Bug Out Bag Essentials

A bug out bag (BOB) is a pre packed bag containing everything you need to survive for 72 hours away from home. When evacuation orders come or emergencies force you to leave quickly, grabbing one bag means you have essentials without scrambling to pack.

The 72 hour timeframe covers the period until you reach safety or organized assistance becomes available. Your bag should be portable enough to carry if you must travel on foot, yet comprehensive enough to meet basic survival needs.

The Bag Itself

Choose a quality backpack with comfortable straps. It should be large enough for all essentials (40 to 65 liters typical) but not so large you overpack. Features to consider: multiple compartments for organization, water resistant material, padded hip belt for weight distribution, MOLLE webbing for attachments.

A worn in bag you have tested on walks beats an expensive tactical bag you have never carried. Comfort matters when you may carry it for miles.

Water

Water is the most critical item. You need approximately one gallon per person per day, but carrying three gallons is impractical. Balance carried water with purification capability.

Carry: 1 to 2 liters in durable bottle or hydration bladder.

Purification: Water filter (like Sawyer Squeeze), purification tablets, and/or UV purifier. Multiple methods provide redundancy.

Food

Pack calorie dense, lightweight food requiring minimal preparation. Aim for 2000+ calories per day.

Options: Energy bars, trail mix, peanut butter, jerky, freeze dried meals, instant oatmeal, hard candy. Avoid heavy canned goods unless vehicle evacuation is certain.

Utensils: Spork or lightweight utensil, small pot if you plan to cook.

Shelter and Warmth

Shelter: Emergency bivvy or space blanket (minimum), lightweight tarp, compact tent or hammock with tarp (weight permitting).

Sleep: Sleeping bag or emergency sleeping bag rated for expected temperatures.

Clothing: Weather appropriate layers, rain gear, extra socks, sturdy footwear, hat, gloves (season dependent).

Fire: Lighter, waterproof matches, and ferro rod. Multiple methods ensure you can start fire in various conditions.

First Aid and Hygiene

First aid: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, any personal medications (at least 3 days supply), medical tape, tweezers, trauma supplies if trained.

Hygiene: Toothbrush, small toothpaste, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, small towel, soap.

Prescriptions: Critical. Rotate medication supply to keep it fresh.

Tools and Gear

Knife: Fixed blade or quality folding knife.

Multi tool: Pliers, screwdriver, blade, and other tools in one package.

Light: Headlamp (hands free), small flashlight, extra batteries.

Cordage: Paracord (50+ feet) for shelter building, repairs, and countless uses.

Duct tape: Wrap some around a water bottle or pencil to save space.

Navigation and Communication

Maps: Paper maps of your region. Do not rely solely on phone GPS.

Compass: Basic orienteering compass. Know how to use it.

Phone: Charged phone with portable charger or power bank.

Radio: Emergency radio for weather and news. Two way radio if family has matching set.

Documents and Money

Documents: Copies of ID, insurance cards, emergency contacts, medical information in waterproof container.

Cash: At least $200 in small bills. Cards may not work during emergencies.

Personalization

Adjust your bag for your specific needs:

Climate: Cold weather requires more insulation. Hot weather requires more water capacity.

Medical: Include all necessary medications, medical devices, and supplies.

Family: Children and elderly need different supplies. Each capable person should have their own bag.

Pets: Separate bag with pet food, medications, leash, carrier, and records.

Quick Reference Checklist

• Quality backpack (tested for comfort)
• Water bottles and purification method
• 72 hours of food
• Emergency shelter (tarp, bivvy)
• Sleep system appropriate for season
• Extra clothing and rain gear
• Fire starting (multiple methods)
• First aid kit and medications
• Knife and multi tool
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Maps and compass
• Phone and charger
• Emergency radio
• Documents (copies, waterproof)
• Cash in small bills
• Hygiene basics
• Cordage (paracord)