and this was done deliberately wrong by Fema and by the State . It was a Class 2 Hurricane with wind gusts exceeding 100mph . What happened was unusual but a fix or fraud . When Wilma went over Southwest Florida Naples it might have been a Class 1 Hurricane . When it went over Naples ,My unit in Coral Springs
was just over the Everglades National Park which is one big swamp of water . So not only did the Hurricane not slow down but it picked up speed,, as it might have been over land 10 to 20 minutes only and then was over water again even as it moved east to where I was just over the everglades which is called the sawgrass where I am .
As to the City of Coral Springs and Broward County they wanted my statistics to get money and offered nothing to me as a homeless person .
It gets worse than this too , as my insurance would not pay any claim unless I stayed in the relative area , and this is important to subscribers to know.
As to questions about rifles posed by one of those making a comment , I would like to re learn my military training in M16 or M14 and M1 all of which I used during training or thereafter per Vietnam .
I can not shoot anymore , and I like a legal weapon that can substitute for a rifle , that would allow me to protect myself in case of survival needs that I could hide upon my being homeless as I was after
my neighbors pulled a deductible on me .
I bought a sturdy backpack with several compartments. In one, I placed food items like tuna/salmon/Spam in single serving packets, dried fruits, instant coffee/creamer, instant hot chocolate and apple cider packets, power bars and fiber bars (help you feel full), etc, in a ziplock bag. In another ziplock, I have cotton balls/vaseline in a small water tight container, two lighters, extra batteries, a fire starter, fishing kit- (pre-prepared and wound line with weights, float and hook), I placed this along with a small sewing kit and some change in an altoids tin.I also have extra hooks and floats, and a roll of dental floss, taken out of the container. Good for sewing/repair, fishing line, snares, whatever- it’s practically unbreakable! Another ziplock contains personal care items- small comb, soap, hand sanitizer (can also be used as fire starter), wash cloth, extra undies and socks, small travel sized toothbrush/paste, and tight roll of toilet paper. Note: some businesses use this type of tp without cardboard rolls, and will let you have the ends of the rolls, around 2 inches in diameter, free. In yet another, first aid items- aspirin, Tylenol, Zantac, Benedryl, Immodium, dramamine, sterile 4x4s, dressing tape, wound wash in a small bottle, super glue, prescription meds, extra set of folding reading glasses, moleskin, band-aids, nu-skin, snake-bite/insect kit, etc. I have in a water-tight bag a battery/hand crank radio. In another, a folding stove which will burn sticks, pinecones, anything, then folds into its own storage bag when cool, a small mess kit, folding knife with utensils, condiments in a ziplock- ketchup, mustard, mayo packets, salt and pepper. I carry several small flashlights- the ultra bright led type which conserves battery power- one of which is on a headband for hands-free use. In the main compartment go a heavy plastic folded sheet, duct tape, space blankets, 1/2 liter of vitamin water (re-use the bottle when empty), a Sawyer water filter, N-95 masks, heavy gloves, a roll of heavy duty aluminum foil stuffed with light sticks, paracord and regular rope for making shelter, a first aid book, outdoor survival manual, a sham-wow type quick drying towel, In the outside compartments, I have a tiny weather radio, a ziplock with playing cards, pens, a small pad of paper, a New Testament, & a run-off copy of card game rules. In another, I have a small Gerber machete in a sheath, a lightweight trowel for hygiene use, more tp, a mighty-match type fire starter, a Gerber multitool, I can attach a blanket and a nalgene bottle also. Inside the front pocket is a waterproof pack cover, just in case. I think this is most of it- since it is not in front of me right now. I carry a smaller version with me at all times. Hope some of the suggestions will be helpful. I am not a large person, yet I can carry this pack for a while. I welcome suggestions as well!
Oh- also have a small mirror and Storm whistle for signaling, and a compass!
I love this Suzette! Perfect for a backpack go bag. Wondering what items you keep in your “always carry” bag? Thanks. Kim
Same as starving or dehydration I cant stand the thought of not being able to render proper first aid for cuts, burns, snake bite or insect stings. I didn’t know if I would be able to get this stuff but I ordered online and they were more than happy to help. Items such as sutures, burn applications, bandages to treat burns, liquid skin plus several serious items found in the ER and dental office. Yes it cost, but worth it. Oh and don’t forget super glue, amazing what all you can take care of with that. Like liquid duct tape.
I always carry a small kit that has cards, a note pad, pencil, dice, su doku pads, Yatzee pads and the pads have a bright silver cover that can be used as a mirror. A couple of like minded friends would be helpful in many instances, especially if a civil unrest situation is forcing the action..
