It’s Time to Survive: How to Make a Bug Out Bag

Are you part of the 60% of Americans unprepared for a disaster situation? 

If so, it’s not too late to change.

Preparation will be critical to your survival in the event of an emergency. That’s why you need to start learning about bug out bags today. 

These bags will be your lifeline during a disaster. Pack them full of survival essentials to ensure you and your family will be safe.

Keep reading to learn how to make a bug out bag. 

Hydration

The most critical thing in your bug out bag is water. You’ll only be able to survive around three days without hydration. Aim to include one liter of water per person per day. 

You might want to consider a water filtration system, too. If your water supply were to become compromised, a filter would make it usable again.

Food

Aside from water, food is the next important thing you need to create a bug out bag. 

Look for calorie-dense foods. These are precisely what you need to get the energy necessary to survive an emergency. 

We recommend protein and energy bars for quick and easy snacking. Some bars on the market are 2000+ calories per serving. 

MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) and freeze-dried meals should also be in your bag. 

Communication Devices

In an emergency, our convenient ways of communicating today may be obsolete. Cell towers will be down, and your smartphone will be useless. 

You’ll want a device that provides a means of communicating with others. Two-way radio communication will be priceless in the event of an emergency. 

A crank power charger and hand crank emergency radio are worthwhile investments, too. 

Several Heat Sources

You know the climate you live in best, so be sure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw at you. 

You’ll need warm blankets and clothing. Body warming packets can come in handy if frostbite becomes a possibility. 

You also need supplies for starting a fire. Fires will not only keep you warm but assist with cooking and boiling water, too. Pack an ignition source and tinder to make fire-starting a breeze.

Waterproof matches are a worthwhile investment for rainier climates.

Shelter

You could bring your heavy-duty camping tent with you during an emergency. Chances are it won’t be light enough to make travel easy, though. Instead, focus on compact and lightweight items for easy backpacking if it comes down to that. 

It’s important to be well-rested (physically and mentally) during an emergency. You’ll be better prepared to face the day if you’re getting some rest. 

You will need a tarp and a lightweight tent and sleeping bag. The tarp can protect you from the elements, and the tent and sleeping bag will keep you comfortable at night.

If you have space for a ground pad, your sleep will be even more comfortable. 

First Aid Supplies

Accidents happen. They can happen even more quickly in an emergency. With no first aid kit in your bag, you’re putting yourself at risk of serious infections. Even minor cuts can kill you if they’re not treated right.

It’s easy to buy a premade first aid kit. If you create your own, you can finetune it to your exact needs.

How to Make a Bug Out Bag Made Easy

Now that you know how to make a bug out bag, it’s time to gather your supplies. Don’t forget to ensure the bag itself is made of durable materials. The last thing you want is for it to fail before you’ve made it to safety.

Check out our Nature section for articles about natural disasters. The more you know, the safer you’ll be in an emergency!