Making an Emergency Bug Out Box

Sandi/Poor But Proud
Gold Post Medal for All Time! 969 Posts

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 1

Supplies:

• 1 large water resistant tub
• 4 changes of clothing
• 1 pair of shoes
• 2 towels
• toiletries
• medicine
• 4 pairs of undies
• 1 pair of glasses
• 6 paper/pens/scissors
• 2 flashlights/batteries
• 3 trash bags
• 2+ packages of TP/wipes
• 4 days worth of cans/servings of pet food
• people food
• 2 Cases water
• 2 books/cards
• 2 craft projects
• 2 phone/charger/adapter
• cash
• 10 zipper bags
• 2 blankets
• your own pillow
• first aid supplies/kit
• can opener, optional

Steps:

1. There was no supplies photo, as I built it as I went. You can make your own list, and pack in any order. I packed cat food first.

 
2. I packed a shoe box of undies and socks. A gallon zipper bag holds lotion, eye drops, shampoo/conditioner/brush/soap, dental care, OTC pain meds and sleep aids, paper and pens, charger and adapter. I also got one of those little 3/1.00 mini composition books with passwords, emergency phone numbers and more. I also added a book and for me at least, a small craft project or two to keep me calm.

 

 
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3. Next was TP. You only see one, as that was all I had. A towel and washcloth, plastic trash bags (don't scrimp on these). I like that stretchy kind, like the expandable ones. When you need to fill them, tie them in a bow, not a knot. They are easier to get into.

 
4. I have a close up of the food. I included two cans of soup, one pop top and one regular. I also have canned chicken, peanut butter, corned beef hash, a can opener, and plastic utensils.

 
5. I then went for a towel and washcloth under the shoes, jeans, two warm tops and spare glasses. The last was the spare glasses and meds. NOTE: You can't keep meds in the car for long, so I have a sign on my door that says "Meds/insulin".

 
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6. The last step is not something you can't photograph. As much as you can, take cash. Don't keep it in your purse/wallet, but put it in something that looks common place. I love the shortie Pringles cans. They fit in your cup holder, and you can even put it in the glove compartment if you want. And finally, at least 2 cases of water. Split the very tight seals so you don't have to worry about prying that plastic off when you need it.
7. I learned we never went to the level 3 that most states have of "GO NOW". I paniced and left things that I should, and do, have now in the car. I hope this helps you like it has me.
8. But when your neighbor bangs on your window at 5 am giving you the worng information, you need to KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!

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Alicia
Bronze Feedback Medal for All Time! 122 Feedbacks

September 18, 20200 found this helpful

Good suggestions, although I would not alter the water in any way. Do not split the seals until you need the water to drink. I assume you mean loosen the caps and then tighten them back down.

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That could potentially allow dirt or pathogens to get in your water, which could make you sick at the worst time.

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Sandi/Poor But Proud
Gold Post Medal for All Time! 969 Posts

September 18, 20201 found this helpful

No, but I can see how that might be misunderstood. What I meant was the very strong wrapping these bundles come in. Slit the plastic so you don't have to tear it when you need it. It's very strong.

In fact, if you have milk crates and want to cut the plastic ahead of time, even better. Then you can just reach in and get a bottle.

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gggd
Silver Answer Medal for All Time! 425 Answers

August 3, 20210 found this helpful

Sandi,
Very good emergency prep info. !!! Each of us SHOULD have some kind of kit packed and ready to go at a moment's notice, whether for fires, flooding, hurricanes, tornado, blizzard, etc. Too many people are NOT prepared for emergencies. And I'm really impressed that you included items for your pet/pets, but I would also include harness/leash for each pet, just incase you don't have time to grab carriers. Also, if you can afford one, a hand-crank emergency weather radio is an extra add-on.

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Good work Sandi. Thank you from all of us.

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