Bug Out Kits: What should they include?

Natural disasters and most emergency situations are completely out of our control. But preparing for those emergencies before they happen is something we CAN control.

So, at Fenix Prep, we recommend preparing your bug out kit now…before disaster strikes!

What are Bug Out Kits?

A bug out kit (or bug out bag, or emergency kit, survival kit, or 72-hour bag) is a bag prepared in advance that you can take with you in an emergency situation. The emergency could be anything—a power outage, wildfire, hurricane, flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption, foreign invasion…even an apocalypse!

These kits are designed to equip you with everything you’ll need to survive for 72-hours. Here is a packing list to get you started:

Food and Water

You will want to include 72-hours of food and water per person in your bug out bag. Remember to choose food with a long shelf life so that you don’t need to remember to change out the food frequently.

Food and Water Supplies Sample

• 12 4 oz. water pouches
• 9 400-calorie food bars or meals
• Shelf-stable snacks
• Water purification tablets
• 1 1-Liter hydration bag with straw

Tools and First Aid

This section of your bug out kit is useful for navigation, transport, protection and care, and shelter.

Tools and First Aid Sample

• 1 Notepad and pencil
• 1 First aid kit
• 30 Standard bandages
• 30 Large bandages
• 15 Alcohol pads
• 10 Cotton tip applicators
• 1 Elastic bandage
• 4 Finger splints
• 1 First aid guide
• Assorted gauze pads
• 1 Instant cold pack
• 1 Roll of gauze
• 1 Roll of tape
• 1 Tweezers
• 1 Reusable case
• 1 Emergency whistle
• 1 Nylon rope
• 1 Multi-function pocketknife
• 1 Utensil set
• 1 Pair of work gloves
• 1 Multi-function shovel
• 1 Portable stove
• 1 Roll of duct tape
• 1 Stainless steel cup
• 1 Tarp

Light and Communication

These items are essential for communicating with others and seeing in the dark:

Light and Communication Sample Supplies

• 1 Deck of playing cards
• 1 30+ hour candle
• 1 Emergency bright stick
• 1 Flashlight
• 1 Flint starter
• 1 Power bank solar radio

Tip: If you have room and can handle the extra weight, include a radio in your bug out kit.

Shelter and Warmth

The following supplies are the basics you’ll need to protect yourself from the wind, sun, rain, and other outdoor conditions:

Shelter and Warmth Sample Supplies

• 1 Sleeping bag
• 1 Emergency poncho
• 1 tent
• 1 Hand/body warmer

Hygiene and Sanitation

Hygiene is especially important during an emergency situation, when medical care may not be as easily accessible. The following are the basics you’ll need to stay clean and protect yourself from infection, disease, and depression:

Hygiene and Sanitation Sample Supplies

• 1 Hand and body lotion
• 1 Shampoo and conditioner
• 1 Bar of soap
• 1 Comb
• 1 Deodorant gel
• 3 Maxi pads
• 1 Pocket tissue pack
• 1 Shaving cream packet
• 1 Toothbrush
• 1 Toothpaste
• 1 Toothpick
• 1 Twin blade razor
• 1 Washcloth
• 3 Wet Wipes
• 3 Disposable face masks
• 1 Biohazard waste bag

Pack all of your supplies into a sturdy backpack and test it out before an emergency strikes to make sure you are able to carry it for long periods of time.

Pro Tip: Create a bug out kit for each member of your family, including children! Or buy one of our done-for-you emergency kits that covers your whole family!

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