How To Choose The Perfect Bug Out Location

Last Updated: June 15, 2022

Are you interested in finding the best bug out location?

It’s not ideal to be in an urban area when society falls apart, according on many preppers. There are a lot of factors to consider for those who wish and have the financial means to establish a bug-out location.

Related Post: Top 50 Bug-Out Bag List Essentials

After all, the purpose of having a bug out location is to get away from the tumult and possible danger that a SHTF event might bring.

With that in mind…

Here are 9 essential qualities for your bug out location

The following are the most important factors to consider when determining where to bug out. Remember, each one of these items considers your personal safety and that of your family.

9 Essential Qualities For Your Bug Out Locations

1) Distance

To begin with, you want it to be far enough away from the city so that you don’t have to worry about dealing with a massive exodus later. You also want it to be close enough so that you aren’t driving for many hours (or days) to get there.

When it comes to distance, take into account your means of transportation. If you’re on foot, your bug-out location should be no farther than 60 miles from your urban center. You’ll also want to think about what kind of bug out bag you’ll need for the trek.

If you’re driving, don’t expect to go farther than the distance your full tank of gas takes you. If you have to drive further than that, make sure you have enough extra fuel on hand to get where you’re going. Don’t count on gas stations as a dependable source of refueling.

Finally, you must pick a bug out location that is safe to get to while still being distant enough from a major city.

Related post: The Ultimate Bug Out Vehicle Checklist

2) Seclusion

Choose a location that is secluded and not easily visible from travel routes.

You don’t want your bug-out location to be obvious. You should be as far from the major roads as possible, while still having enough tree cover. There should be enough of a barrier that anyone who walks along any roads, pathways, or railway tracks in the region will not notice your home during the day or at night.

Lights should not be seen. The goal is to hide yourself from all five senses. When it comes to fire, you’ll need to be extra cautious.

It’s best to set the campfire at night because the smoke from it may be seen for miles. Because cooking odors can travel up to half a mile, do your best to eliminate them by preparing supper after dark, when there are fewer people passing through and using spices.

3) How to Get there

I’m not referring to your wheels, although I’m sure you’ve considered your bug-out vehicle. Here, I’m discussing the path that will get you to your bug-out location. You must consider at least three different escape routes in order to arrive at your refuge safely.

As a result, you’ll need to have several alternate routes that take you off the primary roadways in case of an emergency or if law enforcement is monitoring them. Main roads are frequently shut down in an emergency, and they’re patrolled by cops.

You don’t want to run into anyone who might try to reverse you or any path that becomes blocked.

4) Shelter

What are you going to live in?

It’s ideal if you can purchase a remote property with a house or cabin on it. However, to acquire something as far out as you desire, you’ll have to buy the land and then construct on it.

Will you live in a tent or a mobile home (if you can get one on your property) permanently, or will you build a permanent house? These are significant questions, especially if you reside in an area that sees winter.

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Remember, you may be gone for several days before returning to your bug-out location. Regardless of the season, you should be prepared to camp.

Ensure you have a shelter, warm clothes, and a sleeping bag if it’s cold.

5) Water

Make sure there is a year-round source of fresh water on your property.

It may not seem like a big deal to have access to water, but it is significant enough to be noted here. There’s no way of knowing how long you’ll need to stay at your bug out location until you get there.

If your workplace provides only bottled water, you might remain there for weeks or months and it will only get you so far. Pick a site with a reliable supply of water. It’s possible that well water, a natural spring, or even a clean lake or river is the source of your drinking water. Make sure the water is accessible all year and that it has a year-round availability.

Related post: Off-Grid water system your can DIY in no time

Keep in mind that this water won’t only be used for drinking. It will also be needed for washing, cooking, cleaning, and watering crops and livestock (if applicable). You can also utilize it to produce power if you have running water onsite.

If you want to learn how you can storage water for months (if not years to come) and avoid costly mistakes, here is a great free ressource for you.

6) Self-Sufficiency

You may spend an indeterminate time at your bug-out location. You won’t be able to go to the store every time you need to restock your pantry, and you won’t be reliant on the electrical grid.

You must have all of the resources you will require or be able to produce on your premises. This implies that, in addition to water, which we discussed above, you’ll need:

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7) Security

You must evaluate how easy it will be to defend your bug out location. You’re well on your way to having a safe haven if it’s hidden as I outlined above. However, you must ensure that it is not only concealed but also difficult to access.

(Here’s how to hide your house of bug out location from Google Maps)

No one should be able to get close to your bug-out location without your knowledge. Make sure you’re aware of any roads or pathways that lead into your property and that they are guarded at all times.

Is there a nearby waterway that may take them by your home? This might be cause for concern, therefore proceed cautiously.

Make sure you’re well-versed in the strengths and shortcomings of your home. You may develop an offensive that will help you retain concealment while defending what’s yours if the need arises this way.

PRO TIP: DIY Security for your home​​​​​

8) Natural Threats

When it comes to the site of your retreat, be sure you understand the risks you’ll face. Is the region vulnerable to earthquakes, floods, forest fires, tornadoes, or hurricanes?

It’s in your best interests to look for a place as safe from natural disasters as possible. Avoiding the floodplain of a stream or river is one way to do this.

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However, not everyone is fortunate enough to live in a region that is free from danger; therefore, you must assess the dangers in your area and prepare your home ahead of time. For example, you should clear an area around your buildings so that a forest fire cannot easily destroy them.

9) Red Tape

Finally, verify to discover what government rules are required for the project. Is there any special zoning for your property? What kinds of permits will you need if you want to expand or change the land?

To get ready for the aftermath of a disaster, you must deal with the red tape. This might not be an issue in the aftermath of a major devastation, but it is something you must prepare for.

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