This article will demonstrate how to build your own 3 day survival kit, or “bug out” bag. A survival kit is meant to supply you with all the essential items to survive and thrive in an emergency. You’ll want to pack enough to be prepared for just about anything, but you’ll want it to be compact enough to fit into an easily transportable container.
The 3 day time period is key because it can often take the authorities 3 days (sometimes even longer) to fully respond to an emergency situation. You’ll want a large weather-resistant backpack to store your items in.
For information on how to build more specific survival kits, such as wilderness kits and kits for your vehicle, check out this site.
Let’s take a look at some of the possible items we can include in our kit:
Tools
First aid kit- an important piece to any kit.
Battery powered radio- may be your only source of information during an emergency.
LED flashlight- go with yellow or white for maximum brightness.
Swiss army knife- various uses.
Lighter or matches- for lighting candles and starting fires.
Compass- to help navigate if you’re on the move.
Mirror- for inspecting wounds, signaling.
Sewing kit- for stitching wounds, repairing torn fabrics.
Food, Water
At least 3L of water per person- a liter per person per day for 3 days.
3 days worth of non-perishable food for each person- you’ll want high calorie, high nutrient foods. Peanut butter, crackers, raisins, granola bars, etc.
A mess kit- disposable plates, knives, forks, spoons, cups.
Water purification tablets- a handy backup if your water supply runs out.
A few garbage bags- for waste and can be used as ponchos as well.
A few Ziploc bags- for left overs.
3oz gel fuel- a good backup for cooking if you don’t have electricity or fire available.
Miscellaneous
Extra medication- for anyone who requires them.
Extra pair of glasses/contacts- for anyone who requires them.
Pencil and Notebook- for writing addresses, directions, taking notes.
Personal Hygiene- soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Candles- source of light if the power goes out.
Whistle- for signaling, scaring away animals.
Emergency cash- for gas, food, etc.
A map of the area- for navigation if you need to move.
Extra clothes- to help stay warm and dry.
Photocopies of Important Documents
Copies of important documents that may be needed to identify yourself, should you need to move:
Passport
Driver’s license
Contact phone numbers
It’s your choice as to what items to include. Just remember that in general it’s probably better to have too much than not enough.
Good luck and stay prepared!
You can read more from RamboMoe at preparedforthat.com