A miniature solar powered Terminator! No, not Arnold! Also a S&W MP40 with a quality web belt/holster combo 4—-15 round magazines by ProMag and 600 rounds ammo in plastic storage box’s (50 count) 200 of the rounds being lethal hollow point types and some lady luck!
Just exactly WHAT constitutes “Basic GEAR ” in your bug out bag???
That’s another way to say strong, utilitarian clothing. Sorry, I guess I grew up with more military vocabulary in my house than I realized!
How about using clear bottles and fill with water and store in direct sunlight for a day or two, which will purify any water that may not be safe to drink. Also, consider using
a compass with built in magnifying glass to use to start a fire. Direct the sun through the glass to material to start fire.
Instead of cumbersomebottles for water, I will use gallon freezer bags ..light weight to carry many of them. Fill with water, purify however necessary. Lay in the sun to disinfect and it will work faster due to the thinness when lying down on the ground. Can discard to keep bacteria at bay.
My brother recently showed me how to make my own fire. Take cotton balls, work vasoline into it but not too much. You can then use a match or a flint to start a fire on it. There is little soot but maintains a good flame that could be used to cook.
I would add a snake bit kit just because i live in the middle of the dessert. Well the city I live in is surrounded by dessert.
I have started a bug out bag and in it I have a separate water tight container with a whistle, knife sharpener, fire striker, tender, fishing line and hooks, compass, water purification tablets, small survival tool with several functions, Swiss army knife with multiple functions, wire for trapping, first aid kit, needle and thread, small light with extra batteries. In another compartment I have a Henry Survival rifle with ammo, small axe, and I am not finished, but I like your starter bag. The survival rifle is for game use only if and when my food runs out.
I love the Henry Rifle idea. I original was thinking of putting a Kel-tec Sub 2000 40cal just because it folds up and has more knock down power. Just wanted something that i could use to hunt and protection all in one.
Ray see my comment in regards to using your firearm vs snares below. Just a little something to think about when SHTF. Good luck and great hunting!
I would suggest that don”t wait until your food runs out to use the rifle. Depending on the conditions use the rifle to supplment your food supply. Catch those fish,conserve you strenth and don’t burn out early. just some thoughts
Before you use your firearm think, by firing it WILL IT DRAW ATTENTION?UNWANTED ATTENTION. Use good quality SNARES and catch a nice supply of fresh food without firing a shot. You may need your ammo for protection. I have a HiPoint 995TS carbine in 9mm and Springfield Armory XDS also in 9mm. Yet I have several Snares and very familiar with setting them with different “triggers”. Just Set, and go back to every 24 hours or so. If done proper you’re going to have anything from squrriel to deer in your snare kit. I suggest 7/11gauge wire for snares. Have rough a 450# breaking limit . So as I have said, with the Snare wire, a little knowledge on setting different triggers you’ll not go hungry and NO NOISE to give away your position. Try fightfast.com for snare kits.They even have info on how to set the Snares if you’re not familiar with the whole Snare setup. Good luck and great hunting.
Also, a couple of very important items to have in your bag are stay dry matches and lots of lighters. I have been in a couple emergency situations in my life. I was always so thankful I had some thing to light a fire with or see my way in the dark incase flashlight gave out.
I got my cards today. As good as a book, Will start on stuff right away. Got the food and clothing.
Thanks
I’m not sure what you mean by 6) basic gear. Can you enumerate on this?
8) File folder with maps and travel information: I don’t really know what this would entail. Different disasters would require different travel information.
I think I would keep batteries in my Bug Out Bag too.
Thanks for the tips-
keeps me thinking.
Ha! Sometimes I use military terms without even thinking. Basic gear refers to rugged, easy to wear clothing.
Where do yiu obtain maps..I can see me running into a rock climbing mt by going the wrong way…
United states geological survey maps http://www.usgs.gov
my bug out bags are packed at all times. I have a large pack and a 2 – 20 inch duffel bags they are two different color. That way I know which one to choose if I can only choose one I have collapsible rifle in the pack( 22 caliber) and 300 rounds of ammunition. My comment would be don’t wait to pack anything if I have time I have five other I could load into a truck in probably 4 min. packs are cheap so why not utilize the ease of movement and the ability to pack them.
always diligent Mark 1776
How do my daughter, husband and 3 kids get out of Brooklyn? Bicycles? I already bought them face masks. Problem with these kids in the cities is that they are die hard liberals. It’s hopeless.
