Bug-out basics: Which bug-out vehicle is the right one for you?

When SHTF, you have two options: Either you stay put and try and survive in your own home, or you can get out of Dodge. If you choose the latter, you will need a vehicle that can handle all the traveling you’re going to do. It can’t be just any vehicle, it must be an equipped bug-out vehicle that can handle the kind of stress you’re going to put on it. That being said, here are some bug-out vehicle options that you should consider. (h/t to Survivopedia.com)

SUV

A sports utility vehicle is a great choice, especially if you plan to bug-out with your family. In fact, an SUV is ideal for a family of four or larger. It has great carrying capacity, perfect for bringing along extra gear and supplies such as fuel. With the right upgrades, your SUV can even become a great off-road vehicle.

ATV

An all-terrain vehicle, as its name implies, is perfect for driving through unpaved areas. With an ATV, you can overcome most types of road traffic and roadblocks by simply going around them. However, its carrying capacity is only limited to two passengers and it’s not the ideal vehicle to have if you’re expecting hostile encounters. However, with some modifications, your ATV can be fitted with some armor that can protect you.

Motorcycle

A good motorcycle with a strong engine can get you out of Dodge better than many other vehicles. With the right modifications, it can even carry a decent amount of supplies – double the amount of supplies you can carry if you don’t have a passenger riding with you. Modifying your motorcycle with two large top cases and reinforced side bags can further expand the amount of gear and supplies you can carry. Plus, a motorcycle is very fuel efficient and its size makes it very maneuverable.

Motorized bicycle

Depending on the model of your motorized bicycle, it can either power your bike for you or supplement you with more pedaling power. Many preppers have turned to motorized bikes due to their great versatility. Their fuel efficiency can even surpass most motorcycles. And if you run out of fuel, you can still pedal your way to safety or the nearest gas station. With a few modifications, you can fit several mounts and harnesses to your motorized bike to allow you to carry more supplies.

Regular bicycle

If you have limited options for bug-out vehicles, or if other circumstances keep you from using other vehicles, a good old bicycle can still reliably get you to safety. Your bicycle can take you as far as your energy allows. If you have a mountain bike, then you’ll be able to traverse most kinds of terrain and, because it has no engine, you won’t attract any attention at all. However, if you’re not a very fit person, you could get tired before you even reach your bug-out location. Start going on bike rides more often to build up your endurance. (Related: Riding your bike to work significantly helps reduce your chance of heart disease.)

No vehicle

If the circumstances that prevent you from taking your vehicle also prevents you from riding your bicycle, your only choice would be walking – or more likely, running – away from danger. With your own two feet, you can go almost anywhere you want, regardless of the weather, the terrain or if there are any blockades or obstructions on the road. If you’re physically fit, you can cover a decent distance. Like the bicycle, because of a lack of engine, you can easily sneak around possibly hostile areas without attracting attention.

There are several traits you need to look for when deciding what your bug-out vehicle should be. For starters, a bug-out vehicle must be:

• Low maintenance
• Fuel efficient
• Have enough space for everything you need
• Be fast enough to take you where you need to go
• Be quiet enough to not attract too much attention
• Maneuverable enough to take you through most types of terrain

Before finally deciding on which bug-out vehicle to use, understand your personal situation. Map out the roads you need to go through to get to your bug-out location and take into account your own personal limitations, such as financial capability and physical health.

Sources include:

Survivopedia.com

RealitySurvival.com