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Bug Out Pack Review: The All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (A.L.I.C.E. Pack)

October 1, 2012 By 15 Comments

I wish I had $1 for every time someone mentioned or had a question about the military ALICE Pack.  This Bug Out Bag Review Post is long overdue.  In my experience with discussing the ALICE pack with survivalists, campers, soldiers and outdoors men and women, there seems to be very strong feelings about this pack – either people love them or hate them.  I’ve used an ALICE pack before for short overnights but never really put it through the rigors of a potential Bug Out Scenario or hiked with it fully loaded as a 72-Hour Kit.

So, with BUGGING OUT in mind, this post is a review of the MEDIUM Military ALICE Pack as a potential Bug Out Bag.

First, the specs:

  • Main compartment 19 inches x 11.5 inches x 9.5 inches
  • Three pouches (5 inches x 2.5 inches x 9 inches)
  • Main compartment capacity (approximately): 34 litres (2075 cubic inches)
  • Total capacity (approximately): 39.52 litres (2412 cubic inches) – this is maximum volume of all the compartments
  • Separate pouch inside large main compartment
  • Accessory loops for storing extra gear (12 on the top front under top flap, 2 on bottom, 3 on each side)
  • Capacity: 39.5 litres / 2413 cubic inches
  • Material/Fabric: Nylon

Size/Space

As I transferred over the contents from my existing BOB to the Medium ALICE for my 6 mile test hike, it was quite clear that everything wasn’t going to fit.  I normally recommend Bug Out Bags being in the 3000 cubic inch range and the Medium ALICE comes in at around 2400.  I now completely understand why the ALICE pack was traditionally paired with a Belt & Keeper system shown in the illustration below.

This system was designed to carry a variety of items including canteens, entrenching tools and ammunition pouches.  However, when you pair these two items together, you look exactly like a classic soldier – not really a look I’m going for in a Bug Out.  Thus, if using the ALICE pack as a BOB, I would opt not to use the Belt System.  However, the ALICE pack does come in a LARGE size which is about 3800 cubic inches – plenty big for a BOB.  So if after reading this post you decide you might want to try the ALICE – I might suggest the LARGE over the MEDIUM as a primary BOB.

Pack Design

The ALICE pack was built with one purpose in mind – rugged performance.  Field tested by countless soldiers around the world, the ALICE has earned its reputation as a rugged beast of a pack.  With that said, it is a NO FRILLS pack.  Don’t expect the posh features and design of a recreational back-pack.

The Medium Alice has 1 Main compartment with 1 inside pocket, 3 outside pouches and 1 flat velcro pocket on the flap.  it is not hydration compatible but you could probably rig one using the large pocket inside of the main compartment.

The side of the pack does have several webbing loops (top, middle,bottom) which can serve as lashing points.  The middle webbing is horizontal and the top/bottom loops are vertical and though not designed to be MOLLE compatible you can still strap on MOLLE pouches.

The above photo is a view from the bottom of the pack.  Especially with the MEDIUM ALICE, you will have to strap your tent/tarp and foam pad to the bottom of the pack.  There is webbing on the bottom of the pack to help with this.  You can also use the aluminum frame as a lashing point as well.

Speaking of the frame, notice the pack in these photos is mounted to an aluminum frame.  You can use the ALICE pack without the frame but don’t waste your time – especially with loads of 40 lbs or more – it is really uncomfortable.  The frame helps to distribute the weight and makes a HUGE difference with heavy loads.  It also keeps the pack away from your back – which is nice in warm weather.

The ALICE pack isn’t the most comfortable pack in the world.  I can certainly tell the difference in the padded straps and hip belts versus some of my other recreational back-packs.  For extended hikes, this is important.  For this post, I hiked about 6 miles in the medium ALICE with about 35 lbs of gear and the comfort level was manageable, but less than desirable.

I’m used to easy access bottle pockets and without the belt accessory to carry a canteen, you pretty much have to take off the pack to get a drink of water unless you’ve jerry-rigged a hydration system.  This was a huge frustration for me.

My biggest frustration with the ALICE pack was the strap closures and adjustments.  I hate those OLD SCHOOL metal strap adjusters and closures where you have to feed the webbing in and out of the metal buckle to get open or adjust a pocket.  It is ridiculously time consuming and frustrating and nearly impossible in cold weather with gloves on.  I much prefer modern squeeze buckle closures.  Fortunately, the 3 pouches on the ALICE at least have snap closures but I hate snaps too.  The main compartment is controlled by the old school metal adjusters.

