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Bug Out Vehicles: The Best Setups To Escape The Chaos

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A Complete Guide To Finding ( Or Building ) A Reliable Bug Out Vehicle

Because why walk when you can ride? Plus:

• You can carry more stuff
• And get to your bug out location FASTER

Now, there are two kinds of bug out vehicles out there:

• The ones 99.9% of us  CAN’T  afford
• The ones we CAN afford

Today I’m going to cover both ( plus so much more )…

TOPICS IN THIS ARTICLE…    ↓(click to jump)

• Suspending Reality…Epic Rigs
• How Do You Plan To Use It?
• Focus On Off-Road Capabilities
• Which Is Better? Old Vs. New
• Best Aftermarket Accessories
• Looking At Hauling Capacity
• Realistic Vehicle Examples…

Want a free 104 item bug out bag checklist?

So let’s suspend reality for a few minutes….

Let’s start by looking at a few insanely expensive ones…

You know, just for fun.

Now even though most of us can’t afford these bug out trucks…

They still provide  inspiration for our own garages.

Plus, they’re just awesome!

↓ Top 10 Best Bug Out Vehicles

The Arctic Tacoma

Back in 2010 Toyota built a Polar Expedition truck for arctic conditions.

So IF your bug out happens to be in Antarctica , this would be your dream rig.

H ey…at least the population densities are extremely low there…

This truck was specifically made to travel to the South Pole.

What’s even more impressive is it successfully did just that in record time (under 40 hours) .

This rig has a 4.0-liter V6 supercharged engine that makes 341 HP.

It also has an extended-range gas tank that holds up to 330 gallons of fuel.

So at 15 MPG, you’re looking at 4950 miles until your next refill…

It’s outfitted with a set of Mickey T. Icepack tires, a beefy roll cage, and a custom suspension made with military-grade steel.

Making this a cold-weather dream machine with a mere $400,000 in mods.

The Tactical Armored Beast

Imagine this Tactical Armored Vehicle parked in your garage.

It’ll be perfect for when the roads are unpassable due to all-out chaos.

Its curb weight is just shy of 20,000 lbs.

It comes equipped with a 6.7 L V8 Diesel that delivers 300 HP and more than 600 lb-ft of torque.

It has a few highlighted features, such as a 6-speed auto tranny, 4 by 4, and a 40-gallon diesel tank.

I’m guessing the fuel economy will be terrible with this one…

Probably about 6 MPG.

Rhino…what an appropriate name for this massive vehicle.

As we all know, rhinos are tough SOBs and not animals to be messed with.

It lives up to its name by starting with a Ford 450’s Super Duty frame ( which is made using 18 gauge steel ).

A 362 HP engine powers it due to its 6.8 L V10 Single Overhead Cam design.

It has all the extras, including 38-inch mud tires, 20 by 10″ aluminum-alloy wheels, heavy-duty calipers, and vented disc brakes.

You’ll make it to your bug out location just fine in this beast.

The Defender

Looking for a truck that includes a camper with side storage for your firearms?

Then check out the Land Rover Defender.

The biggest limiting factor here is it only has room for 2.

What it lacks in it transport capacity, it makes up for in camping qualities.

It has an outdoor kitchen system, a folding stove, outside lights, and camping gear storage.

Who needs a bug out location if you got this guy to survive in?

The Military Combat Machine

How about this combat vehicle for your bug out transportation?

It’s definitely in the running for my ultimate armored vehicle award.

The amount of protection you’d have is unprecedented.

And it can handle the most extreme terrains.

This 8-ton beast can plow through water levels up to 1.5 meters deep, thanks to its .7 meters of ground clearance.

I suppose the 54-inch tires are responsible for that.

It’s designed with a 6.5-liter Cobra diesel power plant under the hood and can carry 1.5 tons of weight through mud, sand, or loose gravel.

While its four-speed auto tranny allows it to do all that at up to 75 MPH.

Seats have straps and harnesses, with room for up to 8.

As far as protection goes, it’s designed to deflect ammunition and even land mines.

Even if you did have the money to blow on something as awesome as this… you still couldn’t buy one.

It’s military-designed, so a civilian cannot purchase it (Bummer.)

Oh, and yes…that’s a turret poking out the top of this beast.

↓ COMBAT GUARD

The Earth Roamer LTi

Here’s one of the more recent newcomers on the market today…

The EarthRoamer is a beast designed to handle long distance off-roading…

It’s self sufficient, without using propane or a noisy generators.

Instead it utilizes a massive rooftop solar array .

Inside the vehicle includes a full height bathroom with a shower and cassette toilet onboard.

Of course, it also comes fully capable for long term off road adventures with:

• Massive Fuel and Water Tanks
• Heavy Duty Ford F-550 4WD Chassis
• Powerful, Efficient, Turbo Diesel Engine

↓ We Lived In The New $1 Million EarthRoamer LTi

The Traffic Un-Jammer

Ok, here’s what you need when all the roads out of the city are clogged.

Just line them up and clear your own path…

↓ Myth Busters Epic Car Split

Enough Dreaming…Let’s Get Real

While ogling at those Ultimate Bug Out Vehicle was admittedly fun, it’s also not realistic.

But let’s not get depressed…

Let’s take inspiration.

I want to take a look at some vehicles the everyday survivalist can:

First, let’s go over the aspects that make a vehicle worthy of a bug out.

How Will Your Bug Out Vehicle Be Used?

The answer to these questions will help us make wise choices:

• Will you be transporting several people?
• How much supplies and gear do you need to take ( food , water , guns, emergency blankets , ammo, etc. )?
• What type of terrain will you encounter ?
• How far is your bug out location ?
• Will you need to refuel due to gas mileage issues ?
• Do you want to be able to plow through potential roadblocks?

Plus, you may want your rig to be tough enough to drive through a few fences…

How Important Are Off-Road Capabilities?

Personally, I think THIS is a must for any good bug out vehicle.

But you don’t need the “best of the best” here either.

All you really need for survival is:

• High clearance
• And 4 wheel drive

With those two features alone, you’ll be able to transverse 99% of what you’ll likely run into.

But without these 2 basic off-road capabilities, you’ll end up like this:

↓ Car got stuck in the mud

Bug out locations should be in remote areas.

So the odds of encountering muddy hills or deep ruts are much higher.

Yes, even 4×4’s vehicles can get stuck…

But the odds are reduced.

However, TOO much of a good thing can be bad.

If you’re thinking more clearance is always better… not so fast.

With this sort of clearance (see image on the right) , you’ll clear just about anything.

But your vehicle’s center of gravity is too high…

And now rollovers are more likely.

If you look back at all the “unaffordable examples” above…

You’ll see most of them don’t have crazy  extreme clearances.

They all have good clearances, but NOT at the sacrifice of balance.

Or You Could Always Add A Set Of These…

I literally just found these the other day, and they look amazing.

They can be used in all terrain but excel in softer terrain like snow.

↓ Dominator Track System American Track Truck

The Dominator Track System can turn just about any ordinary 4 by 4 truck into an off-road terrain-taming beast.

It’s hard to believe, but the company claims they’re easy to install and can be done in less than an hour.

They also suggest that they come off as easy as they are installed.

Taking your bug out truck from a super-powered terrain destroyer back to a daily driver in under an hour.

Old Vs. New Vehicles

There’s an ongoing debate over which makes for a better vehicle for bugging out…

One major concern for newer models is their dependence on electronics.

In an EMP attack , they may be rendered useless.

However, there are some significant concerns related to older vehicles too.

With really old vehicles, finding spare parts can be challenging.

They’ll also require frequent maintenance.

Sure, the design is simple, but you’ll probably be working on it more often.

Another aspect of this debate is vehicle abuse.

So which survival vehicle can take more abuse? Older or newer?

The saying,

They just don’t make ’em the way they used to…

Might be right in some respects.

But newer vehicles are made with better materials and better designed for safety reasons.

You might want to look at this crash test video if you choose older:

↓ 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu crash test ↓

Aftermarket Accessories Options

Ideally, you want a vehicle decked out with bolt-on accessories to improve your stock setup.

Full Spare Tire

Having a full spare tire is essential.

If you get a flat tire mid-bug out, can you afford to be at the mercy of a donut spare?

Here’s an example of a full spare added to the roof of a Jeep .

You’ll Need Storage

You’ll want lots of storage space for your gear and supplies.

You won’t need as much inside your vehicle if you have a survival trailer .

Or a bed of a pickup truck works really well for this…

Get a topper to keep your supplies and gear protected from adverse weather.

So what are the things you’ll be storing?

Guns and Ammo

Plus, you should get Keeper Gun Magnet to have your survival pistol close by while traveling down the road.

You’ll want to take a bunch of food you’ve stockpiled with you unless your bug-out location is fully stocked ahead of time.

It’s always a good idea to have some extra water on hand.

You’ll want your final bug out location to have a natural water source.

But if something happens on your way, you’ll want some water with you.

And a water filtration system , just in case…

Survival Gear

Don’t forget all the rest of your survival gear .

From fire starters  to survival bows ; survival knives ; solar lanterns ; jerry can water filters , and maybe even some survival playing cards to help pass the time.

It all adds up and takes up room in your vehicle.

So need to perform a test run with all your gear to ensure it will all fit.

Lastly, even if you have a bug out vehicle, you should also have a ready-to-go bug out bag.

You never know if you’ll have to ditch your vehicle…

These machines are not known for their fuel efficiency.

So if you’re going further than one tank of gas, can take you, you’ll need to store extra fuel .

Because YOU CANNOT rely on gas stations when SHTF.

Even if you are only traveling a short distance…

Are you sure your tank will be full when disaster strikes?

Plus, you’ll want to have some fuel when you get to your bug out location .

L ight Rack

Running off-road at night takes good lighting.

You must avoid rocks, cliffs, and wildlife to make it from point A to point B safely.

So get a high-powered light rack for your bug out rig.

Emergency Jump Starter

So get a small ( but insanely powerful ) emergency jump starte r that can get you running again if the battery dies.

This device is a wise investment in the present day.

And help you prepare for the future; win-win.

Hauling Capacity

Will you be hauling a camper or a trailer to your bug out location?

If so, you’ll need enough towing capacity to pull it.

Find out what your hauling capacity needs are, and make certain your vehicle meets the requirement.

When the SHTF, how much civil unrest will there be?

It’s best to plan for the worst.

So think of some ways to protect your vehicle from objects being thrown, such as bricks.

Ideally, your vehicle’s bulletproof.

But I know of no affordable way to add such a feature.

A Couple Of Realistic Examples

Here are a couple of videos of realistic bug out vehicles with many of these desirable capabilities:

↓ The Perfect Bug Out Vehicle?

↓ ULTIMATE BugOut Jeep

If I Had To Choose Just One For Survival…

I was forced to choose just one realistic vehicle, it would be a toss-up between:

• An off-road equipped pickup truck (with a topper) or
• A jeep Wrangler (with a trailer) .

Both options meet all the previously discussed criteria points and are affordable.

To recap, you want:

• Off-road capabilities with clearance and  4×4.
• Aftermarket accessories for additional protection.
• A full spare tire, no donuts allowed!
• A good amount of storage space

After you’ve met these basic criteria, you can add as many “extra” accessories as you’d like.

For example:

Add some SHTF communications devices  ( like a cell phone booster ) and navigation devices.

It’s up to you, but getting a reliable bug out rig doesn’t have to be an impossible task.

Just stick to the basic criteria and build from there…

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Bug Out Vehicle List of the 15 Best Bug Out Options and How to Choose

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• Updated: January 4, 2024

In the process of preparing everything for an eventual bug out, one of the most important pieces of equipment will be your bug out vehicle. We all need SHTF vehicles to get from our current residence to the bug out location as fast as possible. 

While most of us won’t end up using the vehicle for very long, it’s a pivotal piece of the puzzle that will help get you and your family out of harm’s way. 

When you look at your current situation, is your bug out vehicle ready in the event of a scenario right now? Do you even have a bug out vehicle? Is it maintained, stocked, and ready to go? 

Keep in mind that it’s not as simple as throwing everything in the trunk and moving out. You need to make sure the vehicle is well-maintained, stocked with the essentials, and prepared to get you where you’re going in a hurry. 

This guide will ensure that you’re ready when the time comes. We’re covering vehicle types, maintenance, gear to have with you, accessories, and driving to the bug out location.  

15 Best Bug Out Vehicles 

As mentioned, the choice of a bug out vehicle will vary depending on your individual preferences. Once you have picked the vehicle type you want, it’s time to compare the options

Among the various options in the market, here is our bug out vehicle list to help you make your choice.

1. The Jeep Wrangler

Often considered the ultimate choice for outdoor enthusiasts, the Jeep Wrangler’s excellent off-road capability makes it a great bug out vehicle. 

Be it a forest, mud, rocky terrains, or a desert, the four-wheel-drive capability makes the Wrangler a highly capable performer. Even if you need to cross a few streams or small rivers, the Jeep will handle it like a champ. In addition, it provides enough comfort and safety for all the passengers.

Then again, the Wrangler will also fulfill all your on-road demands with reliable performance. 

Make sure to check the trims, and equipment packages to look for features that you need.

While the Wrangler looks and feels rugged, there are plenty of ways for customization too. Moreover, the 4-door Wrangler can hold over 70 cubic feet of cargo. That provides ample space to carry all your emergency provisions.

• Offers great diversity
• 2 door and 4-door options
• 4-wheel drive
• Easily available aftermarket parts
• It’s an expensive vehicle
• Not the best fuel economy

2. Earth Roamer XV-LT

The Earth Roamer is an offroad “luxury expedition vehicle” that’s designed to offer off-grid independence. What’s makes it special is it can operate without water, electrical, and sewer hook-ups. 

A vacuum-infused carbon fiber body and military-grade tires makes this a heavy-duty camper. The vehicle is designed for all-weather performance and offers great off-road capabilities. Since it runs on solar and battery power, you can be completely grid-independent.

Everything about this vehicle has been carefully designed to offer a premium user experience. You can customize the floor plan and materials as well. Overall, this is a luxury-grade camper with a truck bed that can serve the common purpose of a bug out vehicle and a survival property.

The only downside is, it comes at a hefty price. But considering the top-notch quality and countless features, this rugged cabin-on-wheels it’s a solid choice if you can afford it.

• Great off-roading capability
• Comes with batteries and an inverter
• Ideal for a large family
• Luxurious interiors 
• A super expensive choice

3. Mercedes G-Class

The Mercedes G-Class may look somewhat old-fashioned, but it’s a highly capable vehicle that is still a cult off-roader. As a bug out vehicle, it will allow you to cover long distances with ease, and enough luxury to camp in the vehicle if needed.

In terms of off-road performance, the G-class can wade through 700mm of water and climb 45-degree slopes. While off-road behavior was always a priority for the vehicle,  Mercedes has also improved interior comfort with the new models.

While it remains tough as a beast, The new G-class also more agile with better road manners than the older models. Other than that, the cabin space has also been improved. You get tons of space for storing gear.

On the whole, it’s one of the best luxury SUVs that will be a safe and reliable bug out car during an SHTF situation. 

• A reliable luxury SUV
• Great off-road prowess
• Offers excellent acceleration
• Uber-luxurious interiors
• Hefty price tag
• Poor fuel economy

4. Ford Explorer

The Explorer is a SUV that has been around for more than three decades and still going strong. The design language of Ford has evolved with time and today, we feel it’s the best bug out vehicle for large families.

Even though the interior isn’t the best in terms of comfort, it’s perfectly functional. The vehicle also offers improved ergonomics and sufficient cargo space for families. Ford has added smart safety features and additional driving-assistance technologies.

Besides, the Explorer Timberline variant is also available in AWD, which makes it a capable off-roader. It comes with additional features for improving off-road traction and steel underbody skid plates to tackle rough terrain.

While it’s not the most comfortable vehicle when the going gets rough, the spacious and comfortable interiors are a big plus. To sum up, the Ford Explorer offers excellent value as a bug out vehicle.

• Can seat seven people
• Available in AWD
• Ample interior space
• Comfortable on-road performance
• Lacks the refinement of class leaders
• Cramped third-row seating

5. Chevrolet Suburban

When it comes to interior space, the Chevy suburban is simply unbeatable. In addition, it also provides the right amount of ride comfort and the overall driving experience is great.

As a full-size SUV, the Suburban can seat nine people. It can also accommodate a lot more in its impressive 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Moreover, it’s also a rare SUV that offers good comfort in all three rows.

Keep in mind, only the Z71 trim comes with a four-wheel drive. Also, the overall safety features are good but not the best in class. However, there are plenty of high-tech goodies to improve the passenger experience. 

If the big and bold design is acceptable to you, this is one of the best vehicles that will accommodate every item in your bug out gear list. But if you’re looking for something smaller and more rugged, there are other options.

• A super spacious SUV for large families
• Good comfort level
• High-quality cabin
• Not for small families
• Higher trims are pricey

6. Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road

Quite simply, the Toyota Tacoma is a no-nonsense vehicle when you need to get stuff done. Over the years, Tacoma has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable midsize pickup trucks in the market. No wonder, it has a lasting appeal.

The rugged styling of the Tacoma matches its torque output that feels powerful and responsive. With beefy tires and an efficient shock-absorber, the off-roading capabilities are good too. While the V-6 engine is not the most powerful, it’s perfect for overcoming rocky trails.

However, the interiors are pretty lackluster with a straightforward feel. Moreover, it’s not the best choice when it comes to cabin space. Taller occupants will find the headroom to be limited.

On the whole, Tacoma isn’t the best choice in terms of space or comfort. But with its rugged looks and reliable performance, it offers good value.

• A capable off-roader
• Attractive exterior
• A towing capability of up to 6800 pounds
• A high reliability factor
• Lack of interiors space
• Average fuel economy

7. Ford Expedition

This flagship SUV from Ford is another spacious vehicle that also boasts of an impressive towing capacity of 9,300 pounds. That makes it a good choice for large families hauling a ton of gear to a bug out location.

Apart from the brawn, the Expedition offers a buttery smooth ride quality. It’s also equipped with Ford’s BlueCruise driver assist technology that allows full hands-free driving. Four-wheel drive capability is present across the entire lineup.

Most significantly, it also has a special off-road themed edition, the Timberline. The Timberline has improved ground clearance, underbody cladding, and all-terrain tires that make it a capable off-roader. A great choice if you are looking for a large vehicle that can handle technical terrains.

If you want to compare it with the Toyota Explorer, note that the Expedition is a larger and more spacious vehicle. However, the Explorer is the better choice for small families looking for a more affordable option.

• Excellent hauling capacity
• Spacious interiors
• Good ride quality
• Multiple trims and varied features
• Fuel efficiency is limited
• Not easy to maneuver

8. Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

As a camper van conversion company, Sportsmobile has been around since 1961. This model is an adventure van built on a Ford cutaway chassis and an integrated penthouse top.

The van has been designed with two primary objectives- durability and off-roading. To achieve this, it combines the Ford cutaway body with a steel-reinforced fiberglass shell. Moreover, it has an excellent towing capacity of 10,000 pounds.

You can choose from four different floor plans depending on the storage and lounging space requirements. The layout is also customizable. The van has an electrical system, along with water and electricity hookups.

You may not like its design, but the Sportsmobile Classic is a home on wheels, built for off-grid use. While it’s a pricey option, we consider it a dependable long-distance bug out vehicle.

• Superior quality by Sportsmobile
• Can be driven rear, front, and 4WD
• A reliable 7.3L V-8 engine
• Stands out on the street
• Beefed up design is a hit or miss

9. Ford Ranger Raptor

Quite simply, when you are heading out for unknown terrains to survive a SHTF situation, the Ford Raptor is the perfect all-wheel companion.

What makes it one of the best bug out vehicles?

Firstly, the Raptor is excellent for off-road driving and delivers a comfortable on-road driving experience. It can easily withstand constant abuse from the roads without breaking a sweat. The vehicle can even wade through 850mm of water.

Even though the Raptor isn’t the fastest in its category, the ride and handling make it one of the most composed pickups in the market. And in case you want to reach your destination quickly over rough roads, the Raptor won’t disappoint.

The interior isn’t premium but has enough niceties to make it comfortable enough for a small family. However, the Raptor is an expensive choice and not the best option when you’re looking for more space.

• Grear suspension for handling off-road challenges
• Feels indestructible even on rough terrains
• Off-road seats with a high seating position
• A tough exterior design
• Low payload rating of 1,400 pounds
• Not the most powerful engine

10. BMW X5 Protection VR6

If you’re looking for full-proof security while driving through conditions like civil unrest, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 is an excellent choice. 

And it’s not just about protection from blunt weapons or handguns. The armored shell of the car is robust enough to offer protection from the 7.62×39 ammunition used in AK47 bullets!

Other features include steel reinforcement in vulnerable spots, multi-layered safety glass, and a self-sealing fuel tank.

Coming to the off-road capabilities…

Fact is, this isn’t a true offroader that can tackle rough terrains with ease. With all that additional weight, this is not a nimble SUV either. However, the twin-turbo V8 engine is a dependable performer on trails.

