Bug-out bags are premade kits filled with everything that is necessary to survive for at least 72 hours.
"Bug out" is a term derived from the Korean War that was passed down among military and law enforcement personnel.
It was created with the idea that everyone should have a survival bag they can grab if they need to evacuate somewhere quickly.
Though these bags are made with the hope that they will never have to be used, having one ready in the event of a flood, fire, or other natural disaster could be lifesaving.
While they seem like a great idea to have tucked away just in case, it can be confusing to narrow down exactly what you need — or don't need — to survive for at least three days.
But thankfully, one informative Imgur user made a guide, breaking down everything that should be in your homemade bug-out bag.
Check below to learn about all the elements you need should your sudden survival bag become necessary — it definitely made me feel more prepared!
[H/T: Imgur]
Thumbnail Photo: Survival Mastery
Survival Item #1: Water
The Imgur user explained that we need at least three liters of water per day to stay properly hydrated, and even more if we would like to use it for hygiene.
While a collapsible container is great for relieving bulk once the water is gone, metal containers are also helpful because they can be used to cook.
Survival Item #2: Water Purification
Water purification is also important if you are out in nature and far from clean, treated water.
Though boiling water is always an option, there are plenty of cool filtration gadgets out there that campers use when they are out in the wild, like filtered "survival straws" and purification tablets.
"The three options of boiling, filtering, and chemical treatment will give you more flexibility in securing one of your most basic survival needs: clean water," explains the author.
Survival Item #3: Food
"Don’t worry about planning for three well balanced meals per day—this is survival, not vacation," explains the author.
Water may be more necessary than food, but it's still important to keep your calorie count up if you have the means.
Canned, nonperishable foods are recommended as well as dehydrated snacks or Military MREs.
Candy bars are also easy to pack and have plenty of calories.
Survival Item #4: Cooking Equipment
In terms of cooking utensils, the lighter the better.
A portable pot, spork, cup, and metal plate are all that are advised.
If you also need a heat source for cooking and can't build a fire, backpack stoves with fuel canisters are available.
"I’d rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it," states the author.
Survival Item #5: Clothing and Shelter
Recommended clothing includes:
- 2 pairs of wool hiking socks
- 2 pairs of underwear
- 1 extra pair of pants (not jeans or 100 percent cotton)
- 1 pair of long underwear
- 1 wool hat
- 2 extra shirts (one long, one short)
- 1 fleece
- 1 rain jacket
- 1 military poncho
- 1 pair of hiking boots
There are plenty of options for shelter, including a military-grade poncho that can transform into a tent, a reflective survival blanket, or a tarp that can survive the elements.
You can also carry around a sleeping bag if you are able.
Survival Item #6: Fire
The author advises packing at least three ways to light a fire, including lighters, waterproof matches, and tinder.
For tinder, cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly are an effective DIY option.
Survival Item #7: First Aid
Most first aid kits come premade, but if you are going to make your own, they suggest:
- 1″ x 3″ adhesive bandages (12)
- 2″ x 4.5″ adhesive bandages (2)
- adhesive knuckle bandages (3)
- butterfly closure bandages (2)
- gauze dressing
You can also include suture kits, and different types of bandages.
Survival Item #8: Tools
A knife is heavily stressed as one of the most important bug-out bag essentials, large enough to chop but delicate enough for carving and cooking.
In addition to a knife you can also add a multitool with blades, screwdrivers, and other important tools.
Survival Item #9: Lighting
At least two lighting sources are recommended, like flashlights and long-lasting candles.
Combined, these tools create a collection that can help you survive almost any predicament for at least 72 hours.
Disasters can strike when we least expect them, so having your own bug-out bag can help you feel prepared if anything awful requires you to evacuate.
If you believe that it is always important to be prepared, make sure to SHARE with friends and family on Facebook.
