Bug Out Bag Essentials List: A 72-Hour Emergency Kit
One of the most popular topics in the world of survival and preparedness is “Bugging Out”.
I believe that is one of the first things that people think about when they think of disaster and emergency scenarios and the Bug-Out-Bag (B.O.B.) has become a household idea over time.
Today we are going to take a look at the basics that you will want to consider and include in a 72 hour Bug Out Bag for emergency situations that require you to leave your home and get out of dodge.
But first, we need answer a some questions and consider a few things about general disaster preparedness and the decisions we make during an event.
Should I Bug Out, or Bug In?
One of the most important things you have to consider in a disaster or emergency event is whether or not you need to Bug Out (hopefully to a secure location) or Bug In and hunker down. In most cases, it would benefit you more to stay put.
Remain in your home if at all possible. Your home is where you have shelter, food, water, medication, and other essential resources. This is all assuming that you have practiced basic preparedness and have AT LEAST a month’s worth of everything you need to survive at home.
Civil unrest is inevitable, at least every 4 years and especially during election years in this country. We know this and these are the times to especially shelter in place and make sure we are prepared to do so.
Some events may even find us out in the world trying to get home to bug in and hunker down. To read more on how to get home during an emergency situation, check out ESSENTIAL CONTENTS FOR A GET HOME BAG: A COMPLETE 2021 CHECKLIST
However, there are those extreme and unfortunate scenarios that leave us no choice but to leave our homes and set out on the move. This is not ideal, but if you don’t have a choice, then that is what you are faced with and you have to adapt and adjust your lifestyle in pretty major way and hopefully only for a short a period of time.
This brings us to the Bug Out Bag Essentials List: A 72 Hour Emergency Kit.
What Bag Should I Use for a Bug Out Bag?
We want to start out by saying that you don’t have to buy a bag on our list today to have a great Bug Out Bag. It may not be in your budget, but that shouldn’t deter you from building out your Bug Out Bag Kit. You may already have an old decent backpack laying around the house and that is better than nothing.
A lot of the items we’ve picked today are some top of the line ideas that will, without a doubt, serve you well in the event of having to set out in the midst of some rough conditions.
If money is tight because times are hard, get creative. You may have a lot of what you need just laying around the house. You may be more prepared than you think.
We’re going to give you plenty of options to choose from and buy right here today, but more importantly, we want to show you what you should keep in your Bug Out Bag and why, so that you can make smart decisions based on your reality and what is possible for you.
What Should be in a 72-Hour BUG OUT BAG?
There are 4 basic needs that need to be met. They are Water, Shelter, Food, and depending on your conditions, the ability to produce Fire. There are other items that are very important to have in your Bug Out Bag, but these 4 things are crucial, especially the first 3.
If you don’t have exactly what we’re covering today, you’re going to need to improvise with what you’ve got around you if you’re not prepared to spend the money. However, it would be wise to start budgeting a little ever so often and begin to slowly build out your 72 Hour Emergency Kit.
For example, if you don’t have a 3 Liter hydration bladder and a 40 oz Klean Kanteen, then until you do, you need to throw 4 or 5 plastic water bottles into your bag you have chosen for your B.O.B..
Preparedness starts by getting prepared with what you have, that simple.
What is a Good Bug Out Location?
Remember, part of your bug out plan needs to involve a destination if at all possible. Just floating around out in the world without a fixed shelter or at least temporary home is not ideal and usually not sustainable, especially if there has been some sort of societal collapse.
An isolated spot is ideal for a Bug Out scenario. The farther away from populated areas the better. Having good tree and vegetation coverage will help to hide your assets.
If it is an event that is bad enough to have you bugging out, you can bet there are plenty of people trying to figure out what to do. This will bring out the opportunists in droves. Isolation and security are paramount in these situations.
We can discuss how to approach staying out in the elements indefinitely and what that entails in more detail, but not today, as that is another article for another time. Today, we are going to focus on a 72 hour plan.
So having a concise “Point A to Point B” mentality is the theme we want to maintain when we’re considering what we are going to make ready as we build out and complete our Bug Out Bag Essentials List: A 72 Hour Emergency Kit.
Let’s lay it all out and get to packing!
Disclosure: This website uses affiliate links, meaning: at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click-through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate & CJ Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only feature products that we believe in and use ourselves. Your support means the world to us and allows us to host this website. Thank you!
