Bug Out Bag: AKA Grab-n-Go Bag, Get Out of Dodge Bag or Just Go Bag

A bug out bag, aka grab-n-go bag, get-out-of-dodge bag or just go bag, is a must-have for anyone who takes the idea of surviving any situation seriously. For those new to preparedness, the term refers to all the items you need to ensure your safety. This collection of items must be easy to pack, light enough to carry and move with quickly in case of a disaster, whether manmade or natural.

How to Choose a Grab-n-Go Bag

Choosing what should be in your bug out bag collection is all up to you. Experts recommend that all the items you will need should be able to fit into one bag or container, although there are times when two bags will be the better choice. Most importantly, you should still be able to carry two bags easily. This is one reason why backpacks or a bag that you can pull, preferably those on wheels, make good choices. 

The type of landscape, climate and size of your survival stash also play important roles in the container you choose when setting up your gear. If you live in areas with lots of rainfall, your carrier must as a necessity, be waterproof to protect its contents. If the land is rocky and rough, something tough is the ideal.

Having more than one bug out bag in different locations makes sense, especially if you move around regularly. At the very least, you should have one at home and one in your vehicle. Some people even have one for each member of their household. 

It is important to make sure you have enough items in there for at least 72 hours. This is why most readymade types are temporary as they only contain essential items for just three days. The best kits are ones in which you can place additional gear that will last for more than three days. This way you can also include medication if you have family members with certain conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

Where to Buy a Bug Out Bag

You can easily buy your bug out bag online, so finding what you need is easy. Readymade kits are a good start since stores such as the My Survival Goods website has a number of these kits to choose from depending on your needs. Some kits are for two persons such as the “2 Person Roll and Go Survival Kit” which means that they contain enough stuff for two persons for three days. This particular kit comes in a travel backpack and with wheels. Some items it contains are:

• Food
• Water
• First aid items 
• Toiletries (antibacterial soap, sanitation kits and even personal hygiene items for women)
• Flashlight
• Radio
• Blankets

In a cinch, you may be able to use even a sturdy trash bag as your kitbag, but be aware that this will not last long especially if the terrain is harsh. Also, bear in mind that some kits are suitable for specific disaster situations. For example, My Survival Goods has kits for hurricanes and earthquake situations. In a hurricane situation, your kit must be able to withstand water as flooding due to heavy rain is a big part of what to expect. 

These types of kits are normally put together to last you a minimum of two weeks. These specially designed gears include:

• Portable stove
• Waterproof matches
• Disposable plates and utensils
• Water filtration bottle

Following through when you need to is the most difficult part of the process. Having drills, especially if you have a family makes it easier to be ready to grab and go when you need to do so quickly. Also, make sure that your bug out bag includes items that will help you to pass the time, such as a deck of playing cards. Depending on how long the situation lasts, you want to be able to relax a bit and have some fun. 

Time will pass quicker if your family is occupied, so ensure your bag helps you out in this respect as well.

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