What is a Bug Out Bag and What Should They Include?

photo and artwork by Danny V, Townsquare Media

Is this the year for a bug out bag? The term is gaining popularity amid growing fears of natural disasters, political escalations, and worldly events.

What is a bug out bag?

It simply means that a bag is already packed with survival essentials if a quick evacuation from home is needed. Being able to leave with very little warning could mean the difference between life and death.

Essentials:

Water: Water bottles, filtration system, purification tablets.
Food: Non-perishable items like energy bars, canned food, or freeze-dried meals.
First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, scissors, etc.
Clothing: Extra clothing suitable for the weather, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
Shelter: Tent or tarp, sleeping bag, emergency blanket.
Tools: Multi-tool, knife, duct tape, rope or paracord, whistle, and flashlight with extra batteries.
Personal Hygiene: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, menstrual supplies, etc.
Documentation: Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance, contact information).

Other items to consider:

Safety and Defense: Pepper spray, personal firearm if licensed and trained, ammunition.
Protection: Dust masks, gloves, goggles.
Communication: Whistle, signaling mirror, battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
Cash: Small bills and coins.
Precious metals: Silver and gold can be invaluable if the cash system collapses.
Important Contacts: A list of emergency contacts, including family, friends.
Maps: Physical maps of the area and compass.
Entertainment: Cards, a book, pocket bible, for passing time.

But remember...it's essential to periodically check and update its contents.

We may never need a bug out bag and friends and family may even mock you for having one. But you'll be very glad you have one packed for family should the need arise.

A Survival Guide For Your First Winter in South Dakota

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the rest of the Sioux Empire (AKA southeastern South Dakota) are welcoming thousands of new residents every year.

Many of you new folks will be experiencing your first eastern South Dakota winter. While it doesn't usually get as bad as our Dakota friends up north, I speak from experience when I say it can get a little rough.

MORE: What Every South Dakotan Should Be Doing to Prepare for Winter

So, to help ease you into winter in Sioux Falls and South Dakota here are some winter survival tips:

Gallery Credit: RESULTS-TOWNSQUARE MEDIA SIOUX FALLS

Worst Places to Live in South Dakota

A surprising town was named the worst place to live in all of South Dakota and the reason behind it is a bit unexpected.

Money Inc. made a list of the 20 worst cities and towns to live in all of South Dakota and no part of the state is left unmarked.

The list focused on a number of key factors, including crime rate, unemployment, low wages, and school funding.

So which city is the "worst" in South Dakota, according to the article? Read on:

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are not my own and are taken from a list provided by Moneyinc.com