How-To

Prepare for the Unexpected: Go Bag Essentials

Jack Gangi

• 2 min read
Prepare for the Unexpected: Go Bag Essentials

A "go bag" is for emergencies where you need to leave quickly and suddenly.

For the purpose of this tutorial we're going to assume that you need to go back to escape a natural disaster of some sort. If that's not the case adjust accordingly. This list jumps back-and-forth so choose what works for you.

Choosing a bag:

This is more important than it sounds. You need something sturdy and compact that isn't a burden to carry long distances for long periods of time. Aim for under 20% of your body weight when packed. Most people recommend backpacks or messenger bags. Personally, Messenger bags end up choking me so I prefer a backpack

Food & Water

  • Water: 3 liters per person per day is a good rule of thumb
  • Water purification: Tablets or a portable filter (e.g., LifeStraw).
  • Non-perishable food: energy bars, canned food, and beef jerky. some people go the full MRE route. it comes down to whether you're packing the bag for society collapsing or being away for a bit because of a natural disaster.
  • Energy boosters: Electrolyte powders or energy gels.
  • Utensils: Lightweight spork, collapsible cup. can opener if your multitool doesn't have one.

Documents & Money

  • ID copies: Passport, driver’s license, and other IDs.
  • Emergency contacts: WRITTEN list of important numbers.
  • Cash: Carry small bills and coins for places that may not accept cards. In the 21st century, a reusable Visa or MasterCard gift card is also recommended. Choose one that does not expire and ensure it can be reloaded with funds as needed
  • Insurance info: Health, home, and auto insurance details.
  • Maps: Local area maps in case digital navigation fails. Both Google and Apple Maps offer off-line downloads so you don't need a signal to use maps on your phone.

Communication & Power

  • Portable phone charger: Fully charged power bank.
  • Emergency radio: Hand-crank or battery-powered.
  • Extra batteries: For devices.
  • Notebook & pen: Waterproof paper is ideal. Be prepared to go analog

Clothing

  • Weather-appropriate layers: Include thermal layers if cold.
  • Sturdy shoes: Waterproof or hiking boots. if you have special shoes just for bugging out remember to break them in first.
  • Extra socks & underwear: Prioritize quick-drying materials.
  • Rain gear: Poncho or waterproof jacket.
  • Hat & gloves: For sun or cold protection.

First Aid

  • complete first aid kit: Bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, etc.
  • Prescription meds: 3-7 day supply. have a plan in place with your doctor for getting your hands on refills out in the wild.
  • antacids: you may not always have a choice of the food you eat and a disruption in routine can cause stomach upset for some individuals.
  • Pain relievers: Ibuprofen, aspirin. Being on the go will result in you being more active than normal.
  • Antihistamines: For allergies or insect bites.

Tools & Gear

  • Multi-tool: Swiss Army knife or Leatherman.
  • Flashlight: With extra batteries or hand-crank.
  • Lighter & waterproof matches: Fire-starting essentials.
  • Duct tape: Versatile for repairs.
  • Rope/cord: Paracord for various uses.
  • Compass: Simple and reliable. again, your mileage may vary
  • Safety goggles: For dusty or hazardous environments.
  • Face masks: N95 masks for smoke or airborne particles.

Hygiene

  • Toiletries: Travel toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant.
  • Sanitation supplies: Small shovel, biodegradable wipes, trash bags.
  • Towel: Quick-dry microfiber.
  • Menstrual products: As needed.

With just a couple of hours of effort, you can turn a potential scramble into a smooth exit. A well-packed go bag isn’t just about convenience it’s about having a advantage when time and options are running out.