If you’re bugging out, it means things have gone from bad to worse. But on your way to your safe haven, you may need to stop and make camp. That is the topic of this video by Reality Survival & Prepping.
There are countless articles about bug out bags and bug out plans, but very few about bug out camps. But considering that most people will need to stop and make camp along the way, it's an important topic.
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Here are 20 things to consider for any time you need to establish a bug out camp on the road.
1. Figure out and plan your route. It may be from your home to a cabin in the woods, the home of a relative or friend who is out of the danger area, or a place that you have predetermined is safe. You should plan your primary route on a map and also think about secondary and tertiary routes or detours in case you encounter unexpected obstacles or traffic jams.
2. While planning your route, determine the location of places to stop and camp that are on Federal, state or public land. Trespassing on private property is illegal and you may not be welcome. As an alternative, consider properties owned by a business, corporation or bank. Private landowners tend to be more protective and territorial than businesses.
3. Download the ONYX app. It uses tax-assessor records and will give you the names and addresses of landowners. Good to know if public land is impossible to find.
4. Determine if it’s better to travel by day or by night. This will probably be a decision you make when you’re on the go. It all depends on the threat of the situation.
5. If you have an ATV or another vehicle you are transporting like a motorcycle, make sure you hide it off the road while you camp.
6. Look for areas that are wooded and offer thick concealment.
7. If you can’t find a wooded area, look for low-lying areas or areas obscured—not on a hill.
8. Make sure you set up your camp at least 100 to 200 yards from the road.
9. Never walk directly to your camp. Do the J-hook, which will allow you to double back and see if anyone is following you. Make sure everyone in your group understands how to do this.
10. Don’t plan on having a fire. If you must, use a small camp stove or Sterno and remember that smoke can give you away as fast as a fire.
11. Always look for a campsite with good cover around it: trees, hills, rocks, cliffs, brush.
12. Make sure you always have a lookout 24/7. Rotate shifts every 2 to 3 hours.
13. If you have multiple tents make sure each is facing outwards so all can keep watch.
14. Try to buy tents with dull, neutral colors. If you have a bright-colored tent try to camouflage it with a poncho or branches and leaves.
15. Place the tents close to cover like large fallen trees.
16. Establish a rallying point. A specific place where you all agree to meet if you get separated on the trip.
17. Watch out for natural hazards when choosing your campsite. This includes flood plains, dead branches above or widow makers, avalanche or rockslide areas, etc.
18. Consider an Evasion Shelter. This is a shelter that’s very low to the ground, small and compact, a natural or camo color and not shiny.
19. It doesn’t have to be a tent. If the weather is fair you could sleep in a bivy bag with a sleeping bag inside.
20. Conceal your packs about 10 to 20 yards from your tents in case of thieves in the night.
This is just a summary. To learn more, be sure to watch the video below.
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