As the great Mike Tyson once said, “Everyone has a plan until nuclear bombs start dropping.” Well, OK … maybe he didn’t say those exact words, but you get what we mean. “Being prepared” for a major catastrophe has gone from being a joke among friends and neighbors to a real-world necessity. There are hundreds of gear suggestions for when the big one hits, but just in case you are behind the power curve, here are 10 essential items for your bug out bag list!
Hope For The Best…Prep For The Worst
Lip Balm
Anyone who has endured cold arctic air or the blasting furnace winds of the desert knows how fast your lips can dry out. Life during the apocalypse is hard enough, but it’s the little things that can really mess up your mind.
Batteries
It sounds simple enough, but people forget that batteries run out of power. Stock up.
Coffee
Most creature comforts will be long gone. Having a cup of Joe every once in a while will help keep your mind right. Plus, coffee is also great for bartering.
Tooth Care Products
Ever had a bad toothache? Now imagine all your teeth rotting day by day. You have to brush them fangs.
Tampons
We all have women in our lives, fellas, and even the little ones will grow up and eventually need them. In addition, tampons are a great field-expedient method for packing bullet wounds.
Baby Wipes
Plain and simple, filth spreads disease, and showers most likely won’t be an option after the Big One. You have to keep the undercarriage clean.
Securing Personal Identification
Having a small fire safe stashed is a good idea. Fill it with identity papers and maybe a hard drive for all the important info you will need when the world rebuilds.
Bug Repellent
Maybe you won’t encounter Starship Trooper bugs, but insect repellent is something that is often overlooked. Again, disease is your worst enemy and critters love to spread it.
Knife Sharpener
You may have the finest collection of custom blades on the block, but they’re no good if they’re dull. Sharpeners take up zero room in your bag. Add one.
Clothes
What we mean here are clothes that fit. Did you pack your bags years ago? Been eating too much and working out too little? Make sure you have clothes for all seasons as well.
The Basics
- MREs
- Water Filtration System
- First Aid Kit
- Weapons (Guns and Ammo)
- Watch
- Hand Crank Radio
- Multi-tool
- Flashlight
- Fire-starter Kit
- Sleeping Bag
Having a survival plan and prepping with your family is key. We like to prep here at Skillset Magazine, and even created a “Doomsday Mix Tape” you’ll love! To read more about the alpha lifestyle, grab a back issue of Skillset at OutdoorGroupStore.com
