In times of emergency and disaster, having a well-prepared bug out bag can mean the difference between survival and chaos.
Among the essential items you’ll want to include in your emergency kit, food supplies top the list. But what are the best bug out bag food items to ensure you have enough sustenance during extended periods in the wild or in any survival situation?
In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of high-calorie, long shelf life, and nutrient-rich foods that are not only easy to pack but also provide the energy and sustenance you need to endure the toughest circumstances.
10 Best Food For your bug Out Bag
Peanut Butter: A Great Source of Healthy Fats
Peanut butter is a superb inclusion in your bug out bag supplies. Abundant in healthy fats, it provides long-lasting energy. With its high-calorie content, peanut butter is an excellent choice for sustaining your energy levels in emergency situations.
Freeze-Dried Foods: The Ultimate in Long Shelf Life
When it comes to long shelf life and lightweight food, freeze-dried foods are an ideal choice. They are available in various types of food, from fruits to complete meals, and are a staple in military MREs. With minimal space requirements, these foods are a must-have in any bug out bag.
Instant Oatmeal: Easy and Nutrient-Packed
Instant oatmeal is not only a good idea but also a great source of essential nutrients. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare a nutritious meal when combined with hot water. Oatmeal is a perfect choice for those who need to keep their blood sugar levels stable.
Trail Mix: A Sweet and Savory Treat
Trail mix is a great food to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide the energy you need in a survival situation. With a mix of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate bars, it’s lightweight and easy to pack in your go bag.
Beef Jerky: Protein-Packed for Sustained Energy
Beef jerky is a great source of protein, making it an excellent choice to keep you fueled and full during an emergency. It’s a high-calorie food that can last a long time.
Energy Bars and Protein Bars: Compact and Packed with Nutrition
Energy bars and protein bars come in different flavors and are a complete meal in a small package. They are easy to pack and can provide the calories and nutrients you need to survive.
Sunflower Seeds: Lightweight and Nutrient-Rich
Sunflower seeds are a lightweight food item that provides a good amount of healthy fats and protein. They can be a great source of energy during long treks to a safe location.
Coconut Oil: A Versatile and Nutrient-Dense Option
Coconut oil is not only high in calories but also versatile. It can be used for cooking or as an energy source. Its longer shelf life makes it a valuable addition to your bug out bag.
Dehydrated Foods: Nutrient-Packed and Long-Lasting
Dehydrated foods, like instant noodles and instant rice, are quick to prepare and provide a lot of calories. They have a longer shelf life, making them a reliable choice for survival situations.
Tuna Pouches: A Great Source of Protein
Tuna pouches are an easy way to get a protein boost. They’re compact and require no can opener, making them a convenient choice for your bug out bag.
Remember These Things When Packing Your Bug Out Bag
When packing food into your bug out bag, there are several important things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best options for long-term survival:
- Choose the Best Food: Opt for foods with a long shelf life, high-calorie content, and nutritional value. These foods will keep you energized and sustained during an emergency.
- Consider Grocery Store Staples: While specialized survival food is a good option, don’t forget about readily available grocery store items that can be just as effective.
- Pack Enough Food: Ensure you have an adequate amount of food to last you for the intended duration of your bug out mission. It’s better to have a surplus than run out.
- Fresh Food is a Great Addition: While fresh food may not last as long, consider including some in your survival kit for the first few days of an emergency.
- Diversify Your Food Choices: Include a variety of food types in your bug out bag to keep your meals interesting and to provide different nutritional benefits.
- High-Calorie Foods are Essential: Prioritize high-calorie foods as they provide the energy you need to keep going during tough times.
- Include Full Meals: Some food items, like freeze-dried meals from brands like Mountain House, can offer a complete, satisfying meal in a compact package.
- Ration Bars and Emergency Food Bars: These are compact, long-lasting, and designed to provide enough calories to sustain you for extended periods.
- Consider Space: Some foods, like freeze-dried fruit and dehydrated meals, take up very little space, which is crucial for a bug out bag with limited room.
- Fresh Fruit for Short-Term: Fresh fruit can be a great idea for the first few days of your bug out mission, but keep in mind that it won’t last as long as other options.
- Elaborate Meals: If space allows, consider including elaborate meals that can boost morale during a crisis.
- Keep Nutritional Value in Mind: Choose foods that provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to maintain your overall health.
- Don’t Forget Dry Pasta: Pasta is a lightweight, high-calorie food that can be a good choice for your bug out bag.
- The Only Downside of Glass Jars: Glass jars are durable but heavy. While they can be used for packing, consider the extra weight.
- Make Space for a Portable Stove: A portable stove can allow you to cook a wider variety of food, making it a versatile addition to your bug out kit.
- Think About Your Body Weight: Pack foods that match your dietary needs and body weight requirements to ensure you stay healthy and energized.
- Consider College Students’ Needs: If you’re a college student or packing for one, ensure the food items are easy to prepare and don’t require specialized cooking equipment.
- Granola Bars: Compact and nutrient-dense, granola bars are a convenient source of energy.
- Include Tea Bags: Tea bags can provide a comforting beverage and a little caffeine boost when needed.
- Plan for the Long Haul: Your bug out bag should contain enough food to sustain you for an extended period of time, potentially weeks, as you navigate through an emergency situation.
Conclusion
When building your bug out bag, it’s crucial to consider your individual needs and the type of emergency situation you may face. Having a variety of high-calorie, long shelf life, and nutrient-rich foods on hand will ensure you have enough food to sustain yourself during extended periods in a safe location.
Make sure your bug out bag includes a combination of these essential food items to prepare for the unexpected and increase your chances of survival when disaster strikes.
Remember, the best are those that keep you fueled and provide the necessary sustenance to see you through challenging times.
Delve deeper into the art of survival and preparedness with our comprehensive guide, where each aspect of your readiness plan is expertly unpacked. Discover essential tips, critical strategies, and must-have items to ensure you’re fully equipped for any emergency.