In reality, with unique features and a high price, this isn’t a vehicle for everyone. But if you’re looking for legitimate defense capabilities in a bug out vehicle, this fortress-on-wheels is a solid choice. 

• A legitimate armored vehicle
• Looks like a crossover SUV
• Uses post-blast protective technology
• Not the best choice for off-roading
• Limited protection on the roof

11. Jeep Gladiator

The Jeep Gladiator offers some serious off-road chops along with an appealing design. It comes in two off-roading trims- the Rubicon and the Mojave. Both trims are superbly competent and have a lot in common. So choosing the best can be tough.

That said, the Mojave is a more efficient desert runner.But if you want a steady vehicle for tackling rocks, the Rubicon is a better choice.

In reality, the Gladiator feels like a Wrangler with a bed. The Transformer-like durability is mixed with a comfortable and roomy interior. In terms of interior space, it can seat four people comfortably. The payload ratings vary between 1,075 to 1,700 pounds.

The Gladiator isn’t the ideal choice for street comfort. But when you need to cross tough terrains to beat the apocalypse, it performs like a champ.

• Classic Jeep styling
• SUV/Pickup truck hybrid design
• Great safety features
• Multiple customization options
• Not the best bang for your buck
• Low gas mileage

12. Ford F-150

The Ford F-Series has been the highest-selling pickup truck in America for years. It’s a reliable workhorse that offers a super-roomy cabin, good fuel economy, and firm ride quality. On the whole, a reliable bug out truck for carrying gear.

And if you prefer a serious off-roader check out the F-150 Lightning that can handle steep, rocky paths or dry riverbeds with ease. With a set of all-terrain tires, the Lighting can handle all the rough stuff while heading to a distant bug out location.

Beyond that, the F-150 also offers better interiors than its competitors. You get high-quality materials, a 12-inch display, and a simple dashboard layout. Ford provides six engine options with the vehicle. The good news is all of them offer a smooth and refined performance.

The F-150 balances its rugged exterior with the right amount of comfort in the interior. Besides, you get a wide range of prices to choose from. 

• Multiple engine choices
• Top-of-the-range towing capacity at 14,000 pounds.
• A maximum payload capacity of 3,325 pounds.
• All models come with a 4 x4 drive
• Limited in-cabin storage space

13. Knight XV

The Knight XV from Conquest Vehicles is an armored vehicle with ultra-luxurious interiors. In fact, you can think of it as a tank with an overdose of luxury.

The Knight is a flagship model hand-built in Canada and top-grade armoring materials have been used to manufacture it from the ground up. 

The vehicle uses transparent ballistic glass and specially designed opaque armor. Other features include a special fireproof wall between the engine and the passenger compartment and night vision cameras for security.

The spacious interiors can seat 6 people. It comes with wool carpeting, a conference room,  and cabin seating.

The gas guzzling Knight XV isn’t an everyday vehicle. But this urban assault brute can be the perfect choice to drive out of a city on the verge of apocalyptic chaos.

• Excellent security features
• Precision craftsmanship 
• Fully customizable interiors
• A reliable Ford V10 engine.
• It is a super expensive choice
• Limited availability

14. Yamaha Raptor 700R

The Yamaha Raptor is an extremely capable beast that is hailed by enthusiasts for its superb versatility. The best part is, even if you’re a newbie ATV rider, you’ll find the Raptor an easy-to-manage vehicle that offers a balanced ride.

The 686cc, liquid-cooled engine of the Raptor delivers enough power to climb hills or for jumping. The combination of an advanced chassis design and great suspension ensures solid handling in rough conditions.

Moreover, the comfortable ride quality of the Raptor will not tire you out after the end of a long day. And the Raptor is also equipped with a powerful headlight and a LED taillight for night riding.

If you prefer a Sport ATV to take you out of harm’s way or as a backup in your bug out location, this is a great choice.

• A sporty aggressive look
• Excellent handling
• A durable but lightweight chassis
• A fully adjustable suspension
• Not for hauling heavy loads
• No AWD available

15. BMW R 1200 GS Adventure

If you have planned to use a motorcycle for making a quick getaway during an emergency scenario, check out the R 1200 GS. This masterpiece from BMW  is designed for touring and offers a reliable performance even when you head off-road.

What makes the GS a go-anywhere motorcycle is its ability to float over rough surfaces; thanks to the front suspension design. Then again, there is plenty of power available when you need it. Besides, the low-speed balance is top-notch.

Other features include a height-adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and good storage ability. It also uses a 6-axis IMU technology to provide better performance in each riding mode. 

With a perfect mix of sporting attitude and comfort, we feel the R 1250 GS is the only motorcycle you need as a survivalist.

• A great mix of utility and versatility
• Easy to ride
• Powerful performance
• Tons of features and convenience
• A tall and heavy design
• High cost of ownership

Choosing The Best Bug Out Vehicle

Let’s be real for a second, very few of us have the money to go out and purchase a bug out vehicle built specifically for the purpose. Most of us will need to customize a current vehicle, upgrade it, or build out our own. 

Now that we’ve made it through the bug out vehicle list, let’s talk a bit about the different types of bug out vehicle options. 

Bug Out Van

If you have a large van or camper, you’re in pretty good shape. You’ll be able to fit a large number of items in here such as food, water, ammunition, and whatever else it is you’re bringing. It will also serve as a much more effective home away from home if you don’t have a bug out location and need to live on the road. 

We need to keep in mind the obvious shortcomings though. You’re very limited on the terrain that you can travel. If you’re bugging out in a location that gets a lot of snow or you need to “off-road” you might be in trouble. 

Bug Out Jeep

The Jeep might be the ultimate bug out vehicle because it’ll get decent gas mileage, you can cover rugged terrain with all wheel drive or four wheel drive, and you’ll have enough room to store your gear. The Jeep Wrangler is suggested by a lot of experts as the bug out vehicle of choice but keep in mind that you won’t have as much room for storage. 

What you will get is enough towing capacity to pull a trailer though. Just remember that you don’t want to put a target on your back when the SHTF. If you’re stuck in your vehicle and people see you pulling around a trailer with a Jeep full of supplies, you might be in for it. 

Bug Out Truck

Trucks have a lot of room for gear and the best bug out truck should have no problem traversing any terrain. You won’t likely have as much room in the cabin as you would in some of the other vehicle types so it may make sleeping a challenge if you’re stuck in the truck overnight. 

What you have here is a nice multi-purpose option because you can prepare the truck and ensure that it’s always ready in the event of a bug out but also use it on a regular basis for everyday activities. 

There’s no right or wrong truck to have. A  Ford  F-250,  Toyota   4runner , or a  Chevy  Silverado should do. These trucks contain the  off-road capability  for an ideal  survival vehicle . Plus, their  full size  nature will help with  offroading .

While an ATV may not serve as a long-term bug out option, everyone prepping should have one. If you’re on your own, it’s the perfect low-key vehicle to get you out of harm’s way and to a safe location.

If you’re traveling in a group, an ATV is a nice scout vehicle that you can use to scope out large areas of land to determine if they’re safe. 

Motorcycles and scooters are a nice option for urban survival . If you’re bugging out in the city and you don’t have a lot of gear, a motorcycle will make it a heck of a lot easier to get out while everyone else is stuck in traffic. 

Keep in mind that when everyone is fleeing the city, this might be your only ticket out. The number one suggestion I have is to bring as much fuel as you can carry because the tank is much smaller. 

A bug out boat is a great option if you live near an ocean or canal. I suggest going with a smaller boat because it will allow you to travel almost anywhere. A boat is a great way to escape danger in a pinch and get very far away from the city in a short amount of time. 

If you own a boat but don’t live near the water, you can use this strategy too. Have an action plan in place based on different scenarios. Sometimes the boat might be the right option but in many cases, traveling by water could actually become a hindrance. 

If you don’t own or can’t afford a motorcycle or electric scooter, a bicycle is just as good. I’m a big believer in limiting what can go wrong and you will have a much better chance of making it out of the city on a bike than you would with a car. 

I would recommend getting a bike for everyone in your party. If everything else goes wrong and you’re forced to abandon your vehicle, you could all travel via bicycle and stay under the radar. Just keep in mind how easily a bike can be stolen so you’ll need a way to safeguard them. 

Best Bug out Vehicle for EMP

One additional area worth mentioning is the event of an electromagnetic pulse attack . Many preppers believe that a foreign country will attack us using EMP technology which creates short bursts of electromagnetic energy. This can result in a disturbance of the power grid shutting down all technology in the surrounding area. 

When this happens, we need to realize that we’ll lose access to most communication and GPS. The best bug out vehicle for EMP would be something simple, lacking electronic features, and built to handle bumps and bruises on the way out. 

Many experts suggest going with an older vehicle that you’re not afraid to damage the body. Commercial utility vehicles, Land Rovers, and old pickup trucks may serve best in this scenario. The bottom line is, you don’t want anything that’s new because many of these cars require some form of electronic connection to operate properly.  

Everywhere you go there are risks. You need to keep that in mind. So, to prepare for these risks you’ll need essential bug out truck accessories if you expect to make it very long. Even though most bug out vehicles will only serve as transportation from the primary residence to the new residence, you need to prepare for the worst. 

Here’s a list of what the ultimate bug out vehicles have: 

• Advanced survival first aid kit
• Plastic garbage bags 
• Fire extinguisher
• Necessary firearms
• RTE Food or MREs  
• Sealant for tire punctures
• Air compressor
• Flashlights
• Foldable survival shovel
• Spare tire kept at the proper pressure
• Ladder with traction legs
• Fuses, fan belts, wiper fluid
• Seatbelt cutter
• Ratchet straps 
• Roof racks 

While this is the ultimate bug out vehicle setup, this list is not limited. If you feel there are more things you’ll need, add them. Just keep in mind how much weight and effort it will take to move all of this stuff and factor in how much it would hurt you to lose it. 

You need to organize the gear in a way that will allow you to take the most important essentials if you need to abandon the vehicle. All your gear should be loaded: 

• Least important first, most important last

By doing this it will ensure that the most important pieces of equipment such as first aid and tools are with you no matter what. 

Bug Out Vehicle Accessories

What about additional purchases? Since we’re not buying a dedicated vehicle, you might want to make some upgrades along the way. If you’re going to do this, here’s what I recommend. 

Run-Flat Tires – Some tire brands like Bridgestone offer run-flat tires that will travel hundreds of miles even when they’re flat. In fact, you won’t even notice it. They cost a lot more than regular tires and they’re not available for most trucks and SUVs. If you’re bugging out in a small passenger car, these could save your life. 

Roof Racks – A roof rack is much less cumbersome than a trailer and there are even camping systems that allow you to set up a tent on the roof of your SUV. These are highly useful in last-minute situations when you’re forced away from your strategy. I suggest getting a roof rack regardless of your plan because it will provide you with plenty of extra storage space. 

Extended Gas Tanks – Most trucks and SUVs can purchase extended range gas tanks. This is an incredibly powerful decision to make, especially if you live pretty far out there. When things aren’t out of hand yet, it’s not a big deal to stop for gas. Once the SHTF, there will be no gas and trying to stop for any won’t be a viable option. 

Security Tint – Everything is up for grabs when all hell breaks loose so you need to do everything you can to prevent people from breaking into your vehicle. Some people won’t just go around smashing windows, they’ll look for opportunities. If they can look into your windows and see all your stuff, that will increase the chances of them breaking in. Dark 30% tint won’t make it too hard to drive at night but it will also keep prying eyes away from your vehicle. 

Bug Out Vehicle Maintenance 

If you’re using a suburban bug out vehicle, chances are you’re using it for everything. If that’s the case, you’ll want to make sure you’re always prepared by maintaining the vehicle well and planning for the worst at every turn. Keep it in peak condition with the following tips: 

• Always keep the fuel tank half full AT LEAST
• Perform a daily vehicle inspection to ensure there are no fluid leaks
• Check tires weekly for leaks and wear 
• Have a regular maintenance plan for filters, oil changes, fluid, and pressure checks 
• Check in on your bug out supply frequently to make sure nothing has shifted position

If you’re storing food and water in the vehicle, make sure to check on this frequently as well. You should only be storing non-perishables but certain foods can go bad if they experience drastic temperature changes. The same applies for water . 

Your bug out vehicle interior is important as well. Remember that this may serve as your residence for a period of time so you want to do it as comfortably as possible. Be sure to pack things like blankets, sleeping bags, and whatever else you’ll need based on your specific location. If you live somewhere that experiences cold temperatures and you have a family, plan accordingly. Treat it as if the worst-case scenario will always happen. 

The Best Bug Out Vehicle Checklist  

Here’s a quick checklist to follow. This vehicle checklist should apply to most people in the majority of situations. Change or tweak it to fit your needs: 

Gear/Supplies: 

• Everything in the bug out gear list above
• Enough blankets for each person to have one
• Siphon hose
• Non-Perishable food for 14 days
• Water for 30 days and a way to  purify water
• Additional clothing for all
• Phone chargers
• Electric inverter
• Local and regional maps
• $500 in spare cash
• Important documentation

Vehicle Maintenance:  

• Full tank of gas
• Spare tire check

This list is intended as a starting point. These are the essentials that everyone should think about and you can add onto this based on your specific scenario and plans. Given a basic SHTF situation where everything goes right, this can serve as an emergency checklist. 

Don’t forget to always have your BOB (bug out bag) and survival first aid kit on you at all times. 

Driving to the Bug Out Location 

I assume you understand many of the proper procedures for driving to the bug out location. You should already have a planned route to get there and you should be regularly checking on that route to make sure that nothing will cause problems when need be.

You should know exactly how many miles you have to travel, how long it will take to get there, and alternate routes in the event that you can’t take the main one.

Stay away from any major highways, toll roads, or interstates. Travel on as many backroads as possible even if it takes a little bit longer to get there. Make sure you’re trained in defensive driving as well because you’ll need to know how to prevent vehicle hijacking if things get sketchy fast. 

Remember, no matter what, do not get out of the vehicle. If you need to park and get out for any reason, only do it off the road in a secluded location. Keep your bug out bag with you at all times when leaving the vehicle. 

The ultimate goal of bugging out is to drive directly from point A to point B without any stopping. That should be your goal as well.

During periods of  civil unrest  there will be a  lot of people  trying to steal your  survival gear  and screw with your bug out. Don’t let that happen.

Also, if you’re traveling with firearms, do not panic. Do not make the mistake of carrying a loaded weapon in your lap or unsecured on the dash. You need to keep the gun in the holster with the safety off at all times. If someone hits you or sneaks up on you, the weapon could accidentally discharge, shooting you or a family member. 

Always carry it with one round in the chamber. If you have a tactical vest, you’re at an advantage. 

Final Thoughts 

Preparing your bug out vehicle for the big day is an exciting but nerve-wracking experience. This is something we spend so much time thinking about and planning for but when the day comes, we all know that nothing will go according to plan. Do yourself a favor and prep ahead so you’re ready when the SHTF. Keep in mind that skills are critically important for the perfect bug out. Knowing how to siphon gas out of another car may save your life. 

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How to Buy & Build the BEST Bug Out Vehicle on Budget

There’s much information on the web on what to pack, carry or stock up on in terms of survival equipment, supplies, and weapons for bugging out.   

When the situation calls for “bugging out”, what’s largely missing is how you plan to cover the distance.

What kind of vehicle is best for bugging out , and how you equip it to be ready for any scenario.

Quick Navigation:

   A. What is a Bug Out Vehicle    B. Choosing the Right Vehicle    C. Supplies Checklist    D. Buiilding and Accessorizing    E. Best Types of Vehicles to Buy

It’s an understandable oversight. After all, we take for granted how we move about the city or the suburbs while sitting down comfortably in a 4-wheeled vehicle.

So, naturally, they are left out of the picture when it comes to prepping for doomsday scenarios.

But, consider for a moment how far you can go and how fast you can get out if you don’t have an automobile. The radius won’t be as far as you’d like.

Even if you have the best bug out equipment, a well-stocked supply hoard and the latest and the toughest gadgets, it won’t mean as much if you have an unoptimized bug-out vehicle.

A. What Is a Bug Out Vehicle & Why You Might Need One

Having a standard vehicle for the daily commute or for occasional driving won’t be enough. If you’re really serious about building up your perfect bug out plan, you’ll need the perfect bug out vehicle.

Sure, you can load up the bug out equipment in the trunk and drive, but there are aspects in a vehicle that could mean the difference between escaping relatively unharmed to being pinned down and helpless.

Some of the questions you’ll need to answer will be the following- how can I maximize the evacuation process with a vehicle? Are there any weaknesses that should be reinforced? Is there an excellent bug-out vehicle that’s ready from the get-go?

The simple answer is that choosing and building on the best bug out vehicle will depend on your survival situation.

It will certainly vary from person A to person B, and under different circumstances as well. Here, we will try our best to list the most important aspects and put them all together to bring you a cohesive plan for selecting and building the perfect bug out vehicle.

B. Choosing The Right Vehicle For You

1. emp & older cars.

There’s a high chance that one of these days, an electromagnetic pulse from the sun will reach Earth, or an artificial EMP attack will be carried out by terrorists or even governments. History has shown that CMEs have been hitting our planet for billions of years.

How vulnerable is your vehicle against EMP? You wouldn’t know for sure. You’d also have to take into account the scale of the EMP attack. In the best-case scenario, your vehicle would just shut off and work fine when you restart the engine. In the worst-case scenario, your car’s electronic components would be fried and you wouldn’t be able to drive it without replacing them.

And then there’s budget. Expenditure costs will be a major factor when building the perfect bug out vehicle.

Most modern vehicles have some kind of electrical components to help you drive better or safer. Unfortunately, these vehicles are susceptible to EMP attacks. Older vehicles don’t have this type of technology, so they are quite EMP-proof.

The military has found that their massive advanced weapons could be disabled with EMP, so they take extra measures to line their vehicles and command centers with anti-EMP defenses.

2. Military Surplus or Retired Vehicles

If you know someone or have considerable investments, a military surplus vehicle can be an excellent base of operations for bugging out.

The M35 deuce and similarly built field jeeps are a great option because of their overall functionality, durability and reliability. You can find these vehicle types at auctions, online websites and online sales.

3. How Do You Intend To Use The Vehicle?

Let’s ask some vital questions here. What kind of doomsday scenario are you preparing for? How will you use the bug out car?

You would want to build a bug-out vehicle that could get you out of specific TEOTWAWKI events. For example, you’re arming up for a zombie apocalypse. You’re planning to head to an isolated island after a complete societal collapse following an EMP attack.

You have a fortified cabin in the woods. You’re outfitting a bug-out vehicle with high-powered weapons. You could also build a vehicle for escape during or after a tsunami, earthquake, etc.

You should also know that there are some catastrophic situations that are more likely to happen than others. There are also some SHTF events that could prove to be downright deadly if you aren’t prepared for it. In any case, having the foresight to build up a bug out car for these events will be particularly helpful, if not downright beneficial.

4. Know Your Local Terrain

A great part in ensuring survivability in any end of days scenario is knowing your local terrain. Your destination habitat, your indigenous location and the encounters that may happen in-between.

Do you have a clear understanding of the best route to take from here to there when a bug out situation comes? How would you return home during regional disasters and/or global catastrophes?

Of course, roads and paths traveled by most people are often the quickest way to get from point A to point B. But as you would guess, these paths would most likely be the most congested when a disaster happens.

It would almost be impossible to move quickly here, as people will be using the roads to escape impending doom.

You would want to discover and map out alternate routes for these points- places of interest for SHTF scenarios, going to and from your intended bug out location, and going to and from the office. The road that not a lot of people know could prove to be your best way out.

As you find alternate paths and discover great routes, it’s time to get out there. Familiarize yourself with it, and drive out often.

5. Who or What Will You Be Bringing?

You may have singled out a likely catastrophic event and brushed up on local terrain. The next question should be- who or what will you bring?

Who could possibly come along when the end of days arrive? You should also consider the possibility of driving on offroad terrain, and the amount of bug out gear and equipment you’ll be hauling.

6. The Possible Threats and How You Can Handle Them

Make a list of the most likely threats and rank them accordingly. Let’s say you intend to build the best bug out vehicle for a war. You have a military truck out in the garage and drive around town often with it.

People in the neighborhood and the local police know about it. You can expect that a lot of people will try to capture it for their own when an invading army comes.

Sometimes concealment can be your best friend. An unassuming Toyota Landcruiser or a Jeep Grand Cherokee could be outfitted with the best bug out equipment and can still look normal on the outside. Even prepping them for off-road aspects won’t raise any suspicion or interest from most people.

7. The Distance to Travel

Don’t pick out a remote bug out location that you can’t drive to using more than a tank of fuel. A good bug out location will be one that can provide at least 3 alternate routes for getting there. Because time is of the essence, it should not be so far out that it’s impossible to get to.

8. Price / Reliability Ratio

What’s the use of a bug out car if it can’t be relied upon? You may have the best collection of bug out equipment, but you won’t be able to bring any of them if your car refuses to start or experience engine failures often.

