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Home » Bug Out Bag Supplies – Basic Supplies for Your Emergency Kit

Bug Out Bag Supplies – Basic Supplies for Your Emergency Kit

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In uncertain times, being prepared can make all the difference. A bug out bag is a portable kit designed to sustain you during emergencies or disasters. Whether you’re facing a natural calamity or a sudden evacuation, having a well-prepared bug out bag is essential for your survival. In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of assembling a bug out bag, focusing on the crucial supplies you need to include.

Bug Out Bag – What To Look For

A good bug out bag (BOB) is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some qualities you should look for when assembling or purchasing one:

  1. Durability: Choose a bag made from sturdy, water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. It should be able to withstand rough handling and various weather conditions.
  2. Size: Opt for a bag that is large enough to carry essential supplies but not too bulky or heavy to carry comfortably over long distances. Consider factors like your physical strength and the needs of your group.
  3. Comfort: Look for a bag with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt to distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your body during extended periods of carrying.
  4. Organization: Choose a bag with multiple compartments and pockets to help you organize your gear efficiently. This makes it easier to access items when needed and prevents them from getting lost or damaged.
  5. Versatility: Select a bag that can accommodate a variety of items, including food, water, clothing, shelter, first aid supplies, and tools. It should also have attachment points or MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing for adding extra gear.
  6. Water Resistance: Your bug out bag should be water-resistant or come with a rain cover to protect your supplies from moisture in case of rain or water crossings.
  7. Weight: Keep the weight of the bag in mind, especially if you anticipate having to travel long distances on foot. Pack only essential items and prioritize lightweight options where possible.
  8. Visibility: Choose a bag in a color that is highly visible, such as bright orange or yellow, to make it easier for rescuers to spot you in an emergency situation. (This depends on personal preference, you can get a high visibility vest to pack as well.)
  9. Quality of zippers and closures: Ensure that zippers, buckles, and other closures are robust and reliable to prevent accidental openings and secure your gear.
  10. Customization: Consider a bag that allows for customization or personalization to meet your specific needs and preferences.
  11. Reflective elements: Look for a bag with reflective elements or attachment points for adding reflective tape to increase visibility during low-light conditions.
  12. Affordability: While quality is important, try to find a bug out bag that fits your budget without sacrificing essential features and durability.

By considering these qualities, you can ensure that your bug out bag is well-equipped to support you in emergency situations and provide peace of mind during uncertain times.

Here are a few affordable options to check out, every one of these back packs have very high reviews. Of course these are suggestions feel free to research more options!

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Heres an awesome in-depth video to give you more info on what you should pack in your bug out bag!

1. Water

Water is perhaps the most critical resource for survival. Your bug out bag should contain an ample supply of water to sustain you until you can find a safe water source. Remember saving space is key so your pack is still easy to carry! Here are the essential water supplies to include with links to some very affordable suggestions:

Water bottles or a hydration bladder (at least one gallon per person per day).

Water purification tablets or a filtration system.

Collapsible water container for collecting and storing water.

2. Food

Food provides energy and sustenance during emergencies. Pack lightweight, non-perishable items that are easy to prepare and high in calories. Here are some options for essential food supplies for your bug out bag:

Energy bars

Meals Ready To Eat (MRE)

Nuts and trail mix

3. Shelter

Protection from the elements is crucial for survival. Your bug out bag should include items to keep you warm and dry. Here are essential shelter supplies to consider:

Emergency tent or tarp

Sleeping bag or emergency blanket

Having a shelter ensures you can rest safely, regardless of the conditions you face.

4. Clothing

Extra clothing can provide warmth and protection in various weather conditions. Include weather-appropriate clothing items in your bug out bag, such as:

  • Change of underwear and socks
  • Long-sleeve shirt and pants
  • Jacket or fleece
  • Rain Poncho

Staying dry and comfortable can significantly impact your ability to navigate through challenging situations.

5. First Aid Kit

A well-equipped first aid kit is essential for treating injuries and addressing medical emergencies. Here are the key items to include in your bug out bag’s first aid kit:

  • Bandages, gauze, and adhesive tape
  • Antibacterial ointment
  • Pain relievers
  • Tweezers and scissors

Having a comprehensive first aid kit can provide peace of mind and potentially save lives during emergencies. Heres a first aid kit that is very affordable, compact and covers all the bases that you need:

First Aid Only 442 All-Purpose Emergency First Aid Kit

6. Tools

Tools can help you accomplish tasks and solve problems efficiently. Here are some essential tools to consider adding to your bug out bag:

  • Multi-tool
  • Knife
  • Paracord

These versatile tools can assist you in various situations, from repairs to improvising solutions. Heres a kit that has everything you could need and more:

Bug Out Bag Tool Kit

7. Communication

Staying connected with the outside world is crucial during emergencies. Include communication tools in your bug out bag to signal for help or receive important updates. Essential communication supplies include:

Whistle

Signal mirror

Emergency radio or hand-crank radio

These tools can help you alert others to your presence and stay informed about developments in your area.

8. Lighting

Visibility is essential, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Ensure your bug out bag includes reliable lighting sources, such as:

Flashlight or Headlamp

Extra Batteries

Here’s a value pack

Glow Sticks

Having adequate lighting can help you navigate safely and perform tasks efficiently during emergencies.

9. Fire Starter

Fire provides warmth, light, and a means to cook food. Include fire-starting supplies in your bug out bag to ensure you can start a fire when needed. Essential fire supplies include:

Waterproof Matches or a Lighter

Fire Starter

Cotton balls Soaked in Petroleum jelly

  • To make fire starter cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly, simply take cotton balls and thoroughly coat them with petroleum jelly. You can do this by placing the cotton balls in a container or plastic bag and adding petroleum jelly. Then, knead the cotton balls until they are fully saturated. Once coated, store the fire starters in a waterproof container or ziplock bag until ready for use in starting fires in survival situations.


Building a fire is crucial in a survival scenario because it provides warmth, which is essential for maintaining body temperature and preventing hypothermia, especially in harsh environments. Additionally, fire purifies water, making it safe to drink, and can be a signal for rescue, increasing the chances of being found in remote areas. Fire also provides a source of light, aiding in navigation, cooking food, and boosting morale, all vital aspects of surviving in challenging situations.

10. Navigation

Knowing where you’re going and how to get there is essential for survival. Include navigation tools in your bug out bag to help you find your way in unfamiliar terrain. Essential navigation supplies include:

Map of the area

  • You can obtain a map of your area from various sources such as local government offices, tourist information centers, online mapping websites like Google Maps or OpenStreetMap, or specialized map stores.

Compass

GPS device

These tools can help you navigate safely and efficiently, even in challenging environments.

Conclusion

A well-prepared bug out bag can be a lifesaver during emergencies or disasters. By including the essential supplies outlined in this guide, you can ensure you’re ready to face whatever challenges come your way. Remember to regularly check and update your bug out bag supplies to maintain readiness for any situation. Stay safe, stay prepared, and always be ready to bug out when necessary.