Bug Out Bags – What to Pack

A bug out bag is a portable kit designed to help you survive for at least 72 hours in an emergency. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a breakdown in law and order, having a bug out bag ready can make all the difference. While packing a bug out bag takes a fair bit of work for the person who has never done this before, it is well worth the effort.

Choosing the Right Bag

The first step is to choose the right bag. There are a number of bug out bags on the market, some of which are better than others. A person should choose a bag that has ample space, is not overly difficult to carry and is well made using high quality materials. Many prefer bags between 30-50 liters in size, like our Urban 72 Hour option. It should be water resistant and durable.

If lifting a 20+ pound backpack is not feasible, consider a wheeled suitcase, duffel, or tote. These are not as maneuverable or subtle as a backpack but are still better than nothing in an emergency.

Man holding a bug out bag canada

What do I need in a Bug Out Bag?

Which items should be packed in a bug out bag is the subject of a lot of debate. While it is important to pack items that will be needed if one has to survive in the event of a natural or man-made disaster, a bug out bag should never be overly difficult to carry, as a person may need to walk a great distance if roads are flooded, blocked or destroyed. Because of this, backpacking supplies are often popular, though they can be an expensive option.

Food and water are basic supplies that one will not want to do without. Food items should be lightweight; most experts recommend packing instant noodles and energy bars, as these can be preserved without refrigeration and are not heavy to carry. Cook in pouch meals, MREs, and ration bars have longer shelf lives and do not need cycling as frequently, though they can be more expensive than grocery store options. Pack at least 3 liters of water per person. If you have fresh water nearby, consider adding a water filter or water purification to increase your supply without increasing the weight of your kit.

Clothing is also very important; a person should have a couple of changes of underwear and socks along with an additional pair of pants, jacket, shirt and sweater. If you can, update your kit at the beginning of each season with weather-appropriate clothes. If you are packing kits for children, be sure to update the clothes to accommodate their growth over time.

A first aid kit is also a must. This kit should contain alcohol for disinfecting cuts and wounds, bandages and any necessary medications that a person needs to take on a regular basis. Having a small bottle of mosquito repellent and sunscreen can also be a good idea.

One should also keep legal documents packed in their bug out bag. If it is not possible to keep the original documents in the bag, then having a color photocopy or digital copy on a USB would be the next best option. Documents are often difficult and/or expensive to replace and one will not want to run around the house looking for them as disaster looms.

Keeping a radio in your kit is important for keeping up with the local emergency and available resources. Pack extra batteries and aim for an option that can be powered by crank or solar, in case the batteries run out. Add a flashlight too, in case you need to travel or make camp in the dark.

While in most cases people can find shelter in reception centres, or with friends or neighbours, it’s good to consider packing something compact, like an emergency sleeping bag or compact tent, in case you find yourself outdoors when night falls.

Bug Out Bag List

  • 3 days of food
  • at least 3 liters of water per person
  • Spare clothing
  • First aid kit
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Legal documents
  • Radio/flashlight
  • Emergency blanket or sleeping bag

Also good to have:

  • Cash in small bills
  • Maps of the local area/compass
  • Hygiene supplies (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, etc)
  • Toilet paper
  • Multi-tool (army knife)

Bug out bags are more than just a passing fad or a good idea. They have in fact saved many people’s lives and every person should have one. A person should choose a bag, pack items that are sure to be needed over a three day period and then keep the bag in a safe, easy to find place.