 

Bottom Line

The bottom line is I LIKE the Medium ALICE pack, but I don’t think I’ll be switching it to my BOB anytime soon.  I certainly wouldn’t turn it down or turn my nose up at it as a BOB, but it’s not my first pick.  Unlike many others I spoken with, I do not LOVE or HATE the ALICE pack.  In general I really like it, with a couple frustrations that would prevent me from getting too excited.  It would be a great secondary BOB for an additional family member.  The ALICE pack has been been phased out by MOLLE Packs in most of the military branches.  Thus, surplus units can be found on-line or in military surplus stores for a very affordable price – typically $60-$80.  This is an excellent value if your style is to go with a traditional military style pack versus a modern recreational style pack.  Everyone has different preferences and the fact is that some people just like and prefer military gear and some don’t.

As I’ve said many times before, choosing a BOB is a very personal decision and the fact is that MANY different types and styles of packs will work.

 

Medium ALICE Pack Pros/Cons

Pros:

  • Built to last
  • Rugged & Tough
  • Versatile
  • 2 sizes (both sizes mount on the same frame)
  • Proven by 1000s of soldiers in the field
  • Very affordable
Cons:
  • Not the most comfortable pack on the market
  • Old school metal adjusters and closures
  • No easy access pockets for bottles, etc.

If anyone is interested in picking up a Surplus Medium ALICE pack – we have a few in stock for $65.  Here is the link: http://willowhavenoutdoor.com/store/products/medium-surplus-military-alice-pack/

I know some of you LIKE the ALICE packs and some of you HATE the ALICE packs.  Help others reading this post make an informed decision by sharing your thoughts and personal reviews in the comments section.

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out, Featured, Uncategorized

The Ultimate Bug Out First Aid Kit: The MedCallKit by MedCallAssist.com

August 12, 2012 By 14 Comments

 

First Aid is one area where I’ve always felt a little under-prepared.  I’ve kept my First Aid preps pretty basic – stocking up on the obvious items.  Even the First Aid Kit I outline in my book is pretty basic.  I’ve never really owned a First Aid kit that has given me some serious peace of mind – especially if in a Bug Out or Disaster Survival Scenario.  Well… that all changed a couple weeks ago when I got my hands on  a MedCallKit by MedCallAssist.com.

 

 

This kit has taken my First Aid preps (as well as my confidence to deal with more complicated first aid related issues) to new heights – so much so that I felt it deserved a review post here on the blog.  I’ve made a few failed attempts in the past to build my own true disaster first aid kit. It seems most of the items beyond basic over the counter bandages, meds and ointments are either prescription or are difficult to find.  These hurdles have always prevented me from completing a kit that I can be really proud of.  The MedCallKit is the solution I’ve been looking for.

 

 

First of all, this kit is more than just a First Aid Kit.  The word “CALL” in the name is there for a reason.  When you buy one of these kits you are able to call a physician 24 hours a day to obtain instruction on use of the contents of the kit at no additional charge.  Ever wish you could pick up the phone and ask a doctor a first aid question?  I’ve never heard of this kind of feature with any first aid kit I’ve ever seen.  This alone is a value worth more than they are charging for the entire kit.  NOTE: After the 1st year of ownership the fee is $100 per year for the phone service.

 

 

MedCallAssist is based in Alaska and that’s where they build the kits.  Even the Red Bag shown in the photos above are sewn by an Alaska based business just down the street from their business.  I love the tag on the bag – it reads “Apocalypse Design – Fairbanks, Alaska”.

The kit isn’t tiny.  The case shown above is approximately 14″x14″x8″.  It’s way too big to put INTO a Bug Out Bag but makes an excellent stand alone first aid kit to toss in the car or for hunkering down.  The case is very sturdy and well made with web handles and a shoulder strap so it’s not hard to imagine carrying it along as well if you had to.

 

SO WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE KIT?

I thought you’d never ask.  Throughout this post I’ll include random photos of the kit contents.  Below is a detailed list of items included in this kit. The items highlighted in RED are either prescription items or are otherwise difficult to get your hands on over the counter. NOTE: Some of the items listed below are add-ons to the basic kit which cost extra.  If you visit their web-site (given below) you’ll see exactly what I mean.

