Imagine a storm is coming. Not just any storm, but one that knocks out power and makes roads impassable. Do you have a plan? A “Bug Out” plan is your escape route, and it starts with a well-chosen location.
Choosing a Bug Out is tough. You need to think about safety, supplies, and how easy it is to get there. Many people feel overwhelmed by the choices. Where do you even start? What if you pick the wrong place? The stakes are high when your safety and survival are on the line.
In this blog post, we will break down the key things to consider when selecting your Bug Out. You will learn how to assess different locations, what supplies you need, and how to create a solid plan. We will help you feel confident and prepared. Ready to learn how to choose the right Bug Out for you and your family? Let’s get started!
Our Top 5 Bug Out Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bug Out Detailed Reviews
1. 1000Ib Paracord Rope – 100ft / 200ft / 500ft / 1000ft 4mm
Rating: 8.5/10
The 1000Ib Paracord Rope is a strong and versatile cord for all your outdoor and DIY needs. This Army Green, 4mm rope comes in lengths from 100ft to 1000ft. It’s made with a tough 32-strand outer layer and a 12-strand inner core. You can use it for camping, hiking, fishing, and crafting. This paracord is a reliable tool for any adventure or project.
What We Like:
- This paracord is incredibly strong, with a 1000lb breaking strength.
- It’s useful for many things, like making bracelets, securing gear, or even as a clothesline.
- You can use it indoors and outdoors for various projects.
- The rope is a great gift for anyone who loves the outdoors or DIY projects.
- The company offers reliable customer service if you have any issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color options are limited to Army Green. More color choices would be nice.
- While strong, the 4mm thickness might be too thin for some heavy-duty applications.
- Beginners might need some guidance on the many ways to use paracord.
This 1000Ib Paracord Rope is a dependable choice for anyone seeking a strong and adaptable cord. With its impressive strength and many uses, it’s a worthwhile addition to your gear.
2. LifeStraw Personal Water Purifier for Hiking
Rating: 9.2/10
The LifeStraw Personal Water Purifier is your reliable companion for clean drinking water on any adventure. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, camping by a stream, traveling abroad, or preparing for emergencies, this lightweight device gives you safe water wherever you go. It removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, so you can hydrate with confidence.
What We Like:
- Removes 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria like E. Coli and Salmonella. This keeps you safe from nasty illnesses.
- Removes 99.999% of waterborne parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. You can drink without worry.
- Filters out microplastics down to 1 micron. This helps protect you from environmental pollutants.
- Long lifespan: It purifies up to 4,000 liters (1,000 gallons) of water. This makes it a great value.
- For every LifeStraw purchased, a child in need gets safe drinking water for a school year. You can feel good about your purchase.
- Made with BPA-free materials. This ensures the water you drink is safe and clean.
- Rigorous testing has been conducted by US EPA, NSF, and ASTM laboratories.
What Could Be Improved:
- You can only drink directly from the water source. It cannot be used to fill a water bottle.
- It requires strong suction to draw water through the filter. This can be tiring.
The LifeStraw Personal Water Purifier gives you access to safe drinking water in various situations. It offers peace of mind and helps you stay healthy on all your adventures.
3. Emergency Radio with NOAA Weather Alert
Rating: 9.0/10
The Emergency Radio with NOAA Weather Alert is a versatile tool designed to keep you informed and prepared during emergencies. This portable radio features multiple power sources, including solar, hand crank, and battery, ensuring you always have access to vital information. It also includes a built-in flashlight, reading lamp, and USB charger, making it an essential companion for both home and outdoor use.
What We Like:
- NOAA Weather Alerts: The radio alerts you to severe weather warnings from the National Weather Service, keeping you safe during tornadoes, hurricanes, and other emergencies.
- Multiple Power Options: With solar, hand crank, USB, and AAA battery options, you can always power the radio, even when electricity is unavailable.
- Versatile Functionality: It’s more than just a radio! The built-in flashlight and reading lamp provide essential lighting, and the USB port allows you to charge your phone.
- Wide Range of Radio Bands: Enjoy AM, FM, and shortwave radio, giving you access to news, music, and broadcasts from around the world.
- Portable and Durable: The compact design and included compass and hand strap make it perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.
What Could Be Improved:
- Power Plug Not Included: The radio can be charged via a power plug, but you need to provide your own 5V/2A adapter.
- AAA Batteries Not Included: The radio has a backup battery compartment, but you’ll need to purchase AAA batteries separately.
- SOS Alarm Duration: While the alarm is loud, the 9-second duration might be too short for some users.
In summary, this emergency radio is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for unexpected situations. The combination of weather alerts, multiple power sources, and added features makes it a valuable tool for both everyday use and emergency preparedness.
4. QIO CHUANG Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets -Space Blanket Survival kit Camping Blanket (4-Pack). Perfect for Outdoors
Rating: 8.5/10
The QIO CHUANG Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets are a must-have for anyone who spends time outdoors or wants to be prepared for emergencies. This 4-pack of space blankets offers reliable protection from the elements. They are designed to keep you warm in cold conditions. You can easily pack them for hiking, camping, or keep them in your car for unexpected situations.
What We Like:
- These blankets offer excellent emergency protection. The reflective Mylar material traps heat. This helps keep you warm when you need it most.
- They are very compact and lightweight. You can easily store them in a backpack, bug-out bag, or car. They won’t take up much space.
- The blankets are made of durable Polyester. This makes them suitable for various outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. They are built to last.
- You can easily wash them in a machine. This makes cleaning and maintaining the blankets simple and convenient.
- The size is ideal for most adults. At 84 inches x 55 inches, the blankets provide ample coverage.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the Mylar material can still tear if handled roughly. Be careful when unfolding and using them.
- The blankets primarily provide warmth. They may not be as effective in extremely wet conditions without additional protection.
These QIO CHUANG emergency blankets give you peace of mind. You’ll have a reliable source of warmth and protection in any situation. These blankets are a smart investment for your safety and preparedness.
5. BleedStop™ First Aid Powder for Blood Clotting
Rating: 9.3/10
BleedStop™ First Aid Powder is designed to quickly stop bleeding from moderate to severe wounds. This kit includes four 15g pouches, making it perfect for your first-aid kit, trauma kit, camping gear, or survival equipment. It’s even effective for people who take blood thinners. BleedStop is a trusted brand found in major drugstores like Walgreens, CVS, and RiteAid, so you know it’s a reliable option when you need it most.
What We Like:
- Stops Bleeding Fast: BleedStop powder works on contact to stop moderate to severe bleeding from cuts, scrapes, lacerations, and nosebleeds.
- Works for Blood Thinner Users: It’s safe and effective even if you’re taking blood thinners.
- Safe and Non-Stinging: The formula is non-stinging, making it suitable for use on children and adults.
- Easy to Use: Simply pour the powder on the wound and apply pressure with a sterile bandage. No need to wash it off.
- Widely Available: BleedStop is the only brand name blood coagulant that is available in all Walgreens, CVS, and RiteAid stores.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pouch Size: While four pouches are included, larger pouches might be preferred for extensive wounds.
- Dusting Effect: The powder can sometimes create a slight dusting effect when applied.
BleedStop First Aid Powder is a must-have for any first-aid kit, offering peace of mind knowing you can quickly manage bleeding. Be prepared for everyday accidents and outdoor adventures with this essential product.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Getting Ready to ‘Bug Out’
“Bugging out” means quickly leaving your home during an emergency. A ‘bug out bag’ (BOB) is a backpack filled with supplies to help you survive for at least 72 hours. Choosing the right bag and packing it well is important. This guide will help you pick the best bug out bag for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a bug out bag, think about these important features:
- Size: A bag that is too big will be heavy and hard to carry. A bag that is too small won’t hold enough supplies. A good size is usually between 40 and 60 liters.
- Comfort: Look for padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a sternum strap. These features will help distribute the weight of the bag and make it more comfortable to carry for long periods.
- Durability: The bag should be made of strong material that can withstand wear and tear. Check the stitching and zippers to make sure they are well-made.
- Organization: Pockets and compartments help you organize your gear. Look for a bag with multiple pockets of different sizes. MOLLE webbing (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) allows you to attach extra pouches and gear to the outside of the bag.
- Water Resistance: A water-resistant bag will help keep your gear dry in wet conditions. Some bags come with a rain cover for extra protection.
Important Materials
The materials used to make a bug out bag affect its durability and weight. Here are some common materials:
- Nylon: A strong and lightweight material that is resistant to abrasion and water. Denier (D) is a unit of measurement for the thickness of the nylon fibers. Higher denier numbers mean thicker and stronger fabric (e.g., 600D nylon is stronger than 420D nylon).
- Polyester: Another strong and water-resistant material. It is often more affordable than nylon.
- Canvas: A durable and breathable material, but it is heavier than nylon or polyester and not as water-resistant.
- Ripstop: A special weave that prevents tears from spreading. It is often used in nylon and polyester fabrics.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors affect the overall quality of a bug out bag:
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Reinforced Stitching: Double or triple stitching in high-stress areas makes the bag more durable.
- High-Quality Zippers: Strong and smooth zippers are essential. YKK zippers are known for their quality.
- Durable Buckles: Buckles should be made of strong plastic or metal.
- Waterproof Coating: A waterproof coating on the fabric adds extra protection from rain.
- Internal Frame: An internal frame helps distribute the weight of the bag and provides support.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Thin Material: Cheap bags are often made of thin, low-denier nylon or polyester.
- Weak Stitching: Poor stitching can cause the bag to fall apart under stress.
- Cheap Zippers: Zippers that easily break or get stuck are a sign of low quality.
- Lack of Padding: Insufficient padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt can make the bag uncomfortable to carry.
- Poor Design: A poorly designed bag may not have enough pockets or compartments, or the weight may be poorly distributed.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your bug out bag.
- Hiking/Camping: If you plan to hike or camp with your bag, choose a comfortable and lightweight bag with plenty of room for gear.
- Urban Evacuation: If you live in a city, choose a bag that is discreet and easy to carry on public transportation.
- Family Use: If you are packing a bag for your family, consider getting a larger bag or multiple smaller bags.
Before you need to use your bug out bag, practice using it. Put it on and walk around. Make sure everything is easy to reach. This will help you be prepared in an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size bug out bag should I get?
A: A 40-60 liter bag is a good starting point for most adults. Consider your size and the amount of gear you need to carry. For children or shorter trips, a smaller bag may be sufficient.
Q: What are the most important items to pack in a bug out bag?
A: Water, food, a first-aid kit, a map and compass, a fire starter, a knife, shelter (like a tarp or tent), and extra clothing are some of the most important items.
Q: How much weight should my bug out bag weigh?
A: Ideally, your bug out bag should weigh no more than 20% of your body weight. This will help prevent fatigue and injury.
Q: How often should I check and update my bug out bag?
A: Check your bag at least every six months to replace expired food and medications and ensure everything is still in good working order.
Q: Can I use a regular backpack as a bug out bag?
A: Yes, you can use a regular backpack, but a bag specifically designed for bugging out will be more durable and comfortable, and it will have better organization.
Q: What is MOLLE webbing?
A: MOLLE webbing is a system of straps that allows you to attach extra pouches and gear to the outside of your bag. It provides a modular and customizable way to carry extra equipment.
Q: Should I buy a pre-made bug out bag, or build my own?
A: Buying a pre-made bag is convenient, but building your own allows you to customize it to your specific needs and preferences. Building your own is often cheaper.
Q: How can I waterproof my bug out bag?
A: You can use a rain cover, a waterproof bag liner, or a waterproof spray to protect your bag from rain. Some bags are already made from waterproof materials.
Q: Where should I store my bug out bag?
A: Store your bug out bag in an easily accessible location, such as a closet, garage, or near the front door. Make sure everyone in your family knows where it is.
Q: How do I choose the right knife for my bug out bag?
A: Look for a durable, full-tang knife with a comfortable grip. A fixed-blade knife is generally stronger than a folding knife. Consider a multi-tool for added functionality.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.