Here is what I recommend for a Go Bag:
- Backpack – Should be light, weatherproof, and be difficult to stuff more than 30 lbs
- Fire starter – Ferro rod and magnesium, plasma lighter, fuel lighter, matches (in that order of preference)
- Water filter – A filter to process questionable water to potable water, and a personal water filter to drink questionable water
- (2) Water bottles – one for drawing questionable water, and one to filter into
- Full tang knife
- Multitool
- Weapon – Shotgun or handgun, but a knife will do
- First Aid Kit
- Paracord – 50 feet minimum, 100 feet preferred
- Pot with bail handle – For boiling water
- Camping tripod board with hook
- Cup – Titanium is preferred
- Eating utensils
- Plate and bowl – Collapsible is preferred
- Food – Can be protein bars or granola bars, but one or two hot water based meals is preferred
- (2) Tarps – One for shelter and one for ground cover
- Tarp poles or trekking poles
- Guy lines
- Tent stakes
- (2) Shirts
- (2) Pants
- (2) Underwear
- (2) Socks
- Pullover sweater
- Raincoat or Poncho
- Emergency tent
- Emergency blanket
- Ultralight, compact sleeping bag
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Emergency radio or HAM/GMRS radio with FM radio and NOAA weather reception
- Compass or GPS
- Hat and Beanie – You should have both. A bucket hat or something that covers your face and back is preferred
- Shemagh
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Mask – N95 preferred
- Power Bank with appropriate charging cables
If space and weight permits, add the following:
- Axe/Saw
- Shovel
- Wood based fuel stove
- Inflatable pillow
- Inflatable seat cushion
- Portable camping chair
- Portable camping table