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The likelihood of a major level of end of life event hitting your community, especially if it a rural one is highly unlikely. But that doesn't mean you should not prepare for the worse and hope for the best. This is my family bugout bag which is a part of a larger system for bugging out to a remote location.
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Why Would You Want to Make a Family Bug Out Bag...
Civil unrest, natural disaster, destruction of your property or a similar even may result in the need to get you and your family out of dodge. This may need to happen sooner than later and having a bag, ready to go, makes the most sense. But do you need individual bags? Should you keep it in your vehicle? Here's my suggest.
Take Everything You Think You May Need...
My bugout plan consists of items for a few categories:
Consumption
Survival
Comfort
Recovery
These categories may not work for your family, but generally knowing what you may want and need at your bugout location will drive the creation of your list. My kit has evolved from a pronounced, overstated military style bag to a muted everyday carry bag. Whether you go tactical or gray-man, you should know what you have, why you have it, and how to maintain and use the items.
My first kit was over the top, including an axe, and patches, along with obvious tie-downs and straps. It screamed "attack us." We know have moved on from this kit, but it is a good start. At a minimum your kit should have the medicines your family will need, food, water, and a way to navigate your area (because the power will go out).
A bug out bag should be portable. Meaning, you need to be able to put it on your person and move it from point a to b. You should also include an emergency kit that can sustain your family, at a minimum, for 72 hours, but I suggest 96 hours. The idea behind the bag is to be prepared in need of an evacuation.
Sticking to the 5 C's of Survival...
You may have heard of the 5 C's of Survival...
Cutting (knife)
Combustion (fire)
Cordage (paracord)
Container (water/filter)
Cover (shelter)
It is catchy, but if you just focus on the essentials for your family, you will feel most prepared. Sometimes forcing yourself in mandatory categories can lead to mistakes. Overpacking, making your bag too heavy, under-packing, or being too flashy. The goal is to carry what you need to make it where you are headed. If that means you carry a fanny pack and gas money as you head to your beach house, than so be it.
Check out my full load out kit here. Items are updated.
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