Please Hit the LIKE and SUBSCRIBE BUTTONS as well as the NOTIFICATION BELL. Feel Free to Check out my Amazon Influencer Page and Follow Me on Instagram, and Facebook. Thanks For Watching! www.preparedwanderer.com
You can always a person's experience level by what contents are in their bag. Your survivability probability is 'Low' scoring a 10/40 points and I am giving you a 40% 'or less' survivability probability. Security score: 7 (would be higher, foldable bag gun much better + use of drone to recon your route for safety etc.) Water score: 4 (no water filter, but you are set up to boil) Shelter score: 7 (getting high score for use of mylar material) Food /cooking: 8 (you have food, not set up for silent hunting - purchase .22 upper for pistol / bb gun / wrist rocket etc.) Military tip... Ditch that that crappy military poncho and use mylar. Your overhead should be at ground level, and you dig a water trench around your sleeping area and throw the dirt over the end of system. This is in the event that when it rains, you are diverting the rain so that you do not wake up with water seeping down your spine and ass crack at 0300 in the morning. This also alleviates some of the pesky critters from entering your sleeping area, particularly those attracted by heat signature... Fire kit is really important. Get a can with a screw on lid, have 2 or 3 holes in it with bolts and nuts. This can be used to dry out (anhydrate / dehydrate) linen, used to make charcoal, used to boil/broil and of course keep items dry. Not trying to look down on anyone here. I taught this stuff at more than 1 school during my military career.
Me too. If anything goes wrong where I’m at the roadways are going to be borked, so I’ll be stuck at work, or at home. I set my bag up to support me for a few days stuck at the office, or a 2 day hike home. I feel it’s a great balance of preparedness, without going overboard.
Really good video, and there's 100% nothing wrong with what you've got in there. I'm a combat veteran and I've been doing a lot of hiking in the mountains and I've been refining my ideas about what my GHB/GO-Bag should be. Here are some thoughts I have as alternatives as I use; maybe you could incorporate some of these ideas (and probably improve further). Backpack. Not a bad choice, but the hiking backpacks are usually better. Former military guys and prep guys (I'm both) tend to default toward mil-type gear or tacti-cool stuff. I like to avoid that. Heavier does not mean more durable, and every ounce you carry equates to calories burned, and this is probably the single easiest way to conserve calories by cutting weight without any loss of functionality or durability. I tend to like Gregory packs, but even something like a Camelbak Rim Runner 22 will do the trick and be MUCH lighter and more comfortable to wear (another advantage of a hiking pack; it is designed to wear very well and work on a person rather than a person adapting to it). I'd say minimum 22l but 30 is probably even better. If you want a traditional style pack, the Gregory Citro line is great, and the back ventilation is king. The Gregory Zulu is even better as it's adjustable for torso length, but is a touch heavier. The pack size may (probably should) change for seasons as colder weather will mean more insulation carried. The Gregory Zulu 40, much like the Camelback Rim Runner 22 both fold open. I really like my Citro and Camelbak for this type of pack and I think the hip belt pockets are really important. I keep my snacks, a tool, my optic, and a few other things in there for easy access so I don't have to take my pack off to get to what I need. I'm not a fan of the Grayl, and here's why: If you deform it or the seals wear (and you don't know when they've worn too much) you can't use it to filter. It DOES filter for viruses which is useful, however there's a new filter on the market from a Brit company called Pure Clear (I'm in absolutely no way affiliated). They're a 42mm drop-in filter and works with Hydrapak and Katadyn bottles/bags (and anything else that has a 42mm opening). Much lighter and you can get two of them so you have a clean drink bottle (that you can collapse) and just drink normall out of the other (they also have tube attachments so you can use them like a water bladder). I'm a fan of the Baofeng, particularly the UV-5R. However, the Tidradio (also a Baofeng) H3 and H8 radios are a little nicer with better weather protection, are a little more powerful (not really a concern with an HT), and more importantly can scan for codes/tones on repeaters and can be unlocked for MURS, FRS, GMRS, and ham 2m/70cm with NOAA built in, and they're USB-C rechargeable. They also do 'scramble' voice which can be helpful. They're not much more than the UV-5R. Hygiene kit: I saw you had some items; I'd suggest a toothbrush and toothpaste tablets. Flossers are also great to have. That stuff can be annoying and cause lots of problems down the line. A compass and pad is great, as is a map. I have switched to wearing a Garmin Instinct (the first ones were awesome and you can get them cheap now) and the 2x Solar is amazing for battery life and they will alert you if there's a sudden change in barometric pressure, track your route via GPS, and are a compass/barometer/altimeter/HR monitor, etc. Glasses. If you wear them, having them is important, and having a backup is equally important. You can get readers that fit in the credit card slot of your wallet that'll get you buy in a pinch (they clip on your nose with no arms). They aren't great, but they'll do. Likewise, I've discovered a Tasco Monocular that you can buy at Walmart for $10. That should be a toy, but it's a legit little monocular and it weighs nothing. I almost always take it hiking vs my Vortex because it's so much more compact and really, it's all I need when I'm out doing that sort of work. It lets you see into the future, as it were and identify trouble from a long way off. Lose the tick key. Just notch a piece of plastic or better yet, just notch a pill blister pack edge. Add leukotape; it sticks better than band-aids and helps with blister prevention. Lighting: Take a look at the Olight Oclip. I love that thing. It's tiny and can clip on to most anything, and it also has a magnet. Very versatile and if you need to walk away from your tent in the dark or mark something, you can leave it going and use it as a lantern. Otherwise, I use my Nitecore 25UL. It's been a great light for me and it's light/small with a great battery life. Cook kit: I tend to dislike the classic military shaped canteens. They never seem to fit anywhere very well and it's easier to stabilize a round pot when you're heating water/food. I use a Toaks 550ml for myself or if I need more, a 750ml version. You can get these with bails attached if that's your thing. The 550 is enough to rehydrate any water requirement for your meals. I prefer a solid fuel system, especially for a GHB/GO-Bag, because they double as fire starters, they're silent, they don't care about being wet, temperature, or altitude to work and they won't spill and cause a fire. Normal isobutane canisters will nest inside. A Sea to Summit X-Mug (collapsible silicone cup) fits perfectly over the pot lid. It'll weigh a LOT less than what you have, be just as functional, and take up less room in your pack (and be easier to clean). Slightly related is another product I found, the Firebiner. It's just a good quality carabiner (it has some other tools built into it... not exceptionally useful ones) with a spark wheel built in. A nice backup. Tools: I went the other direction with a multitool. I use a Gerber Vise. Generally speaking there's nothing in the wild that'll require heavy tools, but sometimes a plier is what you need and nothing else will do. If I'm in an urban environment, I will be able to find something to pry with or to find a tool that works for the need. I do however carry an 'unlocking' steel card in my wallet that works on most doors, and a 10" Fat Max Stanley 'demolition' tool (it's a pry bar with a striking face and double ended claw design). It's a good melee tool and will get you into most anywhere you need to be; it is a pound on its own though so... I love my Mora Craftline S 546 for outdoor work. Not as beefy as yours but will batton within reason, can whittle/carve, has a very pronounced fingerguard so you don't accidentally slip forward onto the blade, and a good grip. For $12ish USD it's tough to argue with in SS, though a high carbon option is available for a bit less, it will corrode quickly if you don't keep it constantly oiled. I also carry a tiny Swiss knife on my keys. It has a toothpick and tweezers, as well as scissors and a file. Those are incredibly useful tools when you need them, and it weighs practically nothing. Shelter: It's so important to keep vectors out. The wrong bug or critter bite can become a life or death event. I tend to like a tent; and I've put the Naturehike Spider/Bikepacking 1p tent into my bag (it fits just fine) because it's truly free standing and requires no staking. While I do tend to prefer my Six Moon Designs Deschutes Tarp or Gatewood Cape combined with the Serenity Net Tent inner to save a lot of space and is decidedly lighter (the cape doing double-duty as a poncho) they do require staking and a pole (or to be tied up to a tree) and that isn't always practical in every situation or condition. I usually use the SMD options in summer when the ground is softer. I do have a SMD carbon collapsible pole that is super compact and weighs nearly nothing, or I'll have a trekking pole(s) or both. All are deep green and have a low profile. The SMD is great equipment and you pay for it (it isn't absurdly expensive, but it isn't cheap), and the Naturehike IS a bargain at under $90. On that note, skip the paracord and use a Dyneema/Polyester blended line. You can do everything with it that you can with paracord but it doesn't stretch, is easier to sew with, and is vastly stronger/lighter/more compact. For your corners, I'd recommend skipping the bungees and just doing a perfect knot to thread them through the grommets, then pre-tying a taut-line-hitch loop at the other end so you can adjust them to work with your stakes. Way more reliable, super light, and super easy to use. Sleep System: Might seem like overkill but having served and experienced it myself, the best advantage you can have to avoid the 'fog and fatigue' parts of war is a good night of sleep for recovery and a clear head; the latter keeps you from making more stupid mistakes. I use a Nemo Tensor EC pad which is capable of meeting any temperature range needed but also allows me to carry a lighter bag/quilt than conditions would normally dictate. It is comfortable and compact and lightweight. In all but the coldest months, I'll keep my Horizon Hound GR-20 quilt. When used in a 1p tent you can tuck it into the bathtub floor on either side of you and get a good sleep. I also have a Trekology 2.0 UL pillow that straps to the pad. In colder months I have other options, but this will get me through quite a lot. The quilt packs very small and only weighs 1.5lb. I leave this in a dry bag in my truck, uncompressed, then choke it down if I need it so that the insulation isn't compromised/damaged in 'storage'.
@@PandaLife-lp8kn I honestly don't own any uniforms anymore (my primary uniform was the BDU when I was active duty). I suppose I have a 'uniform' of sorts these days which consists of Wrangler Tech Cargo pants and usually a lightweight long sleeve hooded sun-shirt. Both breathe very well, dry exceptionally quickly, and provide the correct thermal insulation when things get cooler. I don't stand out in public as it looks 'normal' and the cargo pockets on my pants only appear as a zipper rather than a baggy pocket, yet allow me to hold more gear more comfortably (I hate sitting on a wallet). I keep a pair of lightweight hiking boots in the truck all the time so I can change into them if needed. When it comes time to get out of Dodge, I'm wearing whatever I'm dressed in, but at least I can get some good footwear on, don a pair of gloves, grab my pack and pull whatever food/radio/lighting/etc. from the stores in my truck and head out.