  • Azithromycin 250 mg 1 zpack or 6 pills
  • Ciprofloxacin 500 mg 14 tablets
  • Sulfamethoxazol/ trimethoprim DS 14 tablets
  • Cephalexin 500 mg 28 tablets

  • Triple antibiotic ointment Ten individual 1gm packets
  • Gentamicin Ophth solution 5 cc 1 tube
  • Ibuprofen 400 mgs. 40 tablets
  • Acetaminophen 500 mg 40 tablets

  • Cimetidine 800 mgs. 10 tablets
  • Bismuth tablets 12 tablets
  • Tucks hemorrhoidal Ointment One 1 oz tube

  • Loperamide 2 mgs (Imodium) 20 Tablets
  • Bisacodyl (senna lax tablets) 5 Tablets
  • Ondansetron (Zofran) 4 mg One 4mg vial with 6 doses
  • Toothache Kit (Red Cross Tooth Ache Kit one step temp tooth filling) 1 tooth ache kit

  • Epinephrine 1 mg vial 1 vial with 3 doses
  • Safety syringe (Monojet insulin 1cc safety syringes) 2 safety syringes
  • Guaifenesin dm One 4 oz bottle

  • Tolnaftate cream 1% one 15gm tube
  • Throat Lozenges 18 lozenges
  • Triamcinolone cream .1% one 15gm tube

  • Diphenhydramine 25 mg 15 tablets
  • Loratadine D 10 mgs 10 tablets
  • Halls cough drops roll- cherry 8 Cough Drops

  • Steristrips .5 inch One pack of 6 Steristrips
  • Band-Aids assorted One assorted pack of band aids
  • Q-tips 20 q-tips
  • Tongue depressors 5 tough depressors
  • Adaptic type pad 4 Adaptic pads

  • Tegaderm type 2X3 Two 2X3 Tegaderm bandage
  • 4×4 gauze Ten 4X4 Gauze Pads
  • petrolatum gauze 3×9 Two 3X9 Petrolatum Gauze pads
  • Paper tape 1″ One roll of 1″ wide paper tape
  • Cloth tape 1″ One roll of 1″ wide cloth tape

  • Kerlix type roller gauze 4″ One 4″ roll of kerlix gauze
  • Ace type wrap 4″ One 4″ wide roll of ace rap
  • Safety pins large Five Large Safety Pins

  • Z fold hemostatic bandage 1 Zfold hemostatic bandage (quick clot)
  • Nonsterile gloves Eight gloves
  • Skin stapler 15 shot One skin stapler with 15 staples

  • staple remover One skin stapler remover
  • Wound glue One tube of wound glue
  • splinter forceps One set of splinter forceps
  • Iris Scissors One set of iris scissors
  • pen light One Pen Light
  • lip balm w/ sunblock One tube of lip balm
  • spf >30 sunblock Four Packets of sunblock
  • magnifying glass One Magnifying Glass

  • Nail Clippers One Set of Nail Clippers
  • 18g needle One 18g Needle
  • Urine Catheter Kit
  • Lidocaine 1% 50cc
  • Suture Set
  •  IV Kit (Startkit, 18g Catheter, Admin Set, and 1 Liter Saline) 

Some of the items listed above are optional add-ons that are charged on a per item basis, but it’s great to be able to have one source for all of your first aid needs.

 

INSTRUCTIONS

Besides having the option of calling a 24 hour physician hot-line, a very thorough booklet is included with first aid instruction about a variety of topics that include: INFECTION, DENTAL EMERGENCIES, SKIN STAPLING, DOSES FOR ANTIBIOTICS, and HOW TO ADMINISTER EPINEPHRINE.  Just having this kit will encourage you to sign up for an advanced first aid training course in your area.  For some of the items I feel like a little training would be a good idea – especially the optional  AED (Automatic External Defibrillator).

 

The question everyone is asking – How much is this MedCallKit?

The base kit is $350.  That includes most of the list above and the 24-hour phone consultation option.  Some of the other items are optional add-ons.  If you are wanting to take your First Aid preps to the next level (like me), I believe this kit is a no-brainer and well worth the $350.  You can purchase add-ons at any time and you can also purchase refills on any of the items in the kit if you use them etc…  They also take special requests if you are looking for something specific.  If you’re not ready to pull the trigger on a kit of this depth or price then at least you now have a good source if you see the need for one at a future date and this one can serve as a great Benchmark to gauge other kits if you decide to shop around.  I’ve been in the survival industry for a long time and this is the first First Aid Kit that I’ve seen that really fills the irritating void on my prepper shelf.

