If you live in the United States, you know how often natural disasters can strike. While you might think other countries deal with more natural disasters than Americans, this isn’t exactly true. In fact, statistics show that the United States ranks in second place among countries that experience the most natural disasters. Considering that, many who want to be prepared own a bug out pack or bag. Bug out bags are types of portable preparedness kits that contain items one would need to survive for three days in the event of a disaster. With that in mind, here are six essential items to have in your bug out bag.
- First Aid Kit
One of the most common natural disasters to take place throughout the United States are tornadoes. In 2016, statistics gathered from that year found that the United States was hit by 971 tornadoes. Considering that, it’s no surprise that the United States is the most common country for tornadoes to strike. With that in mind, tornadoes are known for sending debris flying in the wake of its destructive path. Whether dealing with a tornado or other natural disaster, you’ll want to have a first aid kit in your bug out kit. These kits help to ensure that minor cuts and wounds are effectively treated. - Portable Water Filtration Device
While thinking about your immediate survival needs, one of the most important is having access to water. Unfortunately, natural disasters can often leave nearby water supplies unsafe for human consumption. When trying to survive, the last thing you want is to catch a sickness from contaminated drinking water. Considering that, a survival bug out bag should have some type of portable water filtration device. In turn, you can filter any water you come across, instantly having access to safe drinking water. - Survival Meals
In addition to water, it’s important that you take care of any food concerns while surviving the aftermath of a natural disaster. Luckily, there are many types of survival foods that can be placed into a bug put pack. Since you’re not expected to have access to cooking appliances, many of these bags are able to provide their own heat. In turn, you’ll be able to have the comfort and warmth of a hot meal while surviving. - A Radio
Radios are essential to have while dealing with a natural disaster. These devices are used to broadcast important emergency information. This information often includes details about the path of a natural disaster as well as where to seek shelter. If you’re in an unfamiliar location, it’s essential that your bug out pack contains a radio. In addition, certain emergency radios are crank powered, meaning you won’t have to worry about fumbling for batteries. - Flashlight
After a natural disaster strikes, it’s important that you’re able to see where you’re going. Unfortunately, many disasters will knock out power to any surrounding areas. Therefore, it’s best to have a flashlight with you. In turn, you can navigate darkened pathways in order to find access to safety. As with portable radios, certain flashlights can be powered by a crank system. Regardless of which type of flashlight you own, it’s an essential item for any tactical bug out bag. - Small Amounts of Cash
It’s always wise to be prepared for any disaster that might be around the corner. With that in mind, you’ll want to consider the possibility that banks could be rendered temporarily useless in the face of a natural disaster. Therefore, having access to emergency cash is wise. You’ll want to strongly consider hiding away money in your bug out pack. Of course, you shouldn’t place your life savings in this bag. Instead, place enough cash in your bug out pack that you would need to survive for a few days.
To summarize, there are several essential items everyone should have in their bug out packs. If you need help knowing what you’ll need to survive, consider purchasing bug out packs from a reputable supplier. You’ll find that this often means having access to bags that are already filled with items. In turn, you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need when disaster strikes.
