Bug Out Bag Essentials

A well stocked bug out bag is a pillar of any survival planing. A bug out bag is a portable survival kit containing the essential items that can help you survive and stay safe during emergencies. Below must-have items for your bug out bag to make sure you're ready for any situation.

  1. Water and Hydration

Fact: the human body can only survive a few days without water. Water is a top priority for any bug out bag. When preparing a bug out bag, make sure it include:

  • Water bottles or hydration bladders
  • Water purification tablets or a portable water filter
  • Collapsible water container for additional water storage
  1. Food and Nutrition

Beside water, it is critical to prepare food and nutrition. You need to pack non-perishable, high-calorie foods that require minimal preparation:

  • Energy bars and protein bars
  • Dried fruits and nuts
  • Ready-to-eat meals (MREs) or freeze-dried meals
  • A compact camping stove and fuel (optional)
Bestseller No. 1
Amazon Kitchen, Slow Roasted Beef & Mashed Potatoes, Single Serve Meal, 12 Oz
  • Slow-roasted beef and creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, carrots, sweet...
  • Ready in Minutes
  • Microwave for 3.5 minutes
SaleBestseller No. 1
Coleman Triton+ Portable 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove, 22,000 Total BTUs, Wind Guards, Adjustable Burners, Instant Push-Button Ignition, Suitable for Backyard BBQs, Beach Cookouts, Tailgating
  • Portable: Built-in handle ensures easy transportation; heavy-duty latch...
  • High Control: Independent adjustable burners with PerfectFlow and...
  • Easy Ignition: Push-button Instastart ignition for matchless lighting
  1. Shelter and Warmth

Protecting yourself from the elements is critical. You may not know when you are able to return home, so you need to be ready for all temperatures and weather.

  • A lightweight, waterproof tent or emergency bivvy
  • A durable and compact sleeping bag
  • A sleeping pad or ground cover
  • A thermal blanket or emergency blanket
Bestseller No. 1
Esky Emergency Sleeping Bag, 2 Pack Survival Bag Portable Thermal Bivy Sack, Waterproof Lightweight Emergency Blanket Survival Gear with Compass and Whistle for Camping Hiking Outdoor Adventure
  • A Life Saver in Emergencies: This Emergency Sleeping Bag is an invaluable...
  • Sturdy Mylar: The insulating Mylar material is designed by NASA for space...
  • Ultra-bright Reflective Surface: Trapped in the dark? Let this Survival...

Bestseller No. 1
Emergency Survival Sleeping Bag | Portable Emergency Blanket Survival Gear Emergency Bivvy Sack Thermal Sleeping Bag Camping, 2 Pack
  • Losing body heat is a major cause of death in emergency. The Leberna...
  • The Leberna Emergency Survival Mylar Thermal Sleeping Bag is extra large in...
  • The Leberna Emergency Survival Mylar Thermal Sleeping Bag comes with two...


SaleBestseller No. 1
QIO CHUANG Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets -Space Blanket Survival kit Camping Blanket (4-Pack). Perfect for Outdoors, Hiking, Survival, Bug Out Bag ,Marathons or First Aid 1
  • Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets - Emergency Blanket,Space Blanket,Thermal...
  • Space Blanket Survival kit Camping Blanket (Pack of 4)- Each survival...
  • EMERGENCY USE - Perfect for emergency situations where warmth or protection...
  1. Clothing

Just like preparing for the elements, your clothing needs to be  is versatile and appropriate for various weather conditions:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating mid-layers
  • Waterproof and windproof outer layers
  • A hat, gloves, and extra socks
SaleBestseller No. 1
FROGG TOGGS Men's Pro Lite Rain Suit, Waterproof, Breathable, Dependable Wet Weather Protection, Carbon Black, Medium-Large
  • WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE – Constructed with frogg toggs L83 bi-laminate...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT and PACKABLE – Don’t get caught without it! The Pro Lite...
  • FIT – Runs large, designed to fit over clothing for quick weather...
  1. First Aid and Personal Hygiene

A well-stocked first aid kit and personal hygiene items are essential:

  • Bandages, gauze, and adhesive tape
  • Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
  • Pain relievers, allergy medications, and any prescription medications
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
Bestseller No. 1
First Aid Only 91248 OSHA-Compliant All-Purpose 50-Person Emergency First Aid Kit for Home, Work, and Travel, 260 Pieces
  • Comprehensive Emergency Kit: Includes adequate supplies for treating up to...
  • Convenient Packaging: An ideal workplace and home first aid, it comes in a...
  • Easy Access: This convenient and versatile work, home and car emergency kit...
  1. Tools and Equipment

Equip your bug out bag with practical tools and equipment:

  • A multi-tool or a sturdy fixed-blade knife
  • A reliable flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
  • A firestarter (matches, lighter, or ferrocerium rod)
  • A compact portable radio or emergency communication device
  • Paracord and duct tape
  1. Navigation and Signaling

Stay on course and make your presence known in case of rescue:

  • A compass and detailed maps of your area
  • A whistle and signal mirror for attracting attention
  • A GPS device or smartphone with offline maps (optional)
  1. Personal Documents and Cash

Carry essential documents and some emergency cash:

  • Copies of identification, passports, and insurance documents
  • A list of emergency contacts
  • Cash in small denominations and coins


Building a comprehensive bug out bag is an essential step towards ensuring your safety and well-being in emergency situations. Customize your bag to fit your specific needs and regularly update its contents to maintain its effectiveness. With a well-prepared bug out bag, you'll be ready to face any disaster with confidence.

Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API