@@stoningtonbolognington Yes. I like the Citro for it's mundane looks; it is just a normal backpack from the outside except for the pockets on the belt. If you need a slightly larger pack, the Zulu 40 is probably the better bet, and it isn't much heavier, but will carry better since the back can be adjusted. That's certainly a pack that is a backpacking pack though, and you'll decide whether or not something like that will work in your environment. Believe it or not, I could fit all of that in my Camelbak Rim Runner 22. It was quite tight though. I may move over to my Durston Wapta 30 though. It's a waterproof pack (I'll still use the double liner method though) that weighs less than my Rim Runner but carries 8l more. It's also stupid expensive for what amounts to a plastic bag with straps. It's gray and doesn't have any zippers like the Gregory packs, which means you're dealing with a top loader pack. I'm not sure I want to leave it in the truck all the time, as it is more expensive, but... I'll have to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. Packs and tents are certainly things that you can wind up overthinking. Speaking of tents, if your pockets are deep enough, Durston also released the X-Dome 1+ which is a truly free standing tent. It weighs in at 2.5lb total which is absolutely amazing and you can have shelter anywhere. My all accounts it's a game-changer and at some point I might move that direction, but for the purposes of this setup, the Naturhike I mentioned initially is absolutely stellar and a bargain by every metric. It isn't a place I'd want to stay for any longer than I needed to, but it's a solid little tent and it only needs two stake points for the vestibules (you can do without them, but it'll be a bit flappy on those points).
I don’t get too much bogged down in the acronym names for bags. I find it more useful to build a pack based on duration (24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs is what I use). My 24 hour bag is both a large EDC and bag that can get me home from most places I go in the average week.
As Mors Kohanski used to say, "The more you know, the less you carry." Building a minimalist kit is difficult for most of us since we are always saying "what if." It takes a fair bit of discipline to confine yourself to the basics but by doing so, you can create a kit that is multi-functional and light, increasing mobility. This has been an eye opening video reminding me to keep it simple. Thank you.
@@markturner6755 Absolutely. Since you have the space, it becomes almost instinctive to add a tiny and weightless item here and there and you don't realize the cumulative weight.
Hi everyone. Newbie here. Thank you for the video and the comments. A bit overwhelmed but I have made the decision to be responsible and start preparing. God bless everyone 💖🙏
@@thehylers1021 Welcome to the community! Theres a lot of good people here but, some are only here to make money so be wary of them and those that cause fear. God bless!
As always, you covered the basics of survival really well. Personally, I would add cash (in small bills), important documents, battery bank and maybe a small thumb drive with family photos. Comfort would have me using a backpack that transfers the weight to my hips, going long distances with all the weight on the shoulders can get uncomfortable for those of advanced age.
Comfort = less weight. It is easy to get several pounds of extra padding and straps and framework. I'm definitely a fan of empty water containers. Get to location, and then fill them up.
I've found that on even a 20 liter pack a waist and sternum strap adds stability and comfort. Those times you have to run, even across a two lane street, having the bag secured makes you safer and faster.
I had a 65 liter in the closet just gathering dust. It's only a third full with this load out, but it has a waist strap and a very good suspension system and shoulder straps. The extra room does not hurt any and it didn't coast anything so I'm OK with it😊
@@puddin94 Funny, I also have a free 60+ liter pack in the closet. good straps, closures, cover. It was on the curb one day when I was walking the dog. As I don't plan on bugging out at 67 yo, it may end up as a go to market bag.
I think it’s a very well thought out go-bag. Four suggestions to consider: 1) A 2m/440 wire JPole for greater radio range. 2) A small pair of binoculars 3) A couple or three glow sticks. 4) An inexpensive mechanical wind-up wrist watch that’s in or on the bag. Won’t add a lot of weight, but will add usefulness. Cheers
I have what i call an emergency bag in my truck and one in my car. Everything from nail clippers to firestarters to battery banks to umbrellas to knives. My philosophy is if i need to travel with it i simply take whats needed and leave the rest behind.
Solid realistic approach for most people but skill building and learning can never be overlooked. Remember - skills don't weigh anything and don't take up any room in your pack. Learn to do more with less.
I have come to the same conclusion as well! I have been trying to set my pack up as a get home bag and because of several health issues at 63 years old, I can only take the bare minimum to sustain myself. Especially if I have to walk home from God knows where!😅 I have always been a kitchen sink over packer.😂 Old habits are hard to break, but I realize I can’t handle the weight anymore. Thanks for sharing your set up with us all.😊
Hey quick tip for all you guys. A bic is definitely the best easy to use fire starter for many reasons but I've taken to ripping the red plastic off the fuel button. This leaves the lighter perfectly usable, but reduces the chance of it accidentally getting pressed in a pack or pocket and wasting all the butane. I did this for years and years to good effect. Now i simply 3d print covers for the top of my bics haha but the cheap way of just taking a leatherman to the button works fine
I've seen metal sleeves for Bic lighters. I wonder if they could be reversed to cover the button. Perhaps a thin metal sleeve/case could be DIYed, that could be slid down for intentional use. I've seen others suggest wrapping a Bic with 1" candle wick to extend the life of the fuel, as well as adding 1" gorilla tape and bank line to increase the utility of the item (and covering it with bicycle inner tube section). But when it runs out then that extra material may be a hassle to remove and put on another lighter. However, with a sleeve, you could just replace the lighter without rewinding everything.
Good all around kit, well thought out. If I was to suggest anything to add, a small fishing kit, a large rat trap with a 3/8 inch hole in the upper corner for a cord tie off. And maybe a small kit with soap, tooth paste and a brush, and lastly a sewing kit with buttons. Thank you for the vid!
Well done ... simple .. thought out ... no extras or fluff items ... I usually use a large baggie for my map ... I like the Cordura protector you have ! Subbed
Thanks for a video that makes one think! I've changed my outlook on bags lately due to my advancing age and health challenges,. I decided to go with a backpack containing the more traditional bug out bag items and a rolling duffle "evacuation bag" to place in my car to carry the majority of my kit. I believe that I can reach a location out of immediate danger in my car while using my vehicle as long as I can to transport enough gear to allow me to endure most natural and some man made disasters.
My daily commuter bag (26 liter) always has a change of clothes for the gym, gym shoes, small med kit, snacks, headlamp, Ferro rod, gloves, tissues, utility tool, one large ziploc and a toiletry bag.
A bug out bag is the thing that got my started with prepping. But like you said, after years it doesn't make sense. I live in the Netherlands, so there is no way to go when SHTF. My daily EDC bag is combined with Go bag essentials. I am on the road allot so that is how i fill in the gaps.
I love how things come full circle to what some of us have been doing for decades. Your EDC bag, the bag you have with you every day, should have the basics of survival...and a jack-of-all-tasks, albeit a master of none. It doesn't have to be your only bag, any more than you only have to have one gun. For specific tasks you have specific gear best suited for that task. But what "normally" have with you everyday (when you are not doing one of those other specific tasks) CAN be used for some of those other tasks if need be. My EDC bag got me 30 miles back to my truck when I was stranded on 9/11, and if I am carrying my rifle duffle, for...reasons...my EDC is suited to plus-up the chest rig in that lives in that duffle with my rifle.
Add 3 biotic cream shelter option: add a swim mattress, this can be blown up using your mouth Illumination: Gather a few solar lights per person. hang it off the backpack or other item that allows for sunlight
@@SILENTGUARD90if you run just two extra socks, one is worn, one is drying, one is ready. This applies to wool or wool blends. Cotton is useless and dangerous, generally.
@@ManInTheWoods76 I promise you'll want the extra pair or 2 making it 4-5.. the amount of walking on a daily... Me being homeless taught me that one... You want the extras cause you never know.. heavy sweating to stepping in that puddle you didn't have much of a choice
Great Video!! It's hard to define everything because for some there'll be medications that may take up more space. Also, most food options are MRE or Freeze dried and salty. Two compasses so you can look at both for reassurance of direction.
@@SILENTGUARD90 That's where wool come into play. Darn tough make great socks and i wear them everyday in the heat in steel toe work boots. They wick the sweat away and keep your feet dry. Even if they get soaking wet, they will keep you warm. They are a tad expensive, but you get what you pay for and they have a lifetime warranty. 2 pair of wool socks will get you through a week or more in a pinch.
I keep a migration kit and a four-wheel 800 lb capacity garden cart. I have no intention of bugging out into the wilderness especially here in Canada in winter time. I prefer to get to another town city or province but I'm not going into the wilderness to die.
@@julieratcliff107 The cart means I can take lots of equipment with me. It's also good for people who have families with small children who cannot walk long distances or if someone gets injured you can transport them. I'm 75 so there's no way I'm carrying even a small bug out bag on my back I have a 200 lb capacity hand truck along with buggies that I can attach to a mountain bike as I'm still a cyclist in my old fart age.
All bags are the same thing, go bag, b.o.b., camping bag, hiking bag,get home bag,ect. An assault pack is the only different bag. A haversack is also a different bag. Carry a first aid pouch, A pot to boil water and cook in. A transistor radio with extra batteries. Snare wire. A pellet gun only+ pellets. Flashlight, Firestarters, A change of clothes, 2nd set of boots,rain coat,tarp or poncho, a shovel, a watch cap, and gloves, a good knife and a pocket knife.
well great video..my go bag what ever we call em ... look anyone who bails without a place to go is simply a glorified refugee. I have a multi-tiered setup.. First my EDC , on a leather belt leather-man multi-tool, pocket knife, lighter, latex gloves. Then my get home sling bag! It is always in my mod of transportation , it has everything i need to get home, combat rifleman's gloves, flashlight, rain jacket, water bottle, snacks, compass, large non folding belly belt knife, and first aid...my next setup is go to the retreat bag , works with the EDC, and sling pack. it has has fire starter, meals , Machete, small stove, good watch cap, Ferraro rod, cook setup , instant warmth , change of socks, winter gloves, etc.. fire starter water purification... etc
Extra Socks, Silcoc Key, and water proof pants shell will make your time outdoors more bearable. Also consider a set of Lock Picks if you foresee the need.
It looked like your outter cup on that Grayl Ultrapress was leaking and dripping, if it is actually doing that I would contact Grayl for a replacement. Also a collapsible dump pouch somewhere on the outside of that bag would be really helpful, it's small and doesn't take up much room but would allow expansion of the pack or collecting things along the way etc. Thanks for showing!
I think your greatest asset is parked on your right. Your vehicle is your command post. Outfit it as such with maps, an above what is needed medical kit, lots of water, food, clothing, footwear, blankets, and TOOLS; saw, hammer, etc. I would also carry a dolly for moving those items if abandoning the command post is necessary. The vehicle is a shelter. It has electricity charging, AC, heat. At least temporarily so. Then whatever bag is needed. You could also toss a bike in your vehicle. My command post is KIA Soul.