Reliability could very well be the most important aspect in choosing a bug out vehicle. If your car has some stock parts you can easily find to and from your bug out location, the better. A popular car that has parts which can be easily found or bought will be most ideal.

Getting a car in tip-top shape mechanically and structurally should be your first mission. The engine, tires, gas tank, doors, roof, etc. should be inspected and repaired if need be. Your car should be ready to go any time you need it.

9. Repair Costs

You’ll also want to consider repair costs in a side by side comparison with a car’s reliability. For example, the latest Honda Accord could prove to be very reliable, but you’ll certainly have a hard time trying to find parts and qualified repair centers for it.

On the flip side, a Chevy truck may not have a high-reliability rating as the aforementioned Honda, but it’s easy to fix and the parts are easy to find.

Part of prepping for doomsday cases is to gain knowledge on your bug out equipment and vehicle. Get some spare parts and tools for fixing. Have a working knowledge on how to repair and fix the most common automobile problems. Keep a manual for your car handy as well.

10. Diesel or Gas Engine?

Gas comes out on top for a simple reasons- it’s much more available than diesel fuel. But don’t count diesel out of the equation yet, because it’s quite easy to make biodiesel right at your own garage.

There are some great websites and books (Biodiesel Basics & Beyond) that you can follow to start producing workable diesel for your vehicle. The concept of creating your own fuel is catching on the mainstream. As such, you can easily find and buy complete biodiesel kits on online stores and specialty shops.

You may have watched from survival movies and apocalyptic zombie series how heroes could use a screwdriver and a hose to siphon fuel from abandoned cars and trucks.

The problem here is that fuel won’t last very long to stay in the tanks. Plus, diesel has the advantage when talking about efficiency and flexibility. In certain cases and emergency situations, people can make use of jet fuel, kerosene or heating oil to run their diesel engine cars.

The availability of these types of fuel increases your chances of being more mobile than a gas engine car. Moreover, diesel has a notably longer lifespan than gasoline. You can easily find and buy fuel stabilizers nowadays. Add them on to diesel and you can extend its life about 10 times more than gasoline.

11. 2WD vs AWD vs 4WD Capabilities: How Important Are They?

Terrain handling features can make or break your chances of bugging out survival. How likely is that you’ll need to drive off-road in TEOTWAWKI situations? A lot.

A non-4WD vehicle breaks down easily when placed out of its element. A 4WD car will present more terrain options, which in turn can get you to your location much more quickly and safely.

Size comparison gets a bit tricky here. Automobile size won’t improve driving in off-road terrain. The car’s drivetrain and clearance can also be a significant factor in some cases. Improve your vehicle in these aspects by modifying the wheels for accommodating bigger tires, waterproofing the engine and upgrading your hubs.

12. Gas Mileage

The picture of charging through enemy territory in half a tank or something similar is very appealing, but that sort of setup requires a huge amount of fuel.

In most instances, those who buy fringe vehicles specifically made for SHTF situations won’t consider gas mileage an important factor. Preppers may have an old truck that can easily be repaired and are very resistant against EMP waves, but they won’t go very far on a full tank.

You won’t get to your fallout shelter if it’s location is 400 miles from home and your vehicle’s mileage can only go 300 on a full tank. Gas mileage drops considerably if you’re driving on an off-road terrain. A 10 mpg car will be reduced to just 3 MPGs as you leave the asphalt.

We’ve mentioned before that gas will be scarce and it will be a valuable commodity in doomsday events. You may not have the time to siphon them off cars, or make your own (diesel), but what you can do is get a bug out vehicle that has a good range of somewhere around 23 to 27 MPG for efficient gas mileage. You’ll get one less thing to worry about.

13. Manual VS. Automatic Transmission

Some people swear by stick driving. There’s some truth to manual being better, especially in the face of SHTF events. Manual transmission is more reliable, generally has more mileage and are definitely easier to repair and fix than an AT vehicle.

Furthermore, having a manual transmission allows you to push the vehicle in order to start it in case of lost keys or a burnt out ignition.

C. Checklist of Supplies and Storage Space

What are the things you need to bring in order to increase your chances of survival? Here’s a definitive checklist of supplies you’ll need. Don’t forget to bring your bug out bag to carry your stuff along.

1. An Excellent Bug Out Bag:   Go for the best one you can find, because this is the storage that will carry everything you need to survive. Only carry as much climate-appropriate clothing as necessary.

2. Water And Food:   These may vary depending on your environment and other things. The most basic would be stainless steel containers of water. Portable water filters and purification tablets are some of the most versatile tools you can purchase.

Keep a few reliable food sources in your stash. Calorie Dense Food Bars, Freeze Dried and Military Meals are ideal choices. Include tools that can help you gather or hunt food out in the wild.

3. Weapons: The Four Best Guns For Bugging Out

Taurus Judge

One of the most versatile handguns available. The Judge can fit in both .410 and .45 Colt shotshells. The size and heft is particularly impressive, but it’s still smaller than a full-on carbine and rifle.

The Taurus is a respectable gun that can be used for hunting game, and can double as a powerful self-defense firearm. Chamber in .410 rounds to quickly kill small game, or slot in the .45 Colt shells for adequate personnel stopping power. The versatility of this weapon has earned it the “jack of all trades” title. In short, the Taurus Judge can be the weapon you want it to be.

Marlin 70PSS Stainless

Stocking up on a .22 LR rifle is certainly useful in many SHTF scenarios. The Marlin 70PSS is an excellent weapon if you know how to fully use it. It’s as versatile as the Taurus Judge with a few beneficial bug out features thrown in.

The Marlin 70PSS shines in cases where space is a premium. The tack driver is stainless steel and packs in quite nicely inside the included all-weather case.

Assembling and disassembling can take a few minutes at first, but practice the act and you can narrow the assembly and disassembly time within seconds. The Marlin 70PSS is an autoloading rifle that you can bring along whether you’re inside or outside your bug out vehicle.

Ruger 10/22 Takedown

The newest 10/22 Ruger Takedown is a better version of the stock Ruger 10/22 semiautomatic rifle in that it can be easily stored and transported. A divided rifle (each measuring about 18.5″ long) should be small enough to fit into your preferred bug out bag.

The newer model also has a threaded barrel, which allows you to add on a suppressor for a silent kill. It has all the great features of the regular Ruger 10/22- top notch reliability, accuracy and anyone can get familiar with it after a few uses.

The .22 long rifle chambering puts it in the big game hunting category. It also has a great stopping force if ever you’re forced to defend yourself. Overall, the qualities of the Ruger 10/22 Takedown makes it one of the best bug out weapons to bring with you.

Kel-Tec PMR 30

What stands out is the PMR 30’s ability to hold in its chamber 30 ammo rounds of the Winchester Magnum. It’s also incredibly lightweight. The one-two punch provides enough benefits for those who want to pack in the best weapons as they bug out.

Though it might not be able to hold its own in the self-defense or in the big game hunting category, the Kel-Tec PMR 30 shines in other SHTF scenarios.

You get two fully-loaded magazines (for a total of 60 ammo rounds total) weighing in just within 25 ounces and a greater stopping force than the .22 LR, and you’ve got a gun that has great stamina and weight.

4. Ammunition:   A good firearm is the one that makes the most sense. It should easily fit into a pack and handle wear and tear. You can go for lighter ammunition, such as the .22LR.

Consider the following- 200 22LR rounds weigh about 1.5 lbs, as compared to 200 44 Magnum rounds which weigh more than 9 lbs. It’s definitely wiser to pack a .22 takedown rifle than a handgun if you are planning to bring just one gun.

5. Night Vision:   This is for when you need the sight advantage at night. Bugging out usually means staying stealthy and being under the radar.

6. Fire Starters:   Fire is an essential part of survival. When you’re bugging out in the wilderness or don’t have access to ready electricity, a reliable fire starter can potentially save you and your loved one’s lives.

7. Binoculars:   See the threats before they see you. Look in distance to gauge and plan the next course of action. Binoculars will be your go-to equipment for scouting and recon.

8. Camping Supplies:  Keep your camping supplies for leisure outdoor trips separate from what you’d bring with you in case a TEOTWAWKI scenario comes.

If you can, put in camping supplies on different bags, each depending on doomsday scenarios such as EMP attacks, earthquakes or civil unrest. Carry out simulations to round up the supplies you might have forgotten.

9. Fuel Canisters:   Applicable fuel canisters come in handy if you intend to use a portable stove for a few days.

10. Tow Straps:   Comes in with the trusty winch. You’ll need these to pull out your friends when their vehicle hits a ditch.

11. CB Radio:   Communication is key so you would know what’s happening in the world.

12. Window Cutter:   Store these inside your bug out vehicle. In some instances, you might be needing these if you want to escape from your vehicle in a hurry. Cut stuck seatbelts and windows to save you and your companion’s life.

13. Tire Chains:   This becomes essential if you live in an area where there’s lots of snow. Acquire a trusty ice scraper as well.

14. Jump Starter:  Have one around, and never worry about getting stranded with a dead battery.

15. Basic Tool Kit:   All the survival basics packed in one tough kit. These should contain a stanley knife, duct tape, a screwdriver, a wrench, pliers and cable ties.

16. Emergency Blankets:  Essential to keeping yourself warm and dry.

17. Spares: Spare batteries, spare tires, spare tools and your vehicle’s spare parts. Always do a routine check of your tires in case you get flat during a catastrophic event.

Put the spare parts on your vehicle or safe in a box. The box should hold small important items that are essential for driving.

D. Building and Equipping Your Bug Out Vehicle

Your perfect bug out vehicle can be considered a tool, just like many of your weapons and survival equipment. It can all boil down to how well you can prepare for the specific scenario you’re expecting and how you can best adapt to that situation.

Of course, being versatile is part of bugging out, so you’ll need to spread your resources for a few likely contingencies as well.

1. Engine and Transmission Mods: According to Trucktrend.com, the most abused part of a truck (especially diesel trucks, and we can assume SUVs in some cases), is the transmission.  Many used trucks have thousands of towing miles racked up on their transmissions which leads to severe wear.

If buying used, you’ll want to have the transmission carefully inspected and put to some simple tests before buying.

The key is to buy a vehicle with a transmission already in good shape, then buy a transmission kit which usually includes disc converter, new clutches, and hydraulic upgrades.

Much can done to improve the performance and reliability of an engine, but consider the basics:

• a.  Air intake and filters
• b. Throttle body
• c. Exahust systems
• e. Tuner and superchips
• f. Superchargers

2. Larger Wheels:  The larger, the better. The pros cannot be understated- fit in larger brakes for better control, have a smaller side wall and you get less drop if it gets flattened.

3. Performance Tires:   Mudders and performance tires will get you more traction and better pull on the off-road. Pack in a spare in case you get a blowout.Well-inflated performance tires will get you to your bug out location than an ordinary one.

As a side note, the proper way to maintain them is to constantly check for pressure levels all year round. Check the treads as well. Rotate the wheels and tires for every 5,000 miles covered.

4. Mounting / Weapons Storage:   Being able to quickly access you weapons and put shots on target will largely determine if you will succeed at defending yourself, loved ones, and property. Having quality, dependable mounting and storage solutions for your weapons is a good idea to prepare for unknown threats.

5. Fuel Canisters:   Make the best use of that extra space by outfitting your bug out vehicle with a secondary fuel tank. Or, purchase fuel cans and mount them onto the bumper or the roof rack. The same principle can be applied to your weapons.

6. Tow Package:  BOVs can certainly benefit from trailer light connections and a towing package with hitches. Sedans, trucks and SUVs do have towing capacities, and attaching a utility trailer will greatly expand your essential resources.

7. Winch:  Getting stuck while offroading isn’t an uncommon situation. This is why you’ll need a winch stowed away on your bug out vehicle. Calling AAA to get unstuck won’t be an option in SHTF events.

8. Brush Guard:  Bumper guards can do a lot of useful stuff while attached to your bug out vehicle. Hold winches, additional lights and acting as a protective barrier are just some of them. Go with a Warn Industries package if you want the best of the best.

9. Armor Plating: Anticipating a war and firefight? Then you’d best prepare with armored plating for your vehicle. Retrofit with ballistics armor for good measure.

10. Skid Plate:  Skid plates serve the purpose of protecting the underside of your vehicle from damaging stones and larger debris. It can stand between you making it safely to your bug out location and being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

11. Roof Rack:  Adding a mod that will put some extra storage space is always a good thing for SHTF events. While some vehicles already come with a luggage rack, put in something beefier by upgrading to a cargo carrier that adds substantial real estate for your SUV or truck.

12. High Power Lighting:  Lighting can come in very handy in almost all emergency situations. Say you’re stuck in a pitch-black night and in the midst of a raging thunderstorm. The great thing about technology and LED lighting in particular is that you can get high power lighting for a reasonable cost. Some of them can churn out more than 24k of bright lumens.

13. Topper :  Finally, get a topper if your bugging out in a truck so you can keep your gear safe and in optimal condition during worse weather conditions.

14. Suspension and Lift Kits:  Suspension and lift kits allow you to run larger tires and gain valuable ground clearance to tackle off road terrain with ease.  Kits are available for nearly all makes and models.

E. The 10 Best Bug Out Vehicle Types

The cream of the crop when it comes to bugging out of dodge. All the aspects we talked about in the previous sections are here.

The information displayed here will help you make a choice on which one you’ll need for a particular TEOTWAWKI event you’re planning for:

1. Military Surplus Vehicles or Humvees: A surplus Hummer is an instant BOV with all the trimmings you can ask for. The newer model OshKosh Tactical Protector Vehicle is a souped-up version of the Hummer. With it, you get the Hummer’s pedigree and the super stable and strong form to power through any SHTF event.

2. 4WD Trucks w/ Crew Cabs: We mentioned earlier how a crew cab mod can be essential when you’re building the perfect bug out vehicle. You can put in a cargo top, improve the suspensions and have an excellent BOV even when electricity is not present.

3. Pick Up Trucks or Full Size SUVs:   You can’t beat pickups and full-sized SUVs when it comes to value for money. This category is an all-rounder when it comes to being your BOV.

4. Campa EVS:  The littler sibling of the Unicat Expeditionary concept with a hefty mid-sized truck frame.

5. Jeep: There are several Jeep models that have 4WD capabilities and prime real estate. Offroad enthusiasts should consider the Jeep models. Customizers will salivate over the massive selection of mods, accessories and parts that you can customize the Jeep with.

6. 4 Wheel or AWD SUVs:   SUVs aren’t all made equal. The best ones that make excellent bug out vehicles are the following- Chevy Tahoe, the older Ford Expedition vehicles, the Jeep and Nissan and the Toyota 4Runner.

7. Sportsmobile Adventure Vehicles:   Here’s a checklist of what makes a good Adventure vehicle for bugging out. It shouldn’t be expensive and have offroad capabilities. It should be rugged, tough and fast. Moreover, the capacity range should be about twice your bug out location and carry you and the essential gear comfortably.

8. Mini Vans:  Don’t underestimate the loading power of the mini van. You can see them streaking on the road, carrying precious belongings and everything hanging out precariously!

9. Motorcycles:  For when you embark on a lone survivor trip into tight territory. Useful for scavenging or hunting for supplies and game.

10. Boats:   If you live near a river way or the ocean, bug out boats are absolutely essential where a water way may provide the best escape route.  It could be as simple as a loaded out canoe or john boat.

In sum, a bug out vehicle should fit with how you intend on using it given the various SHTF scenarios you are most likely to encounter.

It’s OK to start small with purchasing a reliable, used 4×4 truck or SUV, and add accessories to your vehicle over time in the order of importance (spare, extra fuel capacity, winch, etc) – unless the threat is imminent, you don’t need to go all in at once and build the perfect but out vehicle in record time.

Also, consider if a bug out vehicle should even be your top priority in the grand scheme of peppeing.

If we missed anything please let know in the comments.  Also, what is your favorite bug out make and model and what would you do to it?

14 Best Bushcraft Knives for 2023 Survival Buyers Guide

15 best edc rugged survival flashlights, 5 thoughts on “how to buy & build the best bug out vehicle on budget”.

My bug out vehicle would be a jeep. I would try to make it water proof.

Car battery wouldn’t be fried after an EMP? Also about the manual transmissions, if you have lost your keys for the vehicle you will not be able to start it. Ignition must be in the on position to bump start it

I would reccmmend a bigger trans cooler and a higher capacity trans pan. That will help keep the trans temps cooler. I would skip on the snorkel. For one thing once you get in deep ish water or mud you will probably drown a computer and will be screwed anyway. I would also not with any land rover . parts are way to hard to find.

Depends on which land rover or range rover you go with.. Most of them now run a ford motor in them.. So most of it will interchange.. Also a lift kit for one of these is only 80.00 bucks at most.. Since they are air ride.. Takes about a hour or less to lift.. Also having four wheels that are IFS makes it nice..

for me, a bug out vehicle needs to carry me, family, couple of friends and as much supplies as possible from the suburbs to out in the middle of no where it needs to be able to run from trouble, soak up enough small arms fire to survive an ambush and be able to bull through a quick road block of a couple of cars pulling across the road i’m thinking something more Gauntlet bus/a-team build truck then mountain climbing 4×4 off road vehicle an older design vehicle with minimum electronics and maximum part replace ability like a diesel truck/garbage truck/uhaul/panel truck

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Choosing a Bug Out Vehicle & What To Pack

Bug Out – Defined:

A phrase being heard more commonly these days is ‘bug out’. To ‘bug out’ means to leave in a hurry. It’s also said to be a British military term that means to “move away from your current location very quickly (often under fire) because your position has been compromised by the enemy”.

More and more people these days are starting to think about preparedness and survival. Natural disasters have caused people to have to flee from their homes, and there is always the risk of man made disasters and terrorism.

Not sure what I’m talking about? Consider these events that have happened around the globe:

Natural Disasters:

• Earthquakes
• Snow Storms

Other Disasters:

• Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant meltdown – Japan
• Evacuations due to gas leaks, train derailments, or other critical incidents

Terrorism & Riots:

• 911 U.S. Terrorist Attacks
• 1992 Los Angeles California Riots

Here’s some photos for a refresher:

(Earthquake)

(Tornado aftermath)

(Hurricane Katrina aftermath)

(Ice storms)

(Chicago snow storm – 2010)

(Blizzard 1978 – Northeastern U.S.)

(New York terrorist attack aftermath)

(1992 Los Angeles California Riots)

Bugging Out From Weather Emergencies:

Bugging out and surviving weather emergencies is probably the most likely situation you will find yourself in. Whether it’s surviving in your vehicle because you became stuck in bad weather, or you’re trying to leave before the forecasted weather hits. If you live in a coastal state where there are threats of hurricanes, you could find yourself having to leave the area before the storm hits. Do you have enough fuel in your vehicle to get through all the traffic trying to leave?

(Traffic trying to leave Houston Texas before hurricane Rita)

What about snow? Are you prepared to survive in your vehicle if you get stranded in the snow?

Civil Unrest & Rioting:

Since 2006, there has been an increase in riots and civil unrest as a result of the fallout from economic collapse. From the United Kingdom, to continental Europe, to the Middle East and North Africa, almost every corner of the globe has experienced social dislocation. The United States is also suffering from a poor economy and people dissatisfied with the government.

There is a threat that we could have civil unrest here in the U.S. and the government has been making plans to deal with it. If you’re in an area where there is a large civil disturbance, you could find the military coming in and scooping people right up off of the street and placing them in detention camps.

You only need to look back at the Los Angeles riots to be reminded of why you should leave the area. If a riot started where you live, are you prepared to leave in a hurry? Do you really want to stay in the middle of all the violence?

Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) And It’s Effects On Vehicles:

It’s important to talk about EMP’s and how they effect vehicles. EMP’s can be caused by a nuclear bomb detonation, or by man made EMP bombs.

When detonated, an EMP weapon produces a pulse of energy that creates a powerful electromagnetic field capable of short-circuiting a wide range of electronic equipment, particularly computers, satellites, radios, radar receivers and even civilian traffic lights. It Since EMP is electromagnetic energy traveling at the speed of light, all of the vulnerable electronic equipment in the detonation zone could be affected simultaneously. The EMP may couple with electrical/electronic systems to produce damaging current and voltage surges.

A 1.4 Megaton bomb launched about 250 miles above Kansas would destroy most of the electronics that were not protected in the entire Continental United States. During the brief return to atmospheric testing in 1962, a 1.4 megaton nuclear weapon was detonated over Johnston Island at an altitude of about 250 miles.  The effects of EMP were observed in Hawaii, 800 miles east of the detonation.

Man made EMP bombs could be set off by terrorists in largely populated areas that could create localized damage.

EMP’s can destroy a vehicles electronic ignition systems, and ignition chips are also vulnerable. Because of this, newer computer controlled cars may stop running, but older points type distributor ignitions, and many diesels up to the mid 1990’s that didn’t have electronically controlled ignitions, may still run.

Also, the early Ford Duraspark ignitions, which would likely be damaged by an EMP, would be pretty simple to replace (fix) compared to a computer controlled vehicle with a lot of electronics and sensors.

It is important to note that an EMP blast would likely blow all of the fuses in your vehicle.

