23/07/2025
Prepping For Beginners - Bug In or Bug Out?
First I must point out that this is my perspective on whether to bug in or out and my views in this are slanted towards my own evaluation and circumstances based here in South Africa. We don't suffer regular tornados, earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, tsunamis and massive natural threats in this part of the world, but we do have droughts. floods, hail and the occasional mudslides. Certain high areas see a bit of snow, but its not really a threat in this discussion. We do have extreme dangers posed by other humans, so much so that even venturing out of your home could be considered dangerous.
The old debate on which option is best, between bugging in or bugging out, depends on your own circumstances pertaining to dangers in your home area and nearby eighbourhoods. Now there is a third and important consideration to add to the mix - dependents. Small children, babies, old people and those with mobility issues add a new dynamic to the debate. How are you going to handle wheelchairs, prams, small kids and frail senior citizens if you decide to bug out? How far will you get dragging these dependents along with you?
I always advise people to rather stay home if possible. You can barricade your house if you need to and everything you need is already there. Leaving home and camping out in the bush is difficult because there is no way you can carry eveything you may need and you are sure to wish you had brought something you had forgotten with you. in your absence, marauders will strip your home, so when you return, there will be nothing left.
As already stated, this is particularly relevant if you have elderly, sickly, or young children. It will be even more applicable if someone in your group is moblity impaired, as in a wheelchair, on crutches, or similar. Moving along trails in the bush will be very difficult. You are familar with your home surroundings, but to traverse the bush? Besides, where do you consider it safe to set up a campsite? Will you be able to make part of the trip by vehicle?
If for circumstances beyond your control, you really have to leave home, and "head for the hills" then the below list of survival products could save your life! Can you carry all of these items? Remember each member of your group also need these things, so can each member carry their own supplies. Calculate how much food and drinking water you are goin to need. How long are you planning on bugging out? I still think its far better to stay at home rather than having to leave home and bug out, but each to his own.
I do admit that big cities have their problems and ther may well be more marauders in towns than out in the country areas, but then try to "move in" to a friend, or relative's home where you fell its safer.
Reasons to leave home include fire, floods, marauders which are beyond your control. You may have to evacuate to safer place. For this consideration, I will define this move as bugging in. Even though you can't take everything with you, its likely that your hosts do have what might be required.
When you pursue something new, like prepping, it is critical to start somewhere - just jump in. However, many can’t afford to immediately invest in higher-priced items that qualify them as a bone fide prepper. If you see a need to leave home, start by assembling a simple bug out bag which is intended as a starter kit that can be used to save your life in an emergency.
While this budget bag list is effective, it is very basic.
Remember the biggest needs are water, shelter, food, protection from animals or people with bad intent, and hygiene.
Buy you prepper supplies fom The Survivalist https://thesurvivalist.co.za
Top bug-out supplies:
Big Tough Backpack, or Duffelbag
Decent, rugged Water Bottle - each person needs 4 to 5 litres of clean drinking water per day, especially if a lot of walking and climbing is involved.
Paracord - Survivor paracord this is an essential tool for every prepper. It can be useful in a variety of situations such as building shelter, hanging your food, towing, or even in a medical scenario.
Medical Kits - Medical kit supplies. This is absolutely essential. Being out in the wilderness without being adequately prepared for injury, or illness is just stupid. Instead of dying from an infected cut, build or choose a first aid kit that will suit your needs. Don't forget prescription meds and chronic meds.
Portable water filter, or purification tablets - This will protect you from bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as filter out dirt, sand, and other micro debris. It is advisable to boil the water.
Survival blanket, or lightweight sleeping bag, or hammock - keep warm and dry.
Portable stove - It isn't always possible to light a fire (rain, wind, or the fire will give away your hiding spot).
Maps - Maps of the area you have in mind as being safe. When you no longer have access to cellphones, GPS, or power, having a map and compass can help guide you.
Decent, strong (and sharp) knife - for all emergency situations.
Emergency phone charger, or solar charger, or powerbank - if coms are still possible and you can use your cellphone, you will need to keep it charged.
Headlamp - keep both hands free.
Vaseline - This do-everything product can be used as lip balm, moisturizer, skin protector, nappy cream, an emergency candle, leather conditioner, stain remover, lubricant, bug bites care, wound care, skin cleanser, rust prevention, shaving cream, protect pet paws, a fire starter, gas mask seal, unstick zippers, and as blister prevention.
Compass - if you are staying near home, you may not need this.
Spare Emergency Blankets - These Mylar sheets are cheap, compact and very useful.
Pack of Cards - Don’t forget leisure when you’re thinking about survival. There will be a lot of time alone and that can be overwhelming. Pack something to occupy your mind.
Duct tape - Limitless uses, including shelter repair, first aid, and more.
Saw - cut branches for firewood, or to build a shelter
Toiletries - Having extra toiletries is important for hygiene, comfort, and safety. We recommend: Bug spray, Tylenol or Paracetemol, Soap, Dental Floss, Aqua-tabs, Toilet paper, Cheap bandanas, Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Matches and Lighter - Waterproof matches and lighters are definitely an essential asset for survival. A flint will also help.
Axe or Panga - To clear scrub, cut branches
Rubber gloves - These can really come in handy, especially if you’re mixing water filtration chemicals.
Fishing line and hooks - They are so small and lightweight, it would be silly to exclude them.
Emergency radio - keep up to date with local/regional news.
Emergency Rain Poncho - These are particularly useful if you have to be outdoors in heavy rain, as you can cover yourself and your pack. You can also pack some garbage bags if you don’t want to buy the ponchos and they will work just fine.
Folding shovel - Dig stormwater drains, a firepit, a latrine. It can also work as a weapon.
Cloths - these will be handy for cleaning yourself and any cooking utensils.
Glow sticks or candles - Cheap and they can provide a small amount of area lighting which is less visible than a fire or a lamp.
Tarp - A tarp can be a lifesaver if you need to build an emergency shelter. They are easier to carry and more versatile than a tent.
Essential crockery - Forks, spoons etc.
Essential cookware - Pot, pan, cups.
Food - At least 3 days worth supply of non-perishable food for each person. I recommend 7 day's worth. Rather than carrying a multitude of ingredients, it is much easier to have freeze dried meals, dehydrated meals, army ration packs, or MREs. You can also try trapping birds and small animals. Catch fish.
Cash, or bargainable goods - You might need to trade with other people.
Protection - If you need to fight an animal, or a person intent on harming you, or taking your supplies, you will need a weapon or two.
Personal documents - (ID, licences, insurance, any other important documents). Copies are less risk than originals.
It is useful but not essential to have a multitool, or Swiss army knife - You get other sixed blades, screwdrivers, corkscrew, awl etc.
Now you will be ready for any situation - either to bug in at home, or to flee to the hills, with a kit of essential items.
Many of these items are available from https://thesurvivalist.co.za
It is imperative that you have an emergency contingency plan, even if you will be staying home. Give each member of your family a specific task and ensure they understand exactly what to do and how to do it.
The Survivalist has prepared an Emergency Contingency Plan that suits most people and most circumstances. Get a copy here: https://rb.gy/ucblel
Adapt it and personalise it, but at least you will have a framework within which to work.
Good luck.