I'm definitely cleaning out the junk in my car trunk to make room for a folding bike because these old legs ain't what they used to be. Plus I think there's a weight limit especially with folding bikes. 240 lbs? Something like that. Two jobs with the day one at 31 miles away & the night one at 18 miles with a killer uphill walk in the dark. I'm groaning just thinking about it. No matter where I go my car will become my roving outpost. I'll be adding tools, rain ponchos, tarps, blankets, pillows, water & healthy snacks. Gotta see everything through different ("older") eyes. 👀
I also prefer the go bag but have it adjusted a little bit to cover more common situations such as "I need to go home for a weekend because a family member is sick."
I have my backpack with a can of bear spray and a water canister on either of the two outside pockets. Inside a med and fire kits. 50 rounds of 22LR w/ pistol, 550 cordage, 2 large bushcraft knives, hand warmer that doubles as a portable power bank with a Type C cable , Sharpie, mechanical pencil, ink pen, notepad, glass breaker, a Leatherman Surge, spare cash, compass/signal mirror, and a few protein bars. I also keep supplies in my truck including various tools, jumper cables, rope, a come along, hatchet, shovel, fire extinguisher,tarp, and a wool blanket. If I were bugging out I would take our camping cots, pads, sleeping bags, and camping cot tents. Sleeping on the ground is is miserable. Hard to do as you get older.
Nice video, thank you😊 . Added a light weight fleece jacket, 2 large garbage bags, extra pair of reading glasses. Substituted am/fm radio for cb. Left out map case, compass case(kept compass). Awesome kit for those times I'm stuck for 2 or 3 days,lost on a back road, or need to hike a few miles to civilisation. Put one in the van and one in my car.😊
I have a 125cc motorbike parked out front. It always has at least half a tank of gas. That will be good for about 80-90 miles. Two small panniers, a tank bag and a backpack are coming with me. One of the panniers holds a 1 Liter bottle of emergency fuel (about 20 miles worth) and some tools. Some chain lube, a tyre inflator and rope plugs will also go in there as well as some assorted tools and parts. Don’t want any nasty surprises here. Considering relocating some of those to bags/pouches that I can tie to the crash bars. And yes, a larger motorcycle (probably a Trans Alp) is planned. There’s only so much you can do on 125cc after all but for urban transportation and the odd weekend trip this is as good and cheap as it gets. Needless to say…skills is what matters above anything else. An ounce of skill can replace a pound of gear, figuratively speaking. Bugging out on a motorcycle is only going to work for you, if you have enough practice riding and have confidence in your abilities. I ride more than 7500 miles a year in almost every type of weather (except snow/ice because I am not suicidal) so I consider myself reasonably well skilled. Certainly not an expert but I can handle myself alright.
I like the kit but I opt for metal whistle for bear safety, and a larger poncho for rain so I can cover my backpack and a ways past my waste. It’s also useful as a ground sheet, a layer of warmth for sleeping, or a privacy screen for bathing and pooping if you’re in a group and can’t necessarily get away from them.
Hello @ThePreparedWanderer, I've found your concept very interesting. I'm taking notes from your videos, and another from an Argentinian guy. You gave me ideas to implemente on my bag that I use for going to my work. I'm using a 5.11 Havoc 30 Backpack (a more gray man concept) just not to call so much attention (but fortunately here where I work many people use tactical Backpacks). I'll take your advices, thanks for taking the time of doing the video, I enjoyed a lot and it's very usefull. Best Regards Juan
Exactly my sentiments on not bugging out - I am 58, not in great shape, have a wife and 2 adult daughters, where there is really no choice other than to stay where we are and use the resources we have at home. I focus on a Get Home Bag in my vehicle more, as my primary intent in a SHTF situation is to always get home. In my GHB, I do not carry any food, stoves, utensils, etc. Eating in the short term is not my priority, but I will carry a couple of bottles of water, in addition to drinking one to hydrate before setting out. Watching your video makes me want to do a complete bag dump and review what I have. I like your use of pouches for organization and have done similarly. I still have not found the perfect bag as I am a big guy and most medium sized bags have straps that are too small for my frame, so I am looking for a good ambidextrous sling bag.
Thank you for this video. Excellent presentation, much food for thought. As others have noted, extra socks are worth their weight in gold. I might also suggest some form of anti-athlete's-foot powder, gel, or liquid, as well as at least one ankle brace/Ace bandage. In a situation where any such bag becomes one's best option, foot and ankle health become matters of necessity, almost as important as the ability to make fire and purify water.
I walk my dog about a thousand miles a year with a 20-27# pack. I've got the knee wrap, the ankle wrap and the four inch by six foot ace in the pack. Most of the pack weight is water, but there's the poncho, flashlight, first aid, socks, work gloves, and so on. About the only thing I haven't used is the mylar "space blanket". But having once put my winter coat on an accident victim that was going into shock, I'll always have one of those ready.
Nice little set up. I didn’t need to see a new bag though. Getting a problem with bags and blades lately. 😂. Great video sir. Definitely gonna check out the links.
it's even doubtful for most young people, considering how sedentary most are. 40 lbs is about what most people could handle for any meaningful distance. my method involves distributing the weight across my entire torso using an flc vest this allows me to carry more without it all being concentrated on my back
My advice is practice, as rucking is a skill. I'm in my late 60's, and carry a smaller 20-27 pound pack while walking the dog about 1,000 miles a year. Once in a while I load up the big pack and carry it just for practice and exercise. I've told people to find a campground 20-25 miles away, hike there on Saturday, then hike home Sunday.
ever consider Thermal Plastic? its just plastic that can be molded with hot water, i have a large ball i made them flattened and its become invaluable in my bug out bag and camping stuff. ive made spear tips, stakes for my tarp and countless other tools with it and just re form it to a ball n smash it down when im done
Adsorption filters are excellent in an industrial setting but have no place in the field due to lack of indication when they’ve stopped working. My 3 options depending on setting: 1: Chlorine dioxide tablets (single use; no feedback needed for clear water) 2: Flocculation with alum or similar (visual feedback of settlement), followed by ceramic filter (there is a thickness gauge on the MSR), finished with ordinary Sodium hypochlorite (feedback by smell per instructions on EPA website) 3: Pasteurization, which saves fuel and time versus boiling, by employing a tiny WAPI water pasteurization indicator (visual feedback)
Y'all are gonna get triggered cause I got a big bug out bag honestly it's mostly clothes 2 sets for both seasons which I got a pair of pants on me and one spare... After being homeless I learned what I would need for clothes and equipment... I don't carry a sleep sack however I got just about all the basic equipment needed and believe it or not it's not too heavy... All I'm missing are the gravity water filter a hatchet gun and ammo.. otherwise I like my bag because of a built in rain fly to keep my stuff dry... I'll be warm cause of the clothes and capability of building my own shelter disposable poncho for rain catcher 2 trauma grade kits
Best to tailor each bag to the person, environment, and purpose. I have 4 bags, each with different tools, accessories, and purpose. My EDC bag has more of the normal day to day stuff for me like a battery pack and cables to charge devices, my Steam Deck and its keyboard+mouse as well as its dock, headlamp, emergency meds from OTC painkillers to antibiotics, also including a few bandages and some packets of antibiotic ointment (flammable), hand sanitizer (very flammable and helps dissolve ice), soap strips, alcohol wipes and microfiber cloths for cleaning my screens as well as the multitude of other uses those items each have, leukotape (good for blisters, adhering items together, or creating larger bandages with cloth or gauze), Sharpie marker, Rotring Rapid Pro mechanical pencil, Olight O'Pen Pro with light and laser (incredibly handy for marking levels over distance) and a spring-loaded pin punch for knocking door hinge pins out (also works great as an escape tool to get out of a car if needed, one hit will immediately remove a car window), waterproof notepad, a copy of important documents, waterproof map of the area, a fresnel lens magnifier, waterproof matches, toothpicks (extremely handy from picking teeth to emergency kindling, or getting lint out of the charge port of your devices), gloves, SA face shield, noise cancelling earbuds, bluetooth speaker (I love music. I know its overkill but I don't mind) plus some lock-related tools such as my Lishi 6-pin Schlage and Kwikset decoder picks with 5-pin reducer collars, Covert Companion pick set, Covert Instruments Replicant key casting tool set complete with Bic mini lighter, Lishi key cutting pliers, and a small zipper pouch I keep loaded with 3 of each of the 18 most common blanks in my region. I have another zipper pouch that has 4 condoms, 2 latex-free and 2 magnum XLs plus 4 packets of lube. If I'm not using them as designed or handing them out for that use I also use them for waterproofing and small, temporary caches. The entire EDC bag I'm discussing is so small it can fit into one of the magnum condoms to stay waterproof if needed. I also always have an OBD-II scan tool, flashlight, Leatherman Surge+ with the bit kit and saw blades, some emergency cash, 2 led beacons I can hand out to other people to find them in a crowd or help them find me, and a small keyring with a 5ft flexible tape measure and a small tritium vial that helps me find my bag at night without the use of lights or anything battery operated. That's my EDC setup, my go bags are each vastly different. They each cover similar points as a base and then build out from there to better meet their intended use case. From my ultralight but capable day hike bag (under 10lbs with water, water filter, snacks, bugspray, sunscreen, meds, bandages, leukotape, flashlight, swiss army classic SD, headlamp, swedish cloth, castile soap, a mylar blanket, lighter, and my drone as well as a swimsuit and water shoes) To my long haul hiking pack (just over 16lbs with food for a week, water, water filter, meds, sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitizer, leukotape, sun hat, pillow, clothes, trowel, toilet paper, swedish cloth, castile soap, shelter/poncho, sleeping bag, air mattress, air pump, deck of cards, a change of clothes for sleeping in, a cooking setup with fuel, lighter, stove, pot, and utensils) Or even my GOOD (get out of dodge) bag. I have yet to weigh that one, but it is meant for longer trips in inclimate weather, with redundancies and tools to help me survive whether I'm in an urban or woodland environment. I'm working on integrating my drone into a velcro pouch that can be placed on/in any of the packs as a nice little aerial surveillance add-on for any of them. It's an excellent tool to have with you whether you're taking stunning pictures or watching ahead for roadblocks, riots, or any other threat. It can also help you find streams easier too, and that saves a lot of wear and tear on your feet. This bag has a much more capable cooking setup which allows it to use propane, isobutane, wood, or alcohol and it has a decent sized pan as well as a Stanley 2 cup cook set to best cover all my bases. The shelter system is upgraded to a Litefighter 1 with air mattress. Instead of a trowel this bag has a Glock E-tool with saw in the handle, It also has more convenience items and things that will help a longer, more drawn out "vacation" feel less like living through hell. This bag has more water storage as well as a 30W solar panel and rechargeable AA/AAA batteries plus grenade tops modified into tripwire alarms that use 209 primers to alert me to an unexpected presence. For the wire I use a 250' strand of kevlar cordage that is incredibly compact and strong. Rub it in some mud to help disguise it even better. That cordage doubles as a saw for cutting tree limbs. Once I upgrade a couple components after my recent move I will be sealing the GOOD bag into a mylar bag for permanent storage in my vehicle along with a couple other handy tools to help me get through whatever I may face. I dismantled my INCH bag, it got insane. Over 67lbs. It had a lot of handy stuff, but it was massively impractical. I had every CC of its 105L capacity FILLED and that just didnt make sense. It was really always intended to be thrown in a vehicle to escape a natural disaster, and not actually meant to be packed miles into the woods as nobody would reasonably do that. Now its contents are applied to a vehicle I built to explore with and the bag lives in a storage compartment in case I need to abandon the vehicle, which would be the worst of the worst case scenario only.
