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You could spend days trying to figure out what bag to use for your 72-hour kit. There are thousands of options, and some could even set you back a few hundred dollars!
But, does it really matter what you use?
The answer: It depends…
Any old backpack will work, but that doesn’t mean it is the best option. Of course, if you don’t have the budget to buy a new bag, then anything is better than nothing!
We want to help you choose the bag for your situation. That’s why we created this guide.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a 72-hour bag for you and each member of your family.
Size
A backpack is the most obvious choice to use for your 72-hour kit. However, The size of your bag matters!
- If it is too large, it could get too heavy to carry.
- If it is too small, it might not have enough space for everything you need.
Standard backpacks are between 40L and 50L, but you can find hiking backpacks with internal frames that are 90L+. The size you should get for your bug out bag depends on a lot of factors, such as your size, your physical strength, and your ultimate bug out goals.
We suggest most people aim for a bag that is 60L. This size works really well for 72 hours. Ideally, the bag should have an internal frame to help distribute weight on your back in case you need to evacuate by foot. You can go a little larger if you need to carry supplies for a child.
Now, before you go buy a backpack, determine if that’s the best choice for your situation — will you be able to carry it?
You do have other options…
Some people opt to use a rolling suitcase for their 72-hour kit instead of a backpack. This is a durable option you can easily drag behind you to save your back. The downside is the lack of compartments. Plus, the wheels won’t work well on rugged terrain. You could also use a rolling cooler, a 5-gallon bucket, or something else.
Tip: If you have young children or people in your family who would have a difficult time carrying their own 72-hour kit, we highly recommend getting a collapsible wagon. It will allow you to transport everyone’s gear more easily. You can also carry small children in a wagon, if needed. A collapsible wagon can also easily fold up and be stored in your car.
Features
When choosing a bag for your 72-hour kit, look for one that has a large internal pocket and lots of small compartments on the outside. This will help you get organized and keep important items within your reach. The more pockets it has, the better. A water bottle pocket is also useful or a compartment for a water bladder and tube to help you stay hydrated
Padded shoulder straps are an important feature because that is where most of the weight will rest when you carry your 72-hour kit. Also look for a bag that has a hip strap to prevent your bag from bouncing while you’re walking and compression straps to prevent your gear from shifting around.
Your bug out bag needs to be strong and durable to avoid tears. You wouldn’t want your gear to accidentally fall out. It also needs water-resistant material and quality zippers. Tactical backpacks make good bug out bags because they are designed for rugged use. They usually have reinforced seams and are made from heavy-duty neoprene or canvas.
Appearance
While tactical backpacks are usually a good choice for 72-hour kits, they can draw attention. So, be aware of the risks.
If someone sees you carrying a nice bag during an emergency, they might think you have valuable items to steal. This could make you a target, especially for desperate people.
When possible, choose a bag with an inconspicuous color. Dark green, brown, blue, and grey are probably best.
Recommended Bags for Your 72-Hour Kit:
Final Thoughts
People spend way too much time researching and thinking about the perfect bag for their 72-hour kit. There’s no reason to overcomplicate it. If you don’t have the budget to go out and buy a bag, there’s nothing wrong with using an old backpack. This is one area where you can worry about upgrading later.
Some people argue that it’s a mistake to buy your bag before you buy all your 72-hour supplies because you’re more likely to overpack. For example, you might find that once you’ve put all of your supplies in your bag, you have extra space and think you might as well fill it. This mistake could make your bag too heavy. If you prefer, you can leave choosing a bag for your 72-hour kit until after you see how much space you truly need.
What do you put your 72-hour kit in? Tell us in the comments below.
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