On The Wild Side

Some of you have asked about my bugout gear, so I’ll tell you what MY packs have — everybody’s kit will be different, but should have the basics. Mine weighs more than the recommended “25% of your body weight” — it comes in at just under 50 pounds. But I’ve made sure I can lift, stand, and hike with it if I have to. The cool thing is there is a smaller backpack that zips off the front of the large pack. I’ve loaded what I consider to be the most critical items in it, so I’m still ready if I only have room/energy for the smaller pack. This photo gives you an idea of size: Peabody is a 11 pound mini-dachshund.

(I use ziplocks and/or space saver bags — both to protect stuff, but also to have the bags available.)

This list is NOT in order of importance!

Small (Critical Items) Pack:

• Water filtration system+steel cup+collapsible water bottle
• Fire starter+candles
• Disposable towels
• Head lamp+ batteries
• Comprehensive first aid kit ( also includes trauma stuff, rubbing alcohol, saline, dental floss for sutures, etc.)
• Duct tape, paracord, zip ties
• Garbage bags
• STORM whistle
• Fixed blade knife
• Multitool
• Permanent marker
• Socks
• Fleece stocking cap
• Non-battery flashlight
• Clothes (including waterproof stuff)
• Saw
• Neoprene gloves
• Nitrile gloves (also in first aid kit)
• Alcohol wipes (also in first aid kit)
• Orange safety vest
• Orange surveyor’s tape
• Orange bandana
• Survival suit
• Space blanket
• Strobing blinker
• Breathing mask (dust, etc.)
• Copies of passport, etc.

(Personal defense tools go on my person)

Bugout Gear: In the larger pack (which, again, zips to the smaller)

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Extra clothing
• Quick-dry microfiber towel
• Permanent marker
• 5-hour energy
• Large garbage bags (the dark, thick ones)
• Water proof pads – can be used together as tarp, or individually to carry, wrap, funnel, etc.
• Tissues
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Emergency poncho
• Baby wipes
• Additional first aid supplies (to supplement those in small pack)
• Extra shoes
• Playing cards (aside from obvious use, can also be used for paper, etc.)

And of course,
Peabody’s Pack — which goes into a dog carrier, just in case we need that for transport, etc. (ditto the muzzle):

• Food
• Stainless food and water bowls
• First aid kit (I put it together just for dog stuff)
• Extra copies of rabies, etc.
• Extra leash
• Extra collars, including lighted collar
• Extra harness
• Blinker (can attach to leash, collar, harness, etc.)
• Extra ID tags (harnesses and collars also have ID attached)
• Muzzle
• Poop bags
• Quick-dry micro fiber towel
• Waterproof jacket
• Thundershirt
• Rescue Remedy (herbal calming drops)
• Treats
• Toys