Bugging Out

Zwielichtpfad Bugging Out with the bug out bag

Bugging out means leaving home to escape a crisis. It’s important to decide quickly whether to stay inside or leave.

In large cities, looting is a serious risk. Hunger and thirst make people desperate, and violence can escalate quickly.

To escape effectively, I make sure I know my surroundings and possible exit routes. I also plan potential destinations (Bug Out Locations) and safe stops along the way.

The duration of a bug-out situation depends on the severity of the crisis. I use crank radios to get updates even without power. If no signals are broadcast, I rely on alternative information.

Bug Out Vehicle (BOV)

If I don’t want to escape on foot, I need a vehicle. In mass evacuations, cars are useless—roads will be jammed. Motorcycles are better since they can maneuver through traffic, but they depend on fuel.

The best bug-out vehicle remains the bicycle. It runs on muscle power, works off-road, doesn’t need fuel, and carries a lot with racks and panniers (70–100 liters).

My bike setup includes puncture-proof tires, a repair kit, spare tube, and tools to keep it running as long as possible.

Bug Out Location (BOL)

Many preppers set up one or more Bug Out Locations. These safe places provide shelter, supplies, and equipment. With a clear destination, I avoid aimlessly wandering.

Good BOL options include remote land, hidden forest clearings, or secluded areas with water sources. It doesn’t necessarily require buying property.

A good Bug Out Location should have:

  • A water source
  • Water purification options
  • Essential tools
  • Long-term supplies
  • Food stores
  • Shelter from the elements
  • Bug Out Bag (BOB)

The Bug Out Bag is a 72-hour survival backpack originally developed in the U.S. for disaster response. I keep one packed at home or in my car.

My BOB includes:

  • Food & Water
  • Portable water filter (e.g., Sawyer Mini)
  • 4 liters of water (2x 2L)
  • Water purification tablets
  • 6 energy bars (I recommend Clif Bar or EnergyCake)
  • 2 canned meals
  • 2 freeze-dried meals (require hot water)
  • Baking soda
  • Light & Warmth
  • Bic lighter + 2 tampons (great tinder)
  • Firesteel
  • Headlamp + spare batteries
  • 2 glow sticks
  • Clothing
  • Sunglasses
  • Bandana / Shemagh
  • Rain poncho
  • Spare socks & underwear (waterproof packed)
  • Hat
  • Work gloves
  • Dust mask
  • Shelter
  • Tarp or poncho
  • Emergency blanket
  • Sleeping mat (optional)
  • Sleeping bag (optional)
  • Tools
  • Pocket knife
  • Multitool
  • Compass
  • Local map
  • Small first aid kit
  • 5–10 meters of paracord
  • Metal water bottle (usable over fire)
  • Extra knife (optional)
  • Cooking set (optional)
  • Solar phone charger (optional)
  • Monocular (optional)
  • Superglue (optional)
  • Other
  • Deck of cards or dice game
  • Small book

The German government also provides an official Bug Out Bag checklist through the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance.