Be prepared for natural disasters and emergencies. Learn how to make a 72 hour bug out bag.
Growing up in Texas, we live with tropical storms, hurricanes and tornadoes every year. In fact, when hurricane Harvey came through, lots of friends mine were nervous about it. Growing up around them, I was quite used to it – plus, I’m well prepared. That got me thinking, maybe I could help others have peace of mind, by showing you how to make a 72 hour bug out bag.
A 72 Hour Bug Out Bag
A bug out bag is a backpack or some other portable bag that you take with you in the event you need to leave your house in an emergency. Conversely, you may be isolated into one safe area of your house. During hurricane Harvey, for instance, many people sought refuge on their second floor when the entire downstairs was flooded. The reality is it might be days before help comes or waters recede. In many cases, windstorms produce flooding which in turn can contaminate local water supplies.
Believe me. I worked as an insurance adjuster for 12 years. Everyday I helped people recover from cataclysmic disasters. Some families go a week or more without electricity. It isn’t just homes that are affected, it’s business too. When I worked hurricane Katrina, even gas stations and grocery stores were destroyed. Credit card machines and everything electronic didn’t work. So whether it be to retreat somewhere in your house or if you have to leave, a bug out bag will help you survive. You should have an emergency bug out bag for every person in your home.
What to Put In Your Bag
Medical Supplies
- First aid kit
- Mini Bottles of Alcohol (high proof)
- Anti-bac
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Food & Hydration
- Collapsible Camp stove
- Fuel Tablets
- Dehydrated / non-perishable food for 72 hours (per person)
- Water
- Collapsible cup
- Water purification tablets
- Fishing line and hook
Shelter
- Tarp
- Zip ties
- Emergency Mylar blankets
- Paracord
- Twine or rope
- Emergency rain poncho
- Bungee cords
Heat Sources / Other
- Flashlight
- Latex gloves
- Clothes pins
- Laundry soap (Fels Naptha)
- Compass
- Hand/foot warmers
- Dust mask (N95)
- Tissue or toilet paper
- Playing cards (to pass the time)
- Candles
- Knife
- Scissors
- Signal mirror
- Flint fire starter
- Glow sticks
- Duct tape
- Work gloves
- Mini sewing kit
- Travel size toothpaste
- Whistle
- Waterproof matches
Here is a look inside a few things that are in my bag.
Usage of Supplies
Basic survival consists of shelter from the elements, food, water, and medicine.
Many supplies serve several purposes. Liquor, for example can be a disinfectant for supplies, even for wounds. It can be used as a mouth wash (it kills bacteria), to destroy mold, even as a fire starter. If you blend it with an oil it can even be used as a bug and insect repellent. Of course, it can also be used a pain reliever. You want to aim for the highest proof possible, like vodka. Mini liquor bottles are ideal.
A bandana can be used to wash yourself or your dishes. Cut into ribbons, you can mark your trail. Additionally, you can use it as a makeshift tourniquet, napkin, pot holder, a pouch, sunblock, sling, filter, firearm cleaner, makeshift toilet paper, dust mask, etc. You can really get creative with your supplies in an emergency situation.
Storage
I recommend storing some of your supplies in waterproof and ziplock bags. Not only do they protect your equipment, but the bag itself is a tool. You want to store your bag at room temperature.
Water Storage
When it comes to water and food, it has to be stored properly. For instance, food that you buy at the grocery store is designed for short life shelf storage. Normally with in a few months, even many dry goods will expire. Even drinking water needs to be safely stored for long term storage. Examples:
For your bug out bag (portable) things like the Lifestraw or long term water pouches.
Food Storage
I recommend buying your emergency food from places like Auguson Farms, My Patriot Supply, Legacy Food Storage, Wise Food Storage. Most of the foods are designed for 20-30 year storage, light in weight and only require water to hydrate and cook.
Even Wal-mart online has emergency food storage. For instance, you can buy this 30 Day Food Storage Supply and divide it among the bug out bags for your family.
I hope you never encounter an emergency situation, but I can assure you that being prepared gives you a lot of peace of mind. If you enjoyed this blog post, please subscribe to my blog for future updates and freebies. Thanks for reading!