Bug-out bag. SHTF bag. Emergency kit. Go bag. These terms are more or less interchangeable. No matter what you call it, having a prepared stash of necessities for when you need to immediately leave your home, is definitely a necessity. You never know when disaster may strike and you’ll need to gather your belongings and leave. Luckily, if you plan ahead, you’ll have a much easier time if and when that time comes. You’ll have everything you need in one place and in one bag -just grab it and go.
There is no secret recipe for the best bug-out bag. They are personalized and will vary from person to person, family to family. Below, we’ve compiled 30 of the most important items that everyone should keep in their emergency go-bag.
- Drinking water
- Container for storing/holding water
- Water filtration system/tablets
- High-energy food
- Utensils
- Additional clothing (long-sleeves, socks, shoes, fleece, gloves, hat, etc.)
- Tarp
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Blanket
- Flashlight
- Matches
- Firestarter
- First aid kit
- Insect repellant
- Hand sanitizer
- Travel-sized hygiene products (toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Multi-tool
- Batteries
- Cell phone/charger
- Power bank
- Emergency radio (preferably with hand crank)
- Cash
- Map or compass (or both)
- Emergency whistle
- Paracord
- Duct tape
- Garbage bags or resealable bags
- Face mask
- Survival ax
It doesn’t matter where you start or how many items you have – just get started on preparing an emergency survival kit. Add to it as you see fit and what you and your family may need. Be sure it is a bag that you can comfortably carry and is durable enough to carry the weight.
