Originally Posted By: chaosmagnet
First, figure out what the most likely threats are and what your responses would likely be, both for bugging in and bugging out.

I'd echo this advice.

In my mind, a BOB is a part of a larger plan, not a plan in itself. My pet peve with many bug-out related threads is the lack of definition and planning of what the bug out actually is. I see lots of stuff about bug out vehicles, bags, etc. (here and elsewhere) but I really think the crucial part of the planning is:
  • What event or disaster would require me to bug out, to abandon my home and the preps there?
  • Where am I bugging out to?

Having concrete and fully fleshed out answers to these questions will provide the neccessary parameters required to make those decisions about gear & transportation related needs.

For example, a realistic risk assesment might show the only real scenarios requiring a bug out are personal, like a house fire. In this case a bug out bag might consist of spare clothes and back-up documentation. However, those living in known earthquake zones may realistically be forced to bug out in a situation where not only they, but thousands around them, are displaced. They would likely need water, food, shelter, etc. in their bag.
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Victory awaits him who has everything in order — luck, people call it. Defeat is certain for him who has neglected to take the necessary precautions in time; this is called bad luck. Roald Amundsen