With this being said, you may want to consider a bug out vehicle with an older ignition system that would be easier to repair if it were damaged by an EMP. On an older Ranger or Bronco II, this may mean keeping a spare ignition module, voltage regulator, and fuses in a safe storage container. 

A galvanized metal trash can could be a very effective electromagnetic shield.  The interior of the body of the galvanized metal trash can should be lined with some material (cardboard) to electrically insulate items stored inside the container from the metal exterior. Do not place any insulation at a point where it would interfere with the electrical connection between the metal lid and the metal body of the trash can.  It would be a good idea to wrap items placed inside the metal trash can with a layer of aluminum foil.

Solar Storms:

Among all of the kinds of electromagnetic disturbances that can occur, though, it is important to keep things in perspective.  It is possible that a nuclear EMP may never happen where you live.  On the other hand, a severe solar storm that will destroy most of the world’s power grids appears nearly inevitable at this point. An extremely large solar storm, though, would induce geomagnetic currents that could destroy a substantial fraction of the very largest transformers on the power grid (possibly over much of the world).  If this happened, electric power loss due to a large solar storm would be out for a period of years and possibly decades.  Unlike nuclear EMP, such a solar storm is an eventual inevitability.

Are You Prepared To Leave?

So what if the time comes that you need to ‘bug out’ and leave your home? Is your vehicle ready? What kind of vehicle will it be? Do you have supplies to survive when you leave?

Choosing The Right Bug Out Vehicle (BOV):

Will you have a vehicle specifically set up as a BOV, or will you take whatever’s available? How do you choose the right vehicle as a BOV?

A good BOV should meet these basic requirements:

Large enough to transport your whole family

It should be a 4×4 (4-Wheel Drive) with adequate ground clearance

Have enough room to store 72-hours worth of food and water

Enough room to provide you with shelter

Other things to consider are:

How much fuel does it carry, and what kind of miles does it get (Miles Per Gallon)

Is it going to operate after an EMP (Electro-Magnetic Pulse – caused by nuclear bomb blasts or a terrorist EMP bomb)

Does it have the ability to tow a trailer

Your BOV should be no longer than 22 feet to allow it to fit in a single parking spot or driveway. You don’t want to limit your parking options.

It Doesn’t Have To Be Something That Will Survive An EMP:

More than likely, your bug out vehicle will be used to escape or survive natural disasters. Although an EMP is a potential threat, it’s more likely that your bug out vehicle will be used for escaping / surviving natural disasters, or fleeing from civil unrest. Any vehicle could be your BOV, although some people purchase vehicles with BOV in mind.  

Vehicle Examples:

(Ford Bronco II)

Would you use a Ford Bronco II? It’s a small vehicle that would be easy to get through traffic with. It comes as a 4×4 with a V-6 engine that could be ran as, or converted to a Duraspark Ignition (no computer) or points type distributor ignition to make it EMP tolerable. It would only be ideal for (2) people even though it seats (4). It may not provide room for supplies for all (4) people, but has adequate room to store 72-hours worth of supplies for (2) people.

(Ford Explorer)

The Ford Explorer can carry (4) people with room in the back to carry 72-hours of supplies. It would not survive an EMP though unless you swapped out the engine. It also comes as a 4×4 and would get decent fuel mileage.

(Ford Ranger with a camper shell)

The Ford Ranger can carry (2) people comfortably. The extended cab could carry (4) people, but the rear (2) jump seats aren’t that comfortable. With a shell over the bed, you could use it for shelter to sleep in, and would have room for storage. You can get it with 4×4 and a 4-cylinder or V-6 engine. It would get good gas mileage, but the newer models wouldn’t survive an EMP. An early 80’s model with a 4-cylinder or 2.8L V-6 could run on a Duraspark ignition or points distributor ignition. Also, there were a few diesel models available in the early 1980’s.

(Wildernest Camper on Ford Ranger)

(Small camper)

A small camper like this could be setup and ready to go at a moments notice. Note that it sits higher and offers more ground clearance and better departure angles (rear bumper won’t get caught on anything) than a traditional camper. 

(Ford F-350)

A big truck like a Ford F-350 could get over most obstacles if built correctly. These vehicles don’t get very good mileage but are powerful. They could be had up to 1994 with a 7.3L IDI diesel that uses a mechanical lift pump (fuel pump) and no real electronic ignition system to survive an EMP, or you could build one with a V-8 and Duraspark or points style ignition.

(Truck camper)

Your fullsize truck could use either a shell over the bed for shelter, or a camper like the one shown above.

(Ford E-350 Ambulance)

How about an old Ford E-350 1-ton ambulance with either a 460 V8 or a 7.3L diesel? Same as mentioned above about the F-350 trucks, but these vehicles would allow you to have shelter and build it like a camper, with the benefit of not having to get out of the vehicle to enter the rear.

And you can even get them in a 4×4 model.

This  1-ton Ford F-350 Quigley 4×4 ambulance/box with a diesel could be a great platform for a camper. It’s strong enough to pull a trailer behind it as well.

The Sportsmobile is the ultimate vehicle for bugging out. It’s a 4×4 van with a camper conversion built to be capable of traveling off-road.

Ford Excursion (above) and the Chevy Suburban (below). The Suburban’s can be found cheap with parts readily available. They each come with either a gas or diesel motor and have plenty of room for (4) people and supplies. They can be a lot harder to stop and flip over by an angry mob as well.

(School bus)

Maybe an old school bus? Think about it. They’re cheap, basic, strong, can carry the whole family, plus provide living space, and could be hard to stop by anyone wanting to stop you on the highway and rob you.

(Pinzgauer 712K)

If you’re looking for the ultimate BOV that can handle difficult terrain, you should look at what the military uses. They need vehicles that can cross difficult terrain during a war and hold up to the abuse.

The Pinzgauer first generation model (710, 712) was produced until 2000 by Steyr-Daimler-Puch in the city of Graz, Austria. It was, and is in use in many armies around the world like Austria, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Albania, and Bolivia.

Both the 4×4 and 6×6 models can tow 11,023 lb on road; and 3,968 lb, respectively, off-road. It has a range of over 249 mi on one tank of fuel, or nearly 435 mi with the optional 125 liter tank. The first generation Pinzgauer is available in both four-wheel drive (4×4) (model 710) and six-wheel drive (6×6) (model 712) versions

The Cool Factor of this ’74 Pinzgauer 712 is off the charts. Built by the team at Off Road Logic, it features a  Volkswagen  2.0L four-cylinder TDI turbodiesel engine, five-speed enclosed driveline, 6×6 all-wheel drive, on-the-fly lockers, Dick Cepek custom Hummer wheels, Toyo Open Country 33-inch tires, and a custom exoskeleton. Inside, it has a slew of mods including Race Craft suspension seats. All this and great approach, departure, and ramp-over angles, too.

(Tracked carrier)

This tracked carrier is going to go pretty much anywhere you want it to. Imagine having a camper body on the back? Or a metal container converted to a camper?

What Should You Pack?:

So you have your BOV and your ready to leave. You need to make sure you have:

3-day supply of food

Water (1-gallon per person per day)

Personal hygiene items such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, tooth paste & brush

Toilet paper & towels

First aid kit & any necessary medications

Sleeping bags

Flashlight (extra batteries)

Lighter/matches

Battery powered AM/FM radio (extra batteries)

Cash (Credit card and ATM machines will not be working if power is out

You can also check out  www.ready.gov  for more useful information.

More Articles:

The Ultimate Bug Out Vehicle Setup, Supplies and Gear (With Checklist)

Diane Vuković

April 3, 2024

33 Comments

Like most of my peers, I don’t plan on sticking around if SHTF. As much as I love my home, I plan on getting out of dodge as quickly as possible. To make this happen, I have:

• Bug Out Bags packed and ready to go (see my BOB list )
• An emergency communication plan so I can quickly get my family together.
• Practiced a step-by-step bugging out plan with my family.
• A reliable bug out vehicle

Table Of Contents

Let’s Be Rational!

Fuel requirements:, ease of repair:, imperviousness to damage and safety:, accessibility and practicality:, 2. truck or suv, 3. campers/rv/vans, 4. motorcycle, you always need a plan b, prepare your bug out vehicle, guideline 1. you need more than your bug out bag, guideline 2. don’t touch your bug out bag items, guideline 3. you’ll have some duplicate items, vehicle emergency items (with amazon links), signaling and communication gear, shelter, warmth, and clothing items, navigation items, water and food, survival and personal protection items, personal hygiene items, items for alternative vehicles, bug out vehicle to-do checklist.

It should be obvious, but disaster prepping is never the same for two people. We live in different areas, face different threats, have different gear needs, and so forth…

Instead of going berserk trying to choose one “ultimate” bug out vehicle for all SHTF disaster situations, consider the following:

• Look at the worst-case scenarios you think are worth your time and effort to plan for.
• Will roads be passable?
• Will fuel be available?
• What security situations will you need to plan for?
• Then, look at the MOST LIKELY disaster scenarios. Consider how these will affect your mobility.
• Find a bug-out vehicle that suits your worst-case and most likely disaster scenarios.

Let’s repeat that because it is crucial:

Your bug out vehicle should suit both your  worst-case and  most-likely  disaster scenarios!

Bug Out Vehicle Considerations

I’ve narrowed the parameters to a few key considerations to make choosing a bug out vehicle easier. Look at these and see how they suit your worst-case and most likely disaster scenarios.

Is the Bug Out Vehicle big enough to carry all your team members? Is it big enough to hold all of your gear? Can the vehicle be used as a shelter?

Does the vehicle require fuel? What kind and how much?

Will the bug out vehicle be able to get you out of a dangerous situation quickly?

Can the bug out vehicle handle rugged terrain such as broken glass on streets, snow and ice, flooding, and backroads?

What are likely repair issues? Do you know how to make these repairs? Are spare parts readily available?

Will the vehicle be easily damaged by physical threats such as bullets, looting, or the elements? Will the car be able to protect you from these threats as well? Is the vehicle armored?

Is the bug out vehicle within your budget? Will buying the vehicle detract from other parts of your disaster prepping budget?

Can you keep the bug out vehicle somewhere close by? Can you use the car regularly?

The Top 6 Bug Out Vehicle Choices and their Pros/Cons

Many more vehicles could be used for bugging out, and there are many different kinds of cars, SUVs, trucks, etc.

I’ve chosen to focus on the main categories of vehicles because they share the same pros/cons. Hopefully, this will help you make a decision suitable to your  needs.

• You probably already have one, and it is likely to be nearby when a disaster strikes
• Can be used as a shelter
• Can carry a decent amount of gear
• Depending on the model, spare parts might be easy to find
• Probably not 4WD; can’t handle challenging terrain
• Easily damaged by terrain or external threats
• Could be affected by EMP
• Requires gasoline, which might not be available
• Must know how to make repairs

• Handles tough terrain
• Protects occupants
• Can be armored
• Can be used on a regular basis
• Holds a lot of gear
• Has high fuel requirements
• Might make you stand out and become a target for looters
• Must know how to make repairs; spare parts might not be available
• A good setup will cost a lot!

• Make a great shelter, including for long-term survival
• Many are already equipped with features like solar panels, bathrooms, and kitchens
• Vast amounts of space for people and gear
• Can be armored and equipped with protection elements such as gun turrets
• Suitable for large groups (5+)
• Rugged, off-road campers are available
• Very high fuel consumption
• Very conspicuous – sticks out like a sore thumb
• Many models don’t handle backroads very well
• Hard to maneuver; difficult or impossible to turn around on narrow roads
• Much slower speed than an SUV or car
• Must have a place to park it
• Isn’t used on a regular basis, so you probably won’t be driving it if a disaster hits while you are away from home
• Very expensive

*See these Rugged, Off-Grid Campers ! They will have you drooling.

• Can handle many types of terrain and obstacles, including navigating through rubble, roadblocks, and backroads
• Low fuel consumption requirements
• Easy to hide at base camp
• More likely to be EMP-proof
• Relatively easy and fast to make repairs
• Aren’t able to carry much gear unless you use a trailer, but the trailer will negatively affect your speed and which terrain you can handle
• No protection from the weather or external threats like projectiles
• Not suitable for snowy or icy conditions
• Can’t be used as a shelter
• Only suitable for 1-2 people
• You probably don’t use it every day, so it might not be nearby when disaster strikes
• Unless you already enjoy riding a motorcycle, it means a significant additional expense

• Requires no fuel
• Can get around roadblocks and navigate through traffic jams
• Could be used on small trails which are inaccessible to larger vehicles
• Impervious to EMP
• Can easily and quickly make repairs
• Very affordable
• Manual labor to go anywhere – which means using much-needed calories
• Must be in good physical condition to use; injury would immobilize you
• Only suitable for 1-2 people (as with tandem bikes or child bike seats)
• Saddlebags only able to hold limited amounts of gear
• Tires easily pop on broken glass and fire

• Only option suitable for severe flooding
• Can hold lots of gear
• Can be rigged to serve as a shelter
• Good option if you already live near a river or waterway
• Can run on fuel or with paddles
• With motor, a boat is very fast
• Require specialized knowledge to operate, maintain, and repair
• Could be very difficult to repair in disaster situations
• Will need to waterproof all gear
• Inflatable boats are easily damaged
• Boats that are more impervious to damage are costly
• Unless you live very close to where the boat is docked, it won’t be easily accessible

When it comes to bugging out and disaster preparation, you always need a Plan B (and ideally a Plan C, D, etc.). This applies to your Bug Out Vehicle as well.

For example:

• Plan A: You use your 4WD SUV as your bug out vehicle because you already use it as your everyday vehicle (i.e., no additional costs to you); it meets your space requirements and can handle most terrain.
• Plan B: You realize that the SUV might be unable to get around roadblocks or traffic jams. So, you buy mountain bikes for each family member and equip them with saddlebags. When SHTF, you quickly mount those bikes on your SUV’s rack. You leave your SUV and switch to the bike when facing an obstacle.
• Plan C: Your SUV could be rendered useless by EMP. In this case, you evacuate on the mountain bikes.
• Plan D: Your SUV or bike is stolen. You set off on foot to your bug out location.

But let’s take things a step further. Once you’ve chosen your Bug Out Vehicle, it is time to prepare it for bugging out.

Honestly, prepping your vehicle for bugging out doesn’t take much time. Many items on this Bug Out Vehicle Checklist should be in your vehicle anyway.

Doomsday may never happen, but breakdowns inevitably will!

But if something terrible occurs, you want to ensure your vehicle is ready to go.

Numerous disasters have taught us that the key to survival is fleeing early .

Each minute you save, beating the crowds, roadblocks, and looters drastically increases your chances of getting out unscathed.

Guidelines for Packing

It is highly recommended that you keep one Bug Out Bag at home and another in your vehicle. The reasoning is that disaster could strike while you aren’t at home .

A lot of people also keep BOBs at work too.

But just because you’ve got a BOB in your vehicle doesn’t mean your vehicle is “ready.”

The real benefit of bugging out by vehicle is that you can carry tons more gear. Why limit yourself to what’s in your BOB when you can load more?

So pack as much survival gear in your vehicle as is reasonable!

Consider your Bug Out Bag items separate from your Bug Out Vehicle items. You should only  use your BOB items if you abandon your vehicle and have to set off on foot .

Why? Consider this scenario: A major terrorist attack has just occurred, and you flee by car. Your BOB is on the seat next to you. You’ve got 50 gallons of water in the car, but it is in the trunk and in large jugs. So, you decide to drink the bottled water from your BOB. “I’ll refill them later,” you tell yourself.

But then you notice an overturned car in front of you. You are forced to stop. Seconds later, it becomes apparent that the roadblock was put there by a gang of masked hoodlums quickly approaching your vehicle…

You grab your BOB, abandon the vehicle, and set off on foot through your Route B.

The problem is that your Bug Out Bag now lacks water. If only you’d drunk the water in your trunk instead of depleting your limited BOB supplies!

You will end up with some duplicates because you are treating your BOB items as separate from your vehicle items.

For example, I’ve got a survival knife in my glove box and one in my Bug Out Bag. I’ve also got duplicates of survival food and water – there’s just tons more of it in my trunk than in my BOB.

Not everyone can afford duplicates to keep in their BOV and BOB. Since you should keep a BOB at home and in your car, and you need additional items for your vehicle, you can end up with triple the number of some things.

When budget is an issue, you can remove items from your BOB to use – just put them back immediately.

Better yet, focus on everyday carry survival items  so you always have survival gear on you.

Bug Out Vehicle Checklist

This Bug Out Vehicle checklist is for people fleeing in a car, truck, SUV, or other “traditional” vehicle. At the end, you’ll also see some items for alternative Bug Out Vehicles.

You might not need everything on the checklist, but start thinking about Worst-Case Scenarios, such as if your BOV got a flat tire or ran out of gas.

These types of thought processes are what help us get prepared!

Note this checklist is available as part of our checklist bundle .

• Mechanic tool kit
• Spare bulbs
• Spare windshield wipers
• Spark plug and socket
• Fuel canister – read about the shelf life of gas in a can
• Siphon and pump – Read about how to siphon gas from a car
• Tire chains
• Tire repair kit
• Air compressor
• Jumpstarter
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Transmission fluid
• Washer fluid
• Salt or kitty litter
• Rope and bungee cord
• Small broom and dustpan (for cleaning up broken glass)
• Fire extinguisher
• RTV sealant
• Heavy gloves
• Vehicle cover (preferably camouflaged)

*If you are going to transport extra fuel, the safest way is on your roof rack or a rack on the back of your vehicle. Never leave extra fuel inside your vehicle.

• Phone charger (see solar phone charger reviews )
• Reflective vest
• Emergency warning triangles
• Emergency radio
• Lighter and matches
• Tarp or  tent
• Winter clothing
• Change of clothes and extra socks
• Blankets and/or sleeping bags
• Registration
• Vehicle repair manual
• Contact list with phone numbers
• Firearm CWP permit
• Bottled water – the more, the better!
• Water filter
• Non-perishable food – see emergency foods for your vehicle
• Cooking pot
• Emergency stove
• Pepper spray
• Bolt cutters (really useful when trying to get your vehicle through chain blockades)
• 12-volt emergency power supply
• Seatbelt cutter + glass breaker
• Your Bug Out Bag
• Toilet paper
• Insect repellent
• Medications
• Diapers (if applicable)
• Female hygiene items
• Car first aid kit
• Bike or motorcycle helmet
• Life jackets

Yes, there is more! You must ensure your Bug Out Vehicle is always ready to go.

• Keep tank at least half full at all times
• Service your vehicle regularly
• Learn how to do vehicle maintenance
• Rotate the food in your vehicle
• Rotate the water too. Water bottles leak after 6-12 months, especially in a hot car trunk.

Is there anything I missed on the BOV checklist? Let me know!

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Why does everyone assume that you’ll need an off road 4×4 vehicle? Your choice of vehicles should depend on where you live; where you’re going to, and what you can afford. Your vehicle should not BLATANTLY look like a bug out vehicle. It should also get great gas mileage.

Four Wheelers and Three Wheelers are better used than Heavy Motorcycles. You can tow one behind your vehicle, some you can put in the rear of a pick up truck, it is extra weight, but you can go through the woods,highways,roads and other locations, hunt, scrounge for food and supplies and they don’t take much fuel to run.

People who insist on bugging out need to consider something: What’ll happen to the location you’re leaving once you leave?

I haven a small rather inconspicuous white van which I use for travelling all over Europe (I’ve been living in it for stretches of over 6 months). It always has some non perishable food and water in it, and a can with extra fuel. My bug-out backpack has its place near the passenger seat and on the chainring of my carkeys I have a Resqme seatbelt cutter and window smashing thingy. That should be able to get me through quite a bit… I have even done some light off-road driving with the van and it behaves wonderfully. One of the best things about it is it’s inconspicuousness: When getting fuel, people often ask me if I want a bill for my company’s tax declaration (I don’t have a company), and I can easily park in urban areas because folks assume that I am doing plumbing or electricity or whatnot. 🙂

Add on One or two good size farmer/gardener type hand salve. Bag Balm type etc or a good beeswax homemade. Many people will be using their hands way more than usual, dirt and cold dries skin fast and chapped cracked hands are painful and an infection risk.

Agree! I have something like this in my EDC: an awesome balm/salve made out of beeswax. It is awesome from cracked hands or lips, blisters, and even as a burn salve.

I didn’t see any mention of children here, I often have my 2 year old grandson with me. The emergency situation I’m most prepared for is Cascadia as I live on the central Oregon coast. I keep an umbrella stroller in my car at all times so I can haul the little one with me. Carrying a kid would seriously slow me down if we had to run for it (earthquakes tend to make roads impassable). That’s along with my bob, water etc.

Good note. To avoid going down a rabbit hole, we usually try to focus on the key points. There’s a big article on prepping with kids here – https://www.primalsurvivor.net/disaster-prepping-children/ . I also have a two year old and keep a backpack-type carrier in the trunk of the car as well as trekking poles for stability while using it. I debated having a stroller in there too but I like the fact that I can go off-road with the carrier — though the stroller is certainly easier on my back for long distances.