The Bug Out Bag Essentials List for 2022
THE PACK
The ideal Bug Out Bag will be big enough to handle everything you need, sturdy enough to handle some rough conditions, and something that blends in as just an everyday big backpack.
We’re not looking to appear flashy or tactical. We want to move through undetected as much as possible.
Outdoor 3 Day Expandable 40-64L Backpack
The Outdoor 3 Day Expandable Backpack is a perfect Bug Out Bag. You can’t beat the price and it looks like an ordinary everyday backpack, which is good.
I love my Teton 4000 Hiking Backpack, but it may just be revealing a little too much. Ideally, you don’t want to give off the impression that you’re packing the goods if there is any scarcity in the air.
So if you are bugging out to a rural or remote area and you have access to a vehicle, then being Mr. Obvious MIGHT be ok. However, if you are on foot and moving through an urban or suburban area where people are running around like a bunch of opportunistic lunatics, the Outdoor 3 Day Expandable is what we’re looking for. Be the grayman.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Expandable capacity of 40 to 64 liters
3-liter bladder hydration compartment (bladder not included)
Removable waist belt
Reversible zippers to keep out the dust and dirt
Weighs only 3.6 pounds
Mesh pocket for a water bottle
2 electronics pockets
A daisy chain
2 accessory pockets
A heavy duty handle
600 denier polyester
WATER
The most important thing that we can do, no matter where we are or where we go, is to make sure we have clean water to drink. It is something that most of us never have to think about. We turn on the faucet and have an endless supply that is not ideal without filtering, but good enough to drink if we had to.
We can only make it roughly 3 days without water. And you can bet that while you suffer through those last 2, you’re awareness and performance will suffer as well, leaving you vulnerable and weak.
WACOOL 3L 3Liter 100oz BPA Free EVA Hydration Pack Bladder
Top priority here, WATER! In order to stay properly hydrated, we need to be consuming 1 liter a day, ideally.
This is not counting sanitation and cleaning purposes. It is important to do this as efficiently as possible.
One of the best ways to do so is to carry it on your back and in your pack with the WACOOL 3L 3Liter 100oz BPA Free EVA Hydration Pack Bladder.
It is BPA free, which is important. Other plastics contain estrogen and last I checked, fellas, and we don’t need to be consuming estrogen!
The WACOOL 3L 3Liter 100oz BPA Free EVA Hydration Pack Bladder might be the most rigid hydration bladder on the market with a 0.6mm extra thick liner. It is pressure-tolerant and wear-proof and the double soldering sealing side technique has greatly improved durability.
Some folks may be dead set on the bottle as a means of transporting your water. I say, if you can, have both bottle and bladder ready.
Water is heavy, so you have to be careful here to make sure you’re light enough on your feet, as we have at least 10 more items we’re going to be hauling around if we follow this guide.
However, when it comes to hydration, the more prepared you are coming out of the gate, the longer you’ll last until you find another source.
Also, you can utilize the fact that the Klean Kanteen is made of steel, which will allow you to boil out bacteria!
Being able to use both the bladder and the bottle here, you’re embarking with 100 oz. of H2O. That’s a good start until you can find more water to gather and filter with our next item.
When our 100 oz. of water runs dry, hopefully we have used it wisely and have been on the constant search for more. As this source is not from one that we know, it is likely we will have to filter whatever water we find. A water filter is crucial for survival.
The Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System boasts a lightweight design for simple and stress-free packing, and an easy-to-use a filtration system that removes 99.99999% of all bacteria and protozoa while completely removing 100% of microplastics. '
It is also rated to filter up to 100,000 gallons. If you’re not out of mayhem by then, you’ve got some major problems on your hands!
SHELTER
In the event that you have to leave your home, which is the ultimate shelter, you will find no better shelter than a good tent (that is if you don’t already have a planned structure to bug out to). If you’re fleeing the scene, chances are you’re not going to have time to stop off in the woods and build a bush camp real quick.
You can’t beat a tent in this situation, it’s a home right on your back, ready to set up in minutes and keep you from the elements while you formulate the next steps in your plan. If you have fled your home, this is the quickest and closest thing you have to beginning to restore order to your life and the lives of those you love.
