So I figured what better place to come and ask such a question then my beloved ATS. I finally came into a bit of money from my tax return to start putting together a solid bug out backpack with all the essentials in case it ever comes down to it.

I already am buying a Ruger 10/22 (modified) with scope (to double as an observation tool) on Tuesday, so that covers the survival weapon aspect which in my opinion is the most important. If I cant eat, I die. I figure a few thousand .22LR rounds should last long enough into a situation, and hopefully enough to make it out alive.

Some of the things I have on my list (brands and tips would be helpful) are a water purifier, flint and steel, tinder, durable knife, paracord, hammock, hand-crank radio, first aid kit, enough food and water to get started comfortably, hand-crank flashlight, survival guide to identify plants to eat, harmonica (small, something for entertainment), cold weather sleeping bag (my plan would be to head south to warmer weather though), small sewing kit, waterproof matches, magnifying glass (easy way to start fire), good map, compass.

I am sure I'm missing some essentials, so hopefully some of you could let me know what also might be of use. I live in Pennsylvania about an hour away from the mountains so there is a lot of land to survive on.

The more the better, as long as I can carry it. I want to be as prepared as possible just in case the worst happens. I may also have to take care of one or two other people if it came to the point where they wanted to come with me to increase our odds as surviving as a team.

You maybe should have done a search for "bug out bag" or "BOB" before posting. This topic has been covered thoroughly many times on ATS already.

Edit to clarify


[edit on 14-2-2010 by dainoyfb]

Condoms if you're sinlge, and thats serious

You never know when you might get lucky

Don't forget to pack a good waterproof tarp along with your para cord. The tarp can serve as many useful things such as a shelter or means to collect water. I would also include a good multi tool and pack axe. Gerber makes a very nice pack axe that is super light and very durable, and one model even has a nice knife that stores in the handle of the axe.

Also do not forget a small tin with some fishing line, sinkers, small fishing hooks, and a zip saw. A small hiking medical kit is also a good thing to have in your pack as well. One super important thing not to forget is a couple of changes of good quality socks. You will be travelling on foot I assume so you will need to take good care of your transportation.

Check out your local natural food store. A few survivalist groups post meeting information there. I'm not in PA, but heard about it through friends.

You're going to want some vitamins (C, etc) since you may not be getting enough of the right nutrients when you bug out.

I would recommend reading the Zombie Survival Guide. While the content is fictitious (I hope), it has a chapter dedicated to bug out bags, with many of the essentials that you will need in the wild.

A few thousand rounds of ammo?

Do you have any idea how much that would weigh?

I have said this before.Why leave?

The area you are in may be the safest place to be.

You may be bugging out and heading for a place that maybe the next ground zero.

If I have to leave I am taking very little with me.

I figure I can take what I need off the naive fools bugging out with out experience or common sense.

Originally posted by Oneolddude
A few thousand rounds of ammo?

Do you have any idea how much that would weigh?

Which is why I chose .22LR. 4 Boxes of 550 rds isnt that much weight considering how long that would feed me for. Any other caliber that many rounds would be impossible to carry efficiently.

Also, I understand a good BOB isn't ment to be tossed together in the blink of an eye, but, you have to start somewhere. I'd much rather have at least a good collection of items ready to go at a moments notice then none at all. I will be looking into the ALICE system for a bag, but from my memory it was quite expensive. Granted, as you said, you get what you pay for, so it may be in my best interest to spend the money on something that will last.

The saw is something I didnt consider, and definitely will add that. Vitamins as well, because even with certain diets when you are eating and staying full, you could still starve. Reminds me of the guys who used to eat rabbit I believe it was. They ate all the time, yet since no Vitamin C they died.

I couldnt believe I didn't think of duct-tape either. That could definitely come in handy more then I could ever imagine. Hell, one guy crashed his plane and used duct tape to repair it and fly home. Absolutely amazing stuff.

I'm also aware of the plethora of information on BOBs on ATS. I wanted to start my own thread though so I could get more specific information to suit my individual needs. Different people in different climates would need quite varying gear. As well as having a single source to continue back to for more information in the future, to add or change items, and basically keep track of everything much easier. Normally I dont start threads pertaining to something already discussed, but when my life is on the line I want to be as sure and ready as possible.

I try to think of really practical handy things that have lots of worst case scenario applications and are small and light weight. You probably will get great advice from all the other sources here but maybe a couple ideas that haven't been considered.

Duct Tape, lots of duct tape. You can wrap in around other things you have like water bottles etc. to save on space. Truly a must, first aid, repairs, and a million other applications.

Extra Tooth paste, large supply of floss (great for sewing kit too) and tooth brush is a good idea. Oral hygiene is crucial to prevent abscesses or cavities and blood poisoning. This is serious business in a survival situation. Good wool socks and warm wool hat and tough durable mittens. A light weight good quality tarp (not the typical cheap ones) would be good. Extra boot laces, snare wire, Multi tool with wire cutters, small fishing kit with 50 pound test (good for other things).Couple tubes of original krazy super glue (good for gluing deep cuts and repairs)

Might be a good idea to consider packing a back up fanny pack. What if someone steals you primary bug out pack. Maybe a small firearm, some rounds a knife, some first aid, DUCT TAPE of course, maps, energy bars. I just think what if you put all this work into a pack and some one rips it off. I guess it comes from not all eggs in one basket thinking.

Another good tip I learned when wilderness canoe tripping and back packing is to line your back pack with a tough durable garbage bag, this way your gear will stay dry if it falls in the drink or if you get stuck in the rain. Small price to pay for keeping your stuff dry. I am no expert but I like to be prepared for the mishaps and accidents.

just some thoughts