 

A few more thoughts…

Having a First Aid kit of this size and quality makes me really understand why the military has dedicated medics.  I guess I’ve really never considered it before.  To transport (especially by foot) a full spectrum First Aid Kit + other Bug Out Gear it would be ideal to tap someone in your Bug Out Crew as a dedicated medic.  If I had a several person family I think I might consider assigning one of my secondary pack members a ‘medic position’ and transferring the first aid supplies from the MedCallAssist tote into a But Out Back Pack.  For now, I’m trying to see how I can work this kit into my own Bug Out Plan.  Currently, it will remain a car kit and ‘carry as long as I can’ kit until I figure something else out.

 

 

On a side note, I will be adding a handful of high quality N95 masks to this kit.

 

Conclusion

If anyone decides to order a kit from MedCallAssist, they’ve been kind enough to offer guests of Willowhavenoutdoor.com a 10% discount for a 2 week period.  Just use the following code during check-out: creek

I hope this has been an informative and useful review for you.  I’m sure MedCallAssist would be happy to answer any questions you might have as well.  They can be contacted at: 877-907-4911 or http://www.medcallassist.com

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out, Featured

12 Reasons Why Everyone Needs a Bug Out Bag: Series Post 5 of 12: Fire

March 14, 2012 By 3 Comments

Series Introduction

This post series is for anyone who has an interest or curiosity in building their own Bug Out Bag.  In the next 3-4 months leading up to the release of my book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit, my publisher has authorized me to write a series of 12 posts outlining the 12 Supply Categories needed to build the perfect Bug Out Bag and WHY they are important and necessary.  Each post in this 12 Step Series will highlight a separate Bug Out Bag Supply Category.

In my book I elaborate on each of these supply categories in great detail with 100s of detailed photos, instructions, practice exercises, recommended gear and specific supply check-lists.  The purpose of this 12 Step Series is to identify, define and explain why each of the 12 Supply Categories I outline in my book are critical elements of a well-thought out Bug Out Bag.  I will not get into recommended gear, survival instruction or specific check-lists – I have to save something for the book!  This blog series isn’t as much about pitching my book as it is about selling the idea of building a bug out bag.  I truly believe that every person should have their own 72 hour disaster survival kit – especially in the uncertain times we live in today.  You can almost look at this post series as 12 Reasons Why People Need a Bug Out Bag.  It is my hope that this series motivates people to begin building their own kit that may very well serves as their survival life-line one day.

Supply Category # 5: FIRE

This post is going to be short, sweet and to the point.  I can’t say enough about the importance of Fire Starting Supplies in a Bug Out Bag.  Fire is without a doubt in a survivor’s TOP 5 Survival Priorities.

A Bug Out Bag without a GUARANTEED way to start a fire is incomplete.

Why is FIRE so important to a survivor?  First and foremost, fire is a tool that can be used to regulate your core body temperature and stave off hypothermia in cold weather environments.  It can dry wet cloths and heat rocks for radiant heat while you sleep.  It can provide light in dark conditions and can boost the morale of those who become emotionally exhausted.  Fire can also boil and disinfect your #1 Life-Saving Resource – Water.  In addition, it can heat and cook your meals.  Use can use fire to make tools, containers and harden spear tips.  Furthermore, you can signal for rescue with fire.

Countless survivors have been saved by their ability to start a fire.  It’s their ability and knowledge that saved them – not the fire.

What is GUARANTEED FIRE?

Guaranteed Fire means that you have the tools and resources in your Bug Out Bag to start and build a fire in virtually any condition you can imagine – wet, cold, damp or windy.  Your FIRE KIT should be comprised of 2 components: 1) An Ignition Device and 2)Fire Starting Tinder.  I review a variety of ignition tools and fire tinders in my book that I would rely on in a Bug Out Scenario for GUARANTEED FIRE.

