Gear, gadgets & sharp things are great but you need somewhere to put them all in and so the first step to building a bug out bag (BoB) is getting a bag!

Bags/Berghens/Rucksacks/A.L.I.C.E Packs/Field packs ect. come in different shapes and sizes, it will come down to you to pick one that will suit your needs, environment and budget.

I will list some bags that are popular as well as known brand at the bottom of this post but first I will just list options that you might want to take into consideration when choosing your bug out bag.

1. Capacity is measured in liters, 35 is really the minimum you want to go with 50+ being ideal.
2. Your bag having a physical frame will make it more comfortable to carry at the expense of cost (they are more expensive).
3. Hydration bladder (a built in water bottle basically, with a tube sticking out so you can drink as you march! )Very useful.
4. How many compartments? Having a separate section for food/Medical supplies/Comms device is useful when you need certain items quickly.
5. M.O.L.L.E straps allow you to add more pouches to your bag as well as tools such as torches and knives.
6. Military surplus bag or civilian hiking bags? your appearance and how people will view you can be an important choice when picking your bag, military surplus bags tend to be seen as more “aggressive” while civilian bags won’t depending on your location this can be a pro or a con.
7. What sort of terrain will you be facing? pick your bag based on your environment (Waterproofing, toughness ect.)

Now that you have a better idea of what you need I would advice you to go to a store a try on a multitude of bags, the fit, finish, features and design. After you have tried and know what you want then hit the web to find the best price.

Pick your bag based on what you need from it. There is no right or wrong.

Popular bags:

French army bergen/A.L.I.C.E Pack (Military surplus bags, buy them on ebay)
Berghaus

Karrimor

Highlander Rucksacks

Lowe Alpine

Kifaru

North Face

(I know short post people but work is keeping me busy this week- next post will be better I promise!)