A bugout bag can mean the difference between life and death. Most people who are interested in survival realize that the right tools and supplies are the only things that stand between them and the safety and well-being of their family.
What is a Bugout Bag?
A bugout bag is simply an easy to grab bag that is filled with the essential items you will need for survival. Whether you plan to shelter in place or bugout to a different location, being prepared with a bugout bag means you’ll be ready for a quick move if the need arises. Of course, it’s always a good idea to carry a bugout bag in your vehicle or keep one at your workplace, so if something happens and you aren’t able to get back to your home or bugout location, you’ve got emergency supplies ready to go.
A bugout bag can mean different things to different people. It’s important to consider the types of disasters you are preparing for as well as your own unique circumstances. What someone in the Rocky Mountains might need for survival can be vastly different from what a person in the arid southwest might need. However, one thing is certain, everyone should have a bugout bag.
Should You Buy a Bugout Bag?
There are many suppliers that offer pre-assembled bugout bags. While purchasing one of these bags is definitely far better than putting off building your own, it is important to realize that they typically won’t be exactly what you need.
The idea of having a bugout bag is to make sure that you have the items you need in order to survive during a crisis. A pre-assembled bugout bag will certainly give you some important basics and can be used as a starting point for your own personalized bag, but for most people, it probably shouldn’t be used on an “as is” basis.
Preassembled bugout bags are put together with a “one-size-fits-all” mentality. Ideally, you’ll have a bugout bag that is customized precisely to meet your specific needs.
Customizing a Bugout Bag
When you build your own bugout bag, you can customize it to fit your own personal needs. Start with the actual bag you will use to carry your supplies. Some of the bags used in pre-assembled bugout bags are so flimsy they wouldn’t make it through a weekend camping trip with the kids. You need something that will be able to withstand the elements. It should be lightweight, yet durable. Preferably water-resistant and of course, easy to carry. Many people choose a canvas type knapsack because it is extremely durable and can standup to all types of weather and rugged camping conditions.
The next thing you’ll want to consider are the supplies you’ll need to carry in an emergency. There are some things, such as food, water and basic survival gear that will always be necessary; however, there are also a number of specialized items that should be customized to your survival skill level, climate and personal needs.
We have several lists that can help you get started building your bugout bag. These lists provide important suggestions regarding essential items that should be included in your bag.
Check out our section on bugout bag essentials and get started compiling the emergency supplies you’ll need to keep you and your family safe.
Do I Need a Bugout Bag?
Many people choose not to put together a bugout bag because they plan on using the items they already have stored at home. Of course, using your home emergency survival items is an excellent plan if you will be sheltering in place, but you never know when you’ll need to bugout. If a hurricane or other natural disaster forced you to evacuate your home, would you be ready to leave immediately? What if you are out on the road; do you have provisions with you in your vehicle? Whether you’re at home, work or on the road, having a bugout bag ensures you have what you need to survive.
Every member of your family should have a personalized bugout bag with the things they need ready to go at a moment’s notice. Even little kids can carry a small backpack with some water, food and basic survival gear.