Yes a BIBLE along with your things
I also have two blessed candles in my bag..HE will guide us.
if you want a real good source of info buy a $12.00 boy scout handbook, it covers all you will need, caution it only helps if you read and practice
Something that comes to mind after reading both bits of information is after the recent round to tornados that just hit Oklahoma there is something that neither writer mention. And that is in this world of instant communication and everyone not being able to function without their cell-data phone then you will need some way to power it after the battery is drain. So a light weight solor charger & or a regular charger would be a must in your B.O.B. In the days follow the torandos there were mast charging stations set up for all the different types of cell phones. So this would be something one might want to pack if you can’t live without your phone.
I think that I would try to get a charger that would work with several different types of units phones, ipods, nooks, kindles, and the such. Because what good will they be if the battery is dead.
I found these phone chargers, I believe are called, “I-Go” that run off 2 AA batteries that I keep in my bags (and have bought one for every member in my family as well). They are slow to charge, but it’s better than nothing.
to start fires cotton balls any size will do (I use the large ones) and coat them with petroleum jelly put in small bottle or tin I use 1 or 2 also if you find yourself in the woods break off lower branches and use for starter great stuff almost all lower branches are dry you wont have to be rummaging around for wood and lose valuable time making shelter..b safe
some of the things that l would pack are, good 10″ Buck hunting knife, hatchet, fishing gear, good heavy garbage bags (Black/orange), 10×12 tarp, water purifier, good can opener, lots of lighters, and candles. 100′ ft of good rope. duct tape (grey/black). binoculers, 2 way radio,extra batteries. health/medical book, on eat able weeds and plants, dangerous things not to eat. Just a few things to keep you going.
11. A KJV Bible
With regard to #6, “Basic Gear”, that should be broken down, and defined.
As for the rest, I would also add a good knife. A multi function pocket tool (Leatherman, Gerber, etc) would be a must have. Along with “weapons”, I’d have only one handgun, unless a break down rifle could fit in the BOB also. Don’t forget extra ammunition and tolet paper! I’d stay away from cotton jeans… damn near impossible to dry in a reasonable amount of time.
Item 6 says basic gear….great! What is basic gear?
basic gear refers to hardy clothing
I have a 3 oz. bottle of “SilverDyn” bacterial water purifier. It will treat approximately 1200 liters of bad water. Also, the drops can be taken internally if feeling sick, and can also be used as a topical ointment.
It absolutely works!
Where can it be purchased?
One of the posters mentioned practicing making a fire. Most all of the survival blogs I have read mention the magnesium fire starter block, mostly they all use the edge of their knives to shave the magnesium and strike the flint. I say no to the knife and yes to a broken piece of hacksaw blade. The piece of hacksaw blade weighes almost nothing. The saw edge shaves very fine granules of magnesium and the back of the blade throws showers of sparks, easily. Remove the chain from the magnesium block, and take a 2 foot piece of stout cordage and hang the block, hacksaw blade w/sheath and a P-38 on it. And put around your neck. Now you have the means to make fire and one of the handiest tools ever designed by man close to hand all the time. You can maybe add a Becker neck knife to that.
Depends on the answers to
What time of year?
How are you getting to the bug-out location?
Then what?
A bug out bag is not a camping kit. Here are some real world items that need to be in the kit.
USB thumb-drive
with copies of medical records, shoot records, family photos, bank info, insurance info,phone and email contact lists, wills, deeds, …. ect
paper cash.
role or 2 of quarters. ever seen a vending machine that would not take a dollar
Instead of carrying water, which is heavy, carry an empty container and water purification tablets. Limit clothing to extra socks and mole skin for blisters and a waterproof jacket and pants. Basic gear should include a knife and fire starter: take a half a day every now and then and practice fire starting. Be good at it before you need it. Also practice traps and snare making, so you can catch protein. A small cantainer with fish line, sinkers and hooks is helpful. Know the edible plants for your area. Study before hand. Knowledge is a gift that will save your life. Thank you.
I think a small or medium size jar of peanut butter is a good food supply to carry,,,,,lots of protein, and the high fat content helps satisfy hunger.
I would like to say thanks for all these things you are doing to make a difference thanks very
much.
charles
your list is a good start- a couple of other things to think about in a evacuation if needed is:
MONEY & Banking items
Gasoline
Insurance polices (vital papers, titles, property docs, family photos, birth certs)
To often a bug out is not a world event but a local or regional event like wildfire, storm or earthquake. although your area is impacted you may end up outside the zone of devastation and still have to function in that environment as well. To rebuild your life after an event is the real mission if you survive.
