If you’re new to survivalist training, you might not know what a bug out bag is. This is just gear that you can grab quickly and go on your way in the event of a disaster. You can put your gear into a backpack or other sturdy nylon bag, however it is a good idea to have your bug out bag already packed and you can just grab it and go.
Food
You’ll need food that’s lightweight. Something like freeze-dried foods or MREs. Make sure you pack enough that can last everyone with you for at least three days.
Water
Water is a must-have.
You’ll also need three days worth of water for everyone. But you’ll want to take along something to collect water in for the days ahead. Pack water purifying tablets. Bleach can do in a pinch, but is harder to pack.
Cooking Set
Aside from food and water, you need a way to cook the food and boil the water. To cook the food, you’ll need a basic cooking set, which would be lightweight pots that can be used over campfires or on a portable camp stove.
Clothes
You’ll want to pack clothes for two days. The clothes that you’re wearing when you bug out will count as your third set. Make sure you pack long pants, long sleeved shirts and other clothing that will keep you warm.
You’ll want to do this even if it’s summer. Long pants and long sleeved shirts will protect your skin from pests and will keep you warm if the temperatures dip at night. You’ll also want to pack extra socks and underwear. Take sturdy hiking boots along, too.
Rain gear like a poncho can be used as shelter in a pinch. Bring a hat along to keep the rain and the sun off your head. Take sunglasses to protect your eyes in case you’re out in the sun for long periods. A bandana should be packed because it can have a multitude of uses.
You can find excellent outdoor clothes here.
Shelter
Shelter materials should also go in your backpack. Take a tent or a tarp along with cording in the event you need to tie something to trees. Carry a sleeping back or a sleeping pad along to protect you from having to sleep directly on the ground. Make sure there are enough emergency blankets for everyone.
Gear
The following gear should also go into your bug out bag:
- First aid kit – for those emergency repairs
- Fire starters – matches run out (and they work when wet)
- Solar Powered Flashlight – batteries run out
- Fishing Gear – easiest way to get some protein in you
- Knife – useful for pretty much anything
- Multitool – you do not want to carry a whole toolbox, this is the next best thing
- Emergency Radio – to keep you in touch with what is going on, to call for help, et
- Solar Power Charger – to charge any electronic devices, like cell phones
- Small Axe – chop wood for fire and shelter, make a clearing, etc
- Folding Shovel – an essential contruction tool, but make sure it is light!
- Duct Tape/Superglue – pretty much the most essential survival gear out there, useful for anything and everything
Finally, make sure that you bring a weapon such as a gun, crossbow or compound bow in order to protect yourself and your family. You do NOT want to rely on your knife in a combat situation!