What is a Bug out Bag and Do You Need One?

In today’s world, being prepared for emergencies is not just smart—it’s essential. Whether you call it an emergency kit, grab bag, or bug out bag, you'll want to have a bug out bag for when disaster strikes.

We'll show you what a bug out bag is, what you should include in it, and how having such a bag can provide peace of mind in an emergency situation. Realistically, you can probably only carry one bag during emergency situations, so make sure it's as efficiently packed as possible.

Article at a glance:

A good bug out bag contains:

1. Tent and Sleeping Bags
2. Water and Food
3. Compass and Map
4. Two-way Radio
5. First Aid Kit

Table of Contents

• What are Bug out Bags?
• What to Include in Your Bug out Bag
• Why Do You Need a Bug out Bag?
• How to Pack Your Bug out Bag
• Conclusion

What are Bug out Bags?

A bug out bag, sometimes referred to as a survival bag, go bag, or a get home bag, is a portable kit that contains all the survival gear you and your family need to, well, survive for at least three days during an emergency.

Whether it's a natural disaster, civil unrest, or any other emergency situation that requires quick evacuation, a well-prepared bug out bag ensures you're ready to grab and go at a moment's notice.

Specific Items and Essentials to Include in Your Bug out Bag

Shelter and Sleeping Bags

• Kodiak Canvas -Swag One Person Canvas Tent: Compact, durable, and easy to set up, this tent provides reliable shelter. If you have enough space for a sleeping bag, it'll be the perfect emergency shelter.
• Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad:A proper sleeping bag is essential for staying warm and comfortable, especially on harsh surfaces like concrete.

Water and Food

• Bottled Water or a Travel Berkey: A portable water purification system that ensures you have enough water wherever you go, no electricity needed! It can also fit in backpack-sized survival bags.
• Trail Mix or Freeze Dried Food Packs

Navigation and Communication

• Compass and Map: Invaluable for navigating if electronic devices fail.
• Two-way Radio (GMRS or FRS): During emergencies, two-way radios will serve you far better than a cell phone, especially for reaching first responders.
• Range: General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) for long-range communication, Family Radio Service (FRS) for short-range.
• Licensing: FRS is more accessible; GMRS requires a license.
• Complexity: GMRS has more features; FRS is user-friendly.
• Budget: GMRS is pricier; FRS is more affordable.
• Ham Radio: Provides wider-range communication capabilities compared to a GMRS radio and can transmit at higher power levels, making it useful for connecting with emergency services and other radio operators.

    Fire and Light

• Flint and Steel: Reliable fire-starting tools that work in all weather conditions.

• Backup Batteries: Ensure your radios stay charged and have extra batteries, just in case.

First Aid Kits and Hygiene

• First Aid Kit:A comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, and necessary medications. Having a card with your medical information, such as blood type, can be useful in a first aid kit too.

• Toiletries and Personal Hygiene Items:Include items like toothpaste, soap, and sanitary products.

Survival Tools

• Multi-tool with Knife: Versatile tool for various survival tasks.

• Hunting Knife: For preparing food and self-defense.

• Fishing Line: If you live near water and can fit one in your survival kit, this can be useful for catching food in a survival situation.

• Bear Spray/Pepper Spray: For personal protection.

Signaling and Safety

• Whistle or Signal Mirror:To call for help if needed.

Miscellaneous Essentials

• Important Documents:Copies of identification, insurance papers, and emergency contacts.

• Extra Clothing: Layers for varying weather conditions.

• Emergency Blanket: Lightweight and heat-retaining. In a pinch, large emergency blankets can also be makeshift sleeping bags.

• Energy Bars: Quick, high-energy food. Food bars like granola bars are nutritious, have a long shelf life, and are easily packed.

• Water Purification Tablets: Ensure any water you find is safe to drink.

Why Do You Need a Bug out Bag?

Being prepared for an emergency situation is not just about survival; it's about peace of mind. Here are a few reasons why you should have a bug out bag ready:

1. Preparedness for Natural Disasters: Events like earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes can strike without warning. A bug out bag ensures you have the survival supplies needed to protect yourself and your family.

2. Quick Evacuation: In cases where you need to leave your home rapidly, having a bag packed with essentials means you won’t waste precious time gathering items.

3. Self-sufficiency: In an emergency, you might not have immediate access to stores or help. A well-stocked survival kit provides the basics to survive until help arrives.

4. Reduced Anxiety: Knowing you have a plan and the necessary tools can greatly reduce the stress associated with potential emergencies.

How to Pack Your Bug out Bag

When preparing your bug out bag, consider the following tips:

Weight and Size:

Emergency kits should be manageable and not filled with heavier items. Pack only three days worth of stuff in your bug out bag so weight doesn't become a problem.

Accessibility:

Items inside your survival kits should be easy to access. Keep frequently used items like a first aid kit and flashlight on top, while other tiems like your tent can be placed at the bottom.

Checklist:

Create a bag checklist to ensure you include all necessary items. Periodically review and update your bag list every few months.

To Sum it Up

A bug out bag is an essential part of any emergency preparedness plan. By packing the right survival supplies and tools, you ensure that you and your family can survive and stay safe in an emergency situation. Whether you’re facing natural disasters or other crises, having a go bag ready to grab and go provides invaluable peace of mind. Plan ahead, be prepared, and protect what matters most.

Remember, it’s better to have a bug out bag and not need it than to need it and not have it. Start building your survival kit today and take the first step toward greater preparedness and security.

Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!