Bug-out bag - Just what is it?

Bug-out bag - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

"Bug-out bag From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

"A bug-out bag is a portable kit popular in the survivalist subculture that contains the items one would require to survive for seventy two hours when evacuating from a disaster. It is also known as a 72-hour kit. The focus is on evacuation, rather than long-term survival, distinguishing the bug-out bag from a survival kit, a boating or aviation emergency kit, or a fixed-site disaster supplies kit."

Typical contents

The suggested contents of a bug-out bag vary, but most of the following are usually included:

* Enough food and water to last for seventy two hours. This includes:

o 4 litres (1 gallon) of water per person per day, for washing, drinking and cooking.
o Non-perishable food.
o water purification supplies.
o Cooking supplies.
o Cutlery and cups/dishes.


* A first aid kit.

* Fire starting tool (i.e. matches, ferro rod, lighter, etc.)

* A disaster plan including location of emergency centers, rallying points, possible evacuation routes etc.

* Professional emergency literature explaining what to do in various types of disaster, studied and understood before the actual disaster but kept for reference.

* Maps and travel information.

* Standard camping equipment, including sanitation supplies.

* Weather appropriate clothing (poncho, headwear, gloves, etc.)

* Bedding items such as sleeping bags & blankets.

* Enough medicine to last an extended evacuation period.

* Pet, child and elderly care needs.

* Battery or crank operated Radio.

* Lighting (battery or crank operated flashlight, glow sticks).

* Firearm(s) and appropriate ammunition, depending on local laws.

* Crowbar (weapon, building and vehicle entry, etc.)

* Cash and change, as electronic banking transactions may not be available during the initial period following an emergency or evacuation.

* Fixed-blade or folding knife."

Thanks wikipedia!

I'd like to add:
A deck of cards, some reading material, and 5 high quality Grateful Dead bootlegs.

One of the first steps in preparedness is to anticipate the types of emergencies you will face. A Bug-Out bag is essential for comfort and survival over the short term in the event that you need to quickly evacuate your residence, regardless of the type and nature of the emergency. It would be advisable to supplement your Bug-Out bag for disasters in your general locale. For example, I live in Hurricane country. I would add bleach to kill mold and help with sanitation, a small chain saw and fuel for clearing roadway obstructions (maybe even tow chains if you have a truck), and large tarps for shelter from rains and maybe to temporarily repair roof holes. I would also consider doubling the water supply, as it is possible to be dealing with high heat in our area most of the year.

I think I would also include some barter items that may really help people out and be worth MORE than cash!

I'm interested in hearing your thoughts as to what to include and in what area.