National Preparedness Month: 3 Steps to Build Out the Perfect Bug Out Bag
After five years working at Rothco and spending plenty of time around gear built for the outdoors, work, and everyday adventures, I’ve learned that being prepared often comes down to having the right essentials within reach. I’m always on the go, so I know how helpful it can be to have gear you can count on — especially when plans don’t always go as expected.
That’s why National Preparedness Month is a great time to take a look at what you have on hand and think about what you might actually need in an emergency. One of the easiest places to start is with a bug out bag: a grab-and-go pack filled with some of the basic supplies you may need if you ever have to leave home unexpectedly.
You don’t need to overthink it or pack everything you own. When I’m putting together a preparedness bag, I like to focus on the basics: food and water, shelter, fire, tools, clothing, and personal essentials.
Here’s how I’d build one.
Step 1: Start With the Right Pack
Before filling your bag, start with something that has enough room for your essentials without becoming too bulky or difficult to carry.
The Rothco Medium Transport Pack is a great foundation, offering 25L of storage and multiple compartments to help keep everything organized and easy to access.
Once you have your pack, it’s time to start filling it with the essentials.
Step 2: Pack the Essentials
When I’m thinking about what belongs in a bug out bag, I like to keep it simple. Focus on the things that help cover the basics and look for gear that can serve more than one purpose without taking up too much space.
Food & Water
Food and water are two of the first things I’d think about when putting together an emergency bag. You’ll want a way to carry water, along with options for treating water and having a compact source of emergency calories.
- Rothco 4-Piece Canteen Kit — A convenient way to carry water while also giving you a cup and stove stand for heating water or food.
- Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets — A lightweight option for treating water when a reliable source of drinking water isn’t available.
- Datrex Blue 3600 Calorie Emergency Food Ration — A compact, shelf-stable option for providing calories when regular food isn’t readily available.
Shelter & Warmth
If you end up spending time outdoors, having a few lightweight items to help protect you from the weather can go a long way.
- Rothco Wool Blanket — Wool provides natural insulation and can help keep you warm in changing conditions.
- Rothco Survival Tent — A compact emergency shelter designed to help reflect body heat and provide protection when you need it.
Fire
A way to start a fire can be useful for warmth, light, cooking, or heating water. I’d look for something small that can easily stay in your bag until you need it.
- Rothco Survival Kit — Includes a magnesium fire starter along with other useful emergency tools, making it a convenient addition to a preparedness bag.
Tools & Everyday Essentials
A few versatile tools can come in handy for everything from making quick repairs to handling unexpected situations.
- Rothco Stainless Steel Multi-Tool — Combines multiple useful tools into one compact design, including pliers and wire cutters.
- Military Duct Tape (100 Mile An Hour Tape) — A lightweight, versatile option for quick repairs, securing gear, and plenty of other unexpected fixes.
- Rothco LED 5 Bulb Headlamp — Provides hands-free lighting for navigating, setting up shelter, or getting things done in low-light conditions.
- Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank — Helps keep essential devices powered and includes a carabiner for easy attachment to your pack.
Clothing & Weather Protection
I’d also leave room for a few lightweight clothing and weather essentials. The goal isn’t to pack an entire wardrobe — just a few versatile items that can help keep you comfortable and protected if conditions change.
- Rothco Wool Blend Mid-Calf Winter Socks — Help keep your feet warm and comfortable when spending extended time outdoors.
- Rothco All Weather Emergency Poncho — Provides protection from rain without taking up much room in your bag.
- Rothco Lightweight All Purpose Duty Gloves — Useful for handling gear, setting up shelter, making repairs, and protecting your hands.
- Genuine Wool Watch Cap — Helps retain warmth in cold conditions without adding much bulk.
- Ben’s 30 Spray Pump Insect Repellent — Offers up to 8 hours of protection against ticks and insects.
Personal Items
Finally, don’t forget the things that are specific to you. Depending on your needs, that might include medications, hygiene products, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, important documents, emergency contact information, or supplies for children and pets.
These items might not be the most exciting part of your bag, but they’re often the things you’ll be happiest to have with you.
Step 3: Keep It Ready
Once your bag is packed, keep it somewhere accessible so you can grab it when you need it. I also recommend checking it every so often to make sure food hasn’t expired, batteries are still good, clothing still fits, and everything you need is still there.
Building a bug out bag doesn’t have to be complicated. After years of working with gear, I’ve found that the most useful setups are often the simplest ones — the ones built around versatile essentials that you know you can rely on.
This National Preparedness Month, take a little time to prepare today so you can feel a little more ready for whatever comes next.
Turn Chaos Into Confidence
Rothco has your back
This September, National Preparedness Month reminds us to plan for the unexpected. From natural disasters and everyday emergencies to even the unthinkable, Rothco is here to ensure you and your family are ready for anything. Whether you’re building a bug-out bag or upgrading your emergency essentials, we’ve got you covered.