 

Heat + Fuel + Oxygen

Just igniting your fire tinder doesn’t mean you’re ‘out of the woods’.  Building a healthy self-sustaining fire requires experience and know-how.  From the Fire Platform through several stages and sizes of kindling, preparation and planning are critical.  Unfortunately, in many instances when you really NEED a fire, you typically NEED IT RIGHT NOW.  Resist the temptation to rush through the important first stages of fire building.

CONCLUSION

Can your Bug Out Fire Kit pass the test?  Try starting a fire in ‘not-so-perfect’ conditions to see if you need to reevaluate your choices.  As we enter into the famed year of 2012, I’d like to end this post with a quote from the opening chapter of my book:

You’ve heard the phrase “If you build it, they will come.” When discussing Bug Out Bags and disasters, my survivalist motto is “Build it, they are coming.”

Build YOUR perfect Bug Out Bag with the help of my no nonsense book: Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag – available on AMAZON and everywhere books are sold.

creek-stewart-book-cover-low-res

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

 

About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out, Everything FIRE, Featured

B.O.B. the Bug Out Bag: Free Download for Kids

November 9, 2011 By 1 Comment

 

I don’t have kids.  However, many readers of this blog and attendees of my courses do.  I put together some simple Bug Out Bag Coloring Pages a while back to use in one of our family courses.  Something like this is a great way to talk to your kids about the importance of Disaster Preparedness and building a Bug Out Bag.  All of the illustrations were custom made for us by a good friend of mine and fellow Eagle Scout  - Matthew Brentin – so I have to give him mad props for his illustration skills.

I’m not an expert on children but I know they like coloring books.  You can download these pages for free from the link below.  Hopefully you can use them with your family.  You can just click on the PDF link below and print the pages or RIGHT CLICK and SAVE AS… to your computer.  Feel free to use and share them as you please.

DOWNLOAD B.O.B. the Bug Out Bag Coloring Book HERE

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out

Bug Out Bag Water Procurement Kit

May 5, 2011 By 5 Comments
It goes without saying that WATER is at the top of your priority list when it comes to a survival situation – all Bug Outs included!  I take the WATER category of survival very seriously and make no compromises here when it comes to planning for a potential Bug Out.  My Bug Out Bag contains a Water Procurement Kit that consists of several different components.  To some, it may seem redundant…but I always go back to a saying I once heard – 2 is 1 and 1 is none.  This means that if something happens to 1 of your water sourcing methods and you ONLY have 1 – now you have NONE.  If you have a BACK-UP then at least you have 1 left.  When it comes to water, I actually say – 3 is 2 and 2 is 1 and 1 is none.
Bug Out Bag Water Procurement Kit

Bug Out Bag Water Procurement Kit

I take a MODULAR approach when it comes to packing my BUG OUT BAG and I will do a more extensive post at a later date as to exactly how I pack my BOB.  By MODUALR I mean that I pack my bag with smaller mini-kits that I call MODULES.  These are self-contained kits within my BOB.  Packing this way makes it easier to organize your BOB and therefore easier to find the items you need when you need them rather than digging through a big pack full of assorted supplies.  I did a post last week on my BOB Fire Kit Module - you should check it out if you haven’t already done so.  This post is on my Water Procurement Kit.  Below are the items I keep in my kit and also why I keep them.

Approx 3 Liters of Fresh Drinking Water

Whenever I discuss building a Bug Out Bag I always assume the time period is 72 hours.  However, I try to design my pack in such a way that I could survive much longer.  With that said, the first item in the Water Department is FRESH DRINKING WATER. 

It is my opinion that you should start your bug out with 3 days worth of water – MINIMUM.
  I split my 3 liters among 3 different style containers.

Container # 1: 32 Oz. Nalgene Bottle

Bug Out Nalgene Water Bottle

Bug Out Nalgene Water Bottle

These bottles are rugged.  I’ve taken a Nalgene bottle with me on countless different excursions in countless environments and they have never let me know.  They will take a beating – trust me.  I always use the wide-mouth style.  It’s easier and quicker to fill from water sources.  On many of my nalgenes I will keep 10-20 feet of duct tape wrapped around them.  It adds very little weight and the bottle is the perfect ‘core’ for duct tape.  Duct tape has countless survival uses from first aid to miscellaneous repairs.