I keep a bug out bag at home, with a bug out location set up, it's geared fully for winderness survival. It will get me to main off site location. Or let me survive anywhere if I can't reach any preset location. Gobag in vehicles is more urban survival and self defense. It is a lot smaller, and doesn't make me stand out. But could get me out of a city, if shtf in one. Prefer to mostly stay in rural places. But either with my edc will hopefully get what I need done. I practice with every item, carrying weight, and refining them when ever I can. Always good to drop weight, or stack items, like wrapping Duct tape around other items and such. A good test of a bug out bag for me has been to take a week off work from time to time and only survive off bag. You'll find out really quick what can go or what you're lacking.
I have a edc pack that i use and carry daily and a duffle bag in the car,if the occasion calls for it i can change or add stuff,depending the situation.
I alternate between the HMG’s Elevate 22 and Summit 30 depending on the weather conditions etc. If I had to choose one, definitely the Summit 30 in the 150 weight - I’ve been pushing over a dozen miles every day since September and it’s been stellar. It’s 100% waterproof, 11 times stronger than steel and weighs hardly anything. My “kit” clocks in at just over 17.2lbs for the 3-5 day load out, not including the water. I highly recommend the Hyperlite Mountain Gear and their packs, they are like a sore d!ck…can’t beat it.
For a 3-5 day go bag load out, forget the food. You, the person reading this, have enough sugar and fat stored in your body to last you a lot longer than that…guaranteed. Yes, you might have enough time to sit down and feel hungry, this is a simple hormonal trigger set off by your brain - especially in the western world, three square meals are the de facto standard and your brain is used to it. Having been through several deployments AND just pushing myself on a daily basis as a 100% disabled combat veteran; the human body is WAY more resilient than you can imagine. Water, water and more water. This is the key, this is life so…get yourself a GOOD medical kit for treating any ouchies you may have, some lightweight tools, a worn in pair of leather gloves (I have the Kevlar lined ones), two or three spare pairs of quality socks and a spare shirt. That’s it really. Keep your kit lightweight enough for you to carry it everywhere every day, if you don’t you won’t…and you’re not going to have your kit available when you need it. It will get you in better shape, it will condition your will and your moxie…you need to loose some weight and get in better shape anyway. Do the things.
"two changes of BVD's. I got me my guitar. I got me my address book, a ... pair of socks, four Masked Marvel comic books, a tennis racquet and four hundred n' ninety-seven n' a half feet o' rope." (from Legend of the USS Titanic by Jamie Brockett) a guy with your sense of humor should look this song up and listen to it sometime)
I also made a GO bag instead of a bob. where I live, we have something called the total defense, Tldr: if something big were to happen and the Rikstag goes out with high readiness, I have to report to work as soon as possible. We must then bring our own food, hygiene items and a change of clothes so that covers a few days. I packed my bag after that. But also to take into a bomb shelter or to take me to a safe place about 6-7 hours walk from where I live.
im 36 and I'm not leaving my house! I get certain people may have to have a bug out option because of where they live but I live in a rural area where I feel better standing my ground and protecting my home than I do leaving it
I have a bug out bag and stiff to put in the truck to take the family somewhere. Snacks and MRE mean we can go for days, literally, with out having to stop to cook. Always keeping a full tank of gas in the truck with 4 5gallon containers of gas, my range is about 600 miles. Having a bug out bag doesn’t mean to head to the woods. We can go to a friends house or a hotel an I got it covered, clothes toiletries, food, heating / cooking options, self defense, etc. who says you can’t heat up some water and enjoy MountIan House while chilling in a hotel watching tv
Get the stainless steel 30 oz. pathfinder neating cup with lid and handles for the grayl water system. $25, and a boonie hat and head net. Good investments.
Ive been trying to put together what i call a just in case bag. I like to go on day trips, but occasionally decide to stay over, so i want a lightweight bag i can carry all day, but provide a comfortable shelter system for one or more nights. Now im unlikely to get lost, im not doing anything stupid which may require medical care, im not even bothered about food and water provision or cooking kit.. My bag will typically have a hygiene kit, some foot care, waterproof clothing, warm clothing, spare socks and a camp system. ideally in a 15 litre pack.
If you already have a Sawyer and don't want to pop $100 for a Grayl, then make sure your water bottles are PET threads (common Coke bottle type.) By doing that, you can pre filter while filling up one... Then throw the Sawyer on it and drink. Not as fast as grayl. Keep in mind too that Sawyer only filters whereas grayl will purify
The bag for whatever it is, doesnt have to be large; it only needs to bridge the gap of knowledge/ skill and ability. The axium of the more you know, the less you need to carry comes into play here. To be truly prepared, you should also be studying, expanding and implementing that knowledge and those skills. Then understand the balance between necessity and essential as it relates to caloric expendature. This knowledge can allow you to free up weight so you can carry luxury items if you so choose. The 10C's weve all heard of and implement are simply representative of the hardest things to recreate in the field. Thats why theyre carried, to save time and calories
Good plan. I am more in your camp than the "bugout" guys. Very solid basic approach here. One thing I do have beyond your excellent set up; potassium iodide tablets. Enough for my wife, daughter and myself for 2 weeks. Maybe irrational but you don't need a SHTF/dirty bomb scenario to maybe need them one day. All you need is an accident at the wrong place.
If possible, I would also suggest a portable waterproof solar panel. Enough to charge your phone and also charge whatever you need to charge. I am not too good with building fires from whatever I could find but I would like to carry a rechargable lighter and also a small fire starting kit as a spare. These items I think are less that 20-30 dollars. The solar panels are around 10-15 dollars and can charge up to 30wt. You can also hang them on your bag as you go along while you charge your devices. Maybe add in a lifestraw too or any water filtering system but I guess water tablets are already good enough. I am trying to fill in three bags of necessary items for me, my mom, and my brother. So incase we get seperated, at least we all have necessary survival gear. It's also nice so we can distrubute the weight. And well, I guess food to keep us alive for more than 72 hours. I would also like to add in protein bars that have at least 20-30 years shelf life so, even if you ran out of actual food, you still have something to ration. They're very small but are pretty compact. Well, we are not really allowed to carry guns over here so, I guess we kinda have to use what we have that's available to defend ourselves. I really appreciate this video! I was overthinking most of the items I could bring but then I realized less is more when it comes to survivav in terms of mobility.
Hello, great video! I really appreciate all your tips and tricks. I’m interested in the foldable map Inge and wondered where that was purchased from. I couldn’t find your site on Amazon.
I trust my EDC, prepared for long time survival in any environment with all i need in any situation (food apart) But such a kit only goes along with someone specifically trained for survival, not common people (no pun intended, i undestand 99.99% of people have no training at all in real survival situations)
A few add suggestions: small tubes of sunscreen and bug repellant. A bug head net. A folding sun hat that works with the bug head net would also be a plus. A small power bank to keep your phone going and maybe a small thin hard plastic 5 watt solar panel with a USB-A port. Also keep downloaded street and trail maps on your phone that are available when offline. I'd skip the map kit. I'm not fond of carrying urban tools (like a screwdriver) into the woods. I'd rather replace that weight with a decent folding saw. Just my suggestions after watching the video.
What are you using to hold you maps and land nav? I might’ve missed it but looks like the best system I’ve seen for maps. The black folder not the map case if that helps
I prefer a pack with no zippers. Zippers are always a weak link, especially if the bag is overstuffed or too heavy. And they are a total pain to replace! Anyway, treat them well, and they usually do OK. Don't force them. If they don't slide well, there is a reason, so find it. Also, some plastic coil zippers actually soften and pull apart in hot weather. Overall, good job on packing.
Please Hit the LIKE and SUBSCRIBE BUTTONS as well as the NOTIFICATION BELL. Feel Free to Check out my Amazon Influencer Page and Follow Me on Instagram, and Facebook. Thanks For Watching! www.preparedwanderer.com
You can always a person's experience level by what contents are in their bag.
Your survivability probability is 'Low' scoring a 10/40 points and I am giving you a 40% 'or less' survivability probability.
Security score: 7 (would be higher, foldable bag gun much better + use of drone to recon your route for safety etc.)
Water score: 4 (no water filter, but you are set up to boil)
Shelter score: 7 (getting high score for use of mylar material)
Food /cooking: 8 (you have food, not set up for silent hunting - purchase .22 upper for pistol / bb gun / wrist rocket etc.)
Military tip... Ditch that that crappy military poncho and use mylar. Your overhead should be at ground level, and you dig a water trench around your sleeping area and throw the dirt over the end of system. This is in the event that when it rains, you are diverting the rain so that you do not wake up with water seeping down your spine and ass crack at 0300 in the morning. This also alleviates some of the pesky critters from entering your sleeping area, particularly those attracted by heat signature...
Fire kit is really important. Get a can with a screw on lid, have 2 or 3 holes in it with bolts and nuts. This can be used to dry out (anhydrate / dehydrate) linen, used to make charcoal, used to boil/broil and of course keep items dry.
Not trying to look down on anyone here. I taught this stuff at more than 1 school during my military career.
Outstanding points. I call mine Stay-bag, so I can stay just in my car, or shed, or stay at a friend’s cabin, a quick stay anywhere bag.
Me too. If anything goes wrong where I’m at the roadways are going to be borked, so I’ll be stuck at work, or at home. I set my bag up to support me for a few days stuck at the office, or a 2 day hike home.
I feel it’s a great balance of preparedness, without going overboard.
Sounds very sensible!
Really good video, and there's 100% nothing wrong with what you've got in there. I'm a combat veteran and I've been doing a lot of hiking in the mountains and I've been refining my ideas about what my GHB/GO-Bag should be. Here are some thoughts I have as alternatives as I use; maybe you could incorporate some of these ideas (and probably improve further).
