We've discussed first aid. We've discussed tools. Now let's pull it all together. The following are the categories I'm thinking about:

• First aid (we discussed this in another thread).
• Basic hand tools
• Box cutter and replacement blades
• Two flashlights (you can have my D-Cell MAG-LITE when you pry it out of my cold, dead hands).
• Extra batteries for the flashlights
• Clothes appropriate for the situation (I don't think we need a lengthy discussion on this).
• Prescription and OTC medications
• Lip balm
• Kleenex
• Other personal care items including nail care (I don't think we need a lengthy discussion on this either).
• Water
• Edibles such as cracker sandwiches and nutritional supplements
• My sanity
• Bible
• Important papers such as I.D. and insurance information

I'm probably overlooking something. What I want to discuss are what I'm not considering.

Note: I've already read "Listening To Katrenia."

Jeanette Isabelle

Consider adding:

• Cash
• A way to charge your cellphone
• A way to make fire (I’d recommend redundancy here)
• A way to disinfect water (fire and something to boil water in can be enough)
• At least one blanket per person
• A broadcast radio receiver (as a ham radio operator I would instead bring ham radio gear, which can also receive broadcast radio)
• Duct tape
• Cordage
• Writing materials
• Minor car repair materials (rescue tape, wire, tire plug kit, alumaseal, fuses)

Cash is one of those things I have but don't think about when writing out a list. A reminder is good. The rest is good too.

Regarding fire, I'm wondering if I should buy a PSP.

Jeanette Isabelle

A humoristic sidenote:



Would not take it even if you paid me to take it. Totally antiquated old light emitting gizmo.

It could be modernized with LED (if it does not already have it). It also is better in the SD department than the more modern single 18650 cell flashlites. I used mine as a priest for good sized catfish with good effect and no damage to the flashlite.

The flashlights I'm bringing with me are LED.

http://www.maglite.com/shop/flashlights/full-size-flashlights/maglite-2-cell-d-led-flashlight.html
http://www.maglite.com/shop/flashlights/full-size-flashlights/maglite-3-cell-d-led-flashlight.html

They are both blue so they can be easier to spot in the dark.

Jeanette Isabelle

Your list is a very good start and I like that you are using it as a 'starting point' as well. I agree with the other comments and would add to it having a "general" lantern type light in addition to the flashlights. I've got a small streamlight siege which is great for area lighting. Here is an example from Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Streamlight-44941-Ultra-Compact-Lantern-Battery/dp/B00OW5AK22 Having an inexpensive headlamp can be very helpful too - working in the dark hands free is sometimes necessary.

Having a radio is important to stay aware of developments and conditions - I've got that covered with my ham gear but it's worth considering something for listening if not also talking. Cell service is notorious for going out in extreme situations so, don't count on them except as a stand-alone unconnected device.

tossing in a multi-tool may be worth it too - even a really small one as pliers etc. can be very useful too. Along with the edibles I always include hard candy - lifesavers or whatever as they are quick and easy pick-me-ups.

Paul -

One concern I have is I might forget something or I might not have enough of it. In a bug out situation, going to the store may not be an option.

I wonder if I should get kits from minimus.biz for some peace of mind. The following are what I am considering:

Military Condiment Care Package
Cold & Flu Care Package
Public Restroom Survival Kit
Flu Safety Kit - Sanell

Jeanette Isabelle

Mom has several lanterns similar to what you linked. However, none of us has a headlamp.

A couple of you mentioned a radio. While that's good for weather and general information, I keep up with what's happening through alternative sources. For that, I need access to the Internet which I may not have.

Jeanette Isabelle

Wait, you administer last rites to a catfish?

Jeanette Isabelle