"Bug out bags" the BOB

I have heard it called a "Bug out bag", "ditch kit","Bail out bag",and "Emergency kit". I just called it my Gear.

When I was working in the middle east and Africa my extra equipment was carried in one of 2 packs. I had a Northface brand "Krag dancer" and a Blackhawk brand "Phoenix".

My most important items like a blaze orange marker panel, compass, signal mirror, radio and spare batteries,bandanna, 1st aid kit, ID, Money,Cell phone, Sure fire light w/ extra batteries, etc. were all carried in a multi pocket vest that I bought at the Carbon market in Cebu PI a few years ago.

I have seen similar vests made by 511 gear/clothing for a lot of money, mine cost me $2.50 - used.

Items like spare ammo, weapons cleaning kit, additional 1st aid items, more batteries for all my electronics devices, shave kit,extra socks,"Haji flage", food, water,canteen cup w/lid, GI mess kit spoon, 2 star cluster flares, 2 colored smoke grenades, and a few other items were all carried in one of my packs.The only knives I ever carry in the field are my trusty old Green River knife named "Old butch" and a swiss army camper.

Personally I prefer a civilian style back pack over a mufti, or military style pack or a "Man purse".

When I am operating in a foreign land I like to avoid looking like a military type person or contractor. I never dress in a 511 "Tuxedo" unless I'm around base or totally out of clean clothing.

My normal manor of dress is carharrt, dickies, or Columbia river type of clothing.I have in my gear bag a "Man dress", shemagh,thagia,or some other type of regional clothes, depending on my current location.

There are many types of backpacks and "Man purses" on the market, shop around and try to find an unobtrusive looking civilian type backpack to use.

Keep your gear list practical and functional and correct for the region you are operating in.Use what is functional rather than what looks cool.

Remember - you DO NOT want to look like a military contractor when you are moving around.

Just my 2 cents.

Tomahawk - Scouts out!