Download the complete bug out bag checklist as a free PDF, ready to print. No email address, no signup, no popups. Pick the version that suits you:
Full 163-item checklist (PDF)
Every item in 13 categories on two pages, with a tick box color-coded by tier. Blue item names link to products. Letter size.
Download the full PDFOne-page Essentials (PDF)
The 45 Essential items on a single sheet. Tape it inside your pack lid for quick checks.
Download Essentials PDFSpreadsheet (CSV)
All 163 items with tier, weight and cost. Import into Google Sheets (File, Import) or open in Excel, then add your own gear and prices.
Download CSVWhat is in the printable bug out bag checklist
- 163 items, none repeated, across 13 categories: backpack, water, food and cooking, fire, shelter and sleep, clothing and PPE, light and power, navigation and comms, first aid and medical, hygiene and sanitation, tools, protection, and documents, money and personal.
- Three tiers, color-coded: 45 Essential (red), 59 Recommended (blue) and 59 Situational (gray).
- Clickable product links on the items where a product helps. For typical weights and costs, use the CSV or the online checklist.
How to use the printed list
- Print the one-page Essentials sheet first and pack those items.
- Work through the full list with a pen, ticking what you have and circling what you still need.
- Keep a copy inside your pack lid and check it every six months when you rotate food, water and batteries.
Prefer to tick items on screen? The interactive bug out bag checklist saves your progress and totals weight and cost as you go. Each item there also has a short explanation of why it is on the list.