Building a User-Friendly Bug-Out Bag

By Jan Tolman

February 28, 2015

Is preparing a 72-hour kit a woman’s job, or a man’s? It seems that most websites, on survival, are offered by men, but mostly I see women actually putting them together. Hmmm, just an interesting observation.

Everyone and their uncle, grandmother, boss, and cousin will have an opinion on what to put in a 72-hour kit, aka: bug-out bag. Listen to them if you want to, but you only need two items:

Knowledge + Practice

Only you can decide what you, and your family, really need in a critical situation, but you’ll never know unless you put yourself in mock conditions to see real results.

I am no expert, but having perused several others with that claim, I am inspired to test their knowledge and practice on my own. This list is mostly for me to remember, so I can feel ready, prepared, and mobile.

Bag—Buy a bag first that has lots of pockets and isn’t too big or too small. Line it with plastic. Do not overfill, just eliminate items. You should worry about packing for 3-days only.
Water—Pack your bag with empty containers, but store the water next to the bag. This way you’ll always be able to take fresh water with you. Water is heavy, but very necessary. Pack a filter.
Food—You aren’t going to be making any gourmet meals. Don’t cook at all if you can help it. Protein bars and MREs can be easily eaten. If you must warm water, make sure you have a stove, sterno, cup, and spoon that you are accustomed to using.
Clothing—You don’t want to be cold and wet and risk hypothermia (which is a simple case of the shivers, but can increase to death too easily). Every six months change packed items with the seasons. You may also consider adding a Tyvek suit to your bag. Consider a Shemagh.
Shelter—Plastic sheeting for a tent and sleeping bag is enough to give you shelter.
Heat and Lighting—Always carry 3 different types of fire starters: Ignition source, lighter, and waterproof. Maglites are less weight. Headlamps free your hands. Pack extra batteries. Emergency blankets and hand warmers are essential.
Communication—Flashlight and radio combos are great. A whistle and mirror will help if you ever need rescuing. You can’t rely on your cell phones, but here’s one idea. Walkie Talkies may also help for a while.

The following are important items that you will need to figure out your own preference for your greatest use. Everyone’s needs are different. Families come in all shapes and sizes and needs. Be realistic, but don’t be ridiculous.

First Aid kit
Hygiene kit and for baby
Tools
Cash
Comfort items—small toys, notepad, candy, etc.
Self-defense
Important papers—Your ID may be your most important paper. Phone numbers, contacts outside of state. Really, what else will truly be important in an emergency free for all?

Important things to consider:

Weight—Minimize wherever possible. Most items should have multiple uses. Practice hiking with your backpack, so you know you can manage the weight.

Regularly keep your gas tank at least ½ full.

Have a small bug-out bag for your car as well as a larger one to carry on foot. If you can take your car you’ll appreciate the little extra security.

Constantly check your bag. Practice with it in all kinds of weather. Repack when you discover a new, and better, product. This is not an item to pack, store, and forget about. Reevaluate, repack, modify, adjust, etc.

Another thought is that some items are daily use items and can’t really be sitting in a bug-out bag. Having a master list, and knowing exactly where to find those items, will allow you to still grab-and-go in a hurry. Your list may include items such as clothing, important papers, favorite toys and comfort items, medication, etc. A list will give you that added security of making sure you remember absolutely everything when your anxiety is rising.

Here are additional helpful websites. Everyone has their own take on the best that works for them. You must find your own way that works for you, but hearing of others’ experiences will help formulate your own opinion.