Creating a Comprehensive Get Home Bag: Essential Items and Considerations

Introduction: In an unpredictable world, being prepared for emergencies and unexpected situations is paramount. One crucial element of preparedness is creating a well-equipped "Get Home Bag" (GHB). A GHB is a portable kit that contains essential items to help you navigate your way back home safely during crisis situations. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide expert advice on what to include in your GHB, emphasizing the importance of personal safety and considering the inclusion of firearms for those who are legally permitted and trained.

1. Assessing Your Needs and Situation: Before assembling your GHB, evaluate your specific needs and the potential risks in your environment. Consider factors such as climate, geographical location, potential hazards, and the distance you may need to travel. Tailor your GHB accordingly to meet these requirements.

2. Choosing the Right Bag: Select a high-quality backpack or messenger bag that is durable, comfortable to carry, and has ample storage compartments. Look for features like reinforced stitching, sturdy zippers, padded shoulder straps, and a waist belt for distributing the weight evenly. Opt for a bag made of water-resistant material to protect your belongings.

3. Water and Food: Water is an essential component of any GHB. Include a sufficient supply of potable water, such as collapsible water bottles or a water bladder. Aim for a minimum of one liter per person per day. Additionally, include water purification tablets or a portable water filter to ensure access to safe drinking water.

For sustenance, choose non-perishable food items with high nutritional value. Include energy bars, dehydrated meals, trail mix, and canned goods. Rotate these items periodically to maintain freshness and be mindful of expiration dates. Consider including a lightweight stove and utensils for cooking and preparing meals if space permits.

4. First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is a crucial component of your GHB. Include bandages, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, scissors, tweezers, disposable gloves, and any necessary prescription medications. Consider adding items like a CPR mask, emergency blanket, and a comprehensive first aid guide. Familiarize yourself with the contents of the kit and consider taking a first aid training course to enhance your medical knowledge.

5. Communication and Navigation: Staying connected and navigating effectively are vital during emergencies. Pack a fully charged mobile phone with an extra battery pack or a solar charger. Consider including a battery-powered or hand-cranked emergency radio to stay informed about the latest updates and emergency broadcasts.

Include a reliable compass, detailed maps of your area, and a whistle for navigation purposes. Consider adding a GPS device or smartphone app with offline maps. If your budget allows, a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator can provide an extra layer of safety and communication.

6. Clothing and Shelter: Be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing suitable clothing and shelter items. Include extra layers of clothing appropriate for the prevailing climate, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, thermal underwear, extra socks, and sturdy footwear. Consider the inclusion of durable rain gear or a poncho.

Add a compact and lightweight shelter option such as a tarp, tent, or bivvy bag. Include a sleeping bag or a thermal emergency blanket for warmth and comfort during overnight stays. Don't forget accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves for protection against extreme cold or sun exposure.

7. Tools and Multi-Purpose Items: Equip your GHB with versatile tools and multi-purpose items that can assist you in various situations. Include a Swiss army knife or a multi-tool with pliers, screwdrivers, and a blade. Pack a flashlight with extra batteries or a hand-cranked option. Consider adding duct tape, zip ties, a small shovel or entrenching tool, and a whistle for signaling.

For fire-starting capabilities, include waterproof matches, a lighter, or a fire starter kit. Consider adding a signal mirror, a small sewing kit, a compact camp stove, utensils, paracord or nylon rope, carabiners, and a compact fishing kit. These tools can be useful for repairs, signaling for help, or providing additional resources for survival.

8. Personal Protection, including Firearms: Personal safety is of utmost importance during crisis situations. For those who are legally permitted, properly trained, and comfortable with firearm ownership, consider including a firearm in your GHB. It is essential to adhere to all local laws and regulations regarding firearms, storage, and transportation.

If you choose to include a firearm, ensure you have the necessary training and proficiency in its use. Store it securely in a lockable container or holster specifically designed for carrying firearms in a backpack. Also, pack appropriate ammunition and additional magazines or speed loaders. Regularly practice safe firearm handling and maintenance.

9. Personal Documents, Cash, and Important Items: Keep copies of important documents, such as identification cards, passports, insurance policies, and medical records, in a waterproof container. Include a USB drive or utilize cloud storage for digital copies of these documents. Additionally, pack cash and spare change in small denominations, as ATMs and electronic transactions may not be available during emergencies.

Consider including a list of emergency contact numbers, important phone numbers, and addresses of family members or trusted friends. Add a small notebook and pens or pencils for communication or leaving messages if needed.

10. Personal Hygiene and Sanitation: Maintaining personal hygiene and sanitation is vital for overall well-being, even in emergency situations. Pack travel-sized toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo in a sealed waterproof bag. Include wet wipes, hand sanitizer, a small towel, toilet paper, and garbage bags for waste disposal. If necessary, add feminine hygiene products.

11. Additional Considerations: Tailor your GHB to your specific needs and circumstances. Consider adding items such as a multi-purpose tool kit with pliers, wire cutters, and a saw. Include spare batteries for electronic devices, a water filtration system or purification tablets, an emergency whistle, a signal mirror, and personal protection items like pepper spray or personal alarms.

If you have pets, include essential items such as food, water, and medications for them as well. If you have specific medical needs or allergies, pack necessary supplies such as insulin, inhalers, or allergy medication.

Conclusion: Creating a comprehensive Get Home Bag is a proactive approach to personal safety and preparedness during emergencies. Remember to regularly review and update its contents based on changing circumstances and personal requirements. If legally permitted and properly trained, the inclusion of a firearm can be an additional measure for personal protection. Always prioritize safety, adhere to local laws, and seek professional training when handling firearms. By equipping yourself with the necessary supplies, knowledge, and skills, you significantly increase your chances of safely reaching home during unforeseen circumstances. Stay prepared, stay vigilant, and make your Get Home Bag an essential part of your emergency preparedness strategy.