The Bug Out Bag.

What is a Bug Out Bag?

The origin of the term “bug out” is somewhat disputed, but it is commonly accepted that the term came out of some branch of the military and later assimilated by the civilian population. While it was/is used as a derogatory term for a deserter or what airplane pilots have to do sometimes to escape certain death, the definition of the term is the same: “rush off” or “to leave hurriedly.” 1.

A Bug Out Bag is a type of survival kit that aids one in "rushing off or leaving hurriedly," but can be carried on/near/ or with the survivor relatively easily. The amount of time one can survive on the carried materials is decided upon by the individual’s choices in what he/she carries, the individual’s knowledge of survival based practices, the amount and quality of items carried, and the individual’s choices in use of those items. The most complex challenges in the somewhat paradoxical art is having an idea of what to and not to carry and what kind of bag(s) to use.

What kind of Bag should I use?

When people speak of Bug Out Bags, they are usually referring to a backpack, but it can be any type of bag the user finds easy enough to carry for long periods of time. If running with a backpack is in part of the user’s plan, then said pack should have chest and waist straps that can be easily adjusted. If one is packing very lightly, then a waist (fanny) pack may be all that is needed. They are small and tend to stay out of the way, but the trade off is that one cannot carry as much. One can still carry enough to be sufficient and keep the weight to a bare minimum. There are over-the-shoulder bags that sit at about waist level and may prove a better choice for some users who prefer its design. These bags come in different shapes such as the backpack version with one strap that goes across the body and the “man-purse.” These are about small to medium size and can carry a good deal of items. A duffel bag can be used as well, but is a little more difficult to carry and ties up one of the user’s hands. Duffel bags usually have a shoulder strap, but the weight of the bag often makes their use uncomfortable unless the provided handle straps are used in conjunction with the shoulder strap for extra support. Whatever choice of bag one makes should be based on one’s own basic needs, wants, preferences, and tolerances. Keep in mind; any bag is better than no bag at all. 2

Generally, the lighter the pack, the easier it is to carry and the amount of time one can survive is usually shorter because the items will often be used up quickly. When the survivor carries the bare minimum of items needed for survival while still providing for all the basic survival needs in a lite weight package, it is known as going "ultra-light."(Curtis) On the other end of the spectrum, the heavier the pack, the more items one can carry and the amount of time one can survive is longer because the survival materials will last longer. Bear in mind however that a heavier pack means that it will be more difficult to carry and thus may be more of a hindrance than help. When considering the weight of a bag, one should consider their own limits as well as strengths.

A good solution to the aforementioned problems is to pack a medium weight bag and control weight shifting/distribution through compartmentalization and/or space saving solutions. For example, if one is carrying an extra set of clothing, space can be saved by using large zip-lock storage bags. The clothing can be placed inside the zip-lock bag and the air pushed out before locking the bag shut. Some other pleasant side effects of this technique are keeping clothing fresh, clean, and water proof. Compartmentalization is the use of different pockets or dividers that are usually provided in or on the bag in question. These pockets can be used to help with the organization of equipment carried. In example, one could keep all the medical supplies in one pocket and the fire making tools in another. It may be a good idea to place items in the bag in the order of their likely or possible immediate use needs. A medical kit should be simple to get to quickly and less likely or less often used items stored in harder to reach areas.

Now, I want to talk about bag color. I know that the first instinct of many when it comes to this subject is to get a military backpack that's all nice and camouflage and LOOKS like a bug out bag. This is NOT the way to go about this. Remember, the less it looks like something that makes the user a threat or target, the better. Camouflage is nice but if one is not planning on holding up in the woods or where one lives happens to be an urban area in which the color green really tends to stick out, then it may not be a good color choice. It is VERY important to remember that camouflage is something done, not something worn. A bag that draws attention, like one with a favorite cartoon character plastered to the front, may not be a good option here either. A solid or two tone black, blue, red, or whatever color(s) that tend(s) to fit in with the area(s) the user frequents most may be a better option. All the "stuff" in the bag will do no good if someone else takes it away because it LOOKS like a useful bag full of useful stuff. Again, this is about preference and what one is willing to put up with. Simple rule here: Don't advertise it's a Bug Out Bag.

Where should I keep a Bug Out Bag?

I usually keep my bag in my car which is never very far away from where I am. I make it a point to do this so that I am always ready to get to my bag quickly and with the least amount of resistance. For most, the optimal place to keep a B.O.B. will be their vehicle, but having more could not hurt. 3.

What should I pack in a Bug Out Bag?
While there is much debate on what items should and should not be carried, there is a general list of things that should be included in EVERY Bug Out Bag. A survival kit serves many purposes which can be broken up into specific categories for equipment to be included into:

• Light and Fire
• Signaling and Navigation
• Food and Water
• Protection and Shelter
• Knives and Tools
• Medical
• Multi-Purpose Items
• Miscellaneous

(McCann, 155)
Somewhere in the bag, each one of the above mentioned areas should be accounted for.

Let us take a closer look at all of them:

Light and Fire: Specifically, one wants the tools that help make fire and a light source. Matches or any other fire starting device(s) and a flashlight would work fine here. (McCann)The type of fire starter chosen and the type of flashlight should be based on one's personal preference and the size of the Bug Out Bag in question. As for fire making, one can refer to this article: How to make a Fire for more information.

Signaling and Navigation: Here, you want something to let others know where you are and a means of establishing directionality. A signal mirror and/or a survival whistle could work as both methods can be seen or heard from a long way off. The signal mirror may be a more practical choice because it can be used as a regular mirror for maintaining one’s appearance, which will in turn keep up morale. A small mirror can also be used to see around corners so to identify danger before walking right into it. Smoke signals are not something that many people know how to make nowadays, but it is an option and a learn-able skill. Since one would already be carrying fire-making material, it would be a nice skill to have on hand. For navigation, a good compass (considering one knows how to use it) is great. The old adage about the moss only growing on the north side of the tree is a bit of a myth. If heading out to a pre-planned area, a prepared map would be excellent additions to one’s kit. For more information on making a prepared map, one can refer to NIE’s article entitled Survival Map.

Food and Water: In this group, the idea is to carry tools such as snare wire and/or a fishing kit for catching food. One should have at least the very basic in training in making improvised weaponry such as a Spear. Books of Fishing and different methods of using Rope along with other basic materials for hunting and fishing. It is suggested that one carry survival foods like beef jerky, food bars, trail mix, and/or MRE (Meal Ready to Eat). Water purification tablets and carrying your own water could provide all the water needed for a good amount of time. I cannot stress enough the importance of water procurement and treatment. Water purification tabs or drops can also be a life saver. If carrying a large kit, one can carry a good bit of water through the use of water bottles. There are already two articles devoted to the topics of food and water under the Food and Health section in the Articles drop down tab and are full of excellent information and I suggest reading both.

Protection and Shelter: Something that is often overlooked in many a survivor’s kit is the ability to protect one’s self from the elements. Many would-be survivors would still be alive today if they had accounted for the elements in their preparation. A simple poncho can be an improvised tent and provide a sufficient amount of protection from the rain. An emergency blanket can be the difference between life and death and is easily packed. In outdoor outfitting websites and stores, they can be found for relatively cheap (the one to five dollar range). Weapons, such as guns, are included in this category but can be in the tool category as well. An extra set of clothing and plenty of socks would also go into this category. If one is planning to pack a gun then one should KNOW the laws in the state in which they reside regarding their carry and use.

Knives and Tools: EVERY SURVIVOR SHOULD HAVE AT LEAST ONE GOOD KNIFE IN THEIR BAG. The need for at least one cannot be overstated. (Personally, I carry more than one utility knife on or near my person at all times possible.) Tools that could prove useful include any of the wide range of quality multi-tools on the open market. A plus to carrying a multi-tool is also the fact that most of them have a small utility blade included. Many survivors swear by having a small hammer or pry bar in their kit as it helps with some otherwise difficult tasks. Depending on one’s surroundings, certain tools should be considered. For example, if one lives close to a swamp, a machete may be a good consideration whereas if one lives near a forest, an axe may prove useful, and a mini-folding shovel would go well with a lot of bag tool additions. The choice is up to the survivor and there is nothing stopping someone from carrying more than one of the above choices. Keep in mind that the more one carries, the more weight is added to the pack and the slower one will likely move. Choose wisely.