First, I would like to say that when I purchased your “Power for Patriots” book and videos, I was not expecting all these survival tips. These have been a “bonus”.
Having said that, I was a helicopter mechanic/crewchief in the army for 15 years. During that time, I became an ALSE technician. That stands for Aviation Life Support Equipment. Much of the classes I took, aside from implementing and repairing survival equipment, was on survival. When I returned to my unit, I was expected to maintain, inspect and repair equipment to include night vision goggles, rafts, medical kits etc. I was also expected to provide survival instruction to the pilots and crewchiefs in my units as well.
Since I left the army back in 1992 and having received much instruction and experience in regards to survival, I have incorporated all that into my daily life. Where I live now, which is basically deep in mountainous jungles, we can go easily without water or electricity for days and for no apparent reason. We have thus learned how to survive with the utilities that many others absolutly depend on. We can survive for weeks on what we have on hand should the need arise.
My wife, having lived her life in one of the nicer areas of Oahu, was never privy to this lifestyle. To her, power, electricity and food were a given. Two things changed her mind. A small earthquake which occured in 2007 (?) and a shipping strike around the same time. The earthquake took down the power grid on Oahu for a few days. It was a mess. The shipping strike thru everyone into a frenzy and the stores were cleared of everyday items to include toilet paper.
If little things such as that could happen on Oahu, Hawaii, what would it be like if something major really happened?
We now live in Puerto Rico. My wife and son have learned to adapt. We live a life of ease and security.
Now, you may ask, what does this have to do with a Bug Out Bag.
Simple. Our Bug Out Bag is our home. We have nowhere to “bug out” to since we are already living where everyone will be bugging to. In essence, I am saying that a Bug Out Bag is good to have. But what one should do is keep an area stocked with everyday items in the house which can be used or even traded for other items. Even a few boxes in the closet or under the bed will come in handy. Don’t limit yourself to just a Bug Out Bag. You may have to hunker down for a few day’s (or weeks) before you can actually Bug Out. Use those items and leave the contents of the bags alone until you actually have to leave.
I would also like to recommend that everyone keep an eye on Amazons FREE book lists. I have over two dozen survival and bug out books on my device and they were all FREE. I even have a section on my Kindle App Library designated as “Self Reliance/Survival”. This section not only contains all my survival and bug out books, but also contains books on things such as raising chickens, carrying and concealing weapons, homesteading, making tents, knifemaking, personal protection, martial arts/self defense etc. All FREE
A good idea is to start downloading these texts into your Kindle reader or app now. When you need them, they go with you. This is all must-need information which you have easily in-hand. Much better than hauling around a few books with you. Basically, a survival library in the palm of your hand. Run into a unique situation? You already have a book in your reader that solves the problem.
To close, I would like to thank you for all the “Bonus” e-mails I have been receiving, it is very much appreciated.
All the best and may you experience continued success.
-Koa-
Koa, surviving in place is ALWAYS the better option if it is available.
I kind of got wise to to the ways in Nam ’67 carried a lot of water up those mtns got a flesh wound through the arm,left the water. 2 wks later I was relived on point (daylite)new man hits the wire ,I go home after 8 mos: 2 hearts and a retirement. I was lucky/ 66 and still remember survival training..The point is study, pratice and try to advoid those situations. boy Scout mottooo Be Prepared
what’s” basic gear” in your list consist of? and i think wire cutters might be needed if you have very far to go off road.
in your 1st aid kit you should include ibuprofen and other otc products for pain relief
Great info, two more items that could be a help;
A magnifying glass is a great fire starter and also very good for signaling, the obvious drawback is the sun needs to be out, that said its compact and can save other consumable resources. A small can opener (p-38) should you need to open supplies that could come available.
Water Purification – 2 drops bleach per qt.
Food – If you live near water, dehydrated (minute rice, raman, kraft mac/cheese mixed w/tuna,
molly butter, coffee creamer for milk sub.)
Shelter – 8 long/light bungie cords, spool of strong string (550 cord excellent), 8×10
Clothing – WOOL (or synthetic wool like hollafill) They hold 80% warmth when WET
First Aid – handi-wipes or hand sanitizer. SOAP
Basic Gear – Travel light, freeze at night. WOOL blankets or synthetic. Cotton is lousy survival
material. Gets wet, stays wet. “”””Magnesium bar fire starter (walmart $5)””” Fish hooks and
string, etc. etc. etc.
Weapons – BE PROFICIENT (changing magazines, miss-fire immediate corrective action, etc.)
File Folder – You can go to USGS.gov and print topical area maps of your choosing. Protractor
Do advanced walk of route. Primary, Secondary, and Alternate evacuation routes.