Container # 2: Metal Canteen

Bug Out Metal Canteen

Bug Out Metal Canteen

Even though I carry a metal cook set and metal cup in my BOB, I have also chosen to carry a metal canteen as well.  I do this because I can use it to boil water.  I am going to have 3 containers ANYWAY so I like the flexibility that another metal container offers me.  For this reason, I carry a metal canteen full of fresh drinking water.

Container # 3: Collapsible Platypus Water Bag

Bug Out Collapsible Container

Bug Out Collapsible Container

For my 3rd liter, I carry a collapsible platypus container filled with water.  Because I already have 2 other rigid containers, I carry a collapsible one so that I can reduce bulk as I consume the water.  This is the first container that I will drink from.  When empty it is virtually nonexistent.

Water Purification Kit Items

In addition to fresh drinking water, I also carry several kit items that can be used to purify water ‘on-the-go’ if necessary.  I pack both filtering options & chemical tablets.  When out of fresh drinking water you are left with 5 options if you do not have purification methods:

  1. Boiling Water – Consumes Time, Energy & Fuel
  2. Drinking Unfiltered or Untreated Water – Risk of illness from bacteria & virus
  3. Depending on others – Not good survival practice – may have to barter other valuable survival items
  4. Sourcing clean water such as rain, fresh spring water or snow – Dependent on environment (no control)
  5. Scavenging clean water from other sources such as abandoned vehicles, etc… – Very time consuming when your focus should be getting to a Bug Out Location.

By packing methods of purifying water you will be less dependent on other sources and much more expedient in reaching your destination.  Below are the water purification methods that I pack in my BOB.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Hand Pump Filter

Bug Out Water Filter: Katadyn Hiker Pro

Bug Out Water Filter: Katadyn Hiker Pro

For the price ($80) and weight (11 oz.), the Hiker Pro is my choice for walter filtration.  It is compact and durable and pumps A LOT of water – about 1 liter per minute.  It’s very easy to clean and maintain and is also simple to operate.  This little unit is my first line of defense when it comes to getting water from puddles, streams or ponds.  I use mine year-round and change the filter once each year in the spring.  This is an excellent Bug Out Bag filter system.

Katadyn MP1 Sodium Chlorite Water Purification Tablets

Bug Out Bag Water Purification Tablets

Bug Out Bag Water Purification Tablets

1 tablet chemically treats 1 full liter of water.  The wait time is 4 hours.  I keep 30 tablets in my BOB – good for 30 liters of water.  These 30 tablets weight less than a ball-point pen.  So the questions here is “Why wouldn’t you carry these?”  They take up NO room and add NO weight.  They can also purify water while you travel.  Collect some water in your Nalgene…throw in a tablet….and keep hiking.  These tablets are an excellent Back-Up Plan just in case your pump should get damaged or mechanically fails.

Aquamira Frontier Filter – Survival Straw

Bug Out Bag Survival Straw

Bug Out Bag Survival Straw

The Frontier Emergency Water Filter System is ideal for hiking, travel, and emergency preparedness. It is the perfect addition to your 72 hour emergency kit. One unit will filter up to 20 gallons (75L) of water. The Frontier Filter is tested and certified to remove >99.9% of Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

The Frontier Emergency Water Filter System is also easy to operate, just attach and expand the straw, submerge the filter end into the water source, and drink through the straw.

Ultra light and compact, the Aquamira Frontier Emergency Filter System weighs less than one ounce and easily slips into a day pack, shirt pocket or travel luggage and is always ready when you need it. The Frontier Filter is the ideal alternative to heavy, bulky and expensive pump filtration units when space and weight are primary factors. Activated coconut shell carbon helps reduce waterborne chemicals, improves water taste and eliminates odors. Use the Frontier Emergency Water Filter System to drink from any bottle, cup or directly from water sources.  We love these little guys so much that we sell them in our gear shop on-line here:  Aquamira Frontier Filter 

Other Misc. Pack Items 

There are also several other items in my BOB that can be used to help with sourcing clean drinking water.  They are multi-use items that can perform many functions.  If you don’t already, you might want to consider adding the below items to your BOB.

Heavy Duty Garbage Bag

BUG OUT Garbage Bag

BUG OUT Garbage Bag

Contractor grade garbage bags can be used in a huge variety of survival related tasks from make-shift shelters and sleeping bags to ground covers and flotation devices.  However, when it comes to collecting rain water, nothing performs quite as nicely as a good ol’ garbage bag.  You can use it to funnel rain water into a large container or you can use the garbage bag as a container itself by lining a hole dug in the ground or by setting it up on a tripod of limbs.  It can be used in a myriad of configurations for catching rain water – which by the way does not need to be purified before consumption.

36″ Length of Runner Tubing

BUG OUT BAG - Rubber Tube

BUG OUT BAG - Rubber Tube

A length of rubber tubing takes up VERY LITTLE room in a BOB and weighs next to nothing.  However, it is unique in that it can perform a number of tasks that NOTHING ELSE in your BOB can do.  When it comes to procuring water, a length of rubber hose can be used as a long straw that can reach water in areas that otherwise would be inaccessible.  It can also be used as a siphon if needed – for water or fuel.  For the cost, size and weight it just makes sense to include.

Some water might need to be PRE-FILTERD before even running it through one of the purification methods listed above.  If it’s really muddy or has a lot of particulates and debris it is best practice to run it through a pre-filter first.  Some items that can be used as a pre-filter are:

  • Bandanna
  • Socks
  • N95 Dust Mask

I carry each of these items in my BOB as well – and again – neither of them take up much weight or space and all of them are multi-use products.

As you can see, when it comes to securing clean drinking water, I do not cut corners. Trust me,  2 days of barfing your guts out in between bouts of horrific diarrhea will make a believer out of you too.  Learn from my mistakes and don’t cut any corners when it comes to water.  I’ve heard guys say, “I’ll just boil my water – I don’t need all of that crap.”  While they are in the woods boiling water I will be 2 days ahead taking a hot shower in my Bug Out Location.

What are your thoughts about sourcing water in a Bug Out Scenario?

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

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About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out, Water Purification

The Bug Out: 4 Aspects Defined

January 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you study survival at all then you’ve heard the phrase “Bug Out”. This post is designed to define all aspects of what it means to “Bug Out”. First, the phrase itself. “Bug Out” is a phrase that comes from the idea of bailing out of a situation. To ‘bug out’ means that you leave your current position (typically your home) and retreat to somewhere else in the case of an emergency or disaster. A disaster can be any number of things. It can be a natural disaster such as when Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans or it can be the threat of a Nulear Bomb and anything in between. Whatever the cause, ‘bugging out’ means that you feel your survival is threatened if you stay where you are at and you feel it is in you and your family’s best interest if you leave and go somewhere else.

When people talk about Bugging Out, they often throw around terms such as Bug Out Bag and Bug Out This and Bug Out That, etc… When it comes to Bugging Out, there are 4 main aspects to consider. These aspects are:

1- Bug Out Plan (BOP)
2- Bug Out Bag (BOB)
3- Bug Out Vehicle (BOV)
4- Bug Out Location (BOL)

Below I will define each of these aspects in more detail. I will also post much more detailed posts that elaborates on these aspects in much more detail. This is just an Intro Course into Bugging Out.

1- The Bug Out Plan

Bug Out Plan: Your personal evacuation plan

Bug Out Plan: Your personal evacuation plan

This is pretty self explanatory. A Bug Out Plan is a predetermined emergency evacuation plan of sorts. Once you and your family have decided that it’s in your best interest to Bug Out of town, you follow what is called the BUG OUT PLAN. Everyone has assigned responsibilities. Everyone knows what they need to gring with them. Everyone knows where to meet. And, everyone knows where you are headed. The Bug Out Plan is a well thought out plan for getting you and your family from Point A to Point B. Everyone’s Bug Out Plan is different and can vary depending on what disaster might be causing you to Bug Out in the first place. However, below is brief list of some topics that might be covered in a Bug Out Plan.

- Where you are going
- How you are getting there – several alternate routes
- What are you driving
- Preprepping your Bug Out Location with supplies/fuel/power/etc…
- What supplies are you taking
- Turning off utilities such as water/electric/gas/phone, etc…
- Securing your home
- Securing valuables/family photos

This is not a complete list but it covers many of the major areas to consider.

