If you’re serious about prepping, you’ll want a bugout bag that meets your specific needs. But choosing the best one can be difficult, especially for those new to the prep game.
This tactical bag has a military look and plenty of room for everything you need to survive a disaster or SHTF scenario. It even has a sleeping bag pocket to provide warmth and shelter.
Backpack
Owning a backpack is an essential step when preparing to bug out. It allows you to carry more gear and supplies without the weight becoming too much of a burden. It is important to choose the best backpack for your situation and environment, and to test it regularly for fit and function. A good way to do this is by stuffing it with blankets and pillows, then multiplying the outside dimensions for a rough idea of cubic inches. Make sure to buy a high-quality pack so it lasts and can stand up to the elements, including excessive humidity and heat.
Depending on your environment and situation, you may need to consider getting an EDC bag (Everyday Carry) or GHB (Get Home Bag). These are smaller kits that help you stay alive and well if disaster forces you from your home in the short term.
One of the benefits of building your own bug out bag is that you can inspect the pack in person and decide if you want a tactical backpack or something plain and less conspicuous. You can also try it on for comfort. One of the disadvantages of buying a pre-made kit is that you will not be able to try it on for size or quality until it arrives in the mail. Also, these kits can be expensive, and you can still end up with a bug out bag that is too big for your needs or a pack that contains unnecessary gear.
Daypack
While any bag that will hold your bug out gear will do in a pinch, owning a backpack designed for the job will make it much easier to carry the weight of your gear over long distances and rough terrain. The key is to choose one that fits your body well and is comfortable to wear, as you will likely be carrying it for a long time.
A good choice is a tactical MOLLE backpack, like this one from SOG. The sleek design is inconspicuous and the backpack is sturdy enough to handle most bug out situations. However, if you’re in an area of civil unrest and have to evacuate from your home, wearing a tricked-out tactical backpack that shouts “prepper” may not be the best idea.
Your bug out bag should be able to comfortably last you 72 hours, as that is the average amount of time it takes for emergency responders to arrive on scene after most disasters. It should contain your most critical items, including clothing, water, food, shelter, and first aid supplies.
Most premade bug out bags will have all of these items, but if you want to personalize the bag further, they have plenty of room for you to add your own items. Just remember to keep it focused on the four priority items for survival: water, shelter, heat, and food.
Shoulder Bag
The standard container for a bugout bag is a backpack. This makes sense for a number of reasons. Backpacks are easy to carry when walking (which is a good thing in a disaster situation) and they leave your hands free for other purposes. And they are durable enough to withstand the kind of use and abuse that might be thrown at them.
The best backpacks for bugout bags feature a variety of pockets and cavities to fit gear like shelf-safe foods, water, advanced first aid kits, shelter equipment and navigation devices. They also have padded pockets for a hydration bladder and laptop. Many have built-in rain covers and some even come with a waterproof case for additional protection from moisture.
It’s important to keep in mind that where to buy bugout bags, like evacuating at a moment’s notice from a natural disaster. It is not a replacement for a home emergency preparedness kit or an INCH bag.
If you want to be more prepared for longer term survival scenarios, consider investing in some basic supplies and developing a family emergency plan. If you’re a prepper who’s just getting started, consider buying a premade bugout bag that’s already packed with the basics and designed to help you get ready quickly. You can find these bags at companies such as Emergency Zone.
Duffel Bag
If you want a bag that can hold a lot of gear, is durable and comfortable to carry, and can be used for any type of adventure, then a duffel bag is a great option. These bags come in a variety of sizes and are ideal for camping, traveling, or storing emergency gear.
A bugout bag, also known as a go bag or a grab bag is meant to be deployed at a moment’s notice in the event of a natural disaster. It provides you with the basic tools to survive until help arrives. This kit should focus on environmental protection, water storage and purification, food supplies, sleeping equipment and first aid.
Most premade bug out bags include enough supplies for three days; however, if you feel like you need to add more items, then it’s easy to customize your pack. Many premade bug out bags also include room for kids so you can pack their preferred snacks or toys.
While it’s not always possible to prepare for every emergency situation, a bugout bag will give you peace of mind knowing that you have the resources to get out of harm’s way quickly and safely. This is particularly important in areas prone to earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes. Whether you build your own or buy a premade bug out bag, this is one purchase you will never regret making.