Every single transport vehicle that the article reviewed, except a bicycle, which can’t carry much, can be affected by an EMP. EMPs can be caused by terrorists, bad political actors, antagonists, and solar storms. A large EMP (such as one created by severe Solar activity) will wipe out many electrical systems, which our societies have evolved to rely on. Economies will be devastated. The Amish will be better off than the rest of us, except that they have relied upon us “English” to transport them locally and distantly. Primal Survivor should do an article about EMPs and how devastating they can be. The Carrington Event in late August and early September of 1859 was identified as a Coronal Mass Ejection, but back then we were not as reliant on electricity as we are now (computers, phones, radios, televisions, GPS, lighting sources, electrical appliances, and transportation devices (Planes, vehicles, trains, boats, and many other things). I’m not sure how much it would affect independent solar panel systems but transformers and other electrical system components would be impacted. The Van Allen belts provide some protection but they can be overwhelmed.

Hand crank emergency radio for the adults, battery operated dvd players for the kids.

I’ve never heard of a Harley that could be used to seriously ride “off road”. You should have an older vehicle(one that DOES NOT have any electronics in it). In case of an EMP attack. Your personal hygiene list did not mention any female hygiene items.

Good note about the female hygiene. It will be updated! We have this post dealing with ladies’ needs during disasters: https://www.primalsurvivor.net/feminine-hygiene-emergencies/

There are many items I carry but my most prize possession is “OnStar”

There isn’t really a big out option in the South of the United Kingdom (UK). My vehicle preps are all aimed at me getting home and hunkering down. I therefore have a 4 x 4 suv, stocked for 3 days travel (my commute is usually 45minutes) and an additional Bob in case I have to abandon my vehicle. Being ex military, I’m used to preparing for the worst, hoping for the best.

The question remains: where do you bug out TO? Unless you are leaving some dangerous urban center for a relative’s farm or cabin, one who has their own supplies and welcomes you, just getting out of Dodge may be the classic, out of the frying pan into the fire. With Metropolis burning behind you, and cars going bumper to bumper, it is like a hurricane evacuation. Disabled cars along the side of the road, people trying to walk and other unpalatable situations. I live in the mountains and my neighbors are like-minded friends. We will just defend the ridge and live off the land after our supplies run out.

Way back in the seventies when there were such long lines to fill up and alternate days depending on your tag number people were going through urban neighborhoods at night and tapping an oil can spout that could close or open into vehicle gas tanks. They would get what fuel they could and keep coming back because the spout could just be turned back on and the tank drained again.

Desperate times require improvisation skills and this is a good example that could come in handy in a SHTF situation. not that we condone such behavior of course!

Oh, and about that siphon & pump… please realize that most cars have anti-siphon technology in place that will prevent you from siphoning fuel from a vehicle.

If there is truly a dire need to do so, and you have the manpower (at least two people, but three is much better) and tools (an awl or screwdriver, a rubber mallet, vinyl gloves, a drain pan or like container in addition to a gas container), you c-o-u-l-d punch two holes in a gas tank from under the vehicle, one hole up high to be the air hole and one hole down low to drain the fuel into the drain pan. When the drain pan is fairly full, have person #2 pour the fuel into your gas can while you’re plugging the lower hole in the gas tank. Repeat the draining/plugging/pouring process until your gas can is full or the gas tank is empty.

Of course, person #3 is your look-out/security.

Thanks for the important clarification.

Would a punch through the tank cause an explosion?

If you’re going to have anything of value, including a BOB, visible in your vehicle, consider storing it in an empty dog food (or goat chow or horse food, etc) bag. Having a bag of bunny chow in the backseat of your vehicle isn’t nearly as attractive as a well-stocked BOB. 😉

That is an excellent idea. Some very creative outside the box thinking.

Great ideas! I use cat litter containers to store my bob and food.

Excellent kit there Broadwing. Only issue I see with BOB on back seat is the risk of getting it stolen if it is visible from the outside. It may be worth hiding the essential stuff in the glove compartment – we have a post on that here.

I have an extra BOB in the car, and a Get Home Bag with water and extra food, just in case. The GHB sits right where I can grab it if need be. The BOB is in the trunk along with a emergency tent. Many items are duplicate but it will be worth it. Additionally I have an extra US Army sustainment bag with food and condiments to supliment my two bags. Overall I have about five days worth of food and water for two. Instead of filled water bottles in the back I have 1 liter pre packed and sealed packages of water with a five year shelf life. No leakage with these so far. Overall my car preps are still a work in progress. I do worry about being able to get into or have access to the trunk under certain conditions. I might move the extra BOB to the back seat for better access since the front passenger seat might be occupied if we can’t take my wife’s car also.

Water in vehicle will freeze in winter where I live

I recommend to add a chainsaw (to cut fallen trees

I have a for wheel drive pickup and a all wheel drive toyota highlander and a 7 X 14 motorcycle trailer. Which vehicle would be best and should I pull the trailer to put supplies in, and should I bring the motorcycle (Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic limited) or leave it behind.

Hi Gary – totally depends on the situation. If you have the time and can plan ahead\travel back roads etc then bring as much as you can. If you need to get out of dodge quick then the Harley and a BOB might be your best option.

Think about the most likely scenarios in your area and plan the best response.

I want to speak to the use of a Motorcycle in a Bug out situation.. It is a very bad choice.

1.. Motorcycle riding itself has increased risks for injury in any circumstance. Get injured in a Grid Down situation and you may well not leave the spot you went down.

2. The inarguable increased concentration requirements to remain upright decrease the ability to perceive long range threats in advance.. Please do not argue this point.. Motorcycles worked as Military Courier Vehicles in the past but due to the nature of current threats and no “Front Lines” they no longer work in high risk environments. They were tried and abandoned again by the US Military most recently in the 70s. There will be “No front Lines” in a grid down situation.

3. You are low hanging fruit..

I agree with your arguments, but that assumes we are talking about a TEOTWAKI situation. Not every disaster is doomsday and, in some cases, a motorcycle makes more sense than a car — especially when it can go on smaller roads or around obstacles. A motorcycle is also a lot easier to roll off to the side of the road and camouflage when having to camp out for a night. And, as someone who has traveled a lot, there are plenty of people in the world who only have motorcycles and don’t have a car at all. I guess the main point I want to make is that there is no one perfect BOV. Everyone’s really got to look at their unique situation and which disasters they are prepping for.

A good list of all the stuff you “should” have. “BUT”—-how about a minimum list of what is absolutely necessary. Have you calculated the weight/volume of you ideal list? Would definitely not fit in a Rav4 SUV ( and have room for passengers) —-unless you pull a cargo trailer!

As always you must prepare for your own individual situation. This is a general list – not everything is required – decide what you need for your own needs and priorities and go from there.

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What’s the Best Bug Out Vehicle to Own in 2023?

2023 is nearly here, and prepping is still on the rise. People left and right want to secure their futures from unpredictable pandemics , emergencies, and other disasters.

Aside from prepping your bug out bag , choosing the perfect bug out location (BOL), and planning how to get there , you might want to consider a bug out vehicle (BOV) to secure safe transport—and arrival—for you and the family.

2023 isn’t just the year for planning your supplies; it’s also the year to check the best bug out vehicles on the market:

What to Look for in the Best Bug Out Vehicle

If you’re reading this, then it means that you’ve done your research on bug out vehicles. You might have even read our beginner’s guide to BOVs .

Now that you have a basic idea of what you want from your BOV, let’s go a little bit more in-depth with it. Here’s a list of questions to ask yourself when deciding on the best bug out vehicle for your needs:

Can it go long-distance?

Your bug out location won’t be 2 minutes away. There’s going to be some distance between your home and your BOL. And during SHTF or an emergency, there’ll be detours to take, potential roadblocks, and more. The best bug out vehicle should last a long ride.

Does it have a large storage capacity?

This is something you’ll want to heavily consider if you want to store some extra supplies or your BOV emergency kit.

Can it go fast and go off road?

When the going gets tough, the roads might become impassable. You’ll have to go off-road to get to your BOL. Make sure your BOV has off-roading capabilities.

Does it have easily replaceable and available parts?

Parts should be easy to find and buy. You don’t want a BOV with a lot of unique parts because it’ll be useless without readily available spare parts if it breaks down.

Does it have towing capabilities?​

Being able to tow other cars and trailers is a trait the best bug out vehicle should have. If your group has two BOVs and one breaks down on the road, you can easily tow it to safety. Aside from that, it’s also handy when you wanna hook up an extra trailer to your BOV to haul supplies.

Does it have an auxiliary tank?

If it doesn’t, can you add one? A full tank of gas is good, but an extra tank as a backup will be great.

Is it in a dark color?

You don’t want to be driving around a brightly colored BOV that will garner attention. You’ll want something in a dark tone to keep things on the down low .

What Is the Best Bug Out Vehicle to Consider Getting?

The automotive industry is ripe with hundreds of great cars available for sale. But when it comes to a BOV, you have to get the best of the best.

Here are some of our picks for the best bug out vehicles for 2023:

Earthroamer LTi

Photo: Earthroamer

Dubbed as the peak of RV innovation, the Earthroamer LTi is a sight to behold and any prepper’s dream. It can act as a BOV and a BOL at the same time and is perfect for situations where you need to leave the safety of your home and hold the fort down in a forested area instead.

There’s no need to unpack your supplies as everything you need is in the Earthroamer, from a mini kitchen and sleeping quarters to a bathroom. If you’ve got older members of the family, then this will be a good and safe bet for you and your group. On a normal day, though, camping and going on road trips with the Earthroamer LTi is just as good.

Some things we love about the Earthroamer:

• The completely carbon fiber body
• Rooftop solar panels
• Turbo diesel engine that is powerful and efficient
• Customizable and made to order
• All-weather capable

Things that might turn you away from the Earthroamer:

• Extremely pricey
• Definitely gains attention
• A bit big on the road and won’t be able to get into narrow places
• Difficult to hide

Ford Explorer

Photo: Ford

Renowned and reliable, the Ford Explorer is a great choice for a BOV. It can carry 4 people and still have enough room to store supplies in. The Ford Explorer has decent mileage on it, which makes it one of the best bug out vehicles you can get.

Some things we love about the Ford Explorer:

• Good off-road capabilities.
• It has a good carry capacity, and you can add a roof rack.
• Has good towing capabilities and capacity.
• It can easily be customized to suit your wants and needs in a BOV.

Things that might turn you away from the Ford Explorer:

• It might not survive an EMP attack unless you completely switch out the engine.
• Big in size, and it might have trouble fitting through narrow places.
• Can’t go extreme off-roading or handle extreme terrain.
• It doesn’t have the best fuel efficiency, especially when loaded.

If you want a 4×4 truck for a BOV, then go for the Ford F-150. It’s a pretty popular truck in the USA and has been selling like hotcakes since the 1970s. One look at it, and it’s not hard to see why. All in all, it’s the best bug out vehicle for those who love pickup trucks.

Some things we love about the Ford F-150:

• Due to how popular a truck it is, spare parts are easily available.
• Has a strong engine.
• Excellent off-roading capabilities.
• Spacious truck bed for storage.

Things that might turn you away from the Ford F-150:

• Not exactly fuel-efficient.

Jeep Wrangler

Photo: Jeep

On the list of our best bug out vehicles is the ever-popular Jeep Wrangler. It’s a prevalent choice as a BOV, and with good reason. The Jeep Wrangler is made to be an entirely off-road capable vehicle, able to cross muddy fields with ease and even some light stream and river crossing. It can also traverse sandy deserts , places where ordinary cars would sink. Plus, it’s such an iconic car that everyone can’t help falling in love with.

Some things we love about the Jeep Wrangler:

• Amazing off-roading capabilities.
• It can fit four to five people.
• You can add your own personal touches and accessories for an even better BOV.

Things that might turn you away from the Jeep Wrangler:

• Since it is easily recognizable, it might get unwanted attention and has a higher chance of getting broken into.
• There’s a lack of engine options.
• The Jeep Wrangler is known to be noisy on the road.
• Difficult to sleep in.

Chevy Suburban

Photo: Chevrolet

If you want space, then look no further than the Chevrolet Suburban. It’s probably the roomiest SUV out there, making it a great BOV to transport family AND ferry supplies. It’s a sound choice if you’re looking for the best bug out vehicle that gets the job done.

Some things we love about the Chevrolet Suburban:

• Very roomy for passengers.
•  Big cargo space.
• It has great power to drive over rough terrain.
• Good towing capability.

Things that might turn you away from the Chevrolet Suburban:

• Poor mileage.
• Will have trouble fitting into tight spaces.
• The high cargo liftover makes it difficult to load up bulky items.

Toyota Tacoma

Photo:  Toyota

From Toyota, the Tacoma comes out as one of its best outdoor utility vehicles. It’s made and built to do more than the average SUVs Toyota has on its roster. It’s also a lot cheaper than other Toyota models.

Some things we love about the Toyota Tacoma:

• It can carry a lot of things.
• Can handle difficult terrain.
• It’s built to last.

Things that might turn you away from the Toyota Tacoma:

• The truck bed might be small for some people.

Photo:  Conquest Vehicles

The Knight XV from Conquest Vehicles is a top-of-the-line, ultra-luxurious armored SUV. It’s made to take on big threats on the road and survive over and over again. If you live in the city, then this urban assault SUV might be the best bug out vehicle for you.

Some things we love about the Knight XV:

• Has great security features like night vision cameras, external smoke screens, run flat tires, and thick armor.
• Spacious interiors.

Things that might turn you away from the Knight XV:

• Pretty expensive.
• Doesn’t have that many sustainable features pre-built.
• A limited number of units available.

Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

Photo:   Sports Mobile

Think a repairman’s cargo truck turned into a dependable BOV, and you’ve got the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 . This BOV has a Ford Cutaway body built with a fiberglass shell, steel reinforced for a streamlined look. As for the technical side, just know that this build is no joke. It’s one of the best bug out vehicles for a reason.

Some things we love about the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4:

• It has well-thought-out living quarters.
• Built for that off-grid van life and offroad terrain.
• Beefed up with a lot of quality parts and accessories.

Things that might turn you away from the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4:

• Looks like a repairman’s truck.
• It might stand out on the streets.
• It might have trouble on some off-road trails due to its size.

Final Thoughts

Whatever you choose, pick the best bug out vehicle that fits your needs. Whether you get a secondhand one or a brand-new vehicle, remember to plan everything down to a T to make the most of your chosen BOV.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below!

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Best Bug Out Vehicle: 7 SHTF Vehicles for Sale

You are stuck in an urban collapse and all you can think is “i gotta get outta dodge”..

When it comes to sh-t hits the fan scenarios, whether it be a plague, nuclear attack, natural disaster, or the next pandemic, it’s a lot easier to cruise to your safe haven that is 100 miles away than it is to walk there. In this circumstance, you are going to need a reliable and efficient bug-out vehicle.

There have long been talks of what bug-out vehicles are. Some might have a more romantic view of the world and picture a diesel loaded four-wheel-drive dune buggy complete with exterior spikes and the rest of the apocalyptic decor that you would see on the standard Mad Max vehicle. Other bug-out vehicle designs are more practical because when we’re looking at a vehicle that’s going to save our necks and get us out of trouble, we need something reliable, fuel-efficient, able to fit our supplies, that blends in, is low in maintenance and won’t leave you broke.

As much as we would all enjoy looking at wasteland designs to find the best apocalyptic rover, this list is going to consist of the real bug-out vehicles that you can get, on a budget, and what to look out for if you are in the market for not only a bug-out vehicle but a vehicle that you can take to enjoy the outdoors, and still blend in the urban environment. Essentially, I hope for this piece to act as a buyer’s guide for those shopping around for a second-hand vehicle that you can turn into a practical and affordable multipurpose ‘get out of dodge’ vehicle.

What is a bug-out vehicle?

There are a lot of different shapes, sizes and makes to describe what a bug-out vehicle is, but what it isn’t is a Ferrari sports car. Instead, if you have ever been to a farm you will notice that most have that one vehicle that has been lasted for tens of years and has been used to carry things, to chase things, to pull things, and to drive over a lot of difficult terrains. On top of that, it’s this sort of vehicle that is reliable because it has simple parts that can be replaced in an instant, and doesn’t take a rocket scientist to fix. That’s what a bug-out vehicle is.

The use of a bug-out vehicle is simple. It’s the transport you can rely upon to get you and your family to safety when the SHTF. More simply put, it’s a vehicle to bug out with. Although we might have this vehicle, not all circumstances require us to bug out, and if you haven’t already got the prepper basics sorted for when the SHTF, you might need to organize that before you start considering a bug-out vehicle.

Of course, when you get to the point where you are choosing bug-out locations, forming a bug-out plan , and coordinating rendezvous points and default actions for you and your community, you are going to need to choose a vehicle that is sturdy, reliable and will last. So let’s take a look at what we need in a bug-out vehicle.

What are the things we need to look for in a bug-out vehicle?

Considering its purpose, the bug out vehicle isn’t any normal vehicle. Not only should it be reliable and easy to fix, but it should be able to keep you and your family safe, should there be any imminent threat. Because we are using this type of vehicle to both get out of the city and urban areas and then to be effective in its operation as an end-of-the-world vehicle, certain characteristics make a bug-out vehicle a certain breed.

The things you need to look out for when choosing a bug-out vehicle are:

Low maintenance – Having a low maintenance vehicle is important when it breaks down as you will be able to fix it yourself, or will easily find someone that has enough experience to lend a hand and get it working again. This also means that it has readily available parts, should you need them. For most people, buying a bug-out vehicle will be in the form of a second-hand buy which may require some replacements before it is reliable. Do the work in advance and find out if you can get the parts at local retailers. If they are widely available then that saves you the money and the time to get that part.

Being low maintenance also means choosing a vehicle with limited electrics, especially if you are concerned about having your car hacked, as you can see in this video on a hacker remotely hacking and shutting down a Jeep on the highway .

Fuel-efficient – Depending on the event you may need to bug out over quite some distance without stopping at any fuel stations (which will either be full or closed), so you need something that has a good gas mileage.

Space  – Always have more space than less. With the way family vehicles have been developed, some options fit the bug out vehicle’s characteristics. Even if you are a lonesome prepper, there’s no telling who you might meet when you bug out, or what friend might call you saying “I know you’re into survival, do you have a plan?” – this will happen. At this point, you can choose to be a hero or continue on your way to safety, your call. Having that space will also help when you come across any extra supplies you might want to pick up.

For the number of people you are traveling with, the size is an issue. Sure if you are just one person, a four-seater vehicle is perfect. But when you are a full family, space will be quickly filled with bug-out bags , water, food , and other supplies. You need to have a rough idea of how much space you need, plus extra when shopping around.

Speed – We’re not entering the Grand Prix with this thing but it can’t be slow. Some military trucks are known for this. They are efficient at crossing a variety of terrain and can carry big loads, but they’re essentially turtles on the road. You need something a bit faster.

Noise – Sure, it’s nice to have a loud car if you want the attention with a sports car or a nice loud easy rider motorbike when you are roaring down the street, but they are also vehicles that can be heard from miles away and through thickets of trees. Anyone in a 5-mile radius is going to be easily able to find your bug out location, and they’re also going to be able to hear when you leave so that they can raid your food, water, and ammunition supplies. Having something more inconspicuous is tough, I know, but it helps when you are trying to be a little more covert.

All-terrain  – No matter what you are preparing for, there may be a chance where you will need to go off-road, through different terrain and various types of weather. It comes with no surprise that you need a vehicle capable of traversing different terrain environments, and for many preppers and survivalists, this is why the bug out vehicle is generally the vehicle you use when you go camping and 4WD’ing through the outdoors. Don’t get me wrong, as soon as you start bugging out you’re not going off-road straight away, but as many bug-out locations will be located in regional areas, and supply caches might be outdoors, you are going to need a vehicle that can work in those environments.

7 best bug out vehicles for when the SHTF

So we have a list of things we need in a vehicle, but what on earth fits that specific type? These vehicles are not meant to break the bank, so that should you look into starting a project bug-out vehicle, you can instead be a little more budget-savvy with your vehicle, and in turn, have an extra amount to spend on extras that would make good additions to the vehicle or any necessary repairs that need to be made if you are purchasing your bug-out vehicle as a second-hand car.

So let’s take a look at the most suitable bug-out vehicles with what we identified above:

Mercedes G-Wagon – These vehicles are beasts. This is why they are used by some militaries around the world. There are several models of the Mercedez Benz G-Wagon. The more modern versions of the car are more luxury 4WD made for city environments. Two G-Wagons make great bug-out vehicles. The first is the classic 1980s and 90s G-Wagon. They’re simple in their design and parts and have been described as workhorses of the countryside. The 80s original G-Wagon has no electronics in the engine and with its backside seating, can seat up to seven people. If you take a good look around car sales sites, you can find one of these for a bargain.

The more modern type of G-Wagon, and one that I have used in the military, is a rigid vehicle capable of driving through any terrain and is highly customizable. The problem is with the G-Wagon it is a bit more of a fuel guzzler than the average SUV, with its fuel usage at an average of 13mpg in the city and 14mpg on the highways.

