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Post by tamara on Dec 11, 2021 11:10:35 GMT -8
Wondering how to calculate what the maximum weight for a packed BOB should be? When travelling long distances by foot I imagine this would be very important.
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Post by Jeffrey on Dec 12, 2021 18:51:44 GMT -8
Hi Tamara and welcome to the RTT Community!
While there are no hard and fast rules about bug out bag max. weights, I would like to share my views on the subject based on experience. But before I do, I want to emphasize exactly what a bug out bag is, and what it's not, because there seems to be a lot of confusion out there. A bug out bag should only contain the food, water, clothing and gear needed for a three-day outing. It should not become a catch-all for anything you can stuff inside.
That said, my weight recommendations are as follows:
30 lbs max - Fit adults, 18-60
25 lbs max - Fit seniors or less-fit adults, 18-60
20 lbs max - Less-fit seniors or fit juveniles
15 led max - Less-fit juveniles
10 lbs max - Children
If you look around the internet, you might think these are very conservative weight restrictions, but I have my reasons. While wearing your bug out bag, you need to be able to: walk very long distances / sprint short distances / maneuver quickly into and out of urban or natural cover. Given these requirements, you'll need to choose your items wisely. Failing to do so may result in injury--or worse.
It's important to remember that bugging out, by its very necessity, means you will have to craft or forage for things you couldn't bring, or simply do without them. Just remember that carrying a small amount of durable, useful gear beats lugging around a lot of heavy, unnecessary stuff. Besides, your back, knees, and feet will thank you later!
Finally, Tamara, I intend to post a comprehensive guide on bug out bags very soon. So keep your eyes peeled and check back often.
Hope this helps!
--Jeffrey
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Post by tamara on Dec 17, 2021 21:09:29 GMT -8
Thank you for the detailed response! I've never been very good at packing light so will have to plan carefully.
At least we have lots of natural fresh water sources around the lower mainland so we don't have to overload our packs with water. Water purification drops would be a good idea in the pack though..
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Post by Jeffrey on Dec 22, 2021 16:43:05 GMT -8
We are indeed blessed throughout B.C. when it comes to fresh water availability. Many would argue (me among them) that it's safe to drink directly from area creeks or streams, provided the water's running clear and the current is good. However, in the aftermath of an earthquake, it would be prudent to use water purification tabs or drops when drawing from the tap or natural freshwater sources, just in case effluent from broken sewage pipes or animal infiltration has rendered the water unsafe.
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