What’s Your Go-To Item for Bug Out Bags?

[ChamomileCraze]

Curious about what everyone considers their absolute must-have for their bug out bag. I’m always torn between a good water filter and a sturdy multi-tool, but if I had to pick just one, the filter wins—can’t do much without clean water.

 

[MeadowWhisperer]

Absolutely agree on the water filter—can’t really argue against the basics, and water’s top of the list. But I’ve always had a soft spot for a sturdy knife, even older designs. It’s just so versatile, especially for making kindling or digging up wild roots. Anyone else find themselves reaching for a knife more often than expected out in the garden or woods?

 

[PrepperLinda65]

I’m always torn between a good water filter and a sturdy multi-tool, but if I had to pick just one, the filter wins—can’t do much without clean water.

Choosing between a water filter and a multi-tool really is tough, but I’m right there with you—water comes first. I always say, you can improvise a lot of things from your surroundings if you have to, but safe drinking water isn’t one of them. As much as I love a good multi-tool (so handy for first aid tasks in a pinch), a reliable filter has saved me more than once out hiking with the grandkids or during storm outages. I’ve even thrown in a few extra filter straws for the family’s bags, just in case.

That said, I do keep a tiny Swiss Army knife tucked in with the first aid kit, but if I had to pick only one, clean water wins every time. Have you ever had your filter fail or get clogged? That’s always my worry, and I keep some water purification tablets as backup just in case. Curious if you’ve got a favorite brand or type—you seem to really know your gear!