Build Your Own Go-Bag
When building your emergency go-bag, there are a number of things you should consider taking with you. Most often it will depend on the situation you are in and the time you have before you need to evacuate. This list won't accomodate everyone for every situation, but will make sure you have the basics to get out and about for a while.
Walk-Out List: The easiest thing to access in your bag is your walk-out document. This simply lists the things you should do, if you have the time, to secure your home before you leave.
Essential Documents: Have a copy of all your important documents in a waterproof envelope. Copies of identification documents, health insurance cards, and contact information for friends and family. More...
Flashlight: Choose something you are comfortable with. We suggest something that runs on AA batteries as they are simple to find in a pinch. Read about five popular small and waterproof flashlights.
Multi-Function Tool: Most of these multi-tools are good in a pinch but are typically unwieldly. If you just need to get by, grab a leatherman Wingman, Skeletool, or any of these other options.
Miscelaneous Tools: A universal utility key, a P-51 can opener, 50' of paracord, compass, emergency whistle, and fire starter are all small and important considerations.
Basic Camping Gear: More of a luxury, but eating with a spork beats using your fingers, a waterproof tarp, and if you are really going to find yourself rouging it, a water purifier is going to be essential.
Utility Knife: As many people as we could ask, we would get as many different answers about the best knife to add to your go-bag. We've come up with a short list of populare knife choices.
Self Defense: This gets dicey, but when things get ugly, people get unpredictable. Consider adding pepper spray or gel to your bag, anything more lethal should probably be stored elsewhere.
Trauma Kit: Having a kit with a tourniquet, emergency blanket, and basic first aid supplies is probably just a good thing to have in your car along with a fire extinguisher, anyways, have a spare in your bag.
Clothing: Having clean undergarments for your climate is essential, especially water wicking materials and dry socks. Nothing is waterproof forever, so having options is best.
Bag: The bag comes last. Choose a bag that can accomodate everything after you open the packages. A wet sweatshirt takes more space than a dry one. Sinch straps are important as well.
Time Permitting: Probably on your walk-out list, but you should grab some snackables and water from the pantry if possible. Peanut butter is always a good choice as are protein bars or other horrible tasting non-perishable snacks.
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