Looking to put together a basic bug out bag

[libertysnake]

Actually they make color E-Ink phones. Might be your best bet. 62 hours of battery life with FULL brightness. HiSense A5C Color E INK Smartphone

And full color so it's useable for maps. The screen refresh will suck, but who cares if you have good battery life and can use it for comms? Might have to look into whether the battery is replaceable.

 

[Bob]

If I've got a cut through a fence or cut off a padlock on something, and as far as a crowbar; in case I got to pry open a door. Imagine a scenario where I'm stuck in an urban area overnight. It would be nice to be able to get behind a closed door somewhere if I needed to.

Other than that I have some MREs to last me a few days, water, water purification,Compass, a map, Fire Starting stuff, some additional cold-weather layers, garbage bags , zip ties, etc...

I wouldn't mind getting a solar panel, one of the compact roll up type ones to charge my cell phone if need be.

You might consider a traveler hook, a hammerless hinge pin tool, and a sillcock key. Small items, not a lot of weight, and a lot of bang for your buck. The sillcock key can be used to access water in and around commercial structures that keep their sillcocks in cabinets. The hinge pin tool is self-explanatory. The traveler hook can be used to slip door latches in a number of places where you'd use a crowbar, and leaves less damage.

 

[libertysnake]

Actually they make color E-Ink phones. Might be your best bet. 62 hours of battery life with FULL brightness. HiSense A5C Color E INK Smartphone

And full color so it's useable for maps. The screen refresh will suck, but who cares if you have good battery life and can use it for comms? Might have to look into whether the battery is replaceable.

Actually did some digging into this, and apparently the phone sends logs off to Beijing via syslog or something. So kinda sketchy. Then again in a SHTF scenario doesn't matter as long as it does what you want / comms will be down anyway.

 

[GOPerfect]

The solar panel is useful not so much for making calls -- as in SHTF cell service is probably going to be spotty -- but for the maps on your phone. You could basically have massive amounts of offline maps of the entire USA on the phone. Unless the battery goes completely on the phone, you're talking years worth of access to the maps.

I was thinking of getting some sort of cheap tablet with replaceable batteries somehow, and just have a spare lithium battery or two. That's really the main determining factor on a lot of phones, the battery over years. Long as you keep the device dry and charged, you're gtg with nearly limitless resources in your BOB. Countless books, maps, everything. Throw the device in a faraday bag and it's even protected against EMP.

Actually, to be honest, for just pure text, something E-Ink is your best bet. Why? Kindle will last something like weeks on a single charge. Doesn't take much to charge it even. So you're not wasting a lot of time charging the kindle.

So I'd probably take my kindle + some sort of cheap tablet I have yet to find for maps.

I love the idea of a tablet.

I have a rather inexpensive one and it is loaded with valuable information. I have about a quarter gig of manuals on it as well as maps of the County. Not just road maps; trail maps, park maps and the like.

Mine is in a Faraday bag as well. I pull it out once a week and ensure it is fully charged. I have a small recharge system for the sole purpose of maintaining a charge.

 

[Target]

My bag made it to Illinois. I hope the bag is big enough. It’s 24 liters so that would mean 12 two liter poop bottles worth. However I watch a 5.11 video and they said it’s a half day pack. I can’t imagine 24 liters not being enough.

I don't think that's how it works . 24 Liters would be 2400 cubic inches of space. You are not fitting 12 bottles of Mountain Dew in there.

 

[BuffNiag]

24 liters is about 1,464 cubic inches or 6.3 gallons. 24 liters of Mountain Dew would in fact fit in the bag, but not necessarily contained within the bottles.

 

[libertysnake]

24 liters is about 1,464 cubic inches or 6.3 gallons. 24 liters of Mountain Dew would in fact fit in the bag, but not necessarily contained within the bottles.

Actually you could buy the concentrate with caffeine in it. Not a bad idea for caffeine on the go.

 

[Saltwater60]

I can't wear wool because it gives me a rash. Does Merino wool itch like standard wool?

Edit, I just looked it up and Merino wool is supposed to be okay for people that normally react to regular wool.

Wool blends are great. Merino wool is great and you can check out alpaca socks. I’ve heard they are just amazing.

 

[Saltwater60]

Mine was an 18l bag. I had a few pouches molled to it and the bag served all of my needs. Zip lock bags with all the air out helps. Organization is the key and a must for a good, optimal bag.

Good to know. I have already ordered a general purpose molle ouch and a water bottle holder. Thanks. I just got nervous when they said a half a day pack. I was like WTF and I use way smaller bags for full day fishing adventures and get away with it with fishing gear in the bag.