Always choose a tent that is rated for one more person than you have in your group or family. This leaves room for your gear, as you want your gear inside and secure with you during times of scarcity in the world. This is where you live now, not just where you sleep.
Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Tent
Lightweight enough for travel yet burly enough to withstand the most rugged situations, the Blacktail 3 Tent from Big Agnes offers reliable, accommodating shelter that provides unparalleled comfort after a long day.
With a spacious sleeping area and easy access due to two side entry doors and vestibules, this convenient home-away-from-home setup will have you thriving in harsh conditions.
Simple to pitch and sporting Low Vent technology that effectively battles condensation so that you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the next day.
The Blacktail 3 Tent from Big Agnes is a superb choice for a bug out scenario.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Dual-zipper door is smooth closing and the discrete seam design creates a clean, modern aesthetic with easy entry and quick reach-through access
Ready to pitch
Weight: 3lb 14oz / 1.76kg
Two doors and two vestibules with storm flaps on vestibule zipper. Symmetrical pole structure features pre-bent poles for increased head space. Quick Stash door keeper on tent body door makes stowing unzipped door quick and easy
Fly and floor are polyester, tent body is polyester breathable and polyester mesh. Fly and floor have 1500mm waterproof polyurethane coating
All seams taped with waterproof polyurethane tape
Two fly vents for increased air flow and reduced condensation. Low Vent feature on the vestibule doors for more air flow while still providing vestibule coverage
Designed for mountaineering and solo mountain trekking, if you’re flying solo, the Rab Ridge Raider Bivi is a solid choice for staying protected from the elements while also remaining low key.
There’s just enough room to keep your gear to one side and still get a good night’s rest. It is extremely lightweight and easy to disguise.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Weight: 1033 grams 37 oz
31.5 in (W) x 100.4 in (L) x 23.6 in (H)
3L 40d eVent® fabric
Packed siz 12 x 6 inches
Bathtub floor
6 V stakes
Now, if you’re willing to really rough it. Here is just about the most lightweight and disguisable situation available unless you’re building your own natural shelter.
I have no need to act tough and personally think that a tent is necessary if you want to stay well-rested and strong enough to handle whatever has brought on the bug out situation in the first place.
However, there is something to say about keeping your edges rough and staying close to the earth. In this case, at least have cover. That is exactly what the Aqua Quest Defender Tarp provides and it is very durable and versatile.
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% WATERPROOF - The Aqua Quest Defender Tarp will keep you completely dry, even in extreme weather. With a hydrostatic resistance of 20,000 mm, you can be absolutely certain that not a single drop of water will get through your tarp.
EXTREMELY DURABLE - 70D Nylon + Heavy TPU & DWR Coating + Reinforced stitching + Heat taped seams = 3.3 lbs of superb defense against mother nature.
COMPACT - With its own convenient stuff-sack, and a small packed size, the Defender is an incredibly tough tarp that still packs up small.
VERSATILE - With 19 reinforced webbing tie loops in and around the perimeter, 4 corner pockets, 2 lantern loops, with a total coverage of 92 sq ft you’ve got all angles covered.
FIRE
Now, here’s one of the most important things that we can have the ability to produce when we need it that is also accompanied by a big “IT DEPENDS”.
If you’re in a situation where you do not want to give away your location or attract any attention, you probably don’t want to build a fire. This is also where it comes in handy to have our food recommendations, as they do not require cooking.
If you feel your location is secure and remote enough, then a fire can be your best friend. It can keep you warm, fend off wildlife, and is also a simple morale booster.
Just make sure you are not in danger of creating a wildfire if you are in an area prone to wildfires and the conditions are not favorable. This could be absolutely devastating for yourself and absolutely everything around you.
The anatomy of starting a fire is composed of two things. Ignition and Fuel. Understanding how to make fire and implementing that knowledge to be able to start a fire in not so perfect conditions is probably the most valuable skill you can have in a survival situation.
BIC Classic Lighter
Starting out with a no-brainer here. These days a sturdy well-made lighter is just about the easiest way to produce a constant flame.
Having one of these on you at all times is easy and shouldn’t even be a thought. I carry two everywhere I go. It’s just part of my routine to have these as my everyday carry (EDC).
Another great method of carrying a flame maker that will also withstand wind is to have a good Zippo Lighter.
