A bug out bag backpack is important especially during an evacuation; it should last you for 72 hours. It is a kit that you will take with you to help you survive.
It normally contains basic needs for you to live for 72 hours, should you need to evacuate due to a calamity. It should contain water, food, clothing, medicines, a first aid kit, portable shelter or tents, survival weapon and some basic gear such as a lighter, small pot, and the like.
Types of bug out bag backpacks
Backpack
This type of bug out bag can be any backpack, including those used for school, or for tactical defense purposes. This is the most widely used type of bug out bag as it is available in different sizes and variations that appeal to a number of consumers. This bug out bag can contain items that 2 individuals would need to survive a 72-hour evacuation.
Duffel bag
This is a lot bigger than a backpack so it can contain more items for use over 72 hours. However, the downside for this type of bug out bag is that it can be heavy and uncomfortable to carry. This is not ideal to be carried around or in cases where you do not yet have a clear destination or an evacuation area. It is, however, recommended if you are riding a car going to where you will be evacuated.
Hiking pack
This is an ideal bug out bag if you must evacuate with your family. This bushcraft backpack type offers the best qualities of a backpack bug out bag and a duffel bag. It can carry more items than a backpack and will be easier to carry around than a duffle bag.
Factors to consider when choosing a bug out backpack
Aside from becoming familiar with the different types of bug out bags, it is also recommended to be aware of the different factors that you should consider when choosing a bug out bag. Understanding the items below will allow you to understand what to look for when you are searching for the right bug out bag for you.
Fit and comfort
When looking for a bug out bag, it is important to keep in mind what it is for—that it will be used for your evacuation during a disaster.
Hence, you will need something that is comfortable or easy to carry from one place to another; it must also be safe to carry around. Before deciding to buy one, be sure to check the straps and padding as they normally define the fit and comfort of a bag.
The strap, especially the one that you wrap around your hip, is important as it allows the weight of the bag to rest on your hips, which are a lot stronger than your shoulders.
This will allow you to carry the bag around more easily. Make sure that the measurement of the straps is correct, based on your body weight or shape.
Absence of any hard parts
As said earlier, a bug out bag should be comfortable to carry around; that includes not having hard or pointed portions that can cause your discomfort or pain while carrying it. Before deciding to buy a certain type of bug out bag, be sure to try it on and carry it around so you know how it feels to move around while the bag is on your back.
Allows air to flow while you are carrying it
Walking several miles with a back full of sweat is not good; it will cause a lot of discomfort and may even make you sick. Because of this, make sure to check if the bug out bag that you are buying has space or channels at the back that allows air to flow while you are carrying it.
Gender-specific design
Some bags are designed specifically for males or females. The straps could be different, while the cut or shape of the bag may also vary. Make sure to take this into consideration to ensure that you are buying something that will fit your body structure in terms of the design.
Visibility
The name of the game is safety. Most of the times you will want to blend in and avoid unwanted attention to your precious survival items. You don’t want other people to know what you are carrying.
So, depending on your location, choose the colors accordingly. For rural areas, opt for camouflage/olive/brown colors. If you live in a crowded urban zone, consider neutral colors like dark blue or black that will make it blend in with other ordinary backpacks.
Volume
Choosing the right size for your backpack is important. If you’re going to bug out with someone else or carry a lot of supplies and items, you will have to opt for a bigger backpack. On the other hand, if you’re going to bug out alone or want to pack only the most basic needed supplies, you may want to choose a smaller backpack.
Keep in mind that although it can seem like a good idea to carry a lot of stuff, you will be adding weight, which will make your evacuation harder. It’s a trade-off that you have to consider when choosing the size. Also, don’t neglect your physical abilities- you should have an idea of how much weight you would be able to carry.
Conclusion
It’s not easy to choose the right bug out bag backpack. There are a lot of factors to consider and many different types of disasters that can occur, that you have to be prepared for.
Hopefully, this article helped you in making the right decision.