Basic Bug Out Bag Supplies

By Claudine Hodges


People have become much more aware of the need to be prepared for any type of natural or manmade disaster. Most, have food staples, water, and first aide items stored and ready for when needed. But the reality may be that you cannot stay home and weather it out. You may have to run. If that is the case where you are, then having basic bug out bag supplies ready to go, can mean your evacuation will be successful.

Clean drinking water is the most important thing you must have access to. The minimum amount necessary for survival is one liter per day per person. You can carry three liters, but if you plan on living longer than that, you need a purification system to carry. That can be accomplished with iodine tablets or a small kettle or pot for boiling water.

Along with water, we all need nutrition. Protein bars are excellent because they are small, light, and nutritious. Also, freeze dried meals or military Meals Ready to Eat, (MRE)will fit in your bag and keep you going. You can eat the MRE cold in case you do not want to build a fire or boil water. Try to also include nuts and some hard candy.

The clothing you take should be weather and locale appropriate. Have a pair of long pants, preferably not jeans, two shirts for layering, and a jacket that will keep you warm and dry. You also need a hat, two pairs of socks, long underwear that is warm, and a bandana. Do not skimp on your footwear and have a pair of good sturdy boots or shoes.

There are many lightweight tents that will fit in your kit as does a tarp. In addition, you need good ground cover to keep you dry so take either a sleeping pad or a ground tarp. A good sleeping bag or bedroll is also essential.

Plus, do not forget your first aid kit. You can purchase one that has already been put together but it is better to build your own. By doing it yourself, you know intimately what is in it and how to use it. Fill it with basics, then add items specific to your needs. You should have any prescription medications, allergy and diarrhea medicines, sun block, and instant cold/ice packs, in case of sprained ankles or wrists.

You might be thinking that is all you need, but no, there are more items that are also vital to survival. Such as a hatchet for cutting firewood, a knife for all kinds of uses, a small pot or large cup for boiling water to drink or heat food. You also need matches, a lighter, and know how to start a fire without either.

Most times, you can hunker down and ride out the disaster while staying in your home, or shelter you may have prepared. But there are also instances when it will be wisest to simply run for safety in the woods or in the mountains. Have a three day supply of basics ready and waiting at all times, for you to grab on the way out the door.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment