No one desires to find themselves in a worst-case scenario. However, that is essentially how it occurs – it is not a deliberate choice but rather a circumstance that befalls individuals. Nonetheless, the fact that one wishes to evade a grave crisis does not imply that they should not be prepared for it. While constructing a fully-provisioned subterranean shelter for an apocalypse might be excessive, there is a more reasonable option available.
HOOFING IT TO SAFETY
In a time of crisis, your legs are your most dependable mode of transportation, making it crucial to select a bug out bag that is both comfortable and lightweight.
Soldiers undergo training to bear the burden of carrying up to 70 pounds on their backs, covering distances of 10 miles or more. Personally, I acknowledge my inability to accomplish such a feat, and I assume the same might be true for you. If by chance you can, I applaud your strength! Nevertheless, for individuals like us who lack such exceptional capabilities, the weight of our bug out bags becomes crucial in ensuring our survival during a potentially life-threatening situation.
GIVE YOUR BAG SOME PERSONALITY
I have previously stated that in order to have the best bug out bag, it should be customized to your individual circumstances. It is highly probable that your bug out bag will contain certain items that someone else’s bag may not have. Therefore, it is essential that you acquire a bag that is suitable for your specific requirements.
When building a bug out bag, the majority of individuals typically start by selecting a backpack similar to this one. Numerous options are available in different sizes. To find the appropriate size, a helpful method is to assess the weight you expect to carry. If you can hike with it for an hour or longer, you will likely be fine. It is probable that this assessment alone will make you reconsider what items are truly essential compared to what we consider as mere desires.
Below, you will find our carefully reviewed and approved bug out bag list, which has been curated by a survival expert. It is important to note that these suggestions serve as guidelines and any of them would be suitable for creating your own personalized bug out bag. Therefore, we recommend selecting the one that best fits your needs.
GET A BAG WITH SPACE
When choosing the best bug out bag, aside from comfort and fit, the space provided and the number of compartments are the most important considerations. Having enough places to store your gear is crucial. The more pockets, zippers, loops, and straps your bug out bag has, the more organized you will be. Organization can make a significant difference between life and death during a severe emergency. It is essential to be able to access the gear you need promptly. We will discuss this in more detail later.
OUR PICKS
CONDOR 3 DAY ASSAULT PACK
Knowing where to look, a tight budget doesn’t have to prevent you from getting a suitable bug-out bag starter backpack. The Condor 3 Day Assault Pack is a good starting point, with its 50L internal capacity, external modular webbing for attachments, and durable nylon exterior. This backpack was designed for tacticians on 72-hour missions, so it should be spacious and capable enough for the average person’s bug-out requirements. It may not be flashy or showy, but it will fulfill its purpose.
5.11 TACTICAL RUSH72 BACKPACK
If you have a slightly bigger budget, it would be a mistake on our part if we didn’t mention 5.11 Tactical’s Rush72 Backpack. Similar to the previous bag, this one is specifically designed for tactical purposes and can be used for up to 72 hours, which is equivalent to three full days. It is made with a durable 1050D Cordura nylon exterior, has MOLLE modular webbing, and provides ample internal organization. Additionally, if this particular size doesn’t meet your requirements, there are two other sizes available. The bag also features a compartment that can hold a hydration system, self-healing YKK zippers, and many other useful features. In summary, this bag is truly a great deal.
MYSTERY RANCH 2-DAY ASSAULT PACK
If you are part of a large family, the Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack may not be suitable for you due to its limited capacity of 27L. However, if you are currently traveling alone, it could be the ideal choice as it offers ample space for a single individual. The pack is specifically designed for speed and includes many features that are also found in larger, heavier competitors. These features include a unique main compartment with triple-zip functionality, an internal frame sheet, modular webbing on the exterior, a variety of internal organizational pockets and pouches, and it even meets most carry-on guidelines.
SPEC-OPS T.H.E. PACK U.A.P.
This version of the Spec-Ops T.H.E. Pack, Tactical can be considered as the larger and more resilient sibling. The acronym U.A.P. stands for “Ultimate Assault Pack,” and this name truly reflects the pack’s improved and meticulously designed features. Spec-Ops has enhanced cargo access, ergonomics, comfort, and durability, all while maintaining its excellence in other areas. Additionally, it has the capacity to carry a hydration bladder, reinforced to provide further protection, and equipped with the brand’s unique BATTLE BUCKLES hardware. Furthermore, this pack is proudly manufactured in the USA and comes with a lifetime guarantee for each and every one of them.
TRIPLE AUGHT DESIGN FAST PACK EDC
If you are not acquainted with Triple Aught Design (TAD), let us provide some clarification. TAD is recognized as one of the top high-end brands for tactical gear and attire. The FAST Pack EDC, in particular, is not just a suitable foundation for an emergency bag, but is also considered one of the greatest backpacks ever crafted. This robust bag, constructed from Cordura nylon, offers ample internal storage and an extensive amount of PALS webbing, both inside and outside, for modular attachments and improved organization. Moreover, it was specifically designed to provide comfort while on the move. All in all, this bag is a strong contender, except for its limited initial capacity, which can easily be addressed by adding modular pouches. This, in turn, eliminates the limited capacity as a significant downside.
AVOID DRAWING ATTENTION
The appearance and color should be the final factor to consider when choosing your best bug out bag.
If you are preparing for typical emergencies, the significance of appearance and color may not be substantial. However, if you are preparing for a worst-case scenario, such as a SHTF situation, appearance and color might indeed be relevant.
Initially, the temptation may arise to select a military-style backpack due to its affordability at surplus stores, which typically possesses sufficient space and compartments. Nevertheless, in dire situations, a critical aspect of a well-prepared bug out bag is its inconspicuous appearance.
Isn’t it confusing?
If you think about it, it does make sense. During an extremely urgent situation where you need to quickly leave, it is important not to appear as if you are leaving. Otherwise, others may observe and desire what you possess. It is impossible to predict what individuals will do when they are desperate. Therefore, to ensure safety, it might be advisable to camouflage oneself with the environment and select a bug out bag accordingly.
If the circumstances require it, consider the most effective way to assimilate into your specific environment as keeping a low profile may play a vital role in ensuring your survival after a disaster.