Backpack. Not a bad choice, but the hiking backpacks are usually better. Former military guys and prep guys (I'm both) tend to default toward mil-type gear or tacti-cool stuff. I like to avoid that. Heavier does not mean more durable, and every ounce you carry equates to calories burned, and this is probably the single easiest way to conserve calories by cutting weight without any loss of functionality or durability. I tend to like Gregory packs, but even something like a Camelbak Rim Runner 22 will do the trick and be MUCH lighter and more comfortable to wear (another advantage of a hiking pack; it is designed to wear very well and work on a person rather than a person adapting to it). I'd say minimum 22l but 30 is probably even better. If you want a traditional style pack, the Gregory Citro line is great, and the back ventilation is king. The Gregory Zulu is even better as it's adjustable for torso length, but is a touch heavier. The pack size may (probably should) change for seasons as colder weather will mean more insulation carried. The Gregory Zulu 40, much like the Camelback Rim Runner 22 both fold open. I really like my Citro and Camelbak for this type of pack and I think the hip belt pockets are really important. I keep my snacks, a tool, my optic, and a few other things in there for easy access so I don't have to take my pack off to get to what I need.
I'm not a fan of the Grayl, and here's why: If you deform it or the seals wear (and you don't know when they've worn too much) you can't use it to filter. It DOES filter for viruses which is useful, however there's a new filter on the market from a Brit company called Pure Clear (I'm in absolutely no way affiliated). They're a 42mm drop-in filter and works with Hydrapak and Katadyn bottles/bags (and anything else that has a 42mm opening). Much lighter and you can get two of them so you have a clean drink bottle (that you can collapse) and just drink normall out of the other (they also have tube attachments so you can use them like a water bladder).
I'm a fan of the Baofeng, particularly the UV-5R. However, the Tidradio (also a Baofeng) H3 and H8 radios are a little nicer with better weather protection, are a little more powerful (not really a concern with an HT), and more importantly can scan for codes/tones on repeaters and can be unlocked for MURS, FRS, GMRS, and ham 2m/70cm with NOAA built in, and they're USB-C rechargeable. They also do 'scramble' voice which can be helpful. They're not much more than the UV-5R.
Hygiene kit: I saw you had some items; I'd suggest a toothbrush and toothpaste tablets. Flossers are also great to have. That stuff can be annoying and cause lots of problems down the line.
A compass and pad is great, as is a map. I have switched to wearing a Garmin Instinct (the first ones were awesome and you can get them cheap now) and the 2x Solar is amazing for battery life and they will alert you if there's a sudden change in barometric pressure, track your route via GPS, and are a compass/barometer/altimeter/HR monitor, etc.
Glasses. If you wear them, having them is important, and having a backup is equally important. You can get readers that fit in the credit card slot of your wallet that'll get you buy in a pinch (they clip on your nose with no arms). They aren't great, but they'll do. Likewise, I've discovered a Tasco Monocular that you can buy at Walmart for $10. That should be a toy, but it's a legit little monocular and it weighs nothing. I almost always take it hiking vs my Vortex because it's so much more compact and really, it's all I need when I'm out doing that sort of work. It lets you see into the future, as it were and identify trouble from a long way off.
Lose the tick key. Just notch a piece of plastic or better yet, just notch a pill blister pack edge. Add leukotape; it sticks better than band-aids and helps with blister prevention.
Lighting: Take a look at the Olight Oclip. I love that thing. It's tiny and can clip on to most anything, and it also has a magnet. Very versatile and if you need to walk away from your tent in the dark or mark something, you can leave it going and use it as a lantern. Otherwise, I use my Nitecore 25UL. It's been a great light for me and it's light/small with a great battery life.
Cook kit: I tend to dislike the classic military shaped canteens. They never seem to fit anywhere very well and it's easier to stabilize a round pot when you're heating water/food. I use a Toaks 550ml for myself or if I need more, a 750ml version. You can get these with bails attached if that's your thing. The 550 is enough to rehydrate any water requirement for your meals. I prefer a solid fuel system, especially for a GHB/GO-Bag, because they double as fire starters, they're silent, they don't care about being wet, temperature, or altitude to work and they won't spill and cause a fire. Normal isobutane canisters will nest inside. A Sea to Summit X-Mug (collapsible silicone cup) fits perfectly over the pot lid. It'll weigh a LOT less than what you have, be just as functional, and take up less room in your pack (and be easier to clean). Slightly related is another product I found, the Firebiner. It's just a good quality carabiner (it has some other tools built into it... not exceptionally useful ones) with a spark wheel built in. A nice backup.
Tools: I went the other direction with a multitool. I use a Gerber Vise. Generally speaking there's nothing in the wild that'll require heavy tools, but sometimes a plier is what you need and nothing else will do. If I'm in an urban environment, I will be able to find something to pry with or to find a tool that works for the need. I do however carry an 'unlocking' steel card in my wallet that works on most doors, and a 10" Fat Max Stanley 'demolition' tool (it's a pry bar with a striking face and double ended claw design). It's a good melee tool and will get you into most anywhere you need to be; it is a pound on its own though so... I love my Mora Craftline S 546 for outdoor work. Not as beefy as yours but will batton within reason, can whittle/carve, has a very pronounced fingerguard so you don't accidentally slip forward onto the blade, and a good grip. For $12ish USD it's tough to argue with in SS, though a high carbon option is available for a bit less, it will corrode quickly if
you don't keep it constantly oiled. I also carry a tiny Swiss knife on my keys. It has a toothpick and tweezers, as well as scissors and a file. Those are incredibly useful tools when you need them, and it weighs practically nothing.
Shelter: It's so important to keep vectors out. The wrong bug or critter bite can become a life or death event. I tend to like a tent; and I've put the Naturehike Spider/Bikepacking 1p tent into my bag (it fits just fine) because it's truly free standing and requires no staking. While I do tend to prefer my Six Moon Designs Deschutes Tarp or Gatewood Cape combined with the Serenity Net Tent inner to save a lot of space and is decidedly lighter (the cape doing double-duty as a poncho) they do require staking and a pole (or to be tied up to a tree) and that isn't always practical in every situation or condition. I usually use the SMD options in summer when the ground is softer. I do have a SMD carbon collapsible pole that is super compact and weighs nearly nothing, or I'll have a trekking pole(s) or both. All are deep green and have a low profile. The SMD is great equipment and you pay for it (it isn't absurdly expensive, but it isn't cheap), and the Naturehike IS a bargain at under $90. On that note, skip the paracord and use a Dyneema/Polyester blended line. You can do everything with it that you can with paracord but it doesn't stretch, is easier to sew with, and is vastly stronger/lighter/more compact. For your corners, I'd recommend skipping the bungees and just doing a perfect knot to thread them through the grommets, then pre-tying a taut-line-hitch loop at the other end so you can adjust them to work with your stakes. Way more reliable, super light, and super easy to use.
Sleep System: Might seem like overkill but having served and experienced it myself, the best advantage you can have to avoid the 'fog and fatigue' parts of war is a good night of sleep for recovery and a clear head; the latter keeps you from making more stupid mistakes. I use a Nemo Tensor EC pad which is capable of meeting any temperature range needed but also allows me to carry a lighter bag/quilt than conditions would normally dictate. It is comfortable and compact and lightweight. In all but the coldest months, I'll keep my Horizon Hound GR-20 quilt. When used in a 1p tent you can tuck it into the bathtub floor on either side of you and get a good sleep. I also have a Trekology 2.0 UL pillow that straps to the pad. In colder months I have other options, but this will get me through quite a lot. The quilt packs very small and only weighs 1.5lb. I leave this in a dry bag in my truck, uncompressed, then choke it down if I need it so that the insulation isn't compromised/damaged in 'storage'.
.....copied and pasted email to myself, thank you for your service. I noticed you did not list wearing military garb to the bug in location. js
@@PandaLife-lp8kn I honestly don't own any uniforms anymore (my primary uniform was the BDU when I was active duty). I suppose I have a 'uniform' of sorts these days which consists of Wrangler Tech Cargo pants and usually a lightweight long sleeve hooded sun-shirt. Both breathe very well, dry exceptionally quickly, and provide the correct thermal insulation when things get cooler. I don't stand out in public as it looks 'normal' and the cargo pockets on my pants only appear as a zipper rather than a baggy pocket, yet allow me to hold more gear more comfortably (I hate sitting on a wallet). I keep a pair of lightweight hiking boots in the truck all the time so I can change into them if needed. When it comes time to get out of Dodge, I'm wearing whatever I'm dressed in, but at least I can get some good footwear on, don a pair of gloves, grab my pack and pull whatever food/radio/lighting/etc. from the stores in my truck and head out.
Amazing list, thank you so much. This helped a lot. Your able to fit all of this inside a Citro 30L?
@@stoningtonbolognington Yes. I like the Citro for it's mundane looks; it is just a normal backpack from the outside except for the pockets on the belt. If you need a slightly larger pack, the Zulu 40 is probably the better bet, and it isn't much heavier, but will carry better since the back can be adjusted. That's certainly a pack that is a backpacking pack though, and you'll decide whether or not something like that will work in your environment.
Believe it or not, I could fit all of that in my Camelbak Rim Runner 22. It was quite tight though. I may move over to my Durston Wapta 30 though. It's a waterproof pack (I'll still use the double liner method though) that weighs less than my Rim Runner but carries 8l more. It's also stupid expensive for what amounts to a plastic bag with straps. It's gray and doesn't have any zippers like the Gregory packs, which means you're dealing with a top loader pack. I'm not sure I want to leave it in the truck all the time, as it is more expensive, but... I'll have to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. Packs and tents are certainly things that you can wind up overthinking.
Speaking of tents, if your pockets are deep enough, Durston also released the X-Dome 1+ which is a truly free standing tent. It weighs in at 2.5lb total which is absolutely amazing and you can have shelter anywhere. My all accounts it's a game-changer and at some point I might move that direction, but for the purposes of this setup, the Naturhike I mentioned initially is absolutely stellar and a bargain by every metric. It isn't a place I'd want to stay for any longer than I needed to, but it's a solid little tent and it only needs two stake points for the vestibules (you can do without them, but it'll be a bit flappy on those points).
Love the fact u Illustrated how irrational hiking out can be, your defense measure is epic and an over all solid take on prepping/self preservation.
I don’t get too much bogged down in the acronym names for bags. I find it more useful to build a pack based on duration (24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs is what I use).
My 24 hour bag is both a large EDC and bag that can get me home from most places I go in the average week.
As Mors Kohanski used to say, "The more you know, the less you carry." Building a minimalist kit is difficult for most of us since we are always saying "what if." It takes a fair bit of discipline to confine yourself to the basics but by doing so, you can create a kit that is multi-functional and light, increasing mobility. This has been an eye opening video reminding me to keep it simple. Thank you.
Great point. I have also noticed that the bigger the bag you tend to fill it.