Even if you’re going to carry a Zippo, I would still carry a Bic at least for backup.
Zippos are reliable, but they do have some mechanisms that can break down and they tend to run out of fuel faster.
Ok, so we have our flame producer. Now we need something to catch on and burn long enough to get the fire burning nice and hot.
Being in an emergency/bug out situation may not be very conducive to the gathering of tinder or maybe even kindling for that matter. You may be in an area where there just isn’t a lot of natural resources to choose from so you have to burn what you can find and the supply may be limited.
The Black Beard Fire Starter is just about the most amazing product for this. They have demonstrated that this stuff can be soaked in water and immediately taken right out and caught ablaze. It’s tough stuff and it is small and lightweight and I believe it is just about as good as it gets for Bug Out Bag fire starting!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Waterproof, windproof and extremely reliable
50+ Fires from one stick
100 Year Shelf Life
Non Toxic
Made in the USA
No fire-making post would be complete without throwing in a trusty ferro rod. This is a fail-safe. It easily can fit in your pants pocket and weighs close to nothing. Just carry one.
Nobody ever said “Man, I wish I hadn’t brought along that ferro rod.”
Überleben is everything you want, and nothing you don’t. It’s minimalist simplicity and functionality at it’s finest. It’s practical luxury.
The perfect balance of durability and weight. It’s handcrafted and it’s 100% real-deal.
Modern Bushcraft, Traditional Wisdom.
FEATURES & SPECS:
HANDCRAFTED HARDWOOD HANDLE — Traditionally inspired materials and ergonomics. Intentionally left the grip natural, ready to earn that seasoned finish. Oil & grit… bare, calloused hands.
BEST FERRO BLEND, PERIOD — Überleben’s Sånft-korr(TM) ferrocerium is the perfect balance between softness & durability, consistently outperforming the leading fire starters. Easily throw a 5,500ºF shower of molten sparks in any weather (waterproof), at any altitude.
MULTIPLE SIZE OPTIONS — At nearly 5-inches in total length, the Zünden is available in three thickness variations, including: Trad 5/16” (8mm): 12,000+ strikes, Pro 3/8” (10mm): 15,000+ strikes, and Fatty 1/2” (12.5mm): 20,000+ strikes.
DESIGNED FOR NECK CARRY — There’s no excuse. Even the Zünden Fatty weighs in at less than 3 oz. Includes Mil-spec 550 paracord lanyard + Multi-tool striker (straight-edge spine, concave tinder scraper, map scale, ruler, hex wrench… and most importantly, bottle opener).
FOOD
Considerations for food should be quite simple. We are preparing for up to 72 hours here and space and weight are big considerations.
I am including a few items here for a better variety of nutrition and a little morale, but to be honest, I carry 12 Cliff Bars and a couple of packs of beef jerky in my pack. They are lightweight and take up very little space and have a calorie punch with a little protein.
You can get by with little to no food for a lot longer than you think and these items will keep you going. If you find yourself with a little more room in your pack after you’ve met all of your needs, then a can of sardines, although heavier, will provide you with some vital nutrition.
And of course, the coffee is purely for morale.
Clif Bar
Bugging out means inherently, compromising. You have no choice in the matter but to make compromise in how you’re living. This applies to food in some very bare bones ways.
Mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber makes this a moderate glycemic index food that gives you sustained energy.
Made with 70-percent organic ingredients.
Free of trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and high fructose corn syrup.
Tillamook Country Smoker Beef Jerkey
Rationing is a big deal, but you also want to function at a reasonably optimized level, so there is a balance here. This should be on your mind when you’re deciding what type of food and how much of it you keep in your Bug Out Bag. Space and weight, as always, should also be at the forefront of your mind.
Handcrafted in Tillamook County, Oregon over real hardwood. You can taste the difference. I like to buy this in bulk and then separate it out into smaller bagged meal portions for my B.O.B.
Kuju Coffee Travel 5-Pack
You can no longer look to food for comfort like you may normally do in your daily life.
You have to change your psychology and fully realize that you are now truly eating to survive and you must be mindful of what and how much you consume at one sitting.
Having said that, morale is also important to keep us going and if we can find some comfort along the way that is simple and makes sense, we should take that opportunity.
