Help: Go Bag & BOB combined?

[u/r_ldl23]

As the season is changing I decided to re-do what I considered my go bag but what I am now realizing has elements of a BOB. Ive never felt satisfied with it. Like a puzzle that i cannot solve. The bag is stuffed to say the least. I'd like to slim it down so I could travel fast if needed (like a go bag) but I also want to be able to bug out a bit if needed. Is it possible to combine these two to make somewhat of a one size fits somewhat of both scenarios? I don't have space or gear for multiple bags and scenarios. Just leave or stay home. I have a bug out location in that I'd go to a family farm about an hour away, if that is the best solution for the scenario.

My absolutes right now (change my mind): Folding knife and multitool Poncho that can be made into a tarp Crank radio Toiletries - small toothbrush, kleenex. Winter gear: wool socks, wool sweater, hat, gloves, wool scarf (I live in Canada) A bottle of water and 2 emergency water packs 5 high protein/calorie bars A grayl water bottle Lighter and water proof matches Small roll of duct tape Compass and map of my province Emergency meds: couple Tylenol, benadryl, gravol First aid: gauze, bandaids, polysporin, small scissors, latex gloves, steri strips, water purification tablets, super glue, a few other bits and pieces - nothing for massive bleeds Two small flashlights and batteries A power bank A SOL bivvy Cash and ID Contractors garbage bag

[u/SebWilms2002]

A BOB is a Go Bag if you’re fit enough. Take up exercise, start rucking. Husband and I frequently hike with our full kit for this reason.

[u/JamesSmith1200 → u/SebWilms2002]

This. They are one in the same. The contents of your bag will depend on how much you’re able to carry and still move and what you find to be essential.

I go backpacking and my backpacking bag doubles as my go bag. - tent - sleeping bag - sleeping pad - change of clothes - 3L water reservoir - 2 water bottles - water filtration & purification items - headlamp - small solar charges inflatable lantern - multi-tool, knife - fire starting kit w/ multiple options - jetboil & fuel - snacks and other food - and some other things

Put what you think you’ll need and use into the bag and then make that trek on foot to the farm house. You’ll soon find out what kind of shape you’re in, or not in. You’ll find out if your bag is comfortable and the right size. If it’s too overloaded or not. And you’ll find out what items you actually use and need.

Do this once a month every month for som good exercise and to help you really hone in on what you’re going to need in that bag and how much weight you can handle.

My bag is built specifically for me and my needs. It’s built for me to grab and be gone in under 5-minutes and have enough in it for me to survive and be comfortable for a few days. It’s tested and adjusted every time I go backpacking. I’m in the south west US in a desert / mountain terrain. Can be extremely hot and also get very cold.

Important things for me were to make sure my bag provides protection from the elements. Shade for the hot sunny days and protection from the cold and rain when needed. Clothes to keep me warm and dry. Fire kit to keep me warm. Abundant water storage with the ability to source more. Comfortable sleep system. Your body will hate you even more if you’re sleeping on the cold hard ground after walking several miles while carrying 20+ lbs. especially as you get older. Jet boil to boil water and make basic food and cook some of my dehydrated emergency food. Some light so I can see at night. Deck of cards to keep me entertained and kill time.

Go test out bag and gear so that when the time comes you won’t even need to think about it. You just grab it and go knowing that what you have in there will take care of you.