Jeep – The Jeep Wrangler series is a very customizable 4×4 city that performs well as an urban everyday drive vehicle as well out in the wilderness. One of the things a lot of outdoor goers love about the Jeep is its capacity to pack a lot of weight. That extra cargo space is important when considering bugging out as you will need to carry supplies with you, and for the duration of your bug out period. That is of course unless you haven’t already cached a supply at your bug out location. The fuel usage on these is for a 2014 3.6L model is 17mpg in the city and 21mpg on the highways.

Humvee – The Humvee is another military service vehicle that has never failed to impress in its operation, as well as carriage and hauling power. While some of the newer models of the Humvee are more for the preppers’ ‘dream’ budget, the 1998-2001 models, both surplus, and civilian, are more affordable with people snagging these up for $20,000-$30,000 for ex-service models. There are some auction sites where survivalists have scored themselves as a lucky win for a Hummer worth $10,000 , so it pays to shop around, especially when you’re looking for these types of timeless vehicles. The fuel usage on these is for a 2006 3.5L model is 14mpg in the city and 18mpg on the highways.

Ford 4×4 F-Series – Everyone knows someone that owns an F-Series truck. Whether it be an F350, F250, or even an F150, they’ve all got the power, space, and functionality for any family to be safely moved from point A to point B. These trucks are common on American roads as they are reliable and are pretty fuel-efficient for the power that they have. There is a reason why worksite car parks are full of series vehicles, they are a big, powerful, affordable, family truck with a big tank, enough storage space in the back for jerry cans, and if you need it to, it can tow big objects. The fuel usage on an F150 5L is 15mpg in the city and 22mpg on the highways.

RAM Outdoorsman – These beasts are such a budget vehicle with many second-hand options available for under $20,000 and need very little work to maintain. Any type of RAM truck is useful as a bug-out vehicle. The Outdoorsman is a good bug out vehicle for its big amount of space with a flatbed trailer, and the ability to easily tow a trailer as well (be it a horse float packed with supplies or a pop-up camper trailer. These vehicles are also very suitable as a day car, as they are fuel-efficient and spacious for everyday use. The fuel usage on these is for a 5.7L is 18mpg in the city and 25mpg on the highways.

Toyota 4Runner – Toyota is one of the most popular vehicle makers for campers and outdoors lovers, and one of its outdoor favorites is the 4Runner. That suits us when we’re looking for a bug-out vehicle because we’re after the same thing, a reliable vehicle for the outdoors. Out of all of these vehicles, I’d choose the 4Runner as there are a few very attractive options it comes with for such a low price of under $40,000. First, it fits seven people on board, which when you’re packing supplies, is much-needed extra space. When you fold the back seats down you also have a huge amount of cargo space, as well as on the top of the roof racks (which you can do with all of these vehicles). The fuel rate for the 4Runner is at an average for these SUVs at about 17mpg in the city, and 21mpg on the highway.

Toyota Tacoma – The Tacoma is another one of Toyota’s great outdoors SUVs but comes with a few different specifications. Where the 4Runner is a more family-based vehicle, the Tacoma is more of a power-based vehicle to be used to tow things, carry a lot, and do moreover difficult terrain. I like the Tacoma quite a lot, especially because even though it is quite similar to the 4Runner, it is several thousand dollars cheaper in average pricing, and it has the benefit of a more fuel-efficient system with a 19mpg for city areas and a 24mpg for highways.

The best bug-out vehicle accessories

Just getting one of these vehicles on its own is a big step in your bug-out plans . All of them fit the needs we have when we are bugging out as they are have the size we need to pack supplies, gear and fit our loved ones in, they can perform well off-road, should we need it to, and they’re fuel-efficient and budget options for bug-out vehicles. But when you do get a bug-out vehicle, there might be some additions you want to consider to perform the duties that a bug-out vehicle needs to. This would include great survival tires, which you can find comparisons on Auto Clown . After all, we’re planning on using this vehicle when the SHTF, and whatever that might be, some of these things are going to come in handy.

Lightbars and work lights : having bright LED working flood lights on the side and the back of your vehicle are going to help a lot. There may be situations where instead of bugging out, you might want to provide a helping hand to a nearby town, or your local area, whether it be after a horrible storm or the much-needed repair and assistance after a flood. As some of these incidents can cause blackouts, having working lights for evening work on the side and rear of your bug out vehicle turns it into a workstation. That, and when you are outdoors and are setting up camp or at your bug out location, these lights give you the chance to have all-around visibility to ensure the area is clear, and to allow you to see your surrounding area to set up camp at night. A good option for work lights on your bug out vehicle is Lite-Way’s Cree LED lights and Yitamotor’s light bar .

Roofracks – Of course, anything you can do for extra storage space is going to help. Every good bug out vehicle should have roof racks. They’re the perfect way to store extra water jerries, solar panel systems, containers with food supplies, or extra fuel. Whatever you are packing consider if you need it on the trip, or whether it’s to use when you arrive at your bug out location. If it is to use when you arrive, pop it on the roof so that you have more space inside your bug out vehicle. Having steady roof racks with a hard surface can also be used to implement a popup tent that you can climb up into and be off the ground.

Storage tanks – If you are bugging out, you are going to need some supplies. As for most of us, staying in the home is the most favorable option. When you do bug out, you’re going to have to take a lot of supplies with you, and most of it is going to be food, water, and fuel. When it comes to water and fuel, some basic additions you should make to your bug out vehicle are jerry cans. Most decent jerry cans can be picked up from army surplus areas, or you can buy them new. They should be marked either ‘water’ or ‘fuel’ to not confuse their contents.

Why Motorcycles Are A Prepper’s Best Friend

Any prepper knows that  SHTF scenarios can happen at any time  and when it does, it’s best to be mobile. Americans that drive in cars waste an average of 42 hours a year stuck in traffic, according to  the Texas A&M Transportation Institute . What you need is a vehicle that can get you past any traffic and handle tough roads. So what would make a motorcycle the best bug out vehicle (BOV)?

Off-Road Capability

While you may enjoy paved roads now, there is no telling whether or not those roads are available after an SHTF event. Last year, the US was struck with several  events that affected road conditions  like wildfires, massive rainfall events, hurricanes, and even drought. So the BOV you need to use when you’re evacuating needs to be able to handle any dramatic shifts in terrain. Motorcycles can  conquer different types of terrain . They have been proven to be effective in traversing water, sand, mud, and uneven land. What you’ll need to make sure is that you carefully consider the motorcycle options to choose from. That way, you can double-check if the motorcycle you’ve got your eye on can rise to the task of being your effective BOV.

Immediate Action

In the end-of-the-world scenario, every second can mean the difference between life and death. Of course, you’ll need to assess the situation first so you don’t go barrelling out into more chaos. Once you’ve determined that it is better to evacuate rather than to hunker down, your bug out vehicle needs to be something that you can use for immediate action. Take, for example, Dr. Witt who saved 8 premature babies from wildfire by using his motorcycle to evacuate them . He considered using his truck as it would carry more load but the roads were blocked by emergency vehicles. If he did not choose to make the split-second decision to jump on his motorcycle and sped off to save those kids, they’d probably been listed as casualties. Dramatics aside, you need a BOV that affords you that level of immediate action. So if you find yourself needing to get away, a motorcycle is something that you can rely on.

Easy to Conceal

Never underestimate how highly valued mobility will be after a disaster strikes. If you think back to movies like Resident Evil 3, Zombieland, and Mad Max, mobility means survival. Granted those examples are fiction, there is no denying the reality that vehicles are highly coveted. So it follows that your post-SHTF vehicle will be highly coveted—especially by those that do not have their vehicles. A motorcycle is handy because it’s easy to conceal if you’ve got the right tarp for it. Hiding your vehicle is important since it keeps it safe from scavengers and it also does not advertise your position. If you’ve got a home base, a motorcycle is easy to store so it’s not exposed to the elements.

Fuel Economy

For a prepper that’s gearing up for anything, the subject of cost often comes up. The cost of the things you buy or make should be worth it in the interim and the long run. If you’ve got a BOV plan in the works, gasoline should be one of your primary considerations. You may think that the price of gas is exorbitant now but just wait until that point where gas is no longer easily obtainable. So your BOV needs to be something that doesn’t wipe out your fuel reserves and doesn’t presently drive you to the poor house. A motorcycle doesn’t take up much gas, yet can go for several miles. Therefore, the current cost and future cost of a motorcycle are logical and practical. Also, it is worth remembering that your BOV isn’t something that you use once and toss away. It is an investment that can help keep you and your homestead thriving after a disaster has hit everything else.

A motorcycle is a vehicle that has all the makings of a reliable bug-out vehicle. What you’ll need to do to make sure that it stays that way is to brush up on your understanding of motorcycles, that is if you aren’t already familiar with its ins and outs. Always keep in mind that your BOV will only ever be as good as you prepare it to be.

Over to you…

Bug out vehicles are a certain breed, but when you get one, it doesn’t just mean its purpose is for when the SHTF. For me, I am an outdoors regular as I enjoy camping, hiking, and exploring the outdoors, and when I first chose a vehicle for that purpose I was not even thinking of a bug-out vehicle. So as you can see, the two go hand-in-hand, and whether you are a hunting enthusiast, into fishing, or just love the outdoors like me, one of these vehicles will give you everything you need to do that, as well as to act as a bug-out vehicle, should the need arise.

The extra gear that I have mentioned at the end of this post, is also stuff that I use when I go camping and are things that will no doubt be useful for any practical prepper and survivalist.

In writing this post, I hope I have given you some ideas of what it is you might be looking for in a good bug-out vehicle, so that should a natural disaster, or a worst-case scenario warning be aired, you will be ready to jump in your bug out vehicle, and get out of dodge to keep you are your family safe.

If you already have a bug-out vehicle, let me know in the comment section below what type you have!

6 Survival Knife Uses You Might Not Have Considered

5 things you need to know to conduct a room clearance, 26 thoughts on “best bug out vehicle: 7 shtf vehicles for sale”.

I own a 07 wrangler and 11 subaru outback…id take my outback over any one of these vehicles. Awd, 24mpg, lots of space and storage options, can tow a small trailer. Put a 2in lift on it and it can go almost anywhere those others can go. Yeah just because it’s a truck or suv, doesn’t make it ideal for a bov, trust me, chances one will be rockcrawling in shtf situation aren’t too high.

Good one Jay. The Outback is a great vehicle and is great for daily use in the city and with a family! They pack a heap of space!

Consider. you are advertising, I am a pepper, shoot me and take my truck full of supplies. Consider going Gray man with an older mini van. They are cheap, a lot of room after you take out the rear seats, and looks like half of the driving public. Maybe not macho, but with a good set of all weather tires on the front. you can go a lot of places and a lot better gas mileage. Just a consideration. Be safe!

Thanks for writing this. Although I have these vehicles listed, I feel these are some of the more reliable models, but if you can get something that looks inconspicuous you are ahead of the game.

If its 4×4 and cheap you want with high performance and everything you listed, then I saw Dacia Dusters swarm Southern Europe’s emergency services and rural communities when I was there last year.

Apparently they all swear by it.

Absolutely correct, out of sight, out of mind

I have a 02 4×4 suburban, has lots of room for the kids. It is not an off-roading vehicle but it will handle any logging or state forest trails on the North GA traverse. I have room for everything without a roof rack so i consider it a gray man vehicle. Jerry cans full of water and my hiking bag, camping gear all in the back with room for day to day use with the third row seat up. Without third row seat you can carry an enormous amount of gear.

I have owned a wrangler and this truck is not even close to offroad capable as it was. but its a rolling fortress and with a family you cant beat it also iv taken it on every dirt trail and alternate route, had no issues.

Mid-2000s Ford Ranger here. 4×4 with cap on bed. More gray-man than he-man. (no loud tuned exhaust, etc.) Capable enough on rough barely-a-road terrain. It seems like a good compromise between power and economy. Working on optimal load out for quick deployment — all hidden under bed cap so I don’t look like a rolling target.

Realistically, in a Bug Out, I might have to improvise some roads to get around obstructions, but I’m not likely to need to cross the Sierras off-road, etc. It seems easy to over-emphasize extreme off-road capability at the expense of the other criteria. (cargo, economy, grayness)

I have a chevy silverado 2500 HD 4X4 with as much or more than any found on road dead! It will go places I don’t want to. With a cap on the back and pulling a trailer I feel confident with this bug out vehicle!!!

I have an 03 Ram 3500 with the 5.9 Cummings and get 22mpg I figure that will get me anywhere I need to go even rough roads and still pull any trailer I want/need to pull

I too went with the diesel option for the multi-fuel capability issue. This engine will run with almost any conceivable flammable liquid as long as you have a supply of clean oil, transmission fluid, etc. to add to it for lubrication qualities. I personally tested this with a Deuce and a Half for 9 months in the middle East. For every 5 gallons of high test gasoline I added to the 50 gallon fuel tank I would add either two quarts of motor oil or transmission fluid.Sometimes I would mix and match the combination. I also used JP4 aviation fuel and Kerosene in my Deuce with excellent results. It wou,d also be advisable to carry some type of pumping devise to salvage old gas from abandoned and disabled vehicles. You can also salvage old cans of turpentine, lacquer thinner, bottles of liquor, break free gun lubricant, parts cleaning fluids, lubricating oil, general purpose weapons oil, light, this stuff you can find in anyone’s garage or shop where people have bugged out and left behind. Your vehicle might throw a code light or smoke more than usual but you’ll still be rolling toward your final destination. Just sayin.

Regardless of the SHTF situation, having a cyclonic air filter, more than recommended is imperative. Surely it will have to advance on dusty roads, through burning areas, etc.

All these vehicles are nice, but none of them will operate in the event of an EMP. I just helped my buddy make his vehicle. He bought a nice old F 350 four door 8 foot bed. We pulled the 460 gasser and auto trans out of it and put in a 12 valve 6 BT Cummins and manual trans. All mechanical. NICE! The stock radio is the only thing that will stop working in an EMP. ???? Any of you guys know that Cummins makes a complete 4 cyl diesel replacement kit for the Jeep Wrangler? Of course it’s common rail, so will succumb to an EMP. ????

Good article. I have a 2010 F150 STX with a fiberglass campershell. The electronics brain is enclosed in a faraday arrangement and has been tested for EMP survivability-passed entire truck.

My choice would be 67 or newer VW bug. Drove mine everywhere, even over a beaver dam. Super easy to work on, taillight bulb for a timing light. 30 mpg. Light weight, easy to push, etc. Only negative is small size.

People forget about the venerable old Series Land Rovers (Steyr Pinzgauers as well) have been to more forsaken places on the planet than any other STOCK 4×4 ever made. Totally field serviceable, tough as nails, small in size but it’s a 3/4 ton, full-floating axle, EMP proof (ok Lucas-Prince Of Darkness electrical system but even that is field fixable!) 4×4. Put a M416 or similar off-road trailer behind it and you have a very capable BoV that’s hard to beat. I used to get 18-20 mpg hauling a trailer in Colorado and worse off-road mpg was 16mpg being most of the day in low-range at 8000-12000 foot altitudes in the Rockies. Put an overdrive in and you can cruise highway speeds without hearing loss and you’ll have a total of 16F 4R gears to choose from! It always got me home at the end of the day…albeit not fast!

I just have horses lol they will go anywhere

And you can feed/water them for free usually. But if they die…

Or someone looks at them as food.

Wrong wrong, all wrong ???? there is only one vehicle in the world that meets each and every requirement of SHTF vehicle.. massive mpg, HD suspension, low key, emp proof, ultra ease of maintenance. Awd…

93 Toyota Corolla Wagon HD Delivery Factory RHD, DIESEL, 4X4, 5 speed 53,000 miles

These are Fantastic Unique Vehicles

They are Factory Heavy Duty Versions of the Wagon. They have upgraded brakes, cooling capacity.

These are rare beasts, They are actually Toyota Hilux Pickup suspension in the back and have a 900lb carrying capacity. That’s right SOLID Rear Axle and HD leaf springs on a Corolla Wagon from the factory!

Absolutely bulletproof 2C Diesel Engine!!

Surprised that people missed the old vws, mk1 rabbit diesel, any of the buses are awesome off road with the engine in the rear and light front, air cooled – all are super easy, with my druthers towards the rabbit diesel for economy. Use any fuel, and seriously reliable

Incase of an E.M.P. incident; Any vehicle made after1990 is probably going to be useless. You need to have a vehicle that has NO COMPUTERCHIPS IN IT!!! I’d want a ‘ 76 F-150 4X4.

Now wait a minute this was supposed to tell me the best bug out vehicle. These are all newer what about the computers in them. Not to mention the guy writing this has he ever worked on a fuel injection dodge plus the ball joints go out of them all the time.

honda trail 125

1988 F250 4×4, long bed, 7.3L diesel with a ZF5 manual transmission. Dual upgraded 19-gal fuel tanks, 2″ leveling kit with 35″ tires, ARE shell with custom roof rack made using 80/20 aluminum rail. Original factory paint with touchup and rust removal for “greyman” appearance.

I really like the idea of having a bug out vehicle that can also serve as a regular vehicle. This is a great list of options!

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Top 15 Bug Out Vehicles for 2022: Ultimate Survival Vehicle Debate

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We spend a lot of time talking about bug out bags, survival gear, long term food storage and weapons here at SurvivalCache.com, but we haven’t spent a lot of time debating the Ultimate Survival Vehicle (Bug Out Vehicle).

In the event of a major crisis, there is a very real possibility (especially if you live in a more urban area) that you may have to leave your primary refuge.  During a disaster, following your Plan A and staying in your home fortress might be derailed due to any number of reasons (ex: flooding, urban unrest , biological/chemical, nuclear fallout, viral pandemic, economic collapse, TEOTWAWKI , etc.).  When you have to turn to a Plan B and you have your bug out bag in hand, which method of transportation do you turn to?

But also remember that it’s not always simple to have a perfect ready-to-go vehicle, and in that case, it’s best to put together a proper vehicle ops kit. Check out the book below which covers everything you need to know:

Best Bug Out Vehicle: Top 15 Picks

Let’s go over the the different bug out vehicles. By no means is this an exhaustive list. The list is also not ranked in any particular order. Each vehicle has pros and cons.

1.  Earth Roamer LTi

Let’s just start off by saying this Ultimate Bug Out Vehicle is pretty cool.  If you have 5 people or less and had to make it to your Bug Out location during TEOTWAWKI, this would be a very nice way to get there.  This is basically a modified truck bed camper attached to a Ford Super Duty F-550 truck chassis and then totally tricked out

This Ultimate Survival Vehicle comes with a twin-turbo diesel engine, 10,000-pound towing capacity, solar power with large battery back up pack, 85 gallons of freshwater, dual water filtration system, cassette waste management system, propane free appliances (everything runs on diesel fuel).  This rig also comes with heavy-duty off-road tires, brush guard, full-size spare tire, 16,500-pound front winch, 9,500-pound rear winch, 90-gallon optional fuel tank, on the board air compressor, and much much more.  If James Bond had a survival vehicle, this might be it.

Pro’s – too many to list, this thing is a beast.  We are sure that there is an option for a twin .50 cal machine gun turret on top of this thing, we just could not find it on the Earth Roamer website .

Con’s – If you are the Octomom with 8 or more people in your family this might not be the best choice, take a look at a school bus.  Needs fuel to run.  The Earth Roamer LTi isn’t cheap, with a price tag of $225k to $300k you might have to sell your baseball card collection to get it.

2.  All Terrain Vehicle (ATV):

There are a lot of people out there who own ATVs and they make a pretty good argument for the Ultimate Survival Vehicle.  With powerful engines, 4 wheel drive, aggressive tires, and a width of only 48 inches (or less), this Ultimate Survival Vehicle can go anywhere and over almost any obstacle.  There are many aftermarket options for ATVs and a lot of those options make sense for an Ultimate Survival Vehicle such as a small utility trailer to go behind your ATVs for added carrying capacity.

Pro’s – Can go almost anywhere, Can cover difficult ground at great speeds, Fairly fuel-efficient, Built for the extreme so they are fairly reliable if you buy a solid brand (ex: Honda, Polaris), Affordable (you can pick up a used one pretty cheap)

Con’s – Limited protection from the elements, Limited range (bring a fuel can), Limited carrying capacity (even with trailer), requires fuel, Limited number of passengers

3.  The Human Body:

This can be your first option and it most certainly will be your last resort regardless of any other fancy options you may use along the way.  When everything else fails your body will still be there with you.

Hopefully, you’ve been able to take care of it along the way so that it can help you “save your skin” literally.  Let’s face it, you and your body have a vested interest in survival.  When thinking about a bug-out situation, you might end up walking, climbing, running, or swimming.  You may have to huddle for long periods in dark places or uncomfortable positions while you wait for a “clear” path to freedom.  Here are some things to think about:  How much weight can you functionally carry and for how long?