@@markturner6755 Absolutely. Since you have the space, it becomes almost instinctive to add a tiny and weightless item here and there and you don't realize the cumulative weight.
Hi everyone. Newbie here. Thank you for the video and the comments. A bit overwhelmed but I have made the decision to be responsible and start preparing. God bless everyone 💖🙏
@@thehylers1021 good I’m proud of you!
@@thehylers1021 Welcome to the community! Theres a lot of good people here but, some are only here to make money so be wary of them and those that cause fear. God bless!
As always, you covered the basics of survival really well. Personally, I would add cash (in small bills), important documents, battery bank and maybe a small thumb drive with family photos. Comfort would have me using a backpack that transfers the weight to my hips, going long distances with all the weight on the shoulders can get uncomfortable for those of advanced age.
Comfort = less weight. It is easy to get several pounds of extra padding and straps and framework. I'm definitely a fan of empty water containers. Get to location, and then fill them up.
I've found that on even a 20 liter pack a waist and sternum strap adds stability and comfort. Those times you have to run, even across a two lane street, having the bag secured makes you safer and faster.
I had a 65 liter in the closet just gathering dust. It's only a third full with this load out, but it has a waist strap and a very good suspension system and shoulder straps. The extra room does not hurt any and it didn't coast anything so I'm OK with it😊
@@puddin94 Funny, I also have a free 60+ liter pack in the closet. good straps, closures, cover. It was on the curb one day when I was walking the dog. As I don't plan on bugging out at 67 yo, it may end up as a go to market bag.
I think it’s a very well thought out go-bag. Four suggestions to consider: 1) A 2m/440 wire JPole for greater radio range. 2) A small pair of binoculars 3) A couple or three glow sticks. 4) An inexpensive mechanical wind-up wrist watch that’s in or on the bag. Won’t add a lot of weight, but will add usefulness. Cheers
I have what i call an emergency bag in my truck and one in my car. Everything from nail clippers to firestarters to battery banks to umbrellas to knives. My philosophy is if i need to travel with it i simply take whats needed and leave the rest behind.
That's right Be ready and ultimately take what the circumstance demands
Solid realistic approach for most people but skill building and learning can never be overlooked. Remember - skills don't weigh anything and don't take up any room in your pack. Learn to do more with less.
I have come to the same conclusion as well! I have been trying to set my pack up as a get home bag and because of several health issues at 63 years old, I can only take the bare minimum to sustain myself. Especially if I have to walk home from God knows where!😅 I have always been a kitchen sink over packer.😂 Old habits are hard to break, but I realize I can’t handle the weight anymore. Thanks for sharing your set up with us all.😊
Hey quick tip for all you guys. A bic is definitely the best easy to use fire starter for many reasons but I've taken to ripping the red plastic off the fuel button. This leaves the lighter perfectly usable, but reduces the chance of it accidentally getting pressed in a pack or pocket and wasting all the butane.
I did this for years and years to good effect. Now i simply 3d print covers for the top of my bics haha but the cheap way of just taking a leatherman to the button works fine
I like the idea of zip tying it.
@@MarilynStangl that sounds like a good idea, too
I've seen metal sleeves for Bic lighters. I wonder if they could be reversed to cover the button. Perhaps a thin metal sleeve/case could be DIYed, that could be slid down for intentional use. I've seen others suggest wrapping a Bic with 1" candle wick to extend the life of the fuel, as well as adding 1" gorilla tape and bank line to increase the utility of the item (and covering it with bicycle inner tube section). But when it runs out then that extra material may be a hassle to remove and put on another lighter. However, with a sleeve, you could just replace the lighter without rewinding everything.
Good all around kit, well thought out. If I was to suggest anything to add, a small fishing kit, a large rat trap with a 3/8 inch hole in the upper corner for a cord tie off. And maybe a small kit with soap, tooth paste and a brush, and lastly a sewing kit with buttons. Thank you for the vid!
Well done ... simple .. thought out ... no extras or fluff items ... I usually use a large baggie for my map ... I like the Cordura protector you have !
Subbed
Thanks for a video that makes one think! I've changed my outlook on bags lately due to my advancing age and health challenges,. I decided to go with a backpack containing the more traditional bug out bag items and a rolling duffle "evacuation bag" to place in my car to carry the majority of my kit. I believe that I can reach a location out of immediate danger in my car while using my vehicle as long as I can to transport enough gear to allow me to endure most natural and some man made disasters.
My daily commuter bag (26 liter) always has a change of clothes for the gym, gym shoes, small med kit, snacks, headlamp, Ferro rod, gloves, tissues, utility tool, one large ziploc and a toiletry bag.
Awesome bag. Did I miss the link for the radio? Did not see it.
Ya - which radio?
A bug out bag is the thing that got my started with prepping. But like you said, after years it doesn't make sense. I live in the Netherlands, so there is no way to go when SHTF.
My daily EDC bag is combined with Go bag essentials. I am on the road allot so that is how i fill in the gaps.
I love how things come full circle to what some of us have been doing for decades. Your EDC bag, the bag you have with you every day, should have the basics of survival...and a jack-of-all-tasks, albeit a master of none. It doesn't have to be your only bag, any more than you only have to have one gun. For specific tasks you have specific gear best suited for that task. But what "normally" have with you everyday (when you are not doing one of those other specific tasks) CAN be used for some of those other tasks if need be. My EDC bag got me 30 miles back to my truck when I was stranded on 9/11, and if I am carrying my rifle duffle, for...reasons...my EDC is suited to plus-up the chest rig in that lives in that duffle with my rifle.
Very good plan I imagine the older we get it may transform into a fema shelter bag but every one should have something just in case.
lololol amen
I have an inflatable retirement home.
Add 3 biotic cream
shelter option: add a swim mattress, this can be blown up using your mouth
Illumination: Gather a few solar lights per person. hang it off the backpack or other item that allows for sunlight
Really like your style and realistic approach. Very helpful, thanks much
How about a extra pair of socks
You actually want up to 5 pairs and dry the wet ones around your neck
@@SILENTGUARD90if you run just two extra socks, one is worn, one is drying, one is ready. This applies to wool or wool blends. Cotton is useless and dangerous, generally.
@@ManInTheWoods76 I promise you'll want the extra pair or 2 making it 4-5.. the amount of walking on a daily... Me being homeless taught me that one... You want the extras cause you never know.. heavy sweating to stepping in that puddle you didn't have much of a choice
Great Video!! It's hard to define everything because for some there'll be medications that may take up more space. Also, most food options are MRE or Freeze dried and salty. Two compasses so you can look at both for reassurance of direction.
@@SILENTGUARD90 That's where wool come into play. Darn tough make great socks and i wear them everyday in the heat in steel toe work boots. They wick the sweat away and keep your feet dry. Even if they get soaking wet, they will keep you warm. They are a tad expensive, but you get what you pay for and they have a lifetime warranty. 2 pair of wool socks will get you through a week or more in a pinch.
I keep a migration kit and a four-wheel 800 lb capacity garden cart. I have no intention of bugging out into the wilderness especially here in Canada in winter time. I prefer to get to another town city or province but I'm not going into the wilderness to die.
adding the garden cart! Now it will be dual purpose, ty.
@@James-ke5sx this video wasn't meant for you.
@@julieratcliff107 The cart means I can take lots of equipment with me. It's also good for people who have families with small children who cannot walk long distances or if someone gets injured you can transport them. I'm 75 so there's no way I'm carrying even a small bug out bag on my back I have a 200 lb capacity hand truck along with buggies that I can attach to a mountain bike as I'm still a cyclist in my old fart age.
All bags are the same thing, go bag, b.o.b., camping bag, hiking bag,get home bag,ect.
An assault pack is the only different bag.
A haversack is also a different bag.
Carry a first aid pouch,
A pot to boil water and cook in.
A transistor radio with extra batteries.
Snare wire.
A pellet gun only+ pellets.
Flashlight,
Firestarters,
A change of clothes, 2nd set of boots,rain coat,tarp or poncho, a shovel, a watch cap, and gloves, a good knife and a pocket knife.
Def need some stop bleed powder and rapid seal gel for wounds
The clam open beg concept is great. I prefer the bk7 as a blade. Great video there bud
well great video..my go bag what ever we call em ... look anyone who bails without a place to go is simply a glorified refugee. I have a multi-tiered setup.. First my EDC , on a leather belt leather-man multi-tool, pocket knife, lighter, latex gloves. Then my get home sling bag! It is always in my mod of transportation , it has everything i need to get home, combat rifleman's gloves, flashlight, rain jacket, water bottle, snacks, compass, large non folding belly belt knife, and first aid...my next setup is go to the retreat bag , works with the EDC, and sling pack. it has has fire starter, meals , Machete, small stove, good watch cap, Ferraro rod, cook setup , instant warmth , change of socks, winter gloves, etc.. fire starter water purification... etc
Extra Socks, Silcoc Key, and water proof pants shell will make your time outdoors more bearable. Also consider a set of Lock Picks if you foresee the need.
It looked like your outter cup on that Grayl Ultrapress was leaking and dripping, if it is actually doing that I would contact Grayl for a replacement. Also a collapsible dump pouch somewhere on the outside of that bag would be really helpful, it's small and doesn't take up much room but would allow expansion of the pack or collecting things along the way etc. Thanks for showing!
Nice video, love the packing list and reality of all your chosen picks. Keep up the good work
I think your greatest asset is parked on your right. Your vehicle is your command post. Outfit it as such with maps, an above what is needed medical kit, lots of water, food, clothing, footwear, blankets, and TOOLS; saw, hammer, etc. I would also carry a dolly for moving those items if abandoning the command post is necessary. The vehicle is a shelter. It has electricity charging, AC, heat. At least temporarily so. Then whatever bag is needed. You could also toss a bike in your vehicle.
My command post is KIA Soul.
There are collapsible dollies sold on Amazon. My command vehicle is a bus😂
I think a collapsible beach style wagon would be more useful than a dolly but you definitely have the right idea.
@@aceman1126 I have both & they're very handy.
I'm definitely cleaning out the junk in my car trunk to make room for a folding bike because these old legs ain't what they used to be. Plus I think there's a weight limit especially with folding bikes. 240 lbs? Something like that. Two jobs with the day one at 31 miles away & the night one at 18 miles with a killer uphill walk in the dark. I'm groaning just thinking about it. No matter where I go my car will become my roving outpost. I'll be adding tools, rain ponchos, tarps, blankets, pillows, water & healthy snacks. Gotta see everything through different ("older") eyes. 👀
Absolurely
My "command post" is an old F350. Being a lifelong dirtbike & all-round motorcycle guy, I've added a Honda Ruckus for stealthy urban type movement.
I also prefer the go bag but have it adjusted a little bit to cover more common situations such as "I need to go home for a weekend because a family member is sick."
