Preppers, Bug Out Bags, Zombies, end of the world, the list goes on and on. However, once you sort through all the hyperbole and hype the underlining essence of the movement is to be prepared. As outdoorsman we wouldn’t dare venture out without being prepared. This article is not about turning you into a prepper, but rather a reminder that common sense is about being prepared. Specifically we will focus on a minimized Bug Out Bag I’ll refer to as my “Get Home Bag.”
I’m not an expert in this field, so the following is simply my opinion based on personal experiences, research, and training experiences. I live in Anchorage Alaska and am blessed to live about 8 miles from my office. Anchorage has two military bases and is home to one of the most active international cargo airports in the world. Alaska is also known for its extreme weather, active volcanoes and earthquakes. So being prepared makes sense.
We could spend 1,000s of words describing “what ifs” but I am going to skip that step and keep it simple. Let’s just assume a disaster of some sort has occurred and I am unable to drive my vehicle home. I want to get to my family as fast and as safely as I can. In order to do this I need a small bag of supplies to help me get home.
Stone Glacier Solo. Hardcore Bug Out Bag Material!
One can choose to leave this in their vehicle or stash something at their office, depending on how secure each place is. To start with you need a good day pack that blends into your community. I have an REI Daypack I picked up off the REI Outlet. Its blends in anywhere and at just over 2500 CI it’s plenty big for my needs. However, I’ve been debating an upgrade and utilizing the Stone Glacier Solo.
Since my work attire can vary, I need clothes that are suitable for getting home. I may need to climb over barriers, or squeeze through tight spots, so durable clothing is ideal. I need to adjust my clothing needs based on the time of year as Anchorage weather can be cold in the winter and wet in the summer. Since I don’t know how difficult my journey home will be I’ll also need to be prepared to spend a day or two getting home. Some food, water, and shelter necessities are included. Personal protection devices are only good if you are trained and willing to use them. These can range from hiking staffs to pepper spray to knives and firearms and a host of other items. Choose what works for you.
Below is my list. It’s evolved a bit over the years and it’s far from perfect, but it should help get you started on what it takes to get you home. Remember, I am trying to go 8 miles in an urban environment. If your commute is longer, or if your walking route requires farther distance and variables you need to adjust accordingly.
Daypack
Detailed Map of the City
Clothing:
The Taclite Pro Pants from 5.11 are durable and even accept integrated knee pads
First Lite Merino Wool Chama Hoody (Versatile and warm when wet)
First Lite Wool Socks
Hiking Boots, something like the Lowa Renegade GTX
Light Weight Soft Shell Jacket, I prefer the Sitka 90%
Hat
Leather Gloves
Rain Gear (top and bottom), Something Like the Frogg Tog combo is light and cheap
Mini First Aid Kit
2 Bottles of Water
5 Energy Bars
Personal Toiletry Kit (Contacts, glasses, medications, etc.)
Toilet Kit (toilet paper, hand sanitizer)
SOL Emergency Bivy Sack
Safety Glasses / Goggles (dust, smoke, volcanic ash, etc.)
Dust Mask(s)
Knife (This folder is concealed, but super strong and stays sharp)
Multi Tool, I prefer the Gerber for its one handed opening.
50’ Paracord
Small Emergency AM/FM Radio, the one linked also charges your cell phone.
Headlamp / Flashlight
Extra Batteries
Fire Starter Kit
Add in the Winter:
Insulated Boots
Wool Blanket / All Weather Blanket
Insulated Gloves
Optional Items
Personal Protection Device
2-Way Radio (one with you, one at home)
Water Filter
If you are looking for the ultimate bug out vehicle Starwood Custom sure makes a good looking Jeep! I’ll write another article on my Tundra Project, but it may take me a while. 🙂
Starwood Custom Jeep Nomad
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