Do you have a bug out bag, does it contain truly useful items?  Have you hiked with it before?  Do you have a good pair of broken-in shoes or boots?  When is the last time you walked more than 10 miles in those shoes/boots ?  Are they waterproof or can they dry out quickly?  Consider breath-ability vs. waterproof features.

Pro’s – The Human Body can go almost anywhere and cross any type of terrain.  It does not require any type of processed fossil fuel (user-level energy procurement from raw materials), very cost-effective (for a small amount of money you can outfit your whole body) and it can be very quiet.

Con’s – Very limited carrying capacity, Low speed, Limited protection from the elements, difficult to move the young and the old by this method

4.  Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV):

The SUV is another good choice for the Ultimate Bug Out Vehicle.  They have a good range on a full tank of gas and with 4 wheel drive and fairly aggressive tires they can traverse most terrains you will encounter.  With a roof rack, towing capacity and seating for five or more, the SUV can carry a large family and a lot of gear.

Pro’s – Diversity (Can be your everyday vehicle and your Bug Out Vehicle), Good carry capacity, Good range, Decent off-road capability depending on model and set up, Can double as a place to sleep for a small family.

Con’s – Not very fuel efficient, requires fuel, Cannot handle extreme terrain unless modified

5.  BMW R 1200 GS Adventure:

This BMW Motorcycle is built with the extreme in mind.  With an 8.7 Gallon fuel tank and an estimated cruising range of 465 miles, compared to other motorcycles this thing can go along way before it becomes thirsty.  With 1200cc and 110 Hp, this bike will take you and whatever you can pile on it (including extra gas) almost anywhere.  It also comes with reinforced aluminum side bags and a top case for extra secure storage.

Pro’s – For a single person this is a great Ultimate Survival Vehicle, Great range, Very fuel efficient, Good off road capability, It is fast, Can double as your everyday vehicle if you like motorcycles

Con’s – Limited carrying capacity, requires fuel, exposure to the elements

6.  The Campa EVS:

Campa EVS (Expeditionary Vehicle System) this state-of-the-art vehicle was designed for outdoor enthusiasts, disaster management personnel, and military officials who desire a completely self-contained vehicle system.  Many of the same features that you will find in Campa’s trailers have been added to the EVS.  Built on a Toyota Tacoma 4×4 V6 chassis, this is the perfect marriage of efficiency and carrying capacity.

This system has a lot of cool features from ammo boxes to a katadyn water purification system with a go-anywhere attitude.  Campa USA also makes a cool expeditionary truck trailer with a pop-out tent that you should check out.  It might be the perfect addition to your pick-up truck or SUV.

Pro’s – More fuel-efficient than larger trucks, Well thought out emergency survival scenario of what you will need in order to be out on your own for a long period, Full kitchen, Truck chassis upgrade in areas for off-road ability

Con’s – Limited in the number of people you can carry, V-6 could limit your towing capacity, Tent setup could be difficult in adverse weather

7.  The Unicat:

If money is no object to you, then a UNICAT Expeditionary Vehicle is what you need to buy. This thing is a monster.  Although UNICAT offers different variations of its vehicles, we decided that the 6×6 Amerigo International with the motorcycle/bike rack mounted on the back was the way to go.  Built on an International Truck 7400 chassis, this monster will crush those who would stand in its way.  As you could expect with the title “Expeditionary Vehicle” this thing comes with 112 Gallons of freshwater, satellite communications, all-wheel drive, 2 x 120-gallon gas tanks (9mm skid plates for protection) with a 2,000-mile range, water fording capability over 5 ft, extra retractable bolts and cylinder locks to secure all doors, theft-proof windows, solar power, and much more.  TEOTWAWKI here we come.

Pro’s – Too many to list, you will have to go to the website and read them for yourself.  With 6×6, 310 Hp, and reinforced doors this monster was built with TEOTWAWKI in mind.

Con’s – Expensive (a used one is about $600k), At 8 MPG you will be sucking down the fuel but on the other hand you have 2 x 120 Gallon tanks so let them drink until you and your family reach safety.

8.  Jeep Wrangler:

The Jeep Wrangler is in a class by itself when it comes to off road capability.  What it lacks in carrying capacity it makes up for with its ability to go almost anywhere that ATV can travel.  Another great advantage of the jeep is the after market parts that are available, from tires to under armor protection.  If you can dream it, then it is probably available for the Jeep Wrangler including a snorkel for deep water crossings.

Pro’s – Unrivaled in off-road capability, Great aftermarket parts to build the Ultimate Survival Vehicle, Good range, Can cover difficult terrain at good speeds, Can pull a travel trailer

Con’s – Limited carrying capacity, Hard to sleep in (bring a tent), Requires fuel

9.  The Modern “Blue Water” Sail Boat:

Before you laugh think about this, ⅔ of the earth is covered by water and this is the only Ultimate Survival Vehicle on this list that can traverse most of the earth under the power of the wind, make its own fresh water and has access to an unlimited supply of fresh food.  The term “Blue Water” refers to a class of sailing boat that are built with the harsh seas of the open ocean in mind.  The modern sailing boat is truly something of a marvel.  New technology allows the modern sailor to use solar and wind power to create and store energy in large battery banks without the need of starting the diesel engine to recharge the batteries.  The modern sail boat also has a powerful diesel engine with a large fuel storage tank to get you out of a jam.  The interesting part of a sail boat is that under the power of the wind, it can move in any direction except for directly into the wind.  That means that it can travel in a 315 degree arch without burning any fuel and at speeds between 5 to 15 knots depending on type of sail boat.

Pro’s – Make your own fresh water with battery powered desalination, Solar and wind powered energy sources available, Total isolation from people, Full kitchen, As long as the wind is blowing you are moving, good source of fresh food (need to like fish), large comfortable living space, endless range.

Con’s – If things go bad the bailout plan in the open ocean is not good (see our book review “Adrift” ), Need to have a backup source of vitamins, If the wind isn’t blowing you won’t be moving very fast

10.  Sportsmobile 4WD Adventure Vehicle:

TV repairman meets the A-Team. The Sportsmobile 4WD Vehicle is for the most discerning of off-road enthusiasts. Only the best heavy duty components are used to give the absolute best off-road performance while maintaining excellent on-road performance.  This is a Ford E350 Extended Cargo Van jacked up on steroids.   You will have to read the website to see all the upgrades but just to let you know they are not playing around they put a Dynatrac Pro-Roc 60 front axle and Dana 60 Rear Axle on the Sportsmobile.

Pro’s – This thing is built from the ground up to go anywhere, 46 gallon fuel tank provides a good range (600+ miles), 32 Gallons of Fresh Water, Well thought out living space with the pop up tent camper, Full kitchen, So many off road upgrades that it will make your redneck friends drool.

Con’s – Looks like a cargo van, A little to tall and wide for some off road trails, Needs fuel.

11.  The Knight XV:

If you live in a high threat big city environment and you have some extra cash and a spare parking spot, you might want to look at the Knight XV from Conquest Vehicles.  This 13,000 pound urban assault vehicle would make the perfect escape from New York vehicle for some Wall Street big shot.  With under body magnetic bomb detection, external smoke screen, night vision cameras, electrostatic window opaquing (tinting system), run flat tires, armor that laughs at anything under a .50 cal round and….oh did we mention heated seats.  This vehicle will get you and your personal security detail out of the city in a hurry.

Pro’s – a lot of cool features for a high threat environment

Con’s – Expensive ($450k), Needs fuel, Not a lot of sustainability features like a kitchen or water storage

12.  Mountain Bike:

The modern day Mountain Bike is a true Ultimate Survival Vehicle.  With ultra strong light weigh construction, rack systems for storage, puncture resistant self sealing tires and peddling gears for almost any situation, the Mountain Bike of today can be a stand alone Survival Vehicle or used in conjunction with almost any other Survival Vehicle on this list.  In 1941, the Japanese Army successfully employed bicycles in their Southern campaign through Malaya on their way to capturing Singapore from Allied forces.  At one point they had 50,000 bicycle soldiers.  This proves that while riding a bicycle you can carry a rifle and a pack under stressful conditions.

Pro’s – Will go almost anywhere, easily attaches to trucks/cars/campers/SUVs, No fuel required, quiet, Can cover long distances (40 to 100 miles a day) depending on terrain

Con’s – limited carrying capacity, exposure to elements, difficult to move through snow

13.  The ARGO:

Argo Amphibious Vehicles are legendary in the Northern Territories of Canada and Alaska where water obstacles are a common problem.  When it comes to a vehicle that does not stop for deep snow or a major water crossing, it is the Argo.  With a top speed of 20 mph on land and around 2 mph in the water, the Argo can literally speed into the water, swim to the other side, and climb right out.  It comes in an 8×8 or a 6×6 version all wheel drive.

Pro’s – Will swim, Serious off road capability, Comes in a track version

Con’s – Limited carrying capacity, exposure to the elements, drives like a tank, Skid plate is optional but with a plastic shell it would be a good idea

14.  Oshkosh Tactical Protector Vehicle:

This might be the ugly brother of the Knight XV and maybe meaner.  With the ability to stop up to 14.5 mm Armor Piercing Rounds, this Ultimate Survival Vehicle can take a beating and keep rolling.

Unlike the Knight XV, the Oshkosh TPV comes with side gun ports for blasting your way to freedom and a top gun turret for mounting your machine gun.  Another cool option on the TPV is the Nuclear, Biological, Chemical protection system which means you will have a full head of hair when you get to your bug-out location while everyone else is bald from radiation poisoning.  Looking good during TEOTWAWKI is important.

Pro’s – A lot of cool features for a high threat environment like Somalia or TEOTWAWKI

Con’s – Expensive ($200k), Needs fuel, Not a lot of sustainability features like a kitchen or water storage

15.  Pick-Up Truck:

The great thing about this option is that they are very affordable as far as vehicles go (you can have an older 2WD or a newer 4×4 depending on your budget), many of us already have one as a primary or secondary vehicle, you can carry a great deal of gear in the back and with a modified compartment kit you can even store equipment in compartments and have a bed set up above your storage area.  There are modifications that you can add to make your pickup truck more use-able (like a camper shell or regular shell, carpet kits, trailer etc..)

Pro’s – Can be a cheaper vehicle alternative to many of the other options, can be configured to suit needs depending on terrain and gear requirements, You won’t stand out as having an expensive vehicle that would make you a more attractive target to other folks who may be in a more desperate situation than you that you may run into along the way to your bug out spot (i.e. at checkpoints), Can pull a travel trailer , Can double as your everyday vehicle

Con’s – Can be difficult for a larger family to utilize however you can always put the kids in the back (you probably won’t have to worry about seat belt laws during TEOTWAWKI) or opt for an Xtra-Cab or 4 door model. Drawback is it requires fuel which can be difficult to obtain in critical situations.

Bug Out Vehicles Pros and Cons 

But out vehicles can be great tools, but they can also be not so great. Here are few things to consider when planning to purchase or use a bug-out vehicle

• Workload : One of the greatest things about a bug-out vehicle is that it does most of the work. It saves the body from expending energy to travel and carry supplies.
• Additional Supplies : Since vehicles do all the work and offer more space than a backpack, more supplies can be transported in a vehicle than you could ever hope to carry on your back. 
• Range and Speed : When you need to get out of an area quickly, almost any type of vehicle is going to be faster than escaping on foot. A vehicle will not only get you out fast, but it will also put distance between you and the danger zone. 
• Protection : While it may not be an ideal setup, a bug-out vehicle can provide shelter and physical protection from the elements as well as other threats.
• Transporting People : Sometimes there are individuals in a group that can slow the movement of the entire group down. This could be because they are sick, injured, young, old, or out of shape. A vehicle will help to keep the speed of the group where it needs to be. 
• Cost : The idea of a bug-out vehicle usually takes the form of some tricked out 4×4 truck, military vehicle, or some other off-road beast.
• The accessories that go with these vehicles are many and I will admit, they can be downright cool. But you better be ready to lay down some serious cash because popular bug-out vehicles are not cheap. 
• Range : I know in the above section range was a positive characteristic, but it can also be negative. 
• If the vehicle is dependent on fuel or a battery, how far is it going to get you before it needs to be replenished? What if you cannot refill or recharge the vehicle? A bug-out vehicle may get you a short way into your journey, but it may not get you to your destination.
• Maintenance : This is one topic of bugout vehicles that is not talked about much, but it should be at the forefront of everyone’s mind. 
• Most vehicles have a lot of moving parts that require care and maintenance for the vehicle to work properly.
•  A person will need to know how to maintain and fix their vehicle as well as have plenty of spare parts available. 
• Dependency : Most of us take our vehicles for granted and assume they will always be there and work when we need them to. This dependency creates a false sense of security that may not be planned for. Be sure to have a plan in case a vehicle becomes unusable.
• Drawing Attention : If you are bugging out, then there is good reason to do so and some type of event is occurring. When disasters happen, there will be some people that find themselves without a vehicle or the supplies they need. Vehicles, no matter the type draw attention and can be difficult to hide. Having a vehicle may put you in the spotlight, which is not where you want to be. 
• Survival Debate (Rewind): Team Up or Go It Alone
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Joel Jefferson

Joel is one of the original founders of SurvivalCache.com. After college, he joined the USMC where he served as an (0302) Marine Infantry Officer. Joel is an avid outdoorsman and spends much of his free time in the mountains. Joel’s hobby is researching survival gear & weapons as well as prepping. Read his full interview here .

Road to Readiness: Building and Equipping Your Bug Out Vehicle

• November 21, 2023
• No Comments

Introduction

In this series of post we’ll be covering everything the prepper needs to consider with a Bug Out Vehicle. Make sure you’re subscribed to our feed so you don’t miss one as it comes out. 

A bug out vehicle is a specially equipped vehicle that is used by preppers and modern warriors for emergency situations or when they need to quickly evacuate an area. It is designed to provide transportation, shelter, and essential supplies during times of crisis. Having a well-prepared bug out vehicle is crucial for ensuring survival and maintaining mobility in emergency scenarios.

The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive guide on setting up a bug out vehicle. We will cover various aspects such as selecting the right vehicle, essential gear, storage solutions, checklist items, and necessary modifications. By following this guide, you will be able to optimize your bug out vehicle for any emergency situation.

Throughout this article, we will focus on the following keywords: bug out vehicle gear, bug out vehicle storage, bug out vehicle checklist, bug out vehicle essentials, bug out vehicle modifications, and setting up your bug out vehicle. These keywords are essential for understanding the different components and considerations involved in setting up a bug out vehicle.

Section 1: Choosing the Right Vehicle

When it comes to setting up a bug out vehicle, choosing the right vehicle is of utmost importance. The vehicle you select will serve as your lifeline during emergency situations, so it’s crucial to make an informed decision. Here, we will discuss the importance of selecting a suitable vehicle for bug out purposes and provide a list of recommended vehicles.

First and foremost, reliability is a key factor to consider when choosing a bug out vehicle. You need a vehicle that you can depend on in any situation. Look for vehicles with a proven track record of reliability and durability. Consider brands known for their robustness and longevity.

Fuel efficiency is another crucial aspect to consider. During emergencies, fuel may become scarce, so having a vehicle that can go the extra mile on a tank of gas is essential. Look for vehicles with good fuel economy ratings and consider alternative fuel options such as diesel or hybrid vehicles.

Cargo capacity is also an important consideration. Your bug out vehicle should have enough space to carry all the necessary gear, supplies, and equipment. SUVs, trucks, and off-road vehicles are popular choices due to their spacious interiors and cargo-carrying capabilities.

Here are some recommended vehicles for bug out purposes:

These vehicles are known for their reliability, off-road capabilities, and cargo space. However, it’s important to note that the right vehicle for you ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Choosing the right bug out vehicle is a critical step in setting up your emergency preparedness. Take the time to research and test drive different vehicles to find the one that best suits your requirements. Remember, your bug out vehicle will be your lifeline in times of crisis, so make sure to choose wisely.

Section 2: Essential Bug Out Vehicle Gear

Having the right gear in your bug out vehicle is crucial for your survival and preparedness during emergency situations. The gear you carry will help you navigate through challenging circumstances and ensure your basic needs are met. In this section, we will explain the importance of having the right gear and provide a comprehensive checklist of essential bug out vehicle gear.

When it comes to emergency preparedness, having a well-stocked bug out vehicle can make all the difference. Your gear should cover a range of needs, including sustenance, medical care, communication, navigation, shelter, and personal protection.

Emergency Car Jump Starter, Air Compressor and more...

Here is a comprehensive checklist of essential bug out vehicle gear:

• Emergency food and water supplies: Pack non-perishable food items that provide high energy and require minimal preparation. Include a sufficient supply of water or water purification methods.
• First aid kit: Include a well-equipped first aid kit with essential medical supplies, medications, and personal hygiene items.
• Tools and equipment for vehicle maintenance: Carry basic tools such as wrenches, pliers, and tire repair kits to handle any mechanical issues that may arise.
• Communication devices: Have reliable communication devices such as a two-way radio, satellite phone, or a portable ham radio to stay connected with others.
• Navigation tools: Include a GPS device, compass, and maps to help you navigate unfamiliar terrain.
• Emergency shelter and bedding: Pack a lightweight tent, sleeping bags, blankets, and tarps to provide shelter and protection from the elements.
• Personal protection gear: Include items such as sturdy footwear, protective clothing, gloves, masks, and goggles to ensure your safety in hazardous situations.

Having these essential items in your bug out vehicle will significantly increase your chances of survival and comfort during emergencies. It’s important to regularly check and update your gear to ensure everything is in working order and not expired.

Remember, the specific gear you choose may vary depending on your location, climate, and personal preferences. Customize your bug out vehicle gear to suit your individual needs and circumstances.

Section 3: Optimizing Storage Space

Efficient storage is of utmost importance when setting up a bug out vehicle. Having a well-organized and optimized storage system allows you to maximize the available space and ensure easy access to your gear and supplies. In this section, we will discuss the significance of efficient storage in a bug out vehicle and provide tips and techniques for optimizing storage space.

When it comes to bug out vehicles, every inch of space counts. Efficient storage not only allows you to carry more essential items but also ensures that everything is easily accessible when needed. A cluttered and disorganized vehicle can lead to frustration and wasted time during critical situations.

Here are some tips and techniques for maximizing storage space in your bug out vehicle:

• Utilize Cargo Organizers: Invest in cargo organizers such as bins, crates, and storage bags that fit the dimensions of your vehicle. These organizers will help keep your gear neatly arranged and prevent it from shifting during travel.
• Utilize Vertical Space: Make use of the vertical space in your bug out vehicle by installing roof racks or overhead storage compartments. This allows you to store items such as tents, sleeping bags, or lightweight gear that you may not need immediate access to.
• Install Drawers or Slide-Out Storage: Consider installing drawers or slide-out storage units in the back of your vehicle. These can be custom-built or purchased as aftermarket accessories and provide easy access to your gear without having to dig through piles of items.
• Utilize Seatback Organizers: Seatback organizers are a great way to keep smaller items within reach. They can be attached to the back of the front seats and provide pockets and compartments for storing items like maps, flashlights, or tools.
• Vacuum Seal Bags: Vacuum-sealed bags are excellent for compressing bulky items such as clothing or sleeping bags. By removing the air, you can significantly reduce the amount of space these items take up in your bug out vehicle.
• Utilize Storage Tubes or PVC Pipes: Use storage tubes or PVC pipes to store longer items like fishing rods, tent poles, or even rolled-up maps. Mount these tubes or pipes securely inside your vehicle for easy access and to prevent them from rolling around.
• Use Bungee Cords or Cargo Nets: Secure loose items by using bungee cords or cargo nets. These can be attached to the interior of your vehicle to hold items in place and prevent them from shifting during travel.
• Prioritize Essential Items: When packing your bug out vehicle, prioritize essential items that you will need in an emergency. Keep these items easily accessible and consider storing them in a designated “go bag” or smaller pack for quick grab-and-go situations.

Used By Law Enforcement Police Gear and Military Grade - Water Resistant Police Officer Duty Bag - Heavy Duty Car Front Seat Organizer with Multiple Storage Space

Remember, the key to maximizing storage space in your bug out vehicle is to stay organized and utilize every available inch efficiently. By implementing these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your gear is secure, easily accessible, and ready for any emergency situation.

This should get you well along the way to equipping your Bug Out Vehicle. Stay tuned for more great articles and tips on the subject!

Shane Blevins

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You are here: Home / Supplies / 17 Bug Out Vehicle Mistakes To Avoid

17 Bug Out Vehicle Mistakes To Avoid

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Even though bugging out usually isn't as safe as bugging in, there are certain scenarios where bugging out will literally be the only option you have. For instance, you may be ordered to evacuate your home by the authorities, or death could otherwise be very certain if you stay.

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That said, if you want to throw a couple of packed bags into any ordinary vehicle and call it your bug out vehicle, you’ll already be making a major mistake. Sure, you can try and cram everyone and everything into your little Toyota Prius or Honda Civic, but that really wouldn’t be the best choice for bugging out .

This is just one of many bug-out vehicle mistakes that some preppers will make when the SHTF . Let’s go over some other mistakes that you will want to carefully avoid.

