What is a Bug Out Bag?

If you’re new to the survivalist mindset, the term “bug out bag” might seem strange to you.

The term simply refers to a bag that can be used to survive for 72-hours. Bug out bags are useful in the event of natural disasters, or any situation where you need to suddenly evacuate your home.

Many of the contents of the bag will depend on your specific circumstances– if you’re prepping for a natural disaster or other situation.

Some contents, however, are universal. Read on for a few recommendations on must-have items for any bug out bag.

1)) Water

The US government recommends one gallon per person per day. Since the bug out bag is designed to last 72 hours, you need to plan for three gallons of water per person.

Extra water may be needed for cooking or cleaning, so four gallons may not be a bad idea.

2)) Food

Make sure you’ve got enough food to last you for three days. Dehydrated meals are easy to make, and even easier to prepare.

Use a freeze dryer to seal your food into airtight compartments. When the time comes to eat them, cut a slit across the top of the compartment and add boiling water.

Stir and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

Pre-packaged dehydrated meals are prepared the same way.

These meals take up very little space, and are preferable to canned goods and other types of food in your bug out bag.

So long as they are prepared without oil or fats, meals can be stored for several months or longer.

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3)) First Aid Kit

A good first aid kit is an essential part of any bug out bag.

Your first aid kind should include band-aids, antiseptic ointment or gel, gauze and tape, and anything else you think you may need in the event of an emergency.

You should also include any medications that any member of your party takes.

4)) Water Filter

If your emergency lasts longer than 72-hours, a water filter will help ensure continued access to clean water for your party.

Save the gallon jugs of water that you already had with you and refill them using a pump water filter.

An inverted bag filter also works very well.

Related Article: What To Put In A Survival Kit

5)) Tarp

A tarp is useful for creating shelter for yourself in the woods. A tent would work as well, but tarps are a lightweight and versatile alternative.

6)) Knife

Any survivalist knows you always need a knife. Useful for splitting wood, preparing food, cutting rope, and doing any other number of tasks, make sure you’ve got a good knife.

Bonus points if you have a sharpener.

7)) Fire Starter

Hopefully, you aren’t stranded in the woods, but if you are, a fire starter will come in handy.

You will still need to gather dry wood and kindling, but a fire starter will help make the process of igniting a fire significantly easier.

8)) Compass

If you’re on the move, a compass is essential. We many times take for granted the easy access we have to maps and GPS with our phones.

In a true survival situation, we may not have access to those things.

A good compass (preferably with a detailed map of the area) will have you navigating with ease.

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Conclusion

Building a bug out bag is something everyone should do. No matter where you live, disaster could strike at any moment. Be prepared with a well-equipped bug out bag.