Wake up to the comfort of a classic pour over when you're equipped with the Travel 5-Pack from Kuju Coffee. Conveniently stored in an adaptable filter that clamps onto mugs of any size, this delicious coffee is ready before you're finished putting on your pair of socks.
FIRST AID
When it comes to first aid we could get very elaborate. However, for our 72 Hour Bug Out Bag, we want our first aid kit to be compact and lightweight while still retaining a high standard and quality. My go to for first aid kits is My Medic.
This company has set the standard for first aid kits and medical supplies. Name your activity or purpose, and they have custom made kits to suit your needs.
Though My Medic offers thorough first aid kits and supplies, I always make a list of priority items that I won’t do without and then make a checklist of what’s in the kit. From there, I just add whatever I find is missing.
Another method, which I love, is to just build out your own first aid kit from scratch. That way, you can make every single decision. But, for the purposes of this blog post, it’s hard to beat My Medic for your prefab first aid kit.
MyFAK
The MyFAK (My First Aid Kit) was designed with three goals: Adaptive - Functional - Indestructible.
This First Aid Kit can be used anywhere from a day at the park with the kids, a multi-day backpacking adventure, or off-road in your Jeep. So, obviously it’s a good fit for a B.O.B.
If you're out there, the MyFAK will be there for you.
For a complete list of what’s inside the MyFAK, click here
Small, water resistant and lightweight. The name says it all. If you’re flying solo when things go awry, this is a good kit.
Fits perfectly in most backpacks and it's even safe for carry-on wherever you fly.
The two buttoned Molle straps on the back of The Solo bag are perfect for attaching this Kit to another bag... or whatever your heart desires. The handle is high quality and heavy duty. Designed to be easy to grab and easily attachable.
For a complete list of what’s inside The Solo, click here
SLEEP
Unless you live close to the equator, you’re going to want a good sleeping bag and pad. Can you get by without it? Sure.
However, like we’ve said so many time, the more you can optimize your rest and rejuvenation the better you will perform in high-pressure and dangerous situations and the better the chance that you will make it through.
Stay well-rested!
Peregrine Altai 0 Down Blend Sleeping Bag
The Peregrine Altai 0 is the ideal bag for backpacking or camping in cold winter weather in either dry or humid climates.
Featuring Primaloft Down Blend Silver and a durable DWR treated 20D 380T Nylon Ripstop shell, the Altai 0 will keep moisture out and trap heat in while providing warmth regardless of outside conditions.
The Altai 0 uses durable #5 YKK zippers with anti-snag zipper tape to ensure easy entry and exit every time. The fully insulated hood with easy-to-find draw strings keeps your noggin warm on those cold nights while an internal pocket located near your chest offers safe and quick storage for small essentials, a midnight snack, or valuables.
Stuff sack and large, cotton storage sack are included.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Size: Regular 80" x 29" x 21" (205 x 75 x 55 cm); Long 86" x 29" x 21" (220 x 75 x 55 cm)
Primaloft down blend is Bluesign approved and RDS Certified supply chain
Carry Size: 14" x 9" (36 x 23 cm)
Carry Weight: Regular 2 lbs 12.2 oz (1254g); Long 2 lbs 14.8 oz (1328g)
Shell: DWR Treated 20d 380t Nylon Ripstop Heavy Cire
Liner: 20d 380t Nylon Ripstop Heavy Cire
Fits: Regular Fits Up to 6' Comfortably; Large Fits Up to 6'5' Comfortably
Big Agnes Insulated AXL Air Sleeping Pad
Having a thermal sleeping pad is HUGE if you’re anywhere that even gets slightly cool in the evening. The cold ground will suck the warmth and life right out of you depending on your climate and season. Do not underestimate this!
Of course there are ways of doing this with natural surroundings. Pine bows and needles are a fantastic form of insulation.
However, the gathering takes precious time away from resting from what is obviously a stressful situation, seeing as how you had to bug out and all. Also, pine bows can leave a mess in your tent and potentially even create holes.
