A survival backpack for preppers also known as a bug out bag is an essential element towards the overall preparedness of the prepper. In case of any eventuality or doomsday, you can easily pick it up and get on the road.
The bug out bag will allow the prepper and his family to survive for at least 3 days before getting to their destination of safety.
The best survival backpack contains all the necessary equipment for survival. It needs to be light weight yet strong enough to carry all your necessities. Whether you will be required to go through snow or hike under heavy rain, the bag needs to hold out.
How to choose the best survival backpack for preppers
There are mainly 3 types of bags that are used as bug out bags or survival bags. These include
- Back pack
This can be tactical bag or a school bag. The varieties are many. It is best when you are in a group of 2. But will not do much higher due to the size limitations
- Duffel bag
They are generally larger than a back pack but do not offer the carrying capabilities of the back packs. They are not ideal however if walking long distances.
- Hiking bag
The good thing with this type is that you get the best of both worlds. It is easy to carry and still offers the space and capacity found in duffel bags.
What to look for in a survival back pack
- Comfort
This is the number one factor that you will need to consider. The right type of bag will allow you to walk for miles without experiencing discomfort. For this, the bag needs to have thick shoulder straps so as not to dig into your body. It also needs to have waist straps. These help to distribute the weight of the bag to your lower body by pulling it in closer-a handy thing when walking long distances while carrying a heavy load.
Some bags have hard parts made of metal or plastic on their edges. These help to maintain the shape of the bag. If they are located close to the body, they could poke you causing pain and discomfort. Ensure you keep an eye out for this.
- Storage
A good survival bag will not only have a single large central compartment but will also have other smaller ones to keep your smaller gear.
If the bag only has one compartment, it will be very difficult to find all your gear in a cluster. Small compartments will make it easier for you to access what you need without too much hassle.
- Capacity
When buying the right survival bag, you need to take a look at its capacity. A few things should be running through your mind. How many items will you carry and for how many people? The more you need to carry, the bigger the bag you will need.
However, also consider your body’s limitations otherwise you might just end up with a bag that is too big for you to handle.
- Extra features
By following the advice laid out for you above, you by now have a bag that will take care of your bugging out. However, it will not hurt if the bag comes with a few extra features. These include:
Hydration bladder is a way to keep hydrated without having to put down the bag, and removing the water bottle. Simply take a sip as you continue walking.
Rain hood will help to keep your survival equipment dry in case its starts to pour. You do not want a drenched bag after all.
MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. This is military technology and means that you have access to a large number of options for carrying your survival gear. Equipments that can use MOLLE include water bottles, med kits and tool sheaths.
What to pack in a preppers survival back pack
This mainly depends on the location, climate, temperature, terrain as well as the size of the family and basic survival skills. There are however, a few generalizations concerning the content of the survival back pack. These include water, shelter, weapons, first aid kit, food as well as clothes.
Water
The most basic yet the most important part of sustaining our bodies is water. For survival purposes however, each person will do just fine with at least 1 liter a day and 3 liters in the 3 days needed to reach your bug out.
Food
You need food to remain energetic and to stay alive. For preppers, the food has to be ready to eat. This type of food is easy to prepare as all you will be required to do is add boiling water and it’s ready within a relatively short time.
First aid kit
This will help the prepper treat any cuts and bruises that could get infected. After all they do not have access to a hospital facility.
The right clothes
The types of clothes that are to be carried by the prepper depend on the weather conditions in your particular location. A rule of thumb is that they should be resistant to the elements. They should also be light weight and water proof.
Basic Tools
To save on space and yet being ready for anything, the prepper needs to carry tools that will come in handy at any situation. The best types are multi tools that are put in a single package. Examples include a camping knife. You will also need a fire starter, compass and map just to mention a few.
The shelter
The best type of shelter for a prepper to carry in the bag should be light weight. This should be a tarp. They are easy to fold and are water proof. They can also easily be hanged up on a support to offer shade and.
Weapons
Something that you may not want to consider but is highly crucial. You cannot do without weapons as you will need to defend yourself and family with during times of chaos.
Article Written By Kevin Fleeman
