Day 17: Bugging out to do or not to do…
Bugging Out: To Do or Not to Do?
The debate around bugging out often stems from confusion—people use the same term to mean different things. So, first, define it.
In the military, a bug out bag (BOB) was built to sustain us until resupply—ammo, med gear, batteries, comms, food, water, and mission-critical info. That version isn't ideal for civilian life, but it's a solid foundation.
For civilian prepping, use reverse planning:
Start with the worst-case but still probable scenario in your area—natural or man-made—and build backward.
For example, in Utah, an earthquake would likely cut travel, comms, and access to credit. Prep with:
Overland-capable vehicle
Cash
Firearm and ammo
Alternative comms (SAT/hams)
Flexible shelter/stay-or-go plan
A worst-case man-made disaster (EMP, war, collapse) requires similar prep. You’ll need to decide: stay or go?
And if you’re going, leave early and be fully ready—no last-minute packing.
A civilian BOB should include:
Cash
Ammo
Med kit
Batteries
Laminated info (locations, contacts, passwords)
Physical road maps
Bottom line: Plan for the worst, and you’ll be ready for everything else.