Bug-Out Bags for Each Family Member

Arm yourself with knowledge and training for every type of disaster. Increase your physical security tactics, medical prep, and food/water skills..

10/17/20244 min read

How to Make Bug-Out Bags for Each Family Member, Including Kids

A well-prepared bug-out bag (BOB) can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. These bags, packed with essential supplies, are designed to help you and your family survive the first 72 hours of an emergency. When making bug-out bags for your family, it’s important to consider the specific needs of each individual, including children. Here’s a guide to making customized bug-out bags for everyone in your family.

Here are some items worth carrying in a get home bag:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/get-home-bag-planner-with-104-examples

Bug-out bag items worth looking at:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/bug-out-bag-planner-with-103-examples

Important Urban prep Items to have:

https://readyresourcesupply.com/urban-shtf-planner-with-102-examples

1. The Basics: What Every Bug-Out Bag Should Contain

Regardless of the age or role in the family, each bug-out bag should have the following core supplies:

Water and filtration: Pack at least 1 liter of water per person per day (3 liters total), plus a water purification system like a LifeStraw or water purification tablets.
Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-carry, and calorie-dense items like energy bars, trail mix, or freeze-dried meals. Each bag should contain at least 72 hours' worth of food.
First-aid kit: A small kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and any necessary prescription medications.
Clothing: Pack a change of clothes appropriate for the season, including a rain jacket or poncho. Don’t forget socks and underwear.
Shelter: A lightweight emergency tent, tarp, or space blanket to provide protection from the elements.
Fire: Include waterproof matches, a lighter, and fire-starting tools like a ferro rod.
Lighting: Flashlights with extra batteries or a hand-crank option, and glow sticks for emergency light sources.
Multi-tool: A Swiss Army knife or multi-tool with pliers, knife blades, and screwdrivers for various tasks.
Personal hygiene: Wet wipes, biodegradable soap, a small towel, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Identification and important documents: Include photocopies of IDs, insurance, and other important documents in waterproof sleeves.
Cash: Small bills and coins in case digital payments aren’t available.
Maps and compass: If GPS fails, a physical map of your area and a compass are critical.

2. Bug-Out Bag for Adults

An adult's bug-out bag should carry the bulk of heavier or complex items, such as:

Advanced tools: A hatchet, small crowbar, or compact shovel.
Additional water filters or purification methods.
Extra food and snacks: Adults can carry more food to distribute among family members if needed.
Self-defense tools: Depending on the situation, consider items like pepper spray or, where legal, a firearm with ammunition.
Cooking supplies: A lightweight portable stove or mess kit, including utensils.

When choosing a backpack for adults, opt for one with a sturdy frame and good weight distribution. Consider a bag with a hydration bladder for easy access to water while on the move.

3. Bug-Out Bag for Teens

Teens can handle more responsibility but should have bags suited to their physical abilities. A teen's bag should still cover all essentials, but also consider:

Compact entertainment: Teens might benefit from distractions like a deck of cards or a book for morale in stressful situations.
Additional first-aid items: Teach teens basic first-aid skills and pack a more comprehensive first-aid kit for them to manage.
Extra clothing layers: Teens can often take on the role of carrying extra gloves, hats, or thermal layers for the family.
Communication devices: A hand-crank or solar-powered radio can help teens stay informed and feel involved in emergency planning.
Headlamp: A hands-free light option to aid them in nighttime situations.

Teens can carry slightly larger backpacks than younger kids but should still have lightweight bags to avoid fatigue.

4. Bug-Out Bag for Younger Children

Children's bug-out bags should be lighter but still equipped with necessities. Focus on:

Comfort and familiarity: Include a favorite small toy, stuffed animal, or blanket for emotional support during a crisis.
Snacks and water: Pack easy-to-eat, child-friendly snacks like applesauce pouches, granola bars, and crackers, as well as a child-sized water bottle.
Whistle: Teach your child to use a whistle if they become separated from you.
Simple first-aid supplies: Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, and child-safe medications like chewable pain relievers.
Warm clothing: Ensure their bag includes a hat, gloves, and extra socks to keep warm in emergencies.
Lightweight shelter: A small emergency blanket or space blanket to protect against cold weather.

Make sure your child’s backpack is appropriately sized and light enough for them to carry without straining.

5. Bug-Out Bag for Babies and Toddlers

Babies and toddlers will not be able to carry their own bag, so an adult will need to pack their essentials in their own bag:

Diapers and wipes: At least 72 hours' worth of diapers, plus wet wipes for cleaning.
Formula or baby food: Depending on your baby’s age, pack formula (with bottles and a way to sterilize), or soft, shelf-stable baby food.
Blankets and clothing: Warm clothing, including hats and mittens, as well as a few blankets for warmth and comfort.
Medicine and hygiene: Infant medications, diaper rash cream, and hand sanitizer.
Carrier: A lightweight baby carrier so you can transport your child comfortably.

You’ll also want to include small toys or pacifiers to keep the baby calm and provide a sense of normalcy.

6. Customizing for Special Needs

For any family member with medical conditions or special needs, customize their bug-out bag accordingly:

Medical supplies: Include any prescription medications, inhalers, EpiPens, or mobility aids.
Comfort items: For family members with sensory needs, consider noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, or other comforting objects.
Dietary considerations: If someone has food allergies or special dietary needs, pack suitable food options.

Make sure to regularly check and rotate medications to ensure they don’t expire.

7. Practice and Plan

Once your family’s bug-out bags are packed, it’s important to regularly review and adjust the contents, especially as your children grow or as seasons change. Every few months, update clothing, food, and any essential documents. Practice emergency drills so everyone knows how to grab their bag quickly, and ensure younger children understand what their bag is for.

Having a bug-out bag tailored to each family member ensures that you’re prepared to keep your family safe in case of an emergency, no matter the situation.