Bug-out bag: what to take when you need to leave
Prepare a portable go-bag with personal essentials, water, food and contact information. Test its contents against your actual plan.
A bug-out bag is a bag you prepare in case you need to leave home quickly. The aim is not to carry as much equipment as possible. It is to have important things available on the journey and at your destination.
Start with destination and transport
Discuss where you could go and how to get there. During an incident, follow the authorities' instructions. A planned route may become unusable, so include a contact person and an alternative.
A bag for driving to relatives differs from one you may need to carry some distance. Test its weight and access to essentials. Share group equipment without giving anyone more than they can carry.
A standard set cannot cover every personal need
- Identification, essential phone numbers and paper copies of necessary arrangements.
- Keys, a phone and suitable charging equipment.
- Personal medication and aids according to your care arrangements.
- Suitable clothing, extra dry layers and hygiene supplies.
- Supplies for children and pets.
Make a realistic water and food plan
Carry a suitable quantity of reliable drinking water and know where you can replenish it. A small bottle in a kit does not complete several days' water needs. Balance quantity and carrying capacity with the journey, conditions and personal needs.
Choose food you can use on the journey, accounting for allergies and preparation. A filter only helps with a suitable source and correct use. Do not assume unknown surface water will automatically make up for a missing supply.
Every tool should serve a purpose
A light, first-aid kit and offline route information may help. Take tools that suit your plan and that you can use safely. A knife or fire-lighting kit is not a standard answer for every evacuation.
Check what a ready-made bag still needs
Compare bug-out bags by their contents, not just their names. Identify missing items, duplicates and personal additions. Check carrying comfort and access to water and essentials too.
Pack and unpack the whole bag at home once. Schedule checks and adjust it when your circumstances change. The preparedness guide covers home supplies and plans; for a planned outdoor trip, use the survival and bushcraft guide.