A bug out bag is a pre-packed backpack that contains essential supplies to sustain you during emergency situations.
A bug out bag is a pre-packed emergency kit that contains essential supplies to sustain you during disasters or other emergency scenarios — think natural disasters, unnatural explosions, and other calamities. It’s a basic lifeline when bugging out becomes necessary.
How long can a bug out bag last?
Generally speaking, a well-stocked bug out bag should provide you with the essentials to survive for about 72 hours. It's designed to sustain you until you can find a safe haven or access additional resources. During those first 72 hours, you'll want to focus on essentials like water, food, shelter, first aid supplies, and basic tools.
You may be able to stretch supplies beyond the initial 72 hours. For example, water filters or purifiers can help you replenish your water supply, and lightweight, high-calorie food bars can help keep you fueled up while you forage for tender greens.
Keep in mind that your bug out bag is not a long-term solution. It's meant to buy you time and provide immediate necessities in a crisis. If you find yourself needing to rely solely on your bug out bag for an extended period, it's probably time to start looking for more sustainable solutions.
What’s the best color for a bug out bag?
You want to pick up a backpack in any color that will help you fly under the radar. This includes earth tones or camouflage. You want to blend into your natural surroundings and minimize attention. When you’re bugging out, the goal is to remain low-key and inconspicuous.
How much cash should you have in your bug out bag?
You’ll want to have between $100 and $500 in your bug out bag, and it should be a mix of coins and small bills. This cash can help you purchase supplies, buy services, or make other transactions — especially if electronic payment methods aren’t available.
Do you put clothes in your bug out bag?
Absolutely. You don’t want to run around for an indeterminate amount of time in the clothes you were wearing when you first bugged out. You want to have at least one full change of clothes and extra socks. These should be comfortable, versatile, and lightweight. To limit the space your clothes take up, consider vacuum sealing them in a plastic bag.
Bug out bag essentials
First things first, you'll need the essentials to survive. Pack some water to keep you hydrated, some high-energy snacks or backpacking meals, and water filtration straws.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases. It doesn’t affect your purchase price.
You’ll also want to include:
Shelter. You don’t have to camp in style, but you do need shelter from unexpected weather. If you have the space, include a lightweight tent, a sleeping bag, and a backpacking stove to cook up some nutritious meals.
First-aid supplies. Accidents happen, especially when the world is going topsy-turvy. A well-stocked first aid kit can be a lifesaver. Bandages, antiseptics, tourniquets, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
Tools and survival gear. Just like Batman has his gadgets, your bug out bag needs its arsenal of tools. Include a multi-tool, a flashlight, extra batteries, duct tape, and a sturdy knife for various tasks.
Communication and navigation equipment. Pack a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to stay informed, a reliable compass and maps for finding your way, a whistle to alert others if you need help, and two-way radios to keep in touch with your group.
Shop some of our top recommendations of bug out bag essentials.
Customize your bag and keep it current
Remember, your bug out bag should reflect your specific needs and circumstances. Consider factors like climate, the number of people in your group, whether or not you have infants or small children, and any other unique requirements. Periodically review and update your bag, swapping out expired items or adjusting supplies as necessary. This is especially important on food items.
Check out this complete bug out bag list to see what you might be missing in your bag.