Remember, we are not trying to flex our survivalist muscles and rough it here, we’re trying to do our best to thrive during bug out situation.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Design: 3.25” thick pad with 3.75” larger outer chambers keep you comfortably cradled in the middle of the pad
Features: Quieter material than other ultralight sleeping pads. Antimicrobial treatment inside the pad prevents microorganism growth
Includes: Protective storage sack, replacement valve seal and 3M repair patches included
Inflation: Low-profile, single port, two-way valve with micro adjustments make for fast inflation/deflation and easy fine tuning to your preferred firmness
Insulation: PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation with Cross Core Technology working with a heat reflective barrier traps body heat and reflects it back, so you stay comfortable as the temperatures drop
Main Material: Proprietary patterned random nylon rip-stop made with a high-tenacity yarn and high-filament count to increase fabric tear strength by 25% and decrease material weight
R-value: 3
Rolled Size: 3.5" x 8" / 9cm x 20cm
Technology: Aviation grade TPU lamination technology for ultimate dependability
Weight: 18oz / 510g
ILLUMINATION
When it comes to lighting the way, I like to have options. I like to have a backup for my backup. Always have a headlamp, at least one.
You should absolutely have the ability to go hands free here. There are too many situations where you are going to need both hands to perform tasks.
Besides a headlamp, I like to have a slender, sturdy, and high lumen flashlight in my pocket and also one in the pack.
I make sure that at least one of those flashlights has a strobe feature. In a self defense situation an intense strobe light can be used to stun an attacker and give you the upper hand in a conflict. It can also be used to alert someone if you need help.
Black Diamond Revolt 350 Headlamp
Having hands free illumination in the middle of the night in a survival situation is made optimal with the Black Diamond Revolt 350 Headlamp.
Exploring in the dark has never been easier, thanks to this USB rechargeable headlamp that emits a 350 lumens at max settings.
You can choose between USB rechargeable or AAA battery power.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Battery Compatibility: BD 1800 Rechargeable mAh Lithium Ion Battery (included) or standard AAA alkaline batteries
Beam Distance: [High] 82 m (alkaline) [Low] 8 m (alkaline)
Extras: Brightness memory allows you to turn the light on and off at a chosen brightness without reverting back to full power
Features: IPX4: Storm proof - tested to withstand rain and sleet from any angle
Light Output: 350 lumens on max setting
They say dynamite comes in small packages and that certainly applies to the Streamlight ProTac 88052 HL USB Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight. This little beast is amazing and if taken care of, should last for many years to come.
With 850 lumens, I’ve even used the Streamlight ProTac 88052 to look under the fender well of vehicles not only in broad daylight, but on extremely bright sunny days, you can still shine this thing in the shadows and illuminate everything! It’s one of the handiest and important everyday carry items I own.
With Li Ion Rechargeable Battery & USB Cord, this high lumen tactical light is USB rechargeable, so you can charge on-the-go using almost any USB source, and without taking the battery out.
The Streamlight ProTac HL USB Flashlight features a tail cap switch for momentary or constant on operation, three different user selectable programs and a pocket clip for convenience. The aircraft aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durable and abrasion resistant.
An absolute asset for any preparedness minded individual, the ProTac HL USB is a versatile tactical light that can charge from multiple sources and use three battery types; Streamlight rechargeable lithium ion battery, two CR123A batteries, or commercially available Rechargeable Li Ion cells.
This light will charge from a laptop or most USB wall chargers. Multi battery versatility means you can always use primary disposable cells to power the light when a charging source is not available.
FEATURES & SPECS:
USB Rechargeable
Dual 100,000 hour lifetime high intensity LED solid state bulbs
Run time: 750 continuous hours
3-1/4 Inch long by 1 inch wide
IPX4 water-resistant
1 meter impact resistance tested
Gasket sealed glass lens
Durable aircraft aluminum construction with Type II MIL-Spec anodized finish
The same classic personal flashlight in a smaller AAA size. Features a precision, high-strength aluminum casing, superior optics with focusing beams and On/Off operation by simply twisting the head cap, and an extra bulb in end cap.
The good old fashioned Mini Mag is slender and conveniently slides securely into you pocket and is perfect for down time when you just need a simple flashlight to perform a simple task.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Lumens: 9
Burn Time: 2 hrs 30 min
Max Distance: 31 meters
Waterproof to 1 meter
Power Source: 2 AAA
TOOLS
Benchmade Triage
I carry the Benchmade Triage when traveling and in unfamiliar territory or while in the great outdoors. There such peace of mind in carrying this amazing tool and here’s why.