Medical: No survival kit would be near complete without a good first aid kit. Some items to consider including in said kit are gauze, tape, butterfly bandages, and antiseptic wipes. Also, one may want to consider any allergies one has or any medications that may need to be included. Again, this kit should be constructed from one’s own preferences and should handle the basic needs for a common list of injuries. A small first aid pamphlet or book would not be a bad addition either. This would also be the place to store tweezers, a pair of scissors, a needle and thread, and maybe even rubbing alcohol. The choices are many and one should seriously consider purchasing an “off-the-shelf” first aid kit and then reorganize it to suit their own needs and wants. (Thanks to Shadow01192 for the advice here.) I also highly recommend reading irock350's First Aid Article for excellent advice and information on the subject of a medical kit for your B.O.B.

Multi-purpose items: As the name implies, these items are ones that can serve many functions. A multi-tool could be considered a multi-purpose item, but this category deals more with things like Large Garbage Bags that can be turned into a poncho, tent, water gathering device, and so on. Another item to consider is Duct Tape. The main problem with duct tape is the fact of the large roll it is placed on, however, there is nothing preventing a savvy survivor from re-rolling some amount of duct tape onto a smaller spindle or ink pen or business card to facilitate a more convenient carry option. Zip lock bags, zip ties, and rope also fit into this category. A relatively small amount of aluminum foil can be used for a myriad for things. A bit of imagination is required as making different things out of the foil can be a fun and stimulating activity for one’s mind. Consider adding a good bit of the multi-purpose items as they will have plenty of uses. The ever-useful handkerchief, bandanna, or towel would fit in here nicely as well. 4.

Miscellaneous: This is the category where the chosen items do not do not quite “fit in” with the others. A good example is a small knife sharpener. It only serves one purpose, but it is an all too important one. A sharp knife is a safer knife. An old cell phone can still dial 911. (Please DO NOT call this number to try this out. False 911 calls require the police to show up at your door and wastes resources. Just trust me on this one that this works. One only has to be in or close to a service area to call.) Money. Specifically, cash stored in an envelope for emergency purchases. Be sure that this money is allocated ONLY to buying things to further IMMEDIATE survival. Remember, this is NOT a stash for "impulse buying." Yet another item to consider is a small survival book, just in case stress makes one forget what they know about survival. Small "pocket" or "slim" versions of survival books are available. An inventory list or preferably a checklist should be somewhere in the bag as well so to keep track of what is in the bag. The bag's contents bag should be checked regularly (about every 2-4 months). Perishable or out of date items should be replaced.(McCann)

What is EDC and why is it important when it comes to Bug Out Bags?
The term EDC is something each survivalist should acquaint themselves with well. The term EDC stands for Every Day Carry. Every Day Carry Items are the items that one carries with them daily. For example, wearing a watch and carrying a wallet are two everyday items that a person may put on and/or carry with them with little thought about their importance. Their importance is not unknown to the wearer of said items. In fact, it may be more instinct or routine to carry these items, as they are known to be useful. With this philosophy in mind, there is nothing to stop someone from carrying the equivalent of a survival kit on their immediate person. There are many considerations and suggestions for carry in the “what to carry section” that can be adapted for use here. For instance, I carry a multi-tool, wallet, cellular phone, disposable lighter, keys, a small memo pad, a mechanical pencil, and a folding knife. On the keys, I have two small permanent markers that have some electrical tape wrapped around them. I will soon add a small amount of aluminum foil and perhaps a bit of para-cord to my key ring. The items above give me the things I feel I would need to survive for a certain length of time if I had only what I was already carrying and that is the idea behind Every Day Carry items. If say one had a Bug Out Bag inside their vehicle but were otherwise prevented from reaching said vehicle for whatever reason, then one could survive on the EDC items until one could reach their full kit. It is a strategy known as redundancy. A good Every Day Carry set along with a well-kept Bug Out Bag make for a well-prepared survivor. My suggestions to the reader are: Put Together a Bug Out Bag, Make an Every Day Carry List, Practice the Use of These Items, and Carry the items EVERY DAY! 5.

Some final considerations, tips, and general rules for better B.O. B. usage:

Do not borrow things from the Bug Out Bag in a non-emergency situation. One may find that an item needed is not available if constant borrowing becomes a habit. It is better to leave the bag and it's contents alone unless it is being checked for out of date items, inventory, or an emergency situation arises where the bag is needed.

Re-evaluate bag contents from time to time and make sure to take into account abnormal weather conditions specific to the area. There is nothing wrong with continually making a system better.

