[The Reaper]

A BoB discussion.

I believe that a well-provisioned BoB should consist of modules, rather than a random collection of items stuffed into a large ruck.

A medium-sized ruck (unless under extreme cold weather threat) should hold the 40 pounds or less this journey requires. I would go larger only if the food cubed out the ruck.

A good, sturdy, well-broken in pair of boots and a good pair of socks should be in the ruck unless you wear those items daily. While moving, you should stop to change socks regularly and bring several pairs packed in waterproof bags, along with underclothes and clothes appropriate for the season.

A waterproof fire starter module with at least two or three methods of starting a fire is critical. Lighters, strikers, waterproof matches, fresnel lenses, tinder, and miscellaneous fire starters go in here.

Water purification is very important. Plan on bringing a water purification device, like a Sawyer, some water purification tablets or a MIOX, and several water containers.

Shelter is a necessity in most climates, whether it is for a wet, cold environment, or for a hot, humid, insect-ridden climate. Pack the appropriate gear in this module, whether it is a poncho and liner, a bivvy bag, or a lightweight tent and a sleeping bag. I find a small Thermarest pad to be a worthy addition in all environments.

You would need a navigation module of a map, a compass, a protractor, and a pencil, and if the constellation is still up, a GPS and a method to charge it. Add a pair of mini-binos, unless you have a magnifying optic.

A related module is the signal module with, for example, a small signal mirror, a whistle, a chemlight, and a signal scarf. This kit would be very small for this scenario as you likely have no need to signal anyone, until you are at the end of your journey.

Another required item is first aid module with a small trauma kit, a meds kit, and an owie kit capable of sustaining minor injuries over your 100 mile journey. This would be a good place for a spare pair of glasses.

A tool and repair module can be small but very useful with a Leatherman, SAK, fixed blade knife, thread and needles, a limited amount of Gorilla tape, para cord, elastic cord, snare wire, electric wire, (a commercial tent/clothing repair kit might be a useful addition), zip ties, Spectra or Kevlar line, safety pins, a hacksaw blade, some glue, spare batteries, etc. A folding saw is fairly convenient and may be a good return on the weight and bulk. A small, folding solar panel would be a great way to recharge batteries or an external power pack. One must have item is a good headlamp with spare batteries, and I prefer to add a small handheld LED flashlight. I would consider a small sharpening stone, but the duration and movement might make it excessive if you start with a sharp knife.

One comfort item, but one I would work to try and make fit would be a hygiene module with wipes, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, floss, pack towel, foot powder, etc. in very small quantities. Add seasonal items like chapstick, insect repellent, and / or sun screen.

The cooking module would contain food, snacks, a titanium pot set, utensils, a small stove, fuel, beverages, seasoning, a tiny bottle of a cooking oil of your choice, ziplocs, tinfoil, a very small container of liquid soap, a piece of a scrubbie, etc. A couple of contractor plastic bags can assist with shelter construction or a plethora of applications. Smaller bags might be handy as well.

If you anticipate moving slowly and packing lightly in an area with plentiful fish, a fishing kit may make sense for you.

A very small weapons maintenance kit like a stripped down Otis with a couple of patches and a tiny bottle of weapons oil might be worthwhile. I would avoid anything larger than that. Again, start with a clean, well-oiled weapon. Spare mags not worn on the gear and extra ammo go in this module.

Some of this gear might migrate its way to your second or first line gear (like the tools or knives).

I would add that I have deliberately left out a cell phone. If you are trying not to be found and still insist on taking one, remove the battery or put it into an RF bag, or both.

Build your BoB, go to the woods, and test it to see what you have forgotten or don't really have a need for. At least a couple of times per year, you should go through your BoB and swap the seasonal clothes and items with expiration dates out.

Hope this helps, or spurs additional discussion. What have I left out?

TR