Are you preparing for disasters for the first time? If you don’t know about emergency preparedness kits and bug out bags, don’t worry. This article will help you get familiar about bug out bags and the benefits of having them. It will also introduce you to the bug out bag types that you should consider.
What is a bug out bag?
A bug out bag (also written as bug-out bag) is a bag typically packed with survival supplies, such as food, water, wearable items, medications (including a first aid kit), and flashlights. Bug out bags are designed to keep you and your family get through at least 72 hours or until help arrives. This is why a bug out bag is also known as a 72-hour bag and by other names like get out of dodge bag (GOOD bag), “I’m never coming home again” (INCH) bag, evac bag, and battle box.
Why should you need a bug out bag?
Bug out bags provide you with all the necessary resources you need to survive for up to 72 hours if your access to food, water, toiletries, and electricity becomes limited or is cut off. It may be a circumstance that’s hard to imagine, but certain crises, disasters, and catastrophes can leave you without access to basic needs.
In the event of an emergency, you may find yourself unable to get to your nearest grocery store or pharmacy, turn the lights or heat on in your home, or go outside to get medical help. In these situations, you have to be able to stay afloat even in dire circumstances. This is how a bug out bag can help you when things go downhill.
What should you include in your bug out bag?
You should include the following essentials to your bug out bag checklist:
- Water and filtration
- Non-perishable and ready-to-eat food
- A first aid kit
- Sleeping bag
- Toiletries
- Cutting tools
- Important documents
- Clothing and other wearable items
- Firestarter tools
- Illumination (flashlights, glow sticks, etc.)
- Survival tools (pocket knives, duct tapes, multi-tools)
We know that you’re curious as to what kind of bug out bag you should bring.
If you’re looking for the best urban bug out bag, check out the following suggestions and see which of them will suit your needs and preferences:
Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack
The best overall tactical backpack
The Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack is rated the best overall by most product reviewers. In fact, this is Amazon’s current number one bestseller in tactical backpacks, and for many good reasons. It’s a perfect backpack for any use, whether it’s a short hike or a long outdoor trip. Of course, it’s the perfect bug out bag for emergencies.
The Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack can hold up to three days’ worth of supplies and necessities that you can bring everything with you.
The Molle system is one of the beauties of this bag. The Molle webbing means it offers the bag extra protection and space to bring other things you may need.
The Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack is stitched for heavy-duty use to withstand any elements no matter where you go. It is also hydration compatible, but it doesn’t come with a hydration bladder, so you might as well purchase one separately should you choose to buy this bag. As long as you properly fit the straps, the Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack can be comfortable enough to carry for long periods.
Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
The best budget bug out bag
The Condor 3 Day Assault Pack is also a recommended backpack for every adventurer or bug out bag for every survivalist. If you’re looking for a budget bug out bag, you might as well consider the brand. Condor is a trusted and respected name when it comes to survival and camping gear.
When you’re looking for a roomy bug out bag, this one can’t be beaten due to its ample load cargo capacity compartment – enough room to hold 72 hours’ worth of necessities and supplies. The bag’s main compartment has an ingenious design, as it has a double zipper that opens the whole compartment and lays the bag flat, which allows you to put in all of your gear with ease.
It has additional seven pockets for more storage of your necessities. The front compartment has six rows of Molle webbing that allow you to store many sorts of things. The Molle webbing also includes Velcro straps that you can use to attach identification or other tactical patches. The D-rings will enable you to clip on some gear (such as a flashlight) conveniently.
The Condor 3 Day Assault Pack is also hydration pack-friendly, while its individual rear foam pad optimizes airflow and comfort. And speaking of comfort, this backpack’s 3.5-inch-wide shoulder straps have thick padding, preventing the straps from pressing into your shoulders even if you have the bag loaded to the brim.
CVLIFE Tactical Backpack
The best “separate it all” bug out bag
The CVLIFE Tactical Backpack might be the one you need if you’re looking for a bug out bag with removable or detachable parts. It has two removable side pouches plus a detachable front bag to contain your accessories. Not to mention that this backpack is incredibly roomy that it can hold all your necessities for up to 72 days.
The only drawback of this backpack is its relatively thin shoulder straps. They should have been a little longer and more padded. But if the straps are not a concern, the CVLIFE Tactical Backpack might be an excellent option for you. You can take one or all of the three detachable pouches if you go off to do some short errands or some tasks without taking the entire backpack.