💼 What’s In Your Bug Out Bag? Let’s Talk About It.

When you've got to go, GO! But don't just do it cause everyone else is.  During a catastrophe, your first instinct is to run.  Do you need to or can you stay put? 

We are not fans of "Bugging Out!" But in a fire, flood, or emergency, it happens. Sometimes it's not our choice, so be prepared just in case.  

Here's what to pack, and what to do first (hint: book your safe spot before everyone else does).

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Let’s be real—“bugging out” sounds way more glamorous than it actually is. TV shows and TikTok make it look like you’re just tossing on a tactical backpack and walking into the woods like Lara Croft. Cute. But not real.

 

At Girl, Get It Together and Prep2Survive, we teach practical prepping, not paranoia. And honestly? I’m not a huge fan of bugging out.

Here’s why:

✅ Your home is where your resources are.
✅ You know the layout.
✅ It’s safer to stay put when possible.

But sometimes... you have no choice.
Flood, fire, hurricane, gas leak, civil unrest— these are real reasons to grab your bag and go.

So let’s talk about what to do first, and what to have with you when the only safe move is out the door.

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#1: Before You Touch That Bag—Get On The Phone 📱

This is the part people forget when adrenaline kicks in. AND, it becomes a HUGE mistake. 

Don’t just run. Call. Hotels. Airbnbs. Aunt Cheryl with the guest room. Secure a place to go.

🔥 Because guess what? By the time you come back around to booking that room—everyone else already did.

✅ Call.
✅ Reserve.
✅ Then pack the car. or better yet have your person start packing the car. 

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#2: What Belongs in Your Bug Out Bag

This is not the time to be cute or carry 14 lip glosses. You need smart, not stuffed.

Here’s the Girl, Get It Together essentials list:

🔹 ID + Copies of Important Documents

Keep your driver's license, insurance papers, birth certificates, etc. in a waterproof pouch.

🔹 Cash

If ATMs are down or power is out—no one's swiping.

🔹 Chargers + Power Bank

Stay connected. Even a hand-crank or solar one is better than nothing.

🔹 Meds (including extras)

A few days’ worth of prescriptions, allergy meds, pain relievers, etc.

🔹 First Aid Kit

Include liquid bandage, antiseptic wipes, bug spray (yes!), gauze, gloves, etc.

🔹 Clean Undies & Layers

You’ll thank yourself. Comfort = sanity.

🔹 Flashlight + Extra Batteries

Preferably headlamp style so you can be hands-free.

🔹 Snacks That Don’t Suck

Protein bars, jerky, trail mix—things you actually want to eat.

🔹 Hygiene Kit

Toothbrush, wipes, deodorant, hair ties. Yes, dry shampoo can go. Stay fresh, feel human.

🔹 Water Bottle + Filter Straw

Never assume you’ll have clean water where you’re going.

🔹 Copies of Pet Info

Vaccine records, meds, and food if you're bringing pets.

🔹 GLASSES

Don't be blind while you are bugging out!

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#3: Keep It Grab-Ready

Don't let your bug out bag live buried in your garage under Christmas lights.  Keep it by the door, in your trunk, or somewhere you can grab and go in seconds.  

TIP: We are big fans of keeping the BAG, in your trunk! Just GO!

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Final Word: Stay Ready, Not Scared

Bugging out should always be Plan B, not your default.
But if it’s time to leave, don’t panic—plan it out.

✅ Call first.
✅ Pack smart.
✅ Move fast, but stay calm.

If you’re just getting started with prepping, don’t overthink it—start with our 72-Hour Checklist. It’s the smartest first step you can take.

Remember: we don’t do chaos—we do calm, collected, and clear-headed.
That’s not paranoid. That’s powerful.