Sometimes when we put our bug out bags together, we forget some things that could be highly useful if something goes wrong.  Of course, you may or may not need these items or be compelled to add them to your bug out bag, but perhaps if nothing else, you’ll remember something that could be useful for your situation.

There are more than 5 items that I could have added to this list, however, these may be the most useful and most necessary to think about.

1. Collapsible Fishing Pole

If you live near a body of water or intend to bug out near one, adding a collapsible fishing pole and a small fishing kit could help you get food without expending too much energy. Fishing us a very efficient way to get some good quality food. Put a few hooks, lures, and some line in a small plastic box and you’ll have everything you need. You can always use earthworms as bait (they work well in my area.)

2. Emergency Radio

An emergency hand crank powered radio will help you stay up to date on all that’s happening.  Most emergency radios will allow you to listen to NOAA and channels that can inform you of any situation you may not be aware of since bugging out. In this instance, you’ll want the smallest radio you can find so it won’t be taking up valuable space in your bag.

3. Lock Picks

This could be useful especially for those who bug out from a big city.  Getting into secured buildings could help you find food or water or other necessary items. Make sure you practice and know how to use a lock pick.  Time will not always be on your side.

4. Knife Sharpener

Grab a small knife sharpener, because there isn’t anything worse than a dull knife (other than running out of ammunition.) A sharp knife has many more uses than a dull one.

5. Small Gun Cleaning Kit

You’ve probably heard the saying “a gun’s only enemies are politicians and rust” and you certainly don’t want either taking away your ability to provide self-defense or food.  You will want to be able to clean your gun quickly and effectively to prevent it from malfunctioning when you need it the most.

These five items could come in handy when the SHTF.  Not everyone will need these items or add them, and that’s perfectly fine. However, hopefully, this at least helped you brainstorm about what else you could potentially add to boost your chances of survival.

If you have added something to your bug out bag that may be unconventional or is often overlooked, share it with us in the comments for the readers. All ideas could help someone better prepare for an emergency situation.