Emergencies can happen when you’re far from home, so having a well-packed get-home bag is essential. Whether you’re commuting, working, or just out and about, these key items can help you handle unexpected situations and safely get back home.
This list focuses on practical essentials for different scenarios. It’s carefully chosen to ensure you’re prepared, not just a generic list of items.
1. What Is A Get Home Bag?
A GHB is a scaled-down version of a bug-out bag but serves a different purpose. It’s filled with specifically curated items to assist us in returning home when regular transportation options are unavailable or unsafe, such as during severe weather events, natural disasters, or unexpected social chaos. To create a practical GHB, we start with a basic, inconspicuous bag that is lightweight, durable, and comfortable to carry. It should blend in and not draw attention. Our selection often leans towards a versatile backpack or a sturdy laptop bag, as they are perfect for the minimalist approach we take with this kit.
2. Metal Container
A metal container helps us with hydration and food preparation. The durability of metal allows us to safely boil water which is crucial to ensure we have access to clean drinking water. In a scenario where water sources are questionable, boiling becomes a necessary step to eliminate contaminants. Plus, when food options are limited, being able to heat or cook food is an important survival skill. Select a lightweight container that is strong enough to withstand direct heat. Stainless steel containers are a good choice, as they are rust-resistant and don’t leach harmful chemicals into our food or water.
3. Nutritious High-Energy Provisions
You should have food in your GHB. Prioritize compact, nutrient-dense foods that deliver a high amount of energy. These foods are vital because they maintain strength and alertness without taking up too much space. Top choices include:
- Energy bars, due to their balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, offer a rapid energy boost while being portable and non-perishable.
- Dried fruits, such as apricots or raisins, provide us with essential vitamins and a quick source of energy.
- Nuts and seeds are packed with calories and healthy fats, ideal for sustaining our energy levels over time.
- Dark chocolate is not only a morale booster but also rich in calories and can provide us with a quick source of energy when we need it.
4. Poncho
Don’t forget your poncho. It’s lightweight and compact, so doesn’t add much bulk. A poncho can keep you dry and double as a groundsheet, providing a clean surface to rest on, or be used as an impromptu shelter. Choose one that’s strong and has reinforced eyelets so that it can withstand rough conditions. A bright-colored poncho is also useful for visibility in case you need to signal for help, too. Conversely, if the situation requires a more subtle approach, a poncho in earth tones helps us blend into our surroundings.
5. Comfy Pair Of Shoes
If your work attire doesn’t include comfortable footwear suitable for rough terrain, make sure you’ve got a pair in your go bag, or at least in your car. The right footwear can make a real difference in your ability to travel long distances on foot, especially in the event of an emergency. Prioritize comfort, durability, and support. But make sure you wear those shoes in so you’re not faced with painful rubs and blisters in an emergency situation.
6. Multi-Tool
A multi-tool can prove indispensable in a variety of scenarios. A high-quality multi-tool typically includes a knife, pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, scissors, and more. Make sure you get a durable model that’s corrosion resistant and can withstand rough use.
7. First Aid Kit
A well-equipped first-aid kit is crucial. Ensure it includes various sizes of adhesive bandages for cuts or abrasions. An adhesive tape and sterile gauze pads allow you to address more significant injuries. Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment are important for disinfecting and preventing infection. For pain and inflammation, it’s wise to have aspirin or ibuprofen. Items like tweezers can come in handy for splinter removal, and a pair of scissors is useful for cutting tape or cloth. And don’t forget an emergency blanket to prevent shock and help keep you warm.
8. Mylar Blanket
Mylar blankets, crafted from heat-reflective thin plastic sheeting, are known for their remarkable insulation properties. We appreciate their lightweight and compact design, making them a favorable choice for our get-home bags. When you encounter extreme weather conditions, a Mylar blanket can act as a life-saving device. Its reflective surface bounces back up to 90% of your body heat, allowing you to retain warmth in chilly environments. Plus, you can use them to signal for help and as a makeshift shelter from rain and snow.
9. N95 Face Mask
We all have ideas about what we’re prepping for, but no one really knows. Covid showed us that anything can happen. An N95 face mask is a good item to have in your go-bag because it filters out at least 95% of airborne particles, but it only works well if it fits properly.
In situations like wildfires, industrial accidents, or pandemics, this mask can be a vital barrier. Given its small size, carrying one is easy and can provide big benefits. Just make sure it fits correctly to get the best protection.
10. Flashlight
A flaslight provides you with visibility during power outages or when nighttime falls and can also be a means of signaling for help. We recommend a durable LED flashlight, known for their long battery life and robustness.
Ensure it’s compact enough to fit without taking too much space, yet powerful enough to light your way effectively. And don’t forget extra batteries so you don’t have to ration your light source.
11. Map and Compass
Get yourself a waterproof map and a compass. And learn how to use them. An unexpected event might disrupt electronic navigation systems and you might not be in a familiar location when the emergency strikes. So you need to know how to navigate.
12. Cash
During emergencies, electronic transactions might fail, making cash an indispensable asset. Keep a mix of small and larger bills in your bag so you have flexible payment options.
Whether it’s for transportation, sustenance, or any other unforeseen expenses, ensure that your get home bag has enough funds to get you home safely without relying on functioning ATMs or POS systems.
13. Lighter
A lighter gives you the means to create fire. Fire serves multiple purposes: it can keep us warm, purify water, signal for help, and cook food. A lighter is an indispensable item in these situations.
We suggest including a durable, windproof lighter, which is more reliable under various weather conditions. Be smart and carry a couple of lighters. And maybe some waterproof matches. And a fire starter.
These items are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry without adding significant bulk to your get home bag. And the benefits of carrying htem and the risks of not far supersede the space they take up.
14. Weaponry
In uncertain times, self-defense is important, but it’s essential to follow local laws and consider your comfort level. Non-lethal options like pepper spray can be effective, but make sure it’s legal in your area. If you prefer something simpler, a sturdy flashlight can also serve as a striking tool in emergencies. Whatever you choose, make sure you’re trained in how to use it.
The main goal is to stay safe and choose what you’re legally and personally prepared to handle.
20 Crucial Supplies for Surviving a Societal Collapse
In the face of uncertainty, being well-prepared gives you at least some degree of control and security. The thought of a societal collapse, while extreme, prompts us to consider how we might endure without the conveniences of our current lifestyle. Here’s a list of 20 essential items that could prove indispensable in such a scenario. This guide isn’t about succumbing to fear but embracing preparedness and resilience.
31 Ways to Boost Home Security: How to Fortify Your Fortress and Deter Burglars
We sadly live in a society where it’s all too common for criminals to want to take what we’ve worked hard to get. The results of a break-in are traumatic, too. Beyond just losing your stuff. Victims often feel violated, anxious, and unsafe, sometimes for years after the event.
Prevention is the best way to stay safe. And, while you shouldn’t have to turn your home into a fortress, that’s the stark reality of our world. But you can take plenty of simple steps to deter burglars and ensure your home is less attractive to would-be thieves.
38 Things Every Prepper Should Stockpile That Aren’t Water, Food, or Weapons
This list extends beyond the basic survival trio of water, food, and weapons. It’s a given that we need to stock up on water, food, and a way to defend ourselves and what we have. But what other things will you need in a survival situation? None of us truly knows what TEOTWAWKI will really look like, although most of us have theories we think most likely. But whatever the situation is, there are certain supplies that it just makes sense to have on hand, aside from the obvious trio I mentioned above.
