Bug-Out Bag vs Get-Home Bag: Which One Do You Need?
· Melanie Becker
A bug-out bag helps you leave home in an emergency. A get-home bag helps you reach home when something happens while you are away. They share many items but have different goals, and many people need only one at first.
What each bag is for
- Bug-out bag (BOB): Designed for evacuation, such as a wildfire, flood or chemical spill. It supports you for about 72 hours away from home.
- Get-home bag (GHB): Designed to get you back home from work, school or travel when roads are closed or transit fails. It is lighter and focused on the trip home.
Side-by-side
- Bug-out bag Get-home bag
Goal Leave and shelter elsewhere Return home
Duration About 72 hours 1 to 2 days
Weight Heavier Lighter
Location At home or in the car Work, car or daily bag
Key Shelter, food, water, documents, Water, snacks, comfortable shoes, light, items clothing map, first aid
What belongs in a get-home bag
- Water and a way to treat more
- High-energy snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes and socks
- Weather-appropriate layer and a rain poncho
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Phone charger and power bank
- Paper map of your route
- Small first aid kit
- Cash in small bills
- Multitool or knife, where allowed
What belongs in a bug-out bag
Start with the 72-hour checklist, then add shelter such as a tarp or lightweight tent, a sleeping bag, extra clothing, a stove and cookware, copies of important documents and any medications. Pack for the climate and for each family member's needs.
Which should you build first?
- If you commute or travel far from home, build the get-home bag first.
- If you live in an area with evacuation risks such as wildfires, floods or hurricanes, build the bug-out bag first.
- If you do both, a well-built get-home bag can grow into a bug-out bag.
Keep it realistic
Most emergencies do not require leaving home, and staying put is often safer. Follow official evacuation orders when they are issued. Plan more than one route, know where you would go and keep your fuel tank at least half full. Test your bag by walking with it, because a pack that is too heavy will slow you down.
Next step
Shop pack and bag essentials.