posted on Nov, 19 2011 @ 12:19 PM
Basically it boils down to a BOB is what you feel it takes to get you through a short term situation. That you have it already packed and it becomes a
grab and go item. Most consideration is to whittle it down to the "Essential 10 Things" plus food and water. So you can either go with a general
purpose BOB that should fit in something no larger than a standard pillowcase or you can try to tailor it for what might happen: Fire, Flood,
Blizzard, Hurricane, Tornado...etc.
Here comes the rub. In most of those situations (except Fire and Tornado) you have plenty of notice to pack a bag to your needs and expectations. With
a Tornado, 9 times out of 10, you are better off sheltering in place (the other time being outdoors either driving or outdoor activities: camping,
hiking, playing/watching sports, etc).
INCH bags (I'm Never Coming Home) are for the long term which is something to not be taken lightly, hence you should have some time to pack to your
needs.
Now a few will ask what the "Essential 10 Things" are. Well, that is really up to the individual to decide what are the things you need to get by in
a situation. And for that you always consider (in no particular order) Fire, Food, Water, Shelter, Tools/Gear. Each of those 10 things will fall into
those categories and most will cover several areas. A quality knife is always one of those 10 items. The means to sharpen that knife is usually
another item.
My rule of thumb on the 10 Things is first off don't limit yourself to 10 things unless you want to do so but don't weight yourself down carrying
the kitchen sink. Go for things that are difficult or too time/energy consuming to make on your own. 550 paracord for cordage is a good example. Yes
cordage is easy to do but when you consider time versus weight, the 550 wins hands down. Items should have more than one function. A stocking cap will
help keep you warm (shelter) but can also hold gathered nuts and berries (food). You can also place a large rock in it to use as a makeshift pillow or
stuff it with cattail fluff and tie it closed if you rather have a soft pillow or just use unworn clothes.
A wool blanket costs more, weighs more but also has more uses and still retains its insulation value when wet. It can also serve as your pack itself.
Hence item selection is always a consideration. If you can't afford "everything" that you want now. Gather what you can and upgrade over time.
Nothing wrong with a $10 blanket that eventually becomes replace by a $50 wool blanket when that extra $40 goes towards a good knife.