6 Bug Out Bag Mistakes

By Tim Gamble

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A bug out bag (or BoB) is an essential tool for survival in a disaster or emergency. It contains the necessary supplies to sustain life for at least 72 hours. However, many people make critical mistakes when assembling their bug out bag, which can jeopardize their safety:

Mistake 1: Packing Too Much - A bug out bag should be lightweight and easy to carry, but many people make the mistake of packing too much unnecessary gear. This can make the bag too heavy and bulky, which can be a significant hindrance in a bug out situation. You might need to carry your bag for many miles in rough terrain during stressful conditions. Focus on packing truly essential items.

Items you may be able to reduce or eliminate include any cool, but ultimately unnecessary gear. What is unnecessary? See mistake 2. People also tend to overpack food, in my opinion. Of course you need food. But for three days you could probably survive on less than three full meals a day plus snacks. Food tends to be bulky and adds a lot of weight. Dehydrated foods require more water to prepare, which in incredibly heavy. For three days, high-calorie snack foods such as dried fruit, nuts, energy and protein bars, and even peanut butter may be better options. They even make emergency ration bars which may be a good option (Amazon link).  

Mistake 2: Not Testing Your Bug Out Bag - The only way to really know if your bug out bag is too heavy, or if you missed some needed items or have unneeded or poor quality items is to test it. Put it on your back, fully loaded, and go for a long walk around your neighborhood or at a local park. You will quickly realize if it is to heavy or not. Then take it camping so you can actually use the gear inside. Reevaluate and adjust your bag from there. 

Mistake 3: Not Customizing Your Bag - One of the biggest mistakes people make with their bug out bag is not tailoring it to their specific needs. A one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient, as different individuals may require different items based on their health, fitness, skills, needs, and the environment they will be navigating. To avoid this mistake, take the time to assess your unique situation and customize your bug out bag accordingly. You may need to include things like spare glasses, medications, feminine hygiene products, and items for babies, young children or pets, etc. 

Mistake 4: No Way To Collect or Purify Water - Water is essential for survival, yet it is bulky and weighs a lot. A gallon of water weighs 8.33 pounds. Three gallons, a 72-hour supply for one person, weighs 25 pounds. Plus, you may need to carry water for young children, elderly folks, or pets. You probably aren't going to be able to carry all that water, so you will need a way to collect and purify water along the way. You probably need one sturdy water bottle or canteen per person (Amazon link), plus individual water filters (Amazon link)  and/or water purification tablets (Amazon link). A water faucet key, aka Silcock key, may also be useful (Amazon link). Figure out and get what you need now, before you need it. Without access to clean water, dehydration can quickly become a life-threatening issue.

Mistake 5: No Maps and Navigation Tools - GPS and Google Maps probably won't be working at during a disaster, so you need a physical map of your area and a compass (know how to use both). Written directions, including alternative routes, to your bug out location could also be useful. These items can mean the difference between finding safety and getting lost, which can lead to further complications. 

Mistake 6: Not Regularly Updating the Bag - Situations change, and so should your bug out bag. Regularly review and update your bug out bag contents to ensure it remains relevant and effective. This may involve replacing expired items, replacing batteries, adding new gear based on changing circumstances, or adjusting the overall contents to better suit your needs. Especially important is accounting for the season. Cold or cool weather may require things like warmer clothes, warm gloves, a survival blanket (affiliate link) and a toboggan or balaclava (Amazon link). It may also require a warmer sleeping bag or better shelter. 

Creating a good bug out bag is an important step in preparing for a disaster or emergency situation. By avoiding common mistakes and taking the time to customize your bag to your specific needs, you will be better prepared to handle whatever challenges may come. A good bug out bag can be the difference between life and death in a crisis situation.

 

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