A favorite among first responders, where speed and safety are of the utmost importance, the Triage family from Benchmade are perhaps our favorite EDC knives on the planet here at Rugged Man.
The Triage Auto 9170 BK packaged in high-strength aluminum with the speed and efficiency of AXIS auto and an automatic opening hook.
It sports a N680 stainless modified drop point blade, black anodized aluminum handle with black G10 inlays, and a carbide glass breaker tip. The hook-shaped safety cutter features 440C stainless steel and an automatic opening as well as a slide release/lock.
The Benchmade Triage has some of the most storied reviews out there, with active overseas deployed military, law enforcement, EMT’s, fire fighters, and first responders of all kinds. Not to mention a favorite of rugged outdoorsmen and preppers/survivalists of all walks of life.
To see more of our top picks for a variety of the best EDC knives at different price points, check out our article THE TOP 7 EDC (EVERYDAY CARRY) KNIVES OF 2021
FEATURES & SPECS:
Action: Manual-opening
Blade Edge: Plain Blade
Finish: Coated
Blade Length: 3.48" (8.84cm)
Blade Material: CPM-S30V (58-60 HRC) Steel
Blade Style: Drop-point
Blade Thickness: 0.124" (3.150mm)
Closed Length: 4.85" (12.32cm)
Handle: Black Contoured G10
Handle Thickness: 0.55" (13.97mm)
Lock Mechanism: AXIS®
Open Length: 8.33" (21.16cm)
Weight: 5.28oz. (149.69g)
Silky Pocketboy Folding Saw
Having a small durable saw can do anything from removing debris off of a roadway or essential path, to sawing up firewood, or to even saw up limbs big enough that, when combined with some good strong paracord, can make one HELL of a shelter if you had no choice but to hunker down for a day or three.
The Silky Pocketboy is a compact folding saw that will take up very little room in a pocket or backpack. It features a rust-resistant, hard chrome-plated, taper-ground blade with an impulse-hardened non-set tooth design for greater cutting efficiency.
The blade locks securely into one of two open positions, in line with the handle and flush cutting. It comes with a clear thick plastic flip-lock carrying case with belt clip. One of the handiest tools I own.
Here’s one of those knives that make for multiple uses, and as we say from time to time, two is one and one is none. I can’t take credit for that saying, but I like to say it.
Morakniv makes some really great inexpensive knives that are almost all geared toward bushcraft tooling.
The Morakniv Companion has an anti-corrosive black coated blade of high carbon steel. The sheath comes with two interchangeable belt clips. The spine of the blade has been ground especially for use with a fire-starter.
Whether it’s a couple of cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly, some wood shreds, or some Wet Fire tabs, make sure you’re also hauling some fire tinder.
The Cold Steel 80PGTK GI Tanto is a no-nonsense tactical knife designed for practical uses - from camping and hunting, to any day-to-day use where a strong and sharp blade is called for.
This knife features a broad, seven-inch Tanto blade of 1055 carbon steel with a hard spring temper that has been ground to a razor sharp edge and point. The blade is protected with a black, rust resistant finish that adds to the knife's under-cover look.
With an integral quillon guard and polypropylene handle scales, the Cold Steel 80PGTK GI Tanto offers a heavy and balanced feel in the hand.
The knife can be thrown easily by the blade or the handle and also can be converted into a spear or war club by removing the handle scales and lashing the blade securely to a wooden shaft. Comes with a sturdy Secure-Ex sheath.
You can beat the living hell out of this knife and it just keeps on performing!
A heavy-duty essential with everyday appeal, the Surge Multi-Tool from Leatherman is designed to fit sleekly in your pocket while offering you incredible convenience whenever you need it.
Containing a stunning 21 tools to help you get the job done, this versatile workhorse features full sized knife blades, replaceable wire cutters, extra-large scissors, and more.
The 420HC Stainless Steel construction offers impressive durability alongside a stunning appearance to provide you with a crucial collection of tools that you'll truly enjoy using.
Pick up the Surge Multi-Tool from Leatherman and carry your entire tool box in your pocket without breaking a sweat.
COMMUNICATIONS
Having the ability to communicate with loved ones and friends in an emergency situation is a big deal. We all have cell phones but they are not always going to be reliable, especially in a grid down scenario.
This is where the satellite phone comes into play. Satellite phones run off satellites in space and do not rely much at all on the grid. They can literally reach anywhere in the world!
Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone Standard Package
The Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone is the toughest handset ever from the only company that offers real global, real mobile, real reliable communications.
Engineered with more features and more accessories than any other satellite phone on the market, the Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone puts more innovative capability and more ways to connect than ever before into the hands of people everywhere.
No other mobile communications company brings you:
Two-way global coverage across oceans, airways and polar regions
Polar Regions Real mobility that keeps you connected while on the move
Reliable, near real-time communications services customizable for virtually every industry
The Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone utilizes the Truly Global Iridium Satellite Network. With 66 satellites orbiting the globe you will have crystal clear pole to pole coverage.
Iridium’s coverage encompasses 100% of the planet, providing weather resilient services unlike any other satellite provider. No other network matches the reach, coverage, and reliability of Iridium.
Iridium Extreme is engineered with an expansive feature set, including calling, messaging, tracking, and more. Iridium Extreme provides people with more opportunities to connect and keep in contact anytime, anywhere.
Iridium Extreme is built to take a beating. It is ruggedly engineered to support the toughest, highest usage customers of satellite phone communications in harsh conditions, everywhere. Iridium Extreme is built with as much guts and grit as those who use it.
BUILT-IN SOS
Iridium Extreme integrates a GPS-enabled SOS button. Iridium Extreme will alert your programmed contact of your location and will help create a two-way connection to assist in the response. It also includes GPS-enabled SOS with emergency services supported by GEOS.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Iridium Extreme Satellite Phone
Travel Charger with International Adapters
Car Charger
Leather Case
USB Data Cable
Accessory Adapters (2X)
Magnetic Vehicle-mount Antenna with 5’ Cable
Hands-free Earpiece with Microphone
Quick Start Guides in Multiple Languages
FEATURES & SPECS:
Dimensions: 5.5in(L) x 2.3in(W) x 1.06inD)
Weight: 8.7 oz
Duration: 4 hours talk time; 30 hours standby
Durability: Military-Grade Ruggedness (MIL-STD 810F); Ingress Protection (IP65)
Integrated speakerphone
Quick-connect to Iridium voicemail
Two-way SMS and short email
21 supported menu languages
Pre-programmable International Access Code
Mailbox for voice, numeric and text messages
Selectable ring and alert tones
100-entry internal phonebook, with capacity for multiple phone numbers, email addresses and notes
Call history retains received, missed and dialed calls
Display 200-character, daylight-readable display
Integrated backlight for nighttime viewing
Illuminated weather resistant keypad
Pre-Paid and Post-Paid SIM Cards included - Ready to activate!
Iridium is the world's only truly global mobile satellite communications company, with voice and data solutions covering every inch of the earth's surface. Reaching over oceans, through airways and across the Polar Regions
Iridium Extreme combines location awareness, a fully integrated SOS button with included emergency response service, and market leading toughness, letting you take durability, reliability and versatility with you in hand, all over the world.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS TO CONSIDER
There are other considerations like personal protection, clothing, sanitation, and other personal items you will certainly want to consider when deciding how efficient and prepared you are in the event a major catastrophe.
However, in keeping today’s Bug Out Bag Essentials List concise, this article has been written to cover what we consider to be the mandatory items, the “essentials”.
Below are a couple of helpful links with detailed lists and information to aid you in customizing and completing, in great detail, your 72 Hour Bug Out Bag.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
—Benjamin Franklin
Enjoy building out your Bug Out Bag. It should be a fun experience and an insightful one as well.
Keep yourself and your loved ones as prepared as possible and always a few steps ahead of the game as much as you can.
These are strange times we’re living in. Stay alert. Remain RUGGED!
RELATED ARTICLES:
THE BEST FIRST AID KIT FOR A BUG OUT BAG IN 2022
ESSENTIAL CONTENTS FOR A GET HOME BAG: A COMPLETE 2022 CHECKLIST
THE BACKPACKING GEAR ESSENTIALS LIST FOR BEGINNERS IN 2022
BASIC WILDERNESS SURVIVAL KIT ESSENTIALS
HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN SURVIVAL FOOD KIT
THE MOST EFFICIENT & RELIABLE WATER FILTER FOR BACKCOUNTRY HUNTING
ARE SATELLITE PHONES WORTH IT?
ABOUT