Small Tool Kit – Get hand tools used for gardening on your knees. STRONG (especially shovel)
Crank-Radio – Ditto. Smoke or flares is good to I.D. yourself to pilots for rescue. Portable CB.
Think two way communication.
Ammo for you weapons.
I have been reading books, looking at video’s and realized they were all made by males. The things every one seem to leave out are women’s necessity’s . Come on guys , ask a woman and you will find some necessary things.
Toilet paper, women’s hygiene products, some kind of lotion (yes,this is necessary unless ypu want to hear a bunch of bitchin’.) , comb/brush, and nail file. There are probably some other but this is a start.
This is great! I would add a llghter to build a fire. I’m not good at rubbing 2 sticks and a
small light weight set of camping kettles – I have such a set.
I would add a portable Water Purification devise as a necessary water resource!
Thanks for helping people be prepared. Your list coincides quite closely to what we have but I appreciate hearing it from an expert.
Iris
what do you thing have enough money by that stuff you recommended
i revert back to boyscout and other training. a small water purification devise and, or tablets are essential to any desaster. the addition of fire starters, matches, lighter as well are a must. thies sugested additions to your list are mentioned not knowing what gear is in #6 on your list. should one find themselves afield, a compus would add to #8 on your list. the suggestion of staying put until the dust settles – panic subsides is a wise suggestion so as not get caught up in the caious, then move with caution. this is a basic for personal security, espicaly, if you have family in your care. common sence is self defence. people tend to revert to primal behavior in time of stressful disaster situations. this a fact not to be ignored. humans are preditory animals. i hope that i have contributed to your awairness message. have a fantastic day.
Lots of good additional/helpful info being given. Also lots of mention of “Have stuff in my car already”, “Have everything in my trunk”. All well and good but, one of the most prominant threats that is talked about in which these things may be needed is an E.M.P. Your “Trunks” will not be going with you.
Forget hauling enough toilet paper for everyone. If you pull up a handful of grass, weeds, or anything with NO STICKERS, then double it over and give it a quick twist, you’ve got perfectly fine toilet paper that works great, and it’s biodegradable! Also, ladies, leaning back against anything solid (tree trunk, or ?) in a half-squat position, just like sitting down, is a very comfy alternative to a toilet seat. It’s a shame some of these “skills” have been lost!
I do recommend having some sanitary pads or small disposaable diapers on hand for heavy duty bandages, though, “just in case,” and I agree with blankets, thick and warm as possible, for all.
Our “hidey-hole” is a small cave in our north pasture, an easy run from the house, and absolutely undetectable from the surrounding prairie. Even a root cellar in a backyard in town would work. If you need more storage, pack metal garbage cans with stuff and bury them nearby. You only need to dig as deep as the lid to get it all out. Be sure to take something to do, especially for kids! Poker, anyone?
The toilet paper thing is all fine and dandy… Until you wiped your ass with Poison Ivy!
I would add some emergency blankets for each persons the are cheap can keep you warm and reduce your heat signature
good
How about you PETS, have a bag for them also.get a med. bag of dry food, cat/dog also a lot of dry TREATS They’re not so heavy to carry,plus extra water for them,make sure they have their IDS on ,you should never keep your cat or cats in a cage, it’s safer for them to be loose,they will servive.
The Bible.
frank i am saving your emails to print when i get a printer thanks alva
How about transportation, a bicycle, how about a small garden/ bike trailer,or wheelbarrel to transport all your survival supplies?
Store those and other essentials in the same quantities in at least 7 different place. Communicate only through Hamm radios. Establish the storing places in conspicuous places not where they will stand out to satellite or other surveillance methods. Don’t dress like a military, unless you need to pass for one. Appear to be very sick when approached by people and always fool authority into thinking you trust them and that you are with them. If police or military encountered are many and well organized, avoid them. If they are few and scattered ambush them. Feed of the enemy whenever you can so you don’t exhaust your own goods, the same goes for ammo and other weapons and equipment.
I think I’d carry water puritication tablets or a special portable filtration unit. Water may be available, but might not be safe to drink.
Oh, and don’t forget important documents–driver’s license, passport, Marriage license. Many of these things will be irretrievable in case of a national disaster.
Don’t forget cash money. It can come in handy.
If you read down through these comments, you’ll see a common thread. There are at least two ways to look at the purpose of a BOB. The initial need is short term, AKA the 72 hour bag. I had to keep one of these ready at all times during my time in the military. The secondary need is a longer term bag, something that will carry you through a longer period, whether that be a hurrivac, winter storm, or national calamity.
