I can empathize with the lack of funds for a fully stocked BOB. I can't fully stock mine 24/7 either, but I have it mostly packed. In a backpack I have the basic things and detail things - things that I can afford to set aside - a metal cup, a first aid kit, a knife, stuff for fire, a heavy duty sportsman's survival blanket - some food / water. A wool hat, gloves, 550 cord, flashlight - you get the picture. I don't have clothes or shoes in the BOB because I can't aford an extra set or two. I don't have my tent or sleeping bag in the bob - the bag because I use it as a blanket and the tent because it will go into a second pack - with clothes tossed when it's time to go. These are the only missing items though. If I have time to grab more stuff - more food, more water etc - fine - but if not - the back pack will suffice and I won't have to think about whether or not I tossed in the matches yet - it's all there. To each his own, though. THis works for me. YMMV.