What's in Your Bug-Out Bag?

Whether you call the result a bug-out bag, a go bag, a 72-hour bag, or something else, there's no such thing as an ideal assortment to grab in emergencies. It depends on you and your needs. Since I consider my residence a refuge, I keep a get-home bag in the car in case I need to head to family and safety. If the emergency is at home (probably from a wildfire), my wife and I have a list of items, including important papers, that we'd add to the vehicle with the bags.

My get-home equipment is largely repurposed from my desert-appropriate backpacking gear, keeping in mind that I'm at least as likely to be in a motel as in a wilderness campsite.

Go through your bag from time to time. Check for gear that, like my rain jacket, might wander. Batteries need frequent swapping, and expiration dates on food and medical supplies should be checked.

Read the full article written by J.D. Tuccille here.

LAST UPDATED

October 21, 2023

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

J.D. Tuccille

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Before setting foot in the outdoors, pre-treat your clothing (boots, socks, pants, shirts, jackets, etc), tent and other gear with permethrin - but do not put it on your skin!

Outdoor Element
Contributing Writers

Media Mentions

Our current favorite is the Sawyer Squeeze, which we highly recommend grabbing for your trip.

Dave Collins
Founder, CEO & Editor-in-Chief

Media Mentions

[The Sawyer Squeeze] water filter system is the gold standard for many thru-hikers and backpackers across the globe.

Chris Carter
Senior Editor