 

[GOPerfect]

Good to know. I have already ordered a general purpose molle ouch and a water bottle holder. Thanks. I just got nervous when they said a half a day pack. I was like WTF and I use way smaller bags for full day fishing adventures and get away with it with fishing gear in the bag.

The water bottle holder is huge. I have one that holds a 128 ounce bottle. I have a few others attached to the bag. Lots of little things. Things that may come in handy or not, very little weight to these little extras.

 

[Saltwater60]

The water bottle holder is huge. I have one that holds a 128 ounce bottle. I have a few others attached to the bag. Lots of little things. Things that may come in handy or not, very little weight to these little extras.

Yes I will go through and get more. I’m just starting out and seeing what I like and don’t like. I’ll likely get the pistol holder, the mag holder, there’s one for a multi tool, and a first aid kit one. That’s my plan. I didn’t want to get too many until I see what I have to work with.

 

[Saltwater60]

Bag I ordered is out of stock and doesn’t seem like it will be back in anytime soon. I chose a different color and because the delay they sent me $50.00 gift card. The bag will cost me $9.00. I guess I can’t really complain. I went with coyote instead of the green I chose.

 

[Drinkthekoolaid]

Bag I ordered is out of stock and doesn’t seem like it will be back in anytime soon. I chose a different color and because the delay they sent me $50.00 gift card. The bag will cost me $9.00. I guess I can’t really complain. I went with coyote instead of the green I chose.

Where did you buy it from?

 

[Saltwater60]

Where did you buy it from?

5.11. I got a hopping notification then I kept getting shipping delayed notifications. It didn’t make sense until I got a very small package.
I bought another bag and two more expandable packs to clip onto the bag. I bought a 9”x9” and a 6”x6” pack. I have the water bottle holder and an admin pack. The admin pack is small and I might return it. The water bottle holder is nice but there is a clip and Velcro. If it’s for hunting or tactical use as they advertise the Velcro will give you aware. It’s loud so I don’t like that. There is a hydration bladder spot so maybe I’ll just use that hunting.

 

[livingston]

 

[livingston]

Best Long Term Backpacking Stove: FIREBOX GEN 2

 

[Saltwater60]

I finally, finally received my bag today. I love the bag and it’s a great size with great storage.
I bought a few extra ad one I’d like to run by you all. I think some are going back and I’ll likely get a few others.
I’m rather on the fence about this one. It’s small but I like the pockets. I think I could use it as a small medical and tool bag.

Flex Admin Pouch

FLEX ADMIN POUCH

www.511tactical.com

I like this and it’s very versatile IMO. I’ll keep it.

H2O Carrier

H2O Carrier

www.511tactical.com

I like this one but I don’t even know how to attach it to my bag and it’s very skinny. It’s like an inch and a half thick and very heavy so I think this ones going back for sure.

Utility 9X9 Gear Set™

UTILITY 9X9 GEAR SET

www.511tactical.com

I have this and I really like it. I’m not sure if I want two more of these or if I want get get one more of these and one more of the medium flex bags.

6.6 Pouch

6.6 Pouch

www.511tactical.com

I think I’m going to order one of these to stick on the back of the bag to make it more versatile. My fishing gear can go in here and it can be used when fishing and removed when not.

Flex Medium GP Pouch

FLEX MEDIUM GP POUCH

www.511tactical.com

What do you all think about the mix I have? Would you get more 6x6 bags or should I get the medium flexpouch.
I like the medium flex pouch because they are 5” tall and two would fit nicely on the back and allow zipper use very nicely. I like the 6x6 pouch because it has the Molle on the back and I can always add other things to it. I think what I will do is stick with the 6x6 o have and get another one. Then I’ll get a medium pouch. I’ll do a 6x6 and medium pouch in the back and I’ll do a 6x6 on the inside and add an admin or med bag to that to pull out with the gear I use most.

Down the road I’ll get more. I like the 6x10 vertical pouch if I need more space because I can add the pouches to that if need be. I don’t think I’ll need it but maybe. I can also get a small vertical bag or the go’s holder down the road. I’ll likely get mag holders though.
Here is the set up that I have now. I love the heavy padded straps and the grip on the back of the bag because the bag doesn’t move. Very comfortable bag.

 

[Saltwater60]

I also think I need a molle knife sheath.

 

[masterswimmer]

I finally, finally received my bag today. I love the bag and it’s a great size with great storage.
I bought a few extra ad one I’d like to run by you all. I think some are going back and I’ll likely get a few others.
I’m rather on the fence about this one. It’s small but I like the pockets. I think I could use it as a small medical and tool bag.

