I think it's really situational. Susan did what I think was an excellent job of summing it up.

I think you need to evaluate the greatest risks you are facing. For example, if I recall, you live on a boat. I would think that the time to "Get the heck out of Dodge" would be when the hurricane is on the way. For me, the biggest threats are bad winter weather or tornadoes when it's warmer. I have preps in place for either one.

Bug in as long as you are reasonably certain that you can be safe. Bug out when that is no longer possible. At least that's my plan.

Zombies ..... uh oh .....