I have my backpack with a can of bear spray and a water canister on either of the two outside pockets. Inside a med and fire kits. 50 rounds of 22LR w/ pistol, 550 cordage, 2 large bushcraft knives, hand warmer that doubles as a portable power bank with a Type C cable , Sharpie, mechanical pencil, ink pen, notepad, glass breaker, a Leatherman Surge, spare cash, compass/signal mirror, and a few protein bars. I also keep supplies in my truck including various tools, jumper cables, rope, a come along, hatchet, shovel, fire extinguisher,tarp, and a wool blanket. If I were bugging out I would take our camping cots, pads, sleeping bags, and camping cot tents. Sleeping on the ground is is miserable. Hard to do as you get older.
Nice video, thank you😊 . Added a light weight fleece jacket, 2 large garbage bags, extra pair of reading glasses. Substituted am/fm radio for cb. Left out map case, compass case(kept compass). Awesome kit for those times I'm stuck for 2 or 3 days,lost on a back road, or need to hike a few miles to civilisation. Put one in the van and one in my car.😊
I have a 125cc motorbike parked out front. It always has at least half a tank of gas. That will be good for about 80-90 miles. Two small panniers, a tank bag and a backpack are coming with me. One of the panniers holds a 1 Liter bottle of emergency fuel (about 20 miles worth) and some tools. Some chain lube, a tyre inflator and rope plugs will also go in there as well as some assorted tools and parts. Don’t want any nasty surprises here. Considering relocating some of those to bags/pouches that I can tie to the crash bars.
And yes, a larger motorcycle (probably a Trans Alp) is planned. There’s only so much you can do on 125cc after all but for urban transportation and the odd weekend trip this is as good and cheap as it gets.
Needless to say…skills is what matters above anything else. An ounce of skill can replace a pound of gear, figuratively speaking.
Bugging out on a motorcycle is only going to work for you, if you have enough practice riding and have confidence in your abilities. I ride more than 7500 miles a year in almost every type of weather (except snow/ice because I am not suicidal) so I consider myself reasonably well skilled. Certainly not an expert but I can handle myself alright.
I like the kit but I opt for metal whistle for bear safety, and a larger poncho for rain so I can cover my backpack and a ways past my waste. It’s also useful as a ground sheet, a layer of warmth for sleeping, or a privacy screen for bathing and pooping if you’re in a group and can’t necessarily get away from them.
Very good 👍 thank you 😊
Considr adding nail clippers and extra socks plus a tourniquet for med kit! And learn how to use it properly!😃🙏♥️
There is a med kit and TQ. Watch again
I saw kit but must have missed tq…thanks!😊
Hello @ThePreparedWanderer, I've found your concept very interesting. I'm taking notes from your videos, and another from an Argentinian guy. You gave me ideas to implemente on my bag that I use for going to my work. I'm using a 5.11 Havoc 30 Backpack (a more gray man concept) just not to call so much attention (but fortunately here where I work many people use tactical Backpacks).
I'll take your advices, thanks for taking the time of doing the video, I enjoyed a lot and it's very usefull.
Best Regards Juan
Exactly my sentiments on not bugging out - I am 58, not in great shape, have a wife and 2 adult daughters, where there is really no choice other than to stay where we are and use the resources we have at home. I focus on a Get Home Bag in my vehicle more, as my primary intent in a SHTF situation is to always get home. In my GHB, I do not carry any food, stoves, utensils, etc. Eating in the short term is not my priority, but I will carry a couple of bottles of water, in addition to drinking one to hydrate before setting out. Watching your video makes me want to do a complete bag dump and review what I have. I like your use of pouches for organization and have done similarly. I still have not found the perfect bag as I am a big guy and most medium sized bags have straps that are too small for my frame, so I am looking for a good ambidextrous sling bag.
Thank you for this video. Excellent presentation, much food for thought. As others have noted, extra socks are worth their weight in gold. I might also suggest some form of anti-athlete's-foot powder, gel, or liquid, as well as at least one ankle brace/Ace bandage. In a situation where any such bag becomes one's best option, foot and ankle health become matters of necessity, almost as important as the ability to make fire and purify water.
I walk my dog about a thousand miles a year with a 20-27# pack. I've got the knee wrap, the ankle wrap and the four inch by six foot ace in the pack. Most of the pack weight is water, but there's the poncho, flashlight, first aid, socks, work gloves, and so on. About the only thing I haven't used is the mylar "space blanket". But having once put my winter coat on an accident victim that was going into shock, I'll always have one of those ready.
Good thought process
Nice little set up. I didn’t need to see a new bag though. Getting a problem with bags and blades lately. 😂. Great video sir. Definitely gonna check out the links.
Spot on. Unless your young and in great shape the idea people will
Head out with a 80 lb pack and live is someone who hasn’t tried it.
it's even doubtful for most young people, considering how sedentary most are. 40 lbs is about what most people could handle for any meaningful distance. my method involves distributing the weight across my entire torso using an flc vest this allows me to carry more without it all being concentrated on my back
My advice is practice, as rucking is a skill. I'm in my late 60's, and carry a smaller 20-27 pound pack while walking the dog about 1,000 miles a year. Once in a while I load up the big pack and carry it just for practice and exercise.
I've told people to find a campground 20-25 miles away, hike there on Saturday, then hike home Sunday.
Great set up. I have a similar one in my Eberlestock Bandit Pack.
I love the bandit pack. Great hiking pack
Those are standard jigsaw blades. You can get them for wood, metal and plastic at any hardware store.
I've been calling mine a sustain pack, eda everyday activity
ever consider Thermal Plastic? its just plastic that can be molded with hot water, i have a large ball i made them flattened and its become invaluable in my bug out bag and camping stuff. ive made spear tips, stakes for my tarp and countless other tools with it and just re form it to a ball n smash it down when im done
Nice set up!
Adsorption filters are excellent in an industrial setting but have no place in the field due to lack of indication when they’ve stopped working.
My 3 options depending on setting:
1: Chlorine dioxide tablets (single use; no feedback needed for clear water)
2: Flocculation with alum or similar (visual feedback of settlement), followed by ceramic filter (there is a thickness gauge on the MSR), finished with ordinary Sodium hypochlorite (feedback by smell per instructions on EPA website)
3: Pasteurization, which saves fuel and time versus boiling, by employing a tiny WAPI water pasteurization indicator (visual feedback)
Said no backpacker or wilderness instructor ever.
Great video. Makes sense. Lots of good ideas. How much does it weigh loaded with your gear?
What was the name and model of the bushcraft knife? Again, always great content
Reiff 5F survival
Do you wrap your baofeng radios in aluminum foil or do you have faraday bags?
Y'all are gonna get triggered cause I got a big bug out bag honestly it's mostly clothes 2 sets for both seasons which I got a pair of pants on me and one spare... After being homeless I learned what I would need for clothes and equipment... I don't carry a sleep sack however I got just about all the basic equipment needed and believe it or not it's not too heavy... All I'm missing are the gravity water filter a hatchet gun and ammo.. otherwise I like my bag because of a built in rain fly to keep my stuff dry... I'll be warm cause of the clothes and capability of building my own shelter disposable poncho for rain catcher 2 trauma grade kits
Had a get home bag, EDC and BOBs for everyone in my family. We upgraded. Thank you
Another great vid! Thx for posting!
Best to tailor each bag to the person, environment, and purpose. I have 4 bags, each with different tools, accessories, and purpose.
My EDC bag has more of the normal day to day stuff for me like a battery pack and cables to charge devices, my Steam Deck and its keyboard+mouse as well as its dock, headlamp, emergency meds from OTC painkillers to antibiotics, also including a few bandages and some packets of antibiotic ointment (flammable), hand sanitizer (very flammable and helps dissolve ice), soap strips, alcohol wipes and microfiber cloths for cleaning my screens as well as the multitude of other uses those items each have, leukotape (good for blisters, adhering items together, or creating larger bandages with cloth or gauze), Sharpie marker, Rotring Rapid Pro mechanical pencil, Olight O'Pen Pro with light and laser (incredibly handy for marking levels over distance) and a spring-loaded pin punch for knocking door hinge pins out (also works great as an escape tool to get out of a car if needed, one hit will immediately remove a car window), waterproof notepad, a copy of important documents, waterproof map of the area, a fresnel lens magnifier, waterproof matches, toothpicks (extremely handy from picking teeth to emergency kindling, or getting lint out of the charge port of your devices), gloves, SA face shield, noise cancelling earbuds, bluetooth speaker (I love music. I know its overkill but I don't mind) plus some lock-related tools such as my Lishi 6-pin Schlage and Kwikset decoder picks with 5-pin reducer collars, Covert Companion pick set, Covert Instruments Replicant key casting tool set complete with Bic mini lighter, Lishi key cutting pliers, and a small zipper pouch I keep loaded with 3 of each of the 18 most common blanks in my region. I have another zipper pouch that has 4 condoms, 2 latex-free and 2 magnum XLs plus 4 packets of lube. If I'm not using them as designed or handing them out for that use I also use them for waterproofing and small, temporary caches. The entire EDC bag I'm discussing is so small it can fit into one of the magnum condoms to stay waterproof if needed. I also always have an OBD-II scan tool, flashlight, Leatherman Surge+ with the bit kit and saw blades, some emergency cash, 2 led beacons I can hand out to other people to find them in a crowd or help them find me, and a small keyring with a 5ft flexible tape measure and a small tritium vial that helps me find my bag at night without the use of lights or anything battery operated. That's my EDC setup, my go bags are each vastly different. They each cover similar points as a base and then build out from there to better meet their intended use case.
From my ultralight but capable day hike bag (under 10lbs with water, water filter, snacks, bugspray, sunscreen, meds, bandages, leukotape, flashlight, swiss army classic SD, headlamp, swedish cloth, castile soap, a mylar blanket, lighter, and my drone as well as a swimsuit and water shoes)
To my long haul hiking pack (just over 16lbs with food for a week, water, water filter, meds, sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitizer, leukotape, sun hat, pillow, clothes, trowel, toilet paper, swedish cloth, castile soap, shelter/poncho, sleeping bag, air mattress, air pump, deck of cards, a change of clothes for sleeping in, a cooking setup with fuel, lighter, stove, pot, and utensils)
Or even my GOOD (get out of dodge) bag. I have yet to weigh that one, but it is meant for longer trips in inclimate weather, with redundancies and tools to help me survive whether I'm in an urban or woodland environment. I'm working on integrating my drone into a velcro pouch that can be placed on/in any of the packs as a nice little aerial surveillance add-on for any of them. It's an excellent tool to have with you whether you're taking stunning pictures or watching ahead for roadblocks, riots, or any other threat. It can also help you find streams easier too, and that saves a lot of wear and tear on your feet. This bag has a much more capable cooking setup which allows it to use propane, isobutane, wood, or alcohol and it has a decent sized pan as well as a Stanley 2 cup cook set to best cover all my bases. The shelter system is upgraded to a Litefighter 1 with air mattress. Instead of a trowel this bag has a Glock E-tool with saw in the handle, It also has more convenience items and things that will help a longer, more drawn out "vacation" feel less like living through hell. This bag has more water storage as well as a 30W solar panel and rechargeable AA/AAA batteries plus grenade tops modified into tripwire alarms that use 209 primers to alert me to an unexpected presence. For the wire I use a 250' strand of kevlar cordage that is incredibly compact and strong. Rub it in some mud to help disguise it even better. That cordage doubles as a saw for cutting tree limbs. Once I upgrade a couple components after my recent move I will be sealing the GOOD bag into a mylar bag for permanent storage in my vehicle along with a couple other handy tools to help me get through whatever I may face.