Your 72 hour bag needs to have just enough to get your through those first three days. This keeps it light enough that you don’t have to dump it in an emergency.
The longer period bag will have those longer term items that will keep you more comfortable and make things livable during a 1-2 week or longer period of austerity.
Many of the travel bags being sold these days have two major parts – a larger portion that is both a backpack and a roll-away and a smaller back pack that can zip off quickly for the immediate needs. These are an excellent choice that make you limit what you carry in each and really think about what is indeed necessary for each scenario.
Bottom line is the military folks have had to do this as a way of life. Listen to the advice and it will pay dividends. One last note: You can never carry enough water. Carry instead water filtration capability like a survival straw or a pump-style filter that can fill canteens.
Favorite stuffed animal and blanket. Sturdy child carrier
Thank you for your great suggestions and your products.
I do share these whenever possible
What about lights: flashlights, lanterns or is it only going to happen in daylight?
I would also add a 30-day supply of any medications you are currently using, especially prescription meds.
And then add some info on what natural plants you can find that will supplement your medical needs when your meds run out.
good article jim
In dry areas it isn’t so important, but in a wet climate a person should always have good tinder or pitch from trees to start a fire if needed. I would also include at least a light stainless cooking pot for boiling water and cooking. A basic sewing kit is good, which would include an awl with thread and maybe a sailors palm because in the rough a person might need to sew canvas or skins and repair shoes. You might have included these things in your basic gear section, but just wanted to add this in case you haden’t. Sue
Thank’s again to all for these insights.
Here is what I found after 23 years in the Army.. We kept our rucks loaded for 2 hour DRB in the 82nd Airborne Division. Essentially, it is a bug out bag that every Soldier carries. We have a poncho (can be used for makeshift shelter too), 550 cord (paracord), entrenching tool (folding shovel), gloves, wet and cold weather gear/clothing, 3 days of MREs, A camelbak water bladder system, baby wipes (get the antibacterial type..) can be used as toilet paper, is cleaner, and also keeps hands clean when eating.. cuts down on disease.. Bug repellant, first aid kit, alcohol purell type bottle, maps of area to be operating in, pens, pencils, paper.. Knife, extra magazines for weapon, gas mask with canister, helmet, knee and elbow pads (let me tell ya, those joints get banged up quick..), we carry our weapon and ammo in pouches on our person in case we have to ditch the ruck in an emergency.., small sleeping bag and everything is put inside a wet weather bag. (this can be a triple hefty trash bag too).. Don’t forget the civilian stuff like a fire starter kit, a small tarp, a hatchet or axe, a machete, a hand crank radio or one with solar too.. Hope that helps. Yes, it weighs a bit, but it is all there. Another thing to put in there is what we call a VS17 panel. google it. It is good for signalling aircraft of your location. You MUST be in shape. there is no time to get in shape when the crisis hits. You have to be able to bug out if you have to. Extra medication is handy also if you have medical issues. If you don’t have extra meds handy, tell your doctor you are going on a trip, and need extra medication for the period of travel. Then, come back later and tell them your bag was lost and you need your normal prescription. Sure, it is a white lie, but you are prepping for yourself and your family’s needs. Don’t skimp this. The drugs will be the first thing to be scavenged in a SHTF scenario. Hope this helps guys… Oh, get the small CB hand held radios too, I have them, and they work great. I also have some of those “cobra” personal radios that I use with my kids. Great range, and the training they are getting playing with them will come in handy later so you don’t have to teach them how to use it in an emergency.. Keep a bunch of extra batteries handy as well. Rotate your stock.
Hey sarge howzit going? Ahh life in the good ole FSB. Tell me do you remeber a young soldier called gonzo or spc gonzalez? Me and lagase met up on oahuwhile I was with the 25th iinfantry, and had some good times down memory.lane.
I learned this as a sailboat racer. Flare gun can be used to find you or for self defense and can be carried by anyone. C
what do you mean by basic gear? I have everthing except i think i need a small took kit.
A BOB is not about how you would survive in the wilderness long term, any bag that complete is TOO HEAVY to carry more than a very short distance making it USELESS. A BOB is to help you either GET to where your supplies are, or to a place of safety. And it must be adjusted towards the conditions you’re in, one for summer in Arizona is of little use in the winter in Maine.
