Not an Alice Pack…
I am not going to get into the Bug Out Bag in detail just yet, or what is in mine just yet either. Why, because anyone reading this can click on the link I added above and can go see a full definition at Wikipedia. As for what is in it that will be another post discussing what and why.
First, I was using an external frame camp trails backpack for a bug out bag. I have used it for camping for years. However, when I began learning about preparedness, SHTF disasters, etc. I decided to assemble my own like everyone else. To my surprise, not everything I felt I needed would fit in the BoB. I evaluated and reevaluated my needs numerous times. For weeks I thought about what I might really need if I had to hoof it for 120 miles assuming vehicles were no longer an option. So, I started to do some research. A lot of research actually… I was sending catalog pages from online catalogs to friends that previously were in the military to get their thoughts on what bag might be best.
Eventually, I settled on a bag from the Flying Circle Bag Company. It is a Large ALICE type pack. It is by far one of the best ruck-type packs I have ever seen. It has more than enough capacity for all my gear, as well as MOLLE straps to attach additional packs and gear if necessary. It is lined and waterproofed, has map pockets, hidden pockets inside, a rubberized bottom so you can set it down on the wet ground, as well as a pocket for what looks like a two-liter camel bladder for easy transportation of water to drink. Oh, and I cannot forget the padded shoulder straps and the waist belt to keep it stable on your back. In all, I think my BoB weighs about 35lbs. (UPDATE 2021: Today I think it was closer to 50 — 60 lbs), A little heavier than I was going for, but for what I need carries all the essentials. I now have to play with it to maximize the weight distribution for best performance.
Overall, this is a great bag. (UPDATE 2021: I still believe this is the case) I really love it, and the best best part is that the bag is under $60.00 at full retail. This is an excellent bag for the money! (PRICING UPDATE: In the 12 years I have owned this pack, the price has only gone up $6.95 to $66.95) but you can no longer get it in tan it seems…
UPDATE 2021: This pack has been retired for camping only. My current Bug Out Bag is a surplus military frame pack, which is in SERIOUS need of an overhaul due to its weight, contents, my age, and the fact that I would likely not make it with all the weight on my back to a fallback or bug out location on foot. Its weight needs to drop significantly, and I will need to sacrifice several of the items in the pack going forward that were luxuries…