I dismantled my INCH bag, it got insane. Over 67lbs. It had a lot of handy stuff, but it was massively impractical. I had every CC of its 105L capacity FILLED and that just didnt make sense. It was really always intended to be thrown in a vehicle to escape a natural disaster, and not actually meant to be packed miles into the woods as nobody would reasonably do that. Now its contents are applied to a vehicle I built to explore with and the bag lives in a storage compartment in case I need to abandon the vehicle, which would be the worst of the worst case scenario only.
I keep a bug out bag at home, with a bug out location set up, it's geared fully for winderness survival. It will get me to main off site location. Or let me survive anywhere if I can't reach any preset location. Gobag in vehicles is more urban survival and self defense. It is a lot smaller, and doesn't make me stand out. But could get me out of a city, if shtf in one. Prefer to mostly stay in rural places. But either with my edc will hopefully get what I need done. I practice with every item, carrying weight, and refining them when ever I can. Always good to drop weight, or stack items, like wrapping Duct tape around other items and such. A good test of a bug out bag for me has been to take a week off work from time to time and only survive off bag. You'll find out really quick what can go or what you're lacking.
I have a edc pack that i use and carry daily and a duffle bag in the car,if the occasion calls for it i can change or add stuff,depending the situation.
Outstanding. Thank you
You're very welcome!
Radio model? what about other knife recommendation since the ones you suggest are no longer in production.
Baofeng UV5R
ESEE 6 knife
You bag is very nice.
I alternate between the HMG’s Elevate 22 and Summit 30 depending on the weather conditions etc.
If I had to choose one, definitely the Summit 30 in the 150 weight - I’ve been pushing over a dozen miles every day since September and it’s been stellar.
It’s 100% waterproof, 11 times stronger than steel and weighs hardly anything.
My “kit” clocks in at just over 17.2lbs for the 3-5 day load out, not including the water.
I highly recommend the Hyperlite Mountain Gear and their packs, they are like a sore d!ck…can’t beat it.
For a 3-5 day go bag load out, forget the food.
You, the person reading this, have enough sugar and fat stored in your body to last you a lot longer than that…guaranteed.
Yes, you might have enough time to sit down and feel hungry, this is a simple hormonal trigger set off by your brain - especially in the western world, three square meals are the de facto standard and your brain is used to it.
Having been through several deployments AND just pushing myself on a daily basis as a 100% disabled combat veteran; the human body is WAY more resilient than you can imagine.
Water, water and more water.
This is the key, this is life so…get yourself a GOOD medical kit for treating any ouchies you may have, some lightweight tools, a worn in pair of leather gloves (I have the Kevlar lined ones), two or three spare pairs of quality socks and a spare shirt.
That’s it really.
Keep your kit lightweight enough for you to carry it everywhere every day, if you don’t you won’t…and you’re not going to have your kit available when you need it.
It will get you in better shape, it will condition your will and your moxie…you need to loose some weight and get in better shape anyway.
Do the things.
All i need is my bushcraft kit and the 10 bushcraft books
"two changes of BVD's. I got me my guitar. I got me my address book, a ... pair of socks, four Masked Marvel comic books, a tennis racquet and four hundred n' ninety-seven n' a half feet o' rope." (from Legend of the USS Titanic by Jamie Brockett) a guy with your sense of humor should look this song up and listen to it sometime)
Fantastic info
Always good and interesting to think about. Food for thought 👍
I also made a GO bag instead of a bob. where I live, we have something called the total defense, Tldr: if something big were to happen and the Rikstag goes out with high readiness, I have to report to work as soon as possible.
We must then bring our own food, hygiene items and a change of clothes so that covers a few days.
I packed my bag after that. But also to take into a bomb shelter or to take me to a safe place about 6-7 hours walk from where I live.
What radio are you suggesting?
I'm 60 and a disabled Veteran. I will not be leaving my home at least under my own power..my wife is 68 and feels the same way.
im 36 and I'm not leaving my house! I get certain people may have to have a bug out option because of where they live but I live in a rural area where I feel better standing my ground and protecting my home than I do leaving it
Thank you for the video. I think I'm going to include a big pouch of protein powder So I don't have to hunt for the first few days lol
I have a bug out bag and stiff to put in the truck to take the family somewhere. Snacks and MRE mean we can go for days, literally, with out having to stop to cook. Always keeping a full tank of gas in the truck with 4 5gallon containers of gas, my range is about 600 miles. Having a bug out bag doesn’t mean to head to the woods. We can go to a friends house or a hotel an I got it covered, clothes toiletries, food, heating / cooking options, self defense, etc. who says you can’t heat up some water and enjoy MountIan House while chilling in a hotel watching tv
Get the stainless steel 30 oz. pathfinder neating cup with lid and handles for the grayl water system. $25, and a boonie hat and head net. Good investments.
Ive been trying to put together what i call a just in case bag. I like to go on day trips, but occasionally decide to stay over, so i want a lightweight bag i can carry all day, but provide a comfortable shelter system for one or more nights.
Now im unlikely to get lost, im not doing anything stupid which may require medical care, im not even bothered about food and water provision or cooking kit..
My bag will typically have a hygiene kit, some foot care, waterproof clothing, warm clothing, spare socks and a camp system. ideally in a 15 litre pack.
Nice piece of kit...
Looks like a good go bag. What Handy Talkie model is yours? I keep Yaesu HTs ready to go as an Amateur Radio operator ...
UV-5R
If you already have a Sawyer and don't want to pop $100 for a Grayl, then make sure your water bottles are PET threads (common Coke bottle type.)
By doing that, you can pre filter while filling up one... Then throw the Sawyer on it and drink. Not as fast as grayl. Keep in mind too that Sawyer only filters whereas grayl will purify
A bug out bag being used means everything went wrong, really really wrong
The bag for whatever it is, doesnt have to be large; it only needs to bridge the gap of knowledge/ skill and ability. The axium of the more you know, the less you need to carry comes into play here. To be truly prepared, you should also be studying, expanding and implementing that knowledge and those skills. Then understand the balance between necessity and essential as it relates to caloric expendature. This knowledge can allow you to free up weight so you can carry luxury items if you so choose. The 10C's weve all heard of and implement are simply representative of the hardest things to recreate in the field. Thats why theyre carried, to save time and calories
For that Baofeng, do you have certain Freqs you program?
I HAVE A RUSH 24,I JUST CALL IT A ADVENTURE BAG SINCE BAD SITUATIONS LEAD TO MORE OPPORTUNITIES
Just the 10 items for hiking with manybe some more food in it.
Which holster is that? Thanks.
what is that notebook cover you use?
County comm
Where do you get that nice small compass?
Good plan. I am more in your camp than the "bugout" guys. Very solid basic approach here. One thing I do have beyond your excellent set up; potassium iodide tablets. Enough for my wife, daughter and myself for 2 weeks. Maybe irrational but you don't need a SHTF/dirty bomb scenario to maybe need them one day. All you need is an accident at the wrong place.
If possible, I would also suggest a portable waterproof solar panel. Enough to charge your phone and also charge whatever you need to charge. I am not too good with building fires from whatever I could find but I would like to carry a rechargable lighter and also a small fire starting kit as a spare. These items I think are less that 20-30 dollars. The solar panels are around 10-15 dollars and can charge up to 30wt. You can also hang them on your bag as you go along while you charge your devices. Maybe add in a lifestraw too or any water filtering system but I guess water tablets are already good enough. I am trying to fill in three bags of necessary items for me, my mom, and my brother. So incase we get seperated, at least we all have necessary survival gear. It's also nice so we can distrubute the weight. And well, I guess food to keep us alive for more than 72 hours.
I would also like to add in protein bars that have at least 20-30 years shelf life so, even if you ran out of actual food, you still have something to ration. They're very small but are pretty compact. Well, we are not really allowed to carry guns over here so, I guess we kinda have to use what we have that's available to defend ourselves. I really appreciate this video! I was overthinking most of the items I could bring but then I realized less is more when it comes to survivav in terms of mobility.
What is the weight?
Great video! No fire kit? I only saw one bic. You normally have a well stocked fire kit.
Hello, great video! I really appreciate all your tips and tricks. I’m interested in the foldable map Inge and wondered where that was purchased from.
I couldn’t find your site on Amazon.
Did you look in the description
I trust my EDC, prepared for long time survival in any environment with all i need in any situation (food apart) But such a kit only goes along with someone specifically trained for survival, not common people (no pun intended, i undestand 99.99% of people have no training at all in real survival situations)
A few add suggestions: small tubes of sunscreen and bug repellant. A bug head net. A folding sun hat that works with the bug head net would also be a plus. A small power bank to keep your phone going and maybe a small thin hard plastic 5 watt solar panel with a USB-A port. Also keep downloaded street and trail maps on your phone that are available when offline. I'd skip the map kit. I'm not fond of carrying urban tools (like a screwdriver) into the woods. I'd rather replace that weight with a decent folding saw. Just my suggestions after watching the video.
Is that rain jacket actually waterproof? Or just water resistant
Waterproof sheds water
I mean a bug out bag and go bag literally are universal nomenclature used for both thoughts. But I see your point.
I always thought a nimble "extra weight" carrier could be an golf bag on wheels...
They also make mini dollies that fold ( grocery cart or climb cart) I think is better for that ideal .
Someone else will say ditch your go bag and get an inch bag !!
What are you using to hold you maps and land nav? I might’ve missed it but looks like the best system I’ve seen for maps. The black folder not the map case if that helps
I prefer a pack with no zippers. Zippers are always a weak link, especially if the bag is overstuffed or too heavy. And they are a total pain to replace! Anyway, treat them well, and they usually do OK. Don't force them. If they don't slide well, there is a reason, so find it. Also, some plastic coil zippers actually soften and pull apart in hot weather.
Overall, good job on packing.