A Prepper's Guide to Knowing When and How to Bugout

When we talk about preparedness, one of the most crucial topics that often comes up is the concept of "bugging out." Whether you're new to prepping or have been in the community for years, the idea of bugging out is something every prepper should understand. But what exactly does it mean to bug out, and how do you know when it's the right time to make that decision? In this post, we'll break down the essentials of bugging out, discuss what you should pack in your bugout bag, and explore how to prepare for this critical moment, especially if you have a family.

What is Bugging Out?

At its core, bugging out refers to the act of leaving your home or current location to find safety elsewhere, typically due to an imminent threat or disaster. This could be anything from natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, or floods to man-made situations like civil unrest or a pandemic. The goal is simple: to relocate to a safer place where you can survive and regroup until the threat passes.

Bugging out is usually a last-resort measure. As preppers, we aim to be self-sufficient and safe in our homes. But sometimes, staying put just isn't an option, and that's where the bugout plan comes in.

When Should You Bug Out?

Determining when to bug out is one of the most challenging decisions you might face as a prepper. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, but several key indicators can help you make the right choice:

1. Imminent Danger: If there's an immediate and unavoidable threat to your life—such as a wildfire rapidly approaching your area, severe flooding, or a tornado warning—it's time to bug out. In these situations, staying put could be deadly.

2. Law and Order Breakdown: If civil unrest escalates to a point where law enforcement is no longer effective, or if there's widespread looting, rioting, or violence in your area, it may be safer to leave. The collapse of social order can make staying in your home too risky.

3. Lack of Essential Resources: If the infrastructure that supplies water, food, medical care, or other essentials breaks down for an extended period, bugging out might be necessary. For instance, if a severe storm knocks out power for weeks and you have no access to clean water or food, your home could become uninhabitable.

4. Evacuation Orders: If local authorities issue mandatory evacuation orders, it's usually best to comply. These orders are often given when a threat is severe and imminent, and staying behind can put you in significant danger.

5. Health and Safety Risks: In the case of a pandemic or a chemical spill, where the environment becomes hazardous to your health, bugging out to a safer location is critical.

What Should Be in Your Bugout Bag?

Your bugout bag is your lifeline in a crisis. It's a pre-packed bag containing essential items you'll need to survive for at least 72 hours. Here's what you should include:

1. Water and Purification: Pack enough water to last 72 hours (about 1 gallon per person per day) and a water purification method, such as a filter or purification tablets.

2. Food: Include non-perishable, lightweight, and easy-to-prepare food items like energy bars, dehydrated meals, and canned goods. Don't forget a can opener if needed.

3. Shelter and Warmth: A lightweight tent, tarp, or emergency bivvy can provide shelter. Include a sleeping bag or blanket, and pack extra clothing, including socks and underwear. A good-quality poncho and a mylar blanket are also must-haves.

4. First Aid Kit: Your first aid kit should be comprehensive, including bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, any prescription medications, and items like tweezers and scissors. If you have specific medical needs, ensure your kit addresses those.

5. Fire-Starting Tools: Pack waterproof matches, a lighter, and a firestarter kit. Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help.

6. Tools and Equipment: A good knife or multi-tool is invaluable. Also include duct tape, a small flashlight with extra batteries, a whistle, and a compact fishing kit if you're heading into the wilderness.

7. Personal Hygiene Items: Pack travel-sized toiletries, including soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer. Feminine hygiene products and baby wipes are also essential.

8. Navigation Tools: A map of your area, a compass, and a GPS device are critical, especially if you're heading into unfamiliar territory.

9. Communication: A hand-crank or battery-powered radio can help you stay informed about the situation. A charged power bank and extra batteries for your phone are also important.

10. Personal Documents and Cash: Keep copies of important documents (ID, insurance, medical records) in a waterproof bag. Include some cash in small denominations as ATMs and credit card machines may not be operational.

Bugout Bags for the Whole Family

If you have a spouse, significant other, or children, each person should have a bugout bag tailored to their needs. Here’s how to ensure everyone is prepared:

1. Adults: For adults, the bugout bag can be similar to the one described above, but with additional items based on personal needs, such as prescription medications, extra clothing, and specific tools.

2. Children: Kids’ bugout bags should be lighter and include essentials like water, snacks, a change of clothes, and comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket. Depending on their age, you might also want to include a whistle and a simple first aid kit.

3. Babies and Toddlers: If you have a baby, your bugout bag should include diapers, formula, bottles, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget a baby carrier to keep your hands free.

4. Pets: Don’t forget your pets! Include food, water, a leash, a collapsible bowl, and any medications they might need.

The goal is to ensure that everyone in your household can carry their essentials without being overburdened. This way, you can move quickly and efficiently if the time comes to bug out.

Safe Places to Bugout To

Choosing a safe place to bug out to is just as important as packing your bugout bag. Here are some potential options:

1. A Family Member's or Friend's House: If you have family or friends living in a safer area, this can be a great option. It’s familiar, and you’ll have the support of loved ones.

2. Pre-Selected Bugout Location: Some preppers have a designated bugout location, such as a cabin in the woods or a piece of land away from urban centers. If you have this option, ensure it's stocked with supplies and is ready to be inhabited on short notice.

3. Public Shelters: In the event of a large-scale disaster, local authorities may set up emergency shelters. These can be a last resort if you have nowhere else to go.

4. National or State Parks: If you're comfortable with wilderness survival, heading to a national or state park could be an option. However, this requires a higher level of preparedness and knowledge of outdoor survival skills.

Preparing for a Bugout

Preparing for a bugout is more than just packing a bag. Here are some steps to ensure you're ready when the time comes:

1. Create a Bugout Plan: Develop a plan that outlines when and where you will bug out, the route you’ll take, and how you’ll communicate with family members. Share this plan with everyone in your household.

2. Practice: Regularly practice your bugout plan. This includes packing your bag, loading the car, and driving to your bugout location. The more you practice, the smoother the process will be if you ever need to do it for real.

3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on news and weather reports. Being aware of potential threats allows you to make informed decisions about when to bug out.

4. Keep Your Bugout Bag Accessible: Store your bugout bags in an easily accessible location so you can grab them quickly in an emergency.

5. Ensure Your Vehicle is Ready: Keep your vehicle in good condition, and make sure it’s always at least half full of gas. In an emergency, gas stations may be out of fuel or inaccessible.

Conclusion

Bugging out is a serious decision, one that should not be taken lightly. By understanding when and how to bug out, and by preparing yourself and your family with well-packed bugout bags and a solid plan, you can ensure that you’re ready to face whatever challenges come your way. Remember, the key to successful bugging out is preparation and practice. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.