We as humans have been bugging out for thousands of years. The name of it may have changed over the years, but the practice of being ready to evacuate or abandon our homes in case of disaster has been happening for centuries. Thanks to modern technology and depending on where you live, however, bugging out may not be something you're entirely familiar with.
So if you've never considered it, or are just beginning to look into the benefits of it, here's a quick beginner's guide to bugging out that will have you on track in no time.
Beginner Gear Basics
Some of the essential gear that all bug out beginners should start collecting are:
- Clothing suited for your climate
- Water, water container, something that can treat water
- Lightweight food. Freeze-dried is excellent but lightweight for ease of carrying. Aim for about 3 days' worth
- Shelter. Like the clothing you pack, this will depend on the environment. Either way, you will need something to sleep in and protect yourself from the elements
- First aid kit
- Hygiene- toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, personal medication, moist towelettes, a towel, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper if possible
- A multi-tool
- A lighter or three, a Ferro rod, matches—something to make a fire
- Duct tape is a fix-all for anything
Plan
The first rule of bugging out is to have a bug-out plan. Not just where to go and how to get there, but what you will carry. The first mistake many beginners make to bugging out is buying a bug-out bag before understanding what you'll be packing. Instead of buying the bag and filling it later, plan exactly what you will need to take with you. Then, gather that gear and find a bag to accommodate your equipment.
Next up after you've gathered your essentials and bought the bag, is to pack it up and then begin to map out and memorize a route beforehand to know where you are headed without the worry of getting lost.
Known When to Bug Out
Do you know when to decide whether or not bugging out is necessary? Here is an example of some realities that may give you enough time to figure out if you should bug out or not:
- Ordered by the authorities
- Massive storm approaching
- Steadily increasing civil unrest/rioting
- Martial Law
- Top leadership disappearing
- Troops showing up
- Epidemic
- Everything in shortage
- Market collapse
- Your home is compromised
Understand, this is a bare-bones beginner guide to bugging out. There are many situations, weather and environmental factors, and even where you live worldwide that can influence what you need to pack, where you need to go, and why you need to go or why you need to bug out. But for the most part, this guide should set you up with the basics so that you'll be prepared and ready.