Family with Bug Out Bags.

A Bug Out Bag is designed to support an individual for 24-48 hours in an emergency. What would you do if the CDA Fire Department came by and told you that the impending disaster was upon us and you had five minutes to leave? If you have your BOB prepared you’re almost there! BOBs are very personal (one size does NOT fit all), although general tips will fit MANY:

Water and Water Purification

  • At least 27 ounces of water per day, but consider more due to the physical demands and climate variability.
  • Water filter or purification tablets.
  • Collapsible water containers or a hydration system.
  • The most essential item on this list. Very heavy, hence the purification, so you can “harvest” water on the way.

Food

  • Ready-to-eat meals or high-energy bars.
  • Freeze-dried food or canned goods with a long shelf life.
  • Not as important as you’d imagine. You can last a long time (weeks) without food.

Shelter and Warmth

  • Tarp or lightweight tent for shelter.
  • Sleeping bag suitable for the local climate, possibly with a bivy cover for waterproofing.
  • Emergency blankets.

Fire Starting

  • Lighters, waterproof matches, and a fire starter (like a ferrocerium rod).

Navigation and Communication

  • Compass and maps of the area.
  • A durable, long-range walkie-talkie or a two-way radio.
  • Cell phone with a solar charger or power bank.

Tools and Weapons

  • Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife.
  • A serviceable semi-automatic rifle or another firearm suitable for self-defense and hunting, if legally owned and you’re trained to use it.
  • Fishing gear for food procurement.

First Aid

  • A comprehensive first aid kit tailored for injuries and common ailments.
  • Get training on how to use it!

Clothing

  • Weather-appropriate clothing, including moisture-wicking and thermal layers.
  • Extra socks, gloves, hat, and durable footwear.

Lighting

  • Headlamp and flashlight with extra batteries.

Miscellaneous Gear

  • Paracord (50 feet or more).
  • Duct tape.
  • Hygiene items like toothbrush, toothpaste, and wet wipes.
  • A bushcraft knife or a good quality field knife.
  • Signal mirror and whistle.

Documents and Cash

  • Important documents in a waterproof container or digital copies on a USB drive.
  • Cash in small denominations.

Personal Items

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent suitable for the region.

Your Pets

  • Create a separate BOB/Box for your little family members.

If you can drive out with your BOBs, great, but remember you may have to walk out!

The key to a good bug out bag is customization based on your environment, expected scenarios, personal skills, and the weight you can realistically carry. For North Idaho, consider the need for warmth, the possibility of encountering wildlife, and the rural terrain which might require more navigation tools and self-reliance items. Also, ensure all items are packed in a durable backpack that fits well and distributes weight effectively.

Featured bug out bag image courtesy https://www.theprepperdome.com/how-to-make-a-bug-out-bag-bug-out-bag-essentials/