The Items in your BOB need to be simple. Like your going to sleep in your car or a motel or someones couch… or get home. A basic change of clothes, basic food, way to start a fire, a decent knife, etc. But, if your planning long term survival out of a “BOB” then you need to focus of the SKILLS of using what you can obtain along your travel. A decent BOB is a BAG containing the ITEMS you use on a regular basis, with maybe a knife and a lighter added (PS, you may lose those in an emergency! They are not allowed at most shelters). Cash in your pocket and a AAA Card is FAR MORE LIKELY to be needed than Most other items in your bag.
A BOB needs to fit you and your LIFE!!! A book or a deck of cards could be of far more use than much of the “Survival” items… A BOB is to keep you for a FEW DAYS… This needs to be separated FROM BIGGER emergency kits that you can keep in a trunk of a car, or home.
If you carry, make sure you have the skills and training and a PHONE NUMBER OF YOUR LAWYER AND BAIL BONDSMAN… and I support being armed.
And most important, USE you BOB… and CARRY IT! See how FAR you REALLY can CARRY the bag on your on your back…. If you can’t walk 5 miles with the stuff in your bag, it is OVERLOADED and most likely in any kind of real emergency you WILL ABANDON the ENTIRE BAG.
PS. I have done this, I am not talking from a book. And as I have gotten older I have Paired down my “pack” to a Day Pack… as I no longer can physically do what I could at 25 in good health. Just remember to LAYER your survival plan… What you carry at all times is Layer 1, your BOB is layer 2, etc. Each Layer offers you more options. And sometimes a credit card/cash is better than all the other items you carry, LET’S hope so. as every level past that is harder and harder.
But, the MOST Important thing is your HEALTH, your SKILLS, and your PLAN. You can IMPROVISE most else in an emergency… if you know HOW.
If you take medicine, stock up on them. I wear boots, moccasins and sandals, (which are not advised). If you cannot get a prescription for antibotics, just go to the fish dept and stock up there. They are the same as OTC mds and prescription. If you have an oil lamp, get oil for it.
Pepper spray, and things fr self defence are also necessary. Carry extra sets of heavy pants and shirts and wool socks. It gets cold if you are not able to get to a shelter.
And toilet paper. Of that you cannot have too much. And pads to be used in case of an accident where you need something to soak up a lot of blood. This is more practical than just gauze.
My bob out kit is waiting for me, but it needs more thngs in it. I have a lightweight handgun with ammo, (I am old and short) Vinegar is an item that you need to carry for there are SO many uses for it, as well as a few MRI’s, for a few days. I don’t have enough water, which you cannot have too much, as you can only go three days without water. I have flashlights, candles, led lights, a crank radio, a sewing kit and first aid kit,. I would like to get a generator, but can’t afford one.
A Crowell is a great tool to have as it takes the place of so many other tools.
Go to the History Channell on Tuesday nights to watch Survival and you can get a good idea how to prepare. I have alcohol for bartering. I have silver and small bills and survval playing cards (with tips on each one).
Do al of your preparing before time to bug out. Get on the road in a minimum of ten minutes. When others realize what is going on, they will hit the road also. Pick out a remote place to go to.be safe, preferably near water, a creek or a well. I have a cousin who has a well out in the sticks and that is where I’m heading.
Bar soap, toilet paper and other sanitary supplies. Toilet paper becomes scarce really quickly, and can be used as a barter item.
The title should be “10 vital genres for your bug out bag”. This is a great starting point, but this is far from being helpful. The comments help a lot; people who need the list above actually need specifics. Perhaps a more extensive list with bullet points for each genre. The most notably vague “item” is “BASIC GEAR”… uh… what does that mean… ?
Excellent list, but I would like to add one item which cannot be packed in a bag. If you want to survive an emergency, you need to be physically fit. Regular exercise can help keep you ready to deal with emergency situations ranging from the immediate to the long term. Keep up the good work. One of the most important features of success in any situation is being ready and planning ahead.
Don’t have an actual B.O.B. but the trunk of my car contains sleeping bag,tent,tarp warm clothing,waterproof boots & raingear,water,water purifier,food parachute cord, 2 fishing outfits & small tackle box, a .30/30 rifle,a .357 Mag handgun,an air rifle,ammo,flashlights & batteries,firestarting items, & a whole lot of odds & ends. Probably get better gas mileage without all that stuff but it gives me peace of mind wherever I travel. Emergency cash tucked into a safe hidden place is also a very good idea. My old Chevy 4×4 van is filled with even more-its a rolling survival wagon!
It would be important to have matches, candles,alcohol, H2O2, concentrated preferably dry food.
I go to the mountains a lot so all of this comes natural to me. Common sense.