Practice the use of the items in the bag. I know that this step is somewhat contradictory to my first statement in this section and I will clarify by saying one can practice with cheaper materials than the quality ones placed in the bag. Just make sure to keep safety in mind at all times when dealing with more dangerous survival skills. One may even consider making a PRACTICE bag and a REAL Bag. The PRACTICE bag used for practicing skills and carrying in the "backyard" and the REAL bag filled with quality materials similar to or the same as (if you prefer to practice with the same high quality materials which is recommended, but not always practical monetarily) the ones in the practice bag. The practice comes in carrying around the bag for periods of time and familiarizing one's self with the weight, feel, limitations, and strengths associated with it. Any differentiation in bag weight should be remedied by use of weight (rocks, books, etc) to simulate the actual weight of the Real bag. Practicing with a heavier practice bag is not a bad idea either, but proper safety practices should always be kept as the primary concern. Practice makes awesome so practice!

As previously stated, a list of the items in the B.O.B. should be included and a clean, professional looking (see EASY TO READ) list can be made with a [url=]simple spreadsheet computer program.[/url](Link soon to be fixed...) One can use pen and paper but often handwriting can be messy or difficult to decipher (hand written or computer is personal preference). This list is one of the most important things in the entire kit, next to the knife, as this will let the user know exactly what is and is not in their bag at any given time (considering proper maintenance and upkeep). In a stress situation, it may be difficult to think and remember so having a list of all the "stuff" inside will make it much simpler to decide what to do and what options are available. This not to say one should not already have intimate knowledge of what is packed, but preparing for bad situations includes preparing for a failure of memory. Use a list and keep it updated.

One should not shun technology especially where it could provide so much help to the cause of survival. The advancements in memory software such as the small USB drive can hold plenty of data and provide an excellent backup of particularly important documentation. If one needs to keep a bit more information, there is always the option of adding an external hard drive to the bag's contents. One can also store survival books and related publications in electronic data form. Consider the idea that while power or specifically electricity may not available immediately, there may be power in the next town. There are other means to get power such as the automobile power inverter, which takes power from the battery of an automobile and transfers it to usable "wall socket" power as one would find in a home. This technique works well when the user has someplace to go and little (or no) time to stop and "plug in" to the nearest electrical outlet. Just plug in the power inverter to the vehicles 12 volt port (formally referred to as the cigarette lighter port), plug in whatever electrical device to recharge into the power inverter, and drive. Some inverters come with leads that can connect straight to the battery for those emergency power need situations where a car may be out of fuel or is just more convenient to pull energy directly from the car battery. This option can be more dangerous, but is still an option. This is not to say that one should not also have the "analog" version (printed paper copies) in a safe place (like a safe or fire-resistant/proof cabinet). One may even want to have such important papers with them in a manila colored envelope inside of a plastic zipper-type bag in case one needs to provide such information for some reason. Examples of information to be kept:

A final disclaimer: A Bug Out Bag alone will not save anyone without a good plan and knowledge of how to use the materials therein. Please read This article by the experts at Rubicon Article. 6.

I am not responsible for any harm from anything the reader chooses to do with this article or the information contained herein.

I hope this helped put some of the ideas of a well-prepared bug out bag and the use of EDC items into a more understandable light. Thanks for reading.

Works Cited

Websites:

1. http://www.phrases.org.uk/bulletin_board/30/messages/2206.html

2. http://www.survival-gear.com/

3. http://www.survivaltopics.com/

4. http://www.donrearic.com/main.html

5. http://www.edcforums.com/

6. http://www.alpharubicon.com/index2.html

Books:
McCann, John D. Build the Perfect Survival Kit, Krause Publications, Iola, WI. 2005.

Curtis, Rick. The Backpacker's Field Manual, Revised and Updated: A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering Backcountry Skills. Crown Publishing Group, Princeton University 2005.

Other interesting resources:
$30 Bag idea.

Doug Ritter's official website.

ZS Article.

YouTube Videos.

EDC YouTube Videos.

Instructables Ideas and Pdf downloads.

Scribd PDF Downloads.

Martialist magazine suggestions for B.O.B..

Grab N' Go Bags for Everyone from Scribd.
Have fun and please comment. Thanks again for reading.

Special Thanks to all those who helped me in the creation of this article. :)