My Bug-out bag

by Ronin923
(Liberty, NY)

I have different packs for different situations and durations. My 3 day pack starts with a hydration pack from Camelbak, it has 4 compartments, a large one in which I pack,Clothes,extra layers,something waterproof,food,a small tarp and a real handy item, a wind up lantern with AM/FM weather band from Life Gear. I also carry a first aid kit, it's 8x5x2 with four tiers inside,it has just about everything you would need for basic to intermediate first aid. Cold compress,antibiotic creme as will as prescription antibiotics,analgesics and extreme pain meds.epi pen, poison ivy cleanser, sting ease, imodium,hemostats,scissors,flex-ties,bandages and the new miracle item "QuikClot"
The smaller front compartment contains several different fire making implements,a space blanket,flashlight,head lamp and 2 light sticks. Orange marking tape is handy for trails,150 ft. of para cord,can opener, bottle opener,black plastic garbage bag and assorted tools. I like to carry a pen and some paper, you never know when inspiration will hit you, or you need to leave a note. Side pockets contain binoculars, my Rhino 120 GPS and a SPOT personal locator. I carry a large fixed blade knife, currently it's a Browning model 686 FDX, it's a large heavy duty knife that's up to whatever pounding I can come up with. It has a cordura sheath with a pouch that I keep a sharpening stone and a folding "fire knife" made by Flint and Steel in Poughkeepsie,NY.There's also a compass and map of the area I'm hiking or camping in. I like to keep my camera and my cell phone on me,with at least one type of fire starting device as well as a folding knife in my pocket. The 100 oz. bladder in the Camelbak usually will last me two days,otherwise I'll pack water. If I'm going to be gone longer, then it's time for the larger pack.I usually take a bed roll with me, even for just a one day hike, but in a pinch the tarp keeps the water off me and I can find a soft place to sleep. If it's going to be longer, as in a real survival situation and I'm fortunate enough to have my pack with me, I believe with the items I've got I can survive till I walk out, or I'm located.