Flex Admin Pouch

FLEX ADMIN POUCH

www.511tactical.com

I like this and it’s very versatile IMO. I’ll keep it.

H2O Carrier

H2O Carrier

www.511tactical.com

I like this one but I don’t even know how to attach it to my bag and it’s very skinny. It’s like an inch and a half thick and very heavy so I think this ones going back for sure.

Utility 9X9 Gear Set™

UTILITY 9X9 GEAR SET

www.511tactical.com

I have this and I really like it. I’m not sure if I want two more of these or if I want get get one more of these and one more of the medium flex bags.

6.6 Pouch

6.6 Pouch

www.511tactical.com

I think I’m going to order one of these to stick on the back of the bag to make it more versatile. My fishing gear can go in here and it can be used when fishing and removed when not.

Flex Medium GP Pouch

FLEX MEDIUM GP POUCH

www.511tactical.com

What do you all think about the mix I have? Would you get more 6x6 bags or should I get the medium flexpouch.
I like the medium flex pouch because they are 5” tall and two would fit nicely on the back and allow zipper use very nicely. I like the 6x6 pouch because it has the Molle on the back and I can always add other things to it. I think what I will do is stick with the 6x6 o have and get another one. Then I’ll get a medium pouch. I’ll do a 6x6 and medium pouch in the back and I’ll do a 6x6 on the inside and add an admin or med bag to that to pull out with the gear I use most.

Down the road I’ll get more. I like the 6x10 vertical pouch if I need more space because I can add the pouches to that if need be. I don’t think I’ll need it but maybe. I can also get a small vertical bag or the go’s holder down the road. I’ll likely get mag holders though.
Here is the set up that I have now. I love the heavy padded straps and the grip on the back of the bag because the bag doesn’t move. Very comfortable bag.

Dude, I like it a lot. Nice setup.

 

[libertysnake]

Have to double check, but I have one of these in my hiking bag. It's relatively small, and honestly I don't need a lot when it comes to grates. I wanted something minimalist that would stay flat and weigh as little as possible. Clear brush + two rocks + grate = fire. Can fucking grill right on the damn thing. Only cleanup you need is a piece of steel wool.

Amazon.com : DZRZVD-The Bushcraft Backpacker's Grill Grate - Welded Stainless Steel Mesh (Upgrade Camping Fire Rated)-7.48"X12.6" : Sports & Outdoors

Amazon.com : DZRZVD-The Bushcraft Backpacker's Grill Grate - Welded Stainless Steel Mesh (Upgrade Camping Fire Rated)-7.48"X12.6" : Sports & Outdoors

www.amazon.com

 

[Saltwater60]

Dude, I like it a lot. Nice setup.

The bags are 40% off get them while they are hot. It’s the 5.11 rush 12 and you can see the packs I added on. I like it so far.

 

[libertysnake]

Also I have the 12 hour version of this, cause I like the smaller size for hikes, but they're all the same idea. I like his designs because he puts neon colors inside to make it easy to see the contents. Thing has held up good so far for me. Similar to the GoRuck GR0 I have for work.

24 Hour Backpack

Resilient & versatile firefighter 24 hours backpacks for sale in the USA. Handmade out of 1000D Cordura. Versatile & practical design. Visit our webshop now!

recycledfirefighter.com

 

[masterswimmer]

The bags are 40% off get them while they are hot. It’s the 5.11 rush 12 and you can see the packs I added on. I like it so far.

You sure about Rush 12?
I see the Rush24 & Rush100.

 

[Saltwater60]

Also this bag rides high enough on me that I can draw my pistol flawlessly from My IWB holster at 4 o’clock. I’m only about 5’6” so that’s a big plus for me since I don’t plan to get anything in the front on this bag.

 

[Saltwater60]

You sure about Rush 12?
I see the Rush24 & Rush100.

Yes I’m sure. The rush 12 may have sold out. Best part is I ordered it in another color they didn’t have. The bag was $100 down to $59.00 and because the screw up of their inventory they gave me a $50 gift certificate so this bag costs me $9.00. Might be the best $9.00 I ever did spend.
They had 4 versions of the rush. The 12, the 24, the 37, and the 100.
Here is the link but no add to cart.

Tactical Bags and Backpacks | High-Quality Storage Options | 5.11 Tactical®

Discover 5.11 Tactical®'s premium bags and backpacks, perfect for tactical missions, extended travel, and outdoor adventures. Shop our durable, high-quality gear today.

www.511tactical.com

if the rush didn’t work out I was going to get the AMP bag. I like this bag as well. Has Velcro so that’s how that bag I have that doesn’t attach to mine goes on.

AMP12™ Backpack 25L

AMP12

www.511tactical.com

 

[GOPerfect]

I finally, finally received my bag today. I love the bag and it’s a great size with great storage.
I bought a few extra ad one I’d like to run by you all. I think some are going back and I’ll likely get a few others.
I’m rather on the fence about this one. It’s small but I like the pockets. I think I could use it as a small medical and tool bag.

Flex Admin Pouch

FLEX ADMIN POUCH

www.511tactical.com

I like this and it’s very versatile IMO. I’ll keep it.

H2O Carrier

H2O Carrier

www.511tactical.com

I like this one but I don’t even know how to attach it to my bag and it’s very skinny. It’s like an inch and a half thick and very heavy so I think this ones going back for sure.

Utility 9X9 Gear Set™

UTILITY 9X9 GEAR SET

www.511tactical.com

I have this and I really like it. I’m not sure if I want two more of these or if I want get get one more of these and one more of the medium flex bags.

6.6 Pouch

6.6 Pouch

www.511tactical.com

I think I’m going to order one of these to stick on the back of the bag to make it more versatile. My fishing gear can go in here and it can be used when fishing and removed when not.

Flex Medium GP Pouch

FLEX MEDIUM GP POUCH

www.511tactical.com

What do you all think about the mix I have? Would you get more 6x6 bags or should I get the medium flexpouch.
I like the medium flex pouch because they are 5” tall and two would fit nicely on the back and allow zipper use very nicely. I like the 6x6 pouch because it has the Molle on the back and I can always add other things to it. I think what I will do is stick with the 6x6 o have and get another one. Then I’ll get a medium pouch. I’ll do a 6x6 and medium pouch in the back and I’ll do a 6x6 on the inside and add an admin or med bag to that to pull out with the gear I use most.

Down the road I’ll get more. I like the 6x10 vertical pouch if I need more space because I can add the pouches to that if need be. I don’t think I’ll need it but maybe. I can also get a small vertical bag or the go’s holder down the road. I’ll likely get mag holders though.
Here is the set up that I have now. I love the heavy padded straps and the grip on the back of the bag because the bag doesn’t move. Very comfortable bag.

I am liking your choices. As for the Molle knife sheath, you can use para cord and just lash it on the bag where you need/want it.

 

[Saltwater60]

I am liking your choices. As for the Molle knife sheath, you can use para cord and just lash it on the bag where you need/want it.

Thanks I’ll YouTube that. I have some paracord I keep around here but I’ll get a small spool for my bag anyway.

 

[Saltwater60]

I added some of these too. Thought it was a bit outside the box but in the realm of need/necessity and doesn’t take up much space at all.

 

[Vapor]

I don't know of this has been gone over yet in this thread, but spending some time out doing bushcraft type things (I hate that term) a good, light weight folding saw is worth its weight in gold.

Don't get a cheap one either. You want a Silky (Japan) $40 or Bahco (Sweden) $25. Then use your fixed blade to split it. It will cut much better than some machete or big silly survival knife, and is much safer.

After trying so many things out, I would throw something like a Becker bk9 or ontario rtak 2 in the trash can and take a mora Garberg and a Bahco.

A knife that tries to be a jack of all trades is a master of none.

If you really really want to process wood, go with a bigger silky and a 26" camp axe. This is if you're bugging out with a sled, 4 wheeler, caper, etc. You combined with a buck saw, you can literally build small cabins.

 

[Saltwater60]

I don't know of this has been gone over yet in this thread, but spending some time out doing bushcraft type things (I hate that term) a good, light weight folding saw is worth its weight in gold.

Don't get a cheap one either. You want a Silky (Japan) $40 or Bahco (Sweden) $25. Then use your fixed blade to split it. It will cut much better than some machete or big silly survival knife, and is much safer.

After trying so many things out, I would throw something like a Becker bk9 or ontario rtak 2 in the trash can and take a mora Garberg and a Bahco.

A knife that tries to be a jack of all trades is a master of none.

If you really really want to process wood, go with a bigger silky and a 26" camp axe. This is if you're bugging out with a sled, 4 wheeler, caper, etc. You combined with a buck saw, you can literally build small cabins.

I asked for a nice Swedish made Nordic folding saw for Christmas and I think I got it. It’s one that take reciprocating saw blades so I’ll carry a few extras with me. Light enough and useful in many ways.