KIDS BUG OUT BAGS

(Ages 3 through 12):

Do you have a BOB for your kids? 

Kids over 12 should carry a normal Basic Adult Bug Out Bag.

During a SHTF situation it will be important for your kids to feel as safe and secure as possible. Having their own child sized Bug Out Bag filled with familiar items and comfort foods can be a real life saver during an emergency.

With children comfort items often become a top priority to ensure their overall mental health during a SHTF scenario.

What Items should go into a kids bug out bag:

Basic Survival Items: Make sure they are light weight and age appropriate, heavier items and gear should be in the adult’s bags.

• Flash light (preferably a solar or shake-light or dynamo-crank kind that do not require batteries)

• Emergency whistle (clipped to the outside of pack so they can easily find it if they become separated from you)

• Laminated emergency contact list with name, home address, and telephone numbers.

• Pre-paid cell phone (for kids who are old enough to use them)

• Poncho or Emergency Sleeping Bag/Shelter

• Extra socks, pair of gloves and knit hat or bandana (depending on your climate)

• Dust mask or gas mask (if you child is old enough to operate one)

• Small pocket knife for the older kids or safety scissors for younger kids

• Band aids & wipes, small first aid kit

• Small bottle of hand sanitizer

• Water packets and oral rehydration packs like Pedialyte or gatorade

• Food ration bars

• Canteen & cup

• Emergency sleeping bag

• Change of clothes (climate appropriate)

• Lighter/Matches (for older kids who know how to make fire and are properly trained)

• Comfort Items (pick a few, you don’t have to have every item listed here)

• Stuffed animals (loveys)

• A couple small light weight toys

• Pack of playing cards or travel size games

• Baseball or small Nerf football

• Harmonica

• An IPod or small device to play games and listen to music with solar charger (for older kids)

• Hard candy

• Bubble gum

• Trail mix, granola bars, dehydrated fruit

• Drink mix packets or mylar juice packs (like Capri-Sun)

• Family photo & contact info

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Remember a kid’s bug out bag is not meant to be an adult BOB. 

Its main purpose is to comfort your child during a stressful situation and give them a feeling of control. With younger children comfort items are a top priority and will help to ensure their overall mental health.

Make sure you customize the bag for your child’s age, personality, medical needs, and overall fitness level.

Also, kids need to know what to do if they're separated from their parents. Work out a plan and a place to meet up. Be sure they know your cell phone number and names.