You may be familiar with the term BYOB, but have you heard of BYOBOB? it stands for “bring your own bug out bag.”
So what is a bug out bag? Well, it’s sort of like a go-bag, but it’s packed with all of the essential products you would need in an emergency situation. Bug out bags are particularly popular with survivalists, but it’s never a bad idea to have one even if you’re not into prepping for huge emergencies.
So what should you put in your bug out bag? Read on to learn about the seven essential components of any good bug out bag.
1. First Aid Kit
In an emergency situation, you may not have time to get to the hospital to close up a wound. In the worst-case scenario, the hospitals might not even be open or staffed.
That’s why it’s important to keep a first aid kit in your bug out bag. Having access to simple medical materials could save your life one day!
2. Radio
Consider how often you use your cell phone to communicate. It’s one of the most useful devices we have at our disposal today. But what happens if cell towers aren’t functioning?
That’s exactly why having a radio is important. Not only are radios good for listening to emergency broadcasts from local stations, but a two-way radio can help you communicate with other people in your family should you get separated. If you’re looking for a good two-way radio, check out this Midland GXT1000VP4 review.
3. Water Purification Tablets
One of your first instinct when packing a bug out bag is probably to think about water. While your mind is in the right space, stop yourself before packing up 20 gallons of drinking water.
Water is heavy and could easily damage other equipment in your bug out bag. That’s why most survivalists choose to pack water purification tablets or even a water filter. That way you can filter water that you find, rather than having to carry water with you constantly.
4. Lighter
We’ve all seen those scenes in movies where the protagonist just can’t seem to start a fire. Don’t let this be you!
Packing a lighter in your bug out bag is a great way to ensure that you’ll be able to start a fire to keep warm, cook food, or provide a bit of light during the night time.
5. Knife
A knife is the ultimate multipurpose tool to pack in your bug out bag. Whether you need to cut some fruit off of a tree, build a shelter, or even defend yourself, a knife will always come in handy.
6. Clothing
You never know when disaster will strike, or what you will be wearing when you have to grab your bug out bag and make a run for it. That’s why it’s important to have some clothing packed away, too.
A spare set of clothes to change into can be a lifesaver in an emergency situation, and can even help keep you warm if you need extra layers in the winter.
7. Duct Tape
Last, but certainly not least, is duct tape. Durable, waterproof, and easy to tear, duct tape can be used to help build a shelter, cover a wound, or repair clothing or bags that have ripped.
Embrace Your Inner Survivalist
While you may feel a little silly packing a bug out bag, there’s nothing wrong with being cautious about the future. In the best-case scenario, you’ll never touch the bag. But in the worst-case scenario, it could save your life.
For more tips on surviving the outdoors and being a survivalist, check out our other blog posts!
