When it comes to how heavy should your bug-out bag be? There are a few things you need to cover such as bug-out bags should be light, distributing the weight properly, only essentials no extras that you do not need, easy of movement and getting around is paramount.
You want to make sure that your bug-out bag does not weigh you down too much. If something were to happen you want to be able to run with it on. It needs to be light enough to be able to be carried for long distances. If you can not run with your bug-out bag that’s a good sign it’s too heavy from my experience.
A bug-out bag should be extremely light. It should not weigh more than one-third of your total body weight.
This is a general rule of thumb that I use for my bug-out bags. I may sure that the bags are not heavy for members of my family. So take time to realize that less is more, especially in survival. One of the worst experiences I have had out in the wild is when my bug-out bag was way too heavy. I now value how much my bug-out bag weighs in comparison to my body weight.
Do not learn the hard, way! If SHTF, you do not want to find yourself having to throw things out because they are too heavy. Think ahead of time, so you are not caught out when the time comes!
Distribute the Weight
You know that thing you hate? That one item in your bug-out bag that keeps hitting your back and making you feel like a pack mule?
When you’re on the go, there’s nothing worse than a single item that keeps hitting your back. If you’re out in the wilderness, you have to make sure your bug-out bag is comfortable. That’s why distributing the weight of the bag is so important.
You might be wondering, “What’s wrong with a little pain?” Well, if you have a lot of weight on your shoulders then it can lead to major issues like muscle strain and injury. Plus, it makes walking around more difficult.
Take out unnecessary items/to heavy
Rearrange the items
Test it out! (walk around with it for awhile and adjust accordingly)
Bug-out bags should be as light as possible.
As a general rule, the lighter your bug-out bag is, the better.
I can’t stress this enough. Keep it light. The lighter the better. You do not want to find yourself not able to get going because you are weighed down by your bag. You’ll be less likely to feel exhausted, which can lead to injury and illness.
Injuries and Illness
The reality is that a heavy bug-out bag can cause a lot more damage than they are worth. Yes, you may have more in the bag but at what cost. Injuries or other related illnesses can be catastrophic to your chances of survival.
The best way to deal with this is to wear an ultra-lightweight backpack/BOB that you can carry for long periods of time without getting tired or injured. This will give you the ability to move quickly and efficiently when needed, while also protecting your body from unnecessary strain and stress.
Common Items
There are a few items that can weigh things down such as rope, blankets, and large tents. Yes, those things are essential but there are many lighter alternatives. One example is having a smaller tent instead of a larger one. A heavy blanket could be substituted with clothing.
You get the point!
Your Location Is Another Factor To Consider
Your location plays a role in what should go in your bug-out bag. There are basic items you should have, but try to gear your bug-out bag according to where you are located. Or where you are going to. This could make your bag lighter.
In cold weather, a warm coat and boots will be more important than sunscreen and sunglasses. In the desert, sunscreen and sunglasses will be more important. You are not going to need a heavy raincoat.
Your bug-out bag should be tailored to each environment so that you can survive wherever it is that you’re going. Or wherever it is that you end up after an emergency situation occurs.
Some Light Weight Items
One of my favorite items that is very lightweight is a compass and a map. They are something that I recommend having regardless of your situation or plans.
The main thing you need to remember is that less is more. There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding how heavy your bug-out bag should be. The most important thing is to make sure it is as light as possible. This will help you to avoid injuries and other related illnesses. Try to tailor your bag to your environment/bug-out location, so that you can survive wherever you end up. And remember, a compass and map are always essential!