I head up the planning committee for my Township. Your list of 10 is a great start — however in our rural area, BOBs are unlikely to be needed. What is needed is prep for being self sustaining for fuel, water, money, and food — for at least a couple of weeks. It takes the pressure off from inadequate gov’t response agencies, increases the likelihood private help will get to you in time, assures survival beyond the emergency.
Sheltering in your own home, being ready to help elderly/frail neighbors, accommodating family is a necessity.
Avoiding being a refugee at all costs is great advice.
Our Town’s Emergency Preparations Plan encourages and informs residents — permanent and seasonal — on steps to take to take care of themselves. The responses by gov’t agencies to disasters caused by mother nature in the past few years are compelling folks to totally reassess what is needed to survive and for how long.
Keep up your great work.
Hey Frank—
My B.O.B. has some of the above, but I also included Solar Blankets [light], Energy bars, Coated Matches, Hatchet, Fishing Line & Hooks, Water Purifying Pills, Iodine, And a change of Wool Sox… If your feet get wet, you are in trouble…
Fact is, you don’t know HOW long it will take for help to arrive… I just heard from a Phillipino buddy that Communist China is swooping down and seizing Islands owned by the Phillipine Gov… Didn’t Hitler start off that way? thanks, Linda.
Dear Frank,
I am close to finishing a manual “Building a BOB for Greenhorns!” It is primarily directed at the 150,000+ urbanite’s who become lost or stranded each year when traveling or attempting to communing with nature on a whim, never once thinking for an instant Mother Nature can turn on them. Of course, it could be beneficial to anyone thinking seriously about emergency preparedness.
As professionals, we both know the basics supplies we all preach are much the same. Tools for addressing the five essentials; FIRE, SHELTER, WATER, SECURITY and FOOD whatever the scenario, whatever the risk level and however long the survival event may last.
If you would care to review my humble efforts I would be honored and glad to email you the copyrighted chapters to review and critique. I have as yet to find a publisher, but am working on it.
Respectfully,
Orrin M. Knutson
Peace Officer, Retired
HI, I REALLY THINK THIS IS A GREAT IDEA FOR MOST PEOPLE TODAY. I USED TO ALWAYS CARRIED ABOUT 6 OF THESE ITEMS ALWAYS IN MY CAR OR TRUCK. I DON”T REMEMBER ANYBODY ELSE DOING THIS , BUT IT CAME IN QUITE HANDY ON MY LONG TRIPS AROUND THE WHOLE COUNTRY. I CAN REALLY RECOMMEND FOR FOLKS TO PUT TOGETHER A DODGE BAG.. THANK YOU FOR YOUR GREAT ADVISE AND IDEAS..
Sleeping bags! But which sleeping bags are the best? Is this item part of the basic gear? I never thought of boots for myself, just regular walking or running shoes. I will be buying some boots. Thanks
Your item #6 is quite vague. Basic gear? I mean that could be anything on the planet really. I do like the rest of your list, especially #8…the file folder. Quite honestly, I would have never thought of something like that. I live in a densely populated area, so I would also include a map of what areas to avoid….ie: known gang activity and the such.
All in all, this is a great list and I’ve most of it already in place.
Thank you and best regards,
Jonny Andres
what ever happened to the discs I was promised in the patriot portion of your introductory offer??
water proof matches- water purification tablets
Most simplistic, childish attempt I have yet seen. Example: What the devil is “Basic Gear”?
ANY and EVERY bugout kit MUST begin with strudy, strong BOOTS, and Leather gloves (at least 2 pairs). Without the boots and gloves, during ANY emergency and/or disaster, you stand in extreme danger of further injury from broken glass, torn and exposed steel or other metals, as well as wood and other debris.
Without boots you are guaranteeing that you will NOT make it far, even with an all-inclusive kit on your back. This is especially true for our ladies, as they have a tendency to wear “cutsie” shoes that are impractical, non-supportive and just plain dagerous in a hazardous environment.
By the way – “72-hour kit” is a term any experienced prepper just hates….Hurricanes Katrina and Andrew forever laid to rest the ridiculous hypothesis behind the “72-hour” kits….they were designed and hypothecated in the early 60’s with the grossly mistaken notion that it would, on average, take a maximum of 72 hours for government services to be re-established after a disaster.
Count on a week, at the bare minimum.
One other parting shot: NEVER leave your home, unless it is totally uninhabitable, with FIRST having your destination secured. This means you know not only where you are going, but have multiple routes mapped out; means also that you must either OWN the property you are escaping to, and/or you have others (family, friends) expecting and waiting for you. Leave your home without these steps in place and you are by definition A REFUGEE! Refugees have zero control over their lives from that point onward….
Avoid becoming a refugee AT ALL COST.