2- The Bug Out Bag
(I will do a much more detailed post on this later that includes a video review of my own BOB)

Bug Out Bag: Your 72 Hour Survival Kit

Bug Out Bag: Your 72 Hour Survival Kit

A bug out bag, also known as a 72-hour kit, a battle box, or a grab bag, is a kit that is filled to the brim with everything a person needs to survive for three full days. The supplies found in a bug out bag are meant for short-term existence during an evacuation situation, not for long-term survival. Since the amount of equipment you can carry on your back is limited, a kit to last you 72 hours is a good place to start, even though many people prepare a kit that could last them much longer than this. Here are the essential categories of items that need to be covered with your BOB:

- Water
- Food
- Shelter
- Clothing
- Fire
- Survival Supplies & Misc. Gear
- Weapons

Detailing each of these categories can be a lengthy post in itself and I will do this over time. In my BOB I have at least 2-3 options for each of those categories. For example, with FIRE, I carry 2 lighters, a fire-steel and waterproof matches in my BOB. For shelter, I carry a tarp as well as a small 2 man tent. For water, I carry 3 liters of water as well as a water purification system and water purification tablets. I am big fan of redundancy.

3- The Bug Out Vehicle (BOV)

WillowHavenOutdoor Bug Out Vehicle: E350 Side View

WillowHavenOutdoor Bug Out Vehicle: E350 Side View

A Bug Out Vehicle is your predetermined and pre-equipped means of transport to your Bug Out Location. Theoretically, this can range from a 4-wheeler to a horse and different people have very strong opinions about their personal BOV. Many people don’t have the extra cash to have a dedicated BOV and this is totally understandable. However, if you do not have a dedicated BOV, I do think Bugging Out should be considered when purchasing your ‘every day driver’. In my opinion, a Bug Out Vehicle must have certain characteristics and I have already detailed those in this post.

4- The Bug Out Location (BOL)

Bug Out Location: Your Emergency Retreat

Bug Out Location: Your Emergency Retreat

A Bug Our Location is your predetermined destination in the event that a disaster or emergency requires you to ‘Bug Out’. BOLs are typically in remote areas – not within city limits and at least 1 full gas tank away from the nearest large city. BOLs are typically prepped with supplies in advance. A BOL would preferably have plenty of water, tillable land and be easy to defend. It should also be away from any major roads and highways. Some survival enthusiasts have a 2nd home as their BOL and have it set up to be pretty self-sufficient. Other survival preppers have made arrangements to stay with friends or family who live in the country in the event they need to Bug Out. I have even heard extreme survivalists say their Bug Out Destination is directly into the mountains and wilderness. Needless to say, the BOL deserves a detailed post of its own. There are so many factors to consider when choosing, building, or stocking a BOL.

Many people scoff at the idea of putting together a BOP, BOB, BOV or choosing a BOL. The fact is that Bug Out Scenarios do exist in our modern world. Most recently, New Orleans was flooded by Hurricane Katrina and 1000′s of people found themselves forced out of their homes with very little warning, no supplies and no where to go. A break-out of rioting, looting and plundering combined with a complete collapse of infrastructure made for an incredibly dangerous situation. Citizens found themselves having to defend their homes and families from looters and criminals who were taking advantage of the insufficient presence of law enforcement officers. Just having 1 of the 4 Bug Out Elements in place would have been a HUGE advantage for many of those people. Other such examples of natural and war-time examples exist all over the world. There is a very thin line in this world between order and chaos.

The Bug Out concept is not new. The US Government has had Bug Out Plans for decades with countless preparations. They have BOLs in place for Congress in the case of Nuclear War. It is a way to ensure what is called Continuity of Government. This is an interesting subject. For more reading about this you can start with the 2 links below and do your own research from there:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Greek_Island

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuity_of_Government

I hope you’ve enjoyed this brief post describing the basic concept of Bugging Out. I have much more detailed posts on each of the Bug Out Elements in the pipe-line. We also offer a 2 Day Course called Buggin’ Out at the WHO School if you are serious about putting together your Bug Out Plan. Check our Course Schedule for more information.

That’s it for now.

Cheers-
Creek

About Willow Haven Outdoor & Creek Stewart
Creek Stewart is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor - a leading Survival and Preparedness Training Facility located on 21-acres in Central Indiana.  For more information on Survival Courses and Clinics offered at WHO, click HERE.  Creek is also author of the new book Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit.  His book is currently available for preorder on AMAZON.COM for only $11.20 - LIMITED TIME ONLY.  If you enjoy Creek's Blog Posts, you will also enjoy his new book.  You can contact Creek directly at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com.
 
 

Filed Under: 72-Hour Emergency Bag, Buggin' Out, General Survival Tagged With: , , ,