Don’t keep a filthy Bug out Bag
So, if you were all paying attention, I left off last week with telling you about the importance of having a bug out bag ready, as well as the top things I have in mine.
But while what’s in the bag is the most important thing, a very close second is the organization of it.
I know, you probably thought the whole “organization” beat was left back in school. Turns out though, it’s about to come in handy with your bug out bag.
You gotta know how to fit as much as possible into a small bag. You can’t just throw stuff in there like you’re packing for vacation (you know, last minute, throwing as much in a possible).
This requires precision.
Okay, let’s get started!
Before we get into the organization, we need to discuss the containers you plan on using.
There are many things you can use as containers, so you don’t have to be extremely picky here. You want something lightweight and waterproof, as well as unbreakable.
Something that you wouldn’t mind carrying 50 miles ya know?
I recommend either zip lock kitchen bags for lighters and electronics, and food containers for everything else. As long as they are waterproof, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Another secret of mine is Altoid tins. Though they’re not waterproof, they’re very light as well as small. Use them to keep things such as fishing hooks, needles, sewing kits etc. Again, we recommend you put the items inside zipper bags to protect them from the elements.
Altoid tins (as should anything in your bug out bag) have multiple uses in a survival scenario, including: parts used for a miniature cooking stove, an emergency signal mirror, a solar emergency radio and so on.
Alright, now let’s get into the organization:
I always ask myself this questions before packing a new bugout bag “What can go wrong?”
If you must grab your bag on a moment’s notice, you want everything you need most to be easy to access. I recommend using the loops and straps on the bag itself to secure the most vital of items in the outside pouches. Carabiner clips are extremely useful for securing these items to the outside of the bag.
As far as inside of the bag, organizing the containers is the key. The goal is to distribute the weight with your back in mind.
If you just throw random stuff in there, you may be putting more strain on the back, which could slow you down during an emergency.
What I always tell my people is to put the heaviest containers closest to your spine, so the bag doesn’t feel like its pulling you down. Nothing stops a man quicker than a bad back.
I hope you can see the value in what I’m saying here. Being prepared is being smart, and there’s nothing better than being smart.
Next time I will give out a my complete list of things I keep in my bag, so don’t miss it!
As always, Survive, Defend, and Prosper!
Jules Courtney