1. No AWD/4WD

First and foremost, any vehicle that you use for bugging out must have AWD or 4WD capabilities. This is because you may have to go off-road, in which case a 2WD or RWD vehicle will not be preferable. If you don’t already own a 4WD or AWD vehicle of some kind, you’ll want to change that.

Take note that switching to a 4WD or AWD vehicle does not mean you have to buy a massive truck or SUV with poor fuel mileage. There are many smaller and more compact vehicles with AWD capabilities as well, such as certain vehicles made by Subaru or Volvo.

2. Little Ground Clearance

Since you may have to go off-road, higher ground clearance will be another must for a bug-out vehicle. This is why sedans, in general, will not be a very good choice for bugging out , even if it is AWD or 4WD.

3. Not Enough Room For Everyone

Your bug-out vehicle absolutely has to have enough room for everyone in your family to sit. This will be a major challenge if you have an unusually large family, in which case an enormous vehicle such as Ford Excursion may be the only type of vehicle that really suffices.

4. Not Enough Room For Food and Water

Your bug-out vehicle is also going to need to be large enough to accommodate extra supplies for your family as well. A three days supply of food and water should be more than sufficient to get you and your family to your bug out location .

5. No Bug Out Bags

Every person in your family will need to have a personal bug out bag stocked and ready to go. You don’t have to keep those bug out bags in your vehicle at all times, but at the very least, you will need to ensure that you have plenty of space in which to store them.

6. No Shelter Items

You absolutely need to carry extra shelter items in your bug out vehicle. Yes, your vehicle in and of itself is already a shelter . But you will also want to have the option to sleep and take shelter in something outside of your vehicle as well, especially if your vehicle is smaller in size.  A basic tarp or tent would be better than nothing.

7. No First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit is something that you should keep in any vehicle at all times. Your bug-out vehicle is no exception.

8. Poor Fuel Mileage

It may sound contradictory to buy a 4WD or AWD vehicle and one that has poor fuel mileage, and back in the day, that would have been true. But today, vehicles have become more advanced so that they have better fuel mileage than ever before. Compact SUVs like the Ford Escape or Toyota RAV-4, for example, can easily attain fuel mileage rates of higher than 30 MPG on average.

That being said, if you buy a larger size SUV or pickup truck for your bug out vehicle, then you are going to likely need to get a vehicle with lower fuel mileage, and that’s a sacrifice you’ll have to make. That’s exactly why you’ll want to avoid the next mistake, which is…

9. No Extra Fuel

There are several modifications that you are going to want to make to your vehicle to make it more suitable for bugging out . One such modification is to give it the ability to attach an extra can of gasoline to the outside of the vehicle (remember that storing fuel of any kind inside a vehicle is very dangerous).

For a pickup truck, you can just set an extra can of gas in the bed of the vehicle. For an SUV or wagon, however, you’re going to have to find a way to securely lash the extra gas can to the outside of the vehicle.

10. No Tow Straps

11. no trailer hitch.

Even if you don’t plan on towing a trailer, something that would definitely slow you down and make your vehicle less nimble, there’s also no denying that it would at the very least be nice to have the option. A trailer gives you plenty of extra cargo space without sacrificing seating for your family .

12. No Emergency Road Kit

Including an emergency road kit is another crucial must for your bug out vehicle. Here is a basic checklist of items that you will want to include:

• Foldable Shovel
• Jumper Cables
• Tire Sealant
• Windshield Wiping Fluid
• Rope and Paracord
• Seatbelt Cutter
• Window Breaker
• Siphon Hose and Pump
• Fan Belts and Hoses
• Traction Ladder

13. No Spare Tire

This isn’t just an absolute must for bug out vehicles, it’s a must for all cars in general. If possible, try to include at least two spare tires rather than just one.

14. No Grille Guard

A grille guard attached to the front of your vehicle is not truly necessary, but there is no question that it would be very nice to have. If you inadvertently crash into a fence, into trees, into animals, or even into people while bugging out , a guard can help keep your vehicle protected.

15. Not Keeping Your Vehicle Fueled

You may need to bug out at a moment’s notice, and that means you must keep your bug out vehicle fully fueled, even if it’s a vehicle that you will be using often in your daily life. Here is a good rule of thumb to follow: always refuel your vehicle when it's half empty. Meanwhile, keep enough gasoline on hand at home to refuel your vehicle all the way to the top should you indeed be forced to bug out quickly.

And remember, keep extra fuel lashed to the outside of the vehicle as well so you can fuel at least partially should you run low while bugging out .

16. No Important Documentation

Keep important documents in your bug out vehicle as well since you may face the possibility of bugging out from your home forever. You don’t have to keep the documents in your car at all times, but you should have copies printed out that you can quickly stash way in the vehicle before you hit the road.

17. No Defensive Guns Within Easy Access

Firearms are a crucial part of any survival plan and you will want to be sure that you bring a few along (and with plenty of ammunition) while bugging out. But it’s also critical to keep a firearm within easy access of the driver’s seat as well so you can quickly prevent an attempted carjacking , which is something that could very well happen in the event of a major disaster .

Keeping a handgun in between the seat and the center console, or under the driver’s seat, will be a very wise thing to do.

All in all, these are the top mistakes that you will want to avoid when it comes to selecting, modifying, and using your bug out vehicle.

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Types Of Bug Out Vehicles + 8 Beginner Questions Answered!

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Most of us love a casual stroll through nature from time to time. No one can downplay the benefits of walking. However, walking indefinitely when SHTF could prove hazardous to your health. Is there any better solution?

Well…yes! With a bug-out vehicle, you can save yourself from walking hundreds and hundreds of miles while carrying backpacks and other gear. The following is a breakdown of bug-out vehicles in general, as well as some of the best vehicle classes to choose from.

Several vehicles from different classes can be adapted for use by survivalists during disaster scenarios. These range from ordinary sedans, hatchbacks, and estates to pickup trucks, SUVs, ATVs, RVs, and motorcycles. Bicycles, boats, and, in the rarest cases, aircraft can also serve as bug-out vehicles.

What is a bug-out vehicle?

In the simplest sense, a bug-out vehicle is a mode of transport employed by preppers. They are commonly referred to as "prepper-mobiles" or "doom buggies". As long as it's being used for bugging out, any vehicle can be considered a bug-out vehicle essentially.

The main purpose of these vehicles is, of course, mobility. The ability to get from point A to B quickly could save your life. Also, walking can get hard after a while. This is especially true if you’re out of shape or physically impaired. You might also be bugging out with a family and you might have pregnant companions, children, seniors or pets to consider. Don't forget that you'll probably be carrying some sort of bug-out bag and survival resources.

Vehicles, for the most part, also afford preppers another luxury…storage space. The ability to carry extra gear and supplies is more valuable than gold when the going gets tough. A bug-out bag is excellent, but it cannot compare to the storage space that you get in an SUV, for instance. You can store more food, water, supplies, tools, and so on.

Some bug-out vehicles can also shelter you from the sometimes-harsh outside world. This is especially important if you do not have a reliable bug-out shelter. Some vehicles can protect you from the elements and even wild animals. Remember, it's a jungle out there.

Vehicles without this protection (i.e. bicycles, motorbikes, ATVs) are best used as auxiliary vehicles. They are so-called because they are used together with a main bug-out ride like an SUV or an RV. If you have a bug-out shelter, these smaller vehicles would also be good for quick supply dashes.

A bug-out vehicle can also be loaded with various technologies which can aid your survival mission. GPS and police scanners are just a few of the tools that could draw the line between life and death. A winch is always a wise addition to any vehicle. Winches can be used to pull your (or someone else's) vehicle out of tricky situations (mud, water, quicksand).

Are bug-out vehicles worth it?

The answer to this question is entirely up to you…and the nature of the disaster you’re facing. If you need to evacuate quickly or to a distant place, a vehicle is probably your best bet. This is especially true if you have family members or companions who have trouble with walking.

Your living situation may also influence the need for a vehicle. If you have a fixed bug out home and can live off the surrounding lands, you might not need a vehicle as much as a nomadic survivalist. Vehicles like cars and motor homes offer a dry place to sleep, which is always needed.

Your storage needs are another major factor to consider. If you have a prepared bug-out shelter or home you can get to by walking, a vehicle would be less necessary. Again, nomadic survivalists would be more dependent on vehicles for storage.

Another key consideration is your budget. Your wallet will determine the caliber of vehicle you can get. More money, in this case, usually means fewer problems. All the best cars, trucks, boats, etc. cost top dollar, but there is a whole range of quality to be had at different price points.

The used market is a good place to explore your options. Depreciation is your friend here, as some vehicles can lose half of their initial value very quickly while still being in very good shape. For these or even new vehicles, you should take the time to research service and maintenance costs. Make sure to visit online forums to get user opinions on certain vehicles.

What makes a good bug-out vehicle?

Any vehicle that effectively and efficiently meets your survival needs is a good bug-out vehicle. An RV is a good prepper-mobile if it properly accommodates the family it belongs to. A sports car is a good bug-out vehicle if it gets its owner to the next truck stop or bed and breakfast when he/ she needs to. It all depends on what the owner requires.

Mobility is the first requirement. Preferably, your chosen vehicle should be able to get you where you’re going! This is a no-brainer of course. Ideally, the speed of the vehicle must be considerably faster than walking, while being less strenuous.

Survival rides should be able to support your essentials and key belongings. An ATV would be of little use to a rancher trying to move his horses to another farm, for instance. However, if you have a bicycle for supply runs, you won’t need much more than a backpack.

A good bug-out vehicle should be able to handle different terrains. Of course, this is only relevant for land vehicles. All-terrain capability makes a vehicle versatile and prepared for anything. If major roads and highways were to become jammed or otherwise unusable, you would have to improvise and go off-road. Good luck doing that in a Corvette.

Just having a bug-out vehicle is not enough to make it good though. You also need to stock it up with supplies. These supplies include things for your survival (food, water, medicine, etc.) as well as items necessary for the vehicle’s upkeep (oil, fuel, tire sealants, etc.).

Bug Out Vehicle Ideas List (By Type)

Let's take a look at some examples of vehicles that can adjust to the bug-out lifestyle. The new and used market has loads of great options for you, and modifications can be made for most vehicle classes. Make sure to look through Pinterest for awesome bug-out vehicle ideas.

Sports Utility Vehicles offer a good blend of power, fuel, efficiency, and storage capacity. They are also excellent tow vehicles, which allows for storage or camping trailers.

SUVs are usually excellent off-road performers, a distinct advantage over sedans and hatchbacks. Certain brands, such as Jeep and Land Rover, have built their reputations on producing specialist off-roaders.

Bigger SUVs can seat up to 7 people, which makes them great for families. SUVs are also more pet-friendly than smaller vehicles. Legroom and headroom are typically quite good, and modern SUVs are equipped with many luxurious features and amenities.

Storage is also a big benefit with this type of bug-out ride. Foldable seats, roof racks, and a trunk supplement your gear carrying capacity. SUVs also have several storage compartments for smaller items.

Rugged SUVs like a bug out Jeep Wrangler can be fitted with survival modifications like winches and raised suspensions which could prove to be lifesavers.

If you are completely lost, here are some notable SUVs you can consider:

• Jeep Wrangler
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Range Rover
• Cadillac Escalade
• GMC Yukon Denali
• Toyota Landcruiser

RVs and camper trailers

If you don't have a dedicated bug-out shelter, you might want to consider a recreational vehicle. In addition to storage space, RVs and camper trailers offer excellent livability and amenities.

Smaller camper trailers have tiny sleeping spaces while larger RVs and fifth wheels can have full-sized bedrooms with royalty-sized bedding. Depending on the size of the RV, you can also get kitchenettes, showers, toilets, and lounging areas.

RVs can be a bit cumbersome when it comes to maneuverability, and the really big ones can be a little ungainly when you’re off-road. They also stand out a bit at times, which could attract trouble in the form of looters or raiders.

Here are some great RVs and camper trailers to consider:

• EarthRoamer XV HD   (Class C)
• Pando 2.0 (Camper trailer)
• Grand Design Solitude (Fifth wheel)  
• Pennine Pathfinder (Foldable camper)  

For a more in-depth analysis of survival RVs and Trailers, check out our dedicated guides on the best bug out RVs and bug out trailers .

What if you could get a bug-out vehicle that is not just off-road but off-land entirely? Survival watercraft are not as popular as some of the road-going options, but that doesn't mean they are not as effective.

In fact, bugging out on the water may be an even wiser move than on land. Think about it…most of the planet’s surface is water. With an ocean-ready boat, you can set off to any continent or remote island you choose.

Depending on size and quality, boats offer many ways to store your gear and supplies. Preferably, you want one with sleeping quarters/ cabins and some kitchen facilities. With enough supplies (and sturdy sea legs) you can stay out on the water for days to months at a time, depending on the boat.

Of course, you don't necessarily have to bug out at sea. You can also use boats on inland rivers and lakes if you are far from the ocean. The Great Lakes are a good example of inland freshwater freedom. Living out on the water gives you access to tons of fish, which means you can at least stave off starvation if things get desperate.

Boating does have some serious barriers to entry, such as the price of the boats. Even when used, boats can be pretty expensive to purchase. Maintenance, service, and spares are all pretty pricey too.

With boats, you will have to come ashore at times to replenish supplies, replace gear, and make repairs. You might also have to outsource help for boat maintenance.

ATVs and side-by-sides

These vehicle classes were born for tackling rugged terrain with no excuses. All-terrain vehicles, or quadbikes, allow for great flexibility when maneuvering on any ground surface. These are excellent for scouting and supply missions that involve going off the beaten path.

Utility task vehicles, or side-by-sides, are pretty much the driven variation of ATVs. However, because of their car-like layout, UTVs have significantly more onboard storage space and people carrying capacity. You also get different types of UTV: from Dakar-inspired racers to farm-style workhorses.

ATVs and UTVs can perform similar functions, but the latter is better suited to people carrying and storing gear. However, it is easier to use an ATV as a secondary vehicle to something bigger like a pickup truck or an RV.

Here are some cool bug out ATVs for you:

• Can-Am Renegade X XC series
• Honda Fourtrax Rancher
• Yamaha Grizzly EPS XT-R
• Can-Am Outlander 450/750 series
• Kawasaki Brute Force 300

And some survival UTVs:

• Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo RR
• Polaris Ranger CREW XP 1000 Big Game Edition
• Honda Talon 1000X

For more information about ATV and UTVs used for survival, we have a dedicated article detailing the best bug out ATVs and UTVs .

Motorcycles

Motorcycles can serve the same purpose as ATVs while offering even more nimbleness and speed. Another good thing about these vehicles is that DIY repairs are much easier than on most modern cars, which are basically supercomputers.

Not to say there aren’t any high-tech bikes out there. Check out British company Arc’s Vector e-superbike and its Tony Stark-Esque rider suit and helmet.

From a prepper perspective, a dual-sport motorbike would be ideal simply because of its all-terrain capabilities and general comfort. Most manufacturers and aftermarket dealers also have some really good storage accessories and rider gear.

Of course, you can only carry so much stuff on a motorcycle, which is always a bummer. They are also quite easy to steal as well if you're not careful.

The following are some of the best motorbikes out there today:

• Kawasaki KLR650
• BMW R1250 GS Adventure
• Suzuki DR-400S
• Ural Sportsman (Sidecar pick)
• Suzuki DR250
• KTM 690 Enduro R

Check out our comprehensive bug out motorcycle guide for even more info on these great survival vehicles.

Pickup trucks

Make no mistake about it, survival is tough work. To make it through the mire, your steed will need to be even tougher.

This is where the pickup truck comes in. Born mules, pickups are no strangers to hard work and roughing it off-road. With their trademark load bed, they are excellent for hauling a lot of personal gear and tools.

Modern trucks are also catching up to SUVs when it comes to comfort, tech, and overall fanciness. Performance numbers for pickups are also at unprecedented levels thanks to the monsters like the Dodge Ram TRX . Diesel engines are also available for most pickups if you are more concerned about the economy.

There’s an excellent range of large and mid-sized SUVs you can choose from today. Here are some of them:

• Dodge Ram TRX
• Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty 3500
• Toyota Tundra
• Honda Ridgeline
• Jeep Gladiator

For more survival truck ideas we cover the topic in more detail in our dedicated bug out truck guide .

A bug-out bike is a good choice if you need something maneuverable and quiet. Bicycles come in different formats: from road racing bikes, mountain bikes, and BMXs to motorized and electric bicycles.

Although they are significantly lacking on the storage front, bicycles are quite easy to store in/on a larger bug-out vehicle. This makes them the perfect auxiliary vehicle if you ever have to abandon your main bug-out vehicle or go on short supply runs to save fuel.

Modern bicycles feature some cutting-edge innovations and technologies that make riding so much easier, whether you're on the road or not. Ever improving gear technology and suspensions enhance the riding experience like never before.

Bicycles are perhaps the easiest type of vehicle to repair by yourself. Parts can also be pretty salvageable, depending on the bike, and you only need a few tools to fix them. Other maintenance costs and supplies are also fairly affordable, which is nice.

You should definitely check out these babies:

• Diamondback Release 2
• Phatmoto All-Terrain 2021
• Coleman Powersports CT200U-B Mini Trail Bike
• Specialized Turbo Vado SL

Our comprehensive bug out bicycle article covers more info for any prepper looking into this option as a survival vehicle.

Finally, we have the van, perhaps the classic bug-out vehicle. Whether willingly or unwillingly, people have been living in vans for as long as they've been making them. It is doubtless that they will have a role to play in the not-so-distant future dystopia.

Vans offer very good people carrying capacity and storage space. Since a lot of them are manufactured for industrial and commercial use, vans are also very reliable and durable vehicles. they are also decent tow vehicles if you have a camper or storage trailer.

Vans, like most other vehicles here, suffer from the curses of modern complexities. It is almost impossible for you to service and repair one of the new ones yourself because of all the gadgets and gizmos. Older vehicles are much easier to fix.

Check out these wicked vans and find your potential survival mobile:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4 Crew Van
• 2021 GMC Savana Cargo Van
• Toyota Sienna

If you want to learn more about vans as survival vehicles, check out our dedicated article on bug out vans .

What to pack in a bug-out vehicle?

Simple. You should pack everything that won't fit in your bug-out bag! Seriously, your bug-out bag is your last resort. This is where you keep the essential essentials. If storage capacity is a major requirement for you, it may be best to stay away from motorbikes, bicycles, and ATVs.

In addition to food, water, and basic hygiene supplies, you will also need tools, weapons, and sleeping bags. You will also need signaling kits, fire starting kits, medical kits, and other key personal items.

Of course, it won’t just be you who needs taking care of out there. You must also carry tools and supplies that will keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.

Here are some of the essential items you will need when bugging out. We've split the items in a few categories:

• Personal survival items you should have, regardless of your survival vehicle of choice
• Survival gear for a bug out Car, Truck, SUV or RV
• Prepper items for an ATV, UTV, Motorcycle or Bicycle
• Survival gear for a bug out Boat

General bug out vehicle survival items

• Food (cans, dried, etc)
• Hunting / fishing gear
• Medical kit
• Firearms and knives / machetes
• Fire starting kit
• Signaling/ flare kits
• Sleeping bag/blankets
• Solar lanterns
• Smoke grenades
• Extra clothing
• Police Scanner
• Charging power bank
• Sleeping tent

Bug out car, truck, SUV or RV survival gear

• Car repair toolkit
• Jack / heavy duty jack
• Tire sealant
• Tire pressure pump
• Tow chain / straps
• Vehicle escape tool
• Lubricant / grease
• Bicycle rack
• Fire extinguisher

Bug out ATV, UTV, motorcycle or bicycle prepper items

• Motorcycle repair kit
• Tire pressure pump (bicycles)
• Bicycle handlebar bag
• Extra bike chain
• Bike security chain

Bug out boat survival gear

• Life jackets
• Emergency ditch kit
• Rain poncho / emergency blankets
• Marine survival kit
• Signaling kit
• Snorkel / scuba gear

Bug out vehicle: diesel vs gas

Engine choice is a key consideration for any vehicle you choose. Commercial supply chains in the U.S. and Canada use a delivery schedule system known as “Just-in-time” (JIT). For example, dairy farms supplying a supermarket with a fresh batch of cheese and milk as soon as the shelves run out.

The same thing happens at gas stations. These days, for safety, gas stations don’t keep excess reserves on site. They keep it in the metaphorical pipeline but a disaster scenario could significantly hinder deliveries. That means you need to store your juice and, perhaps more importantly, get a vehicle with good fuel economy.

Unfortunately choosing between diesel or gas is a game of compromise. Diesel packs more punch per volume, an advantage that leaps in value exponentially as we move up the engine scale. This is known as thermal efficiency. In a nutshell, diesel is great for endurance on the highway or open seas. It is not as good at stop-start driving, and most diesel cars have terrible city MPGs.

At the same time, gasoline is great for the lower gears, which is why little hatchbacks like the Chevy Spark LS are great for running around. Also, were you to need a quick get-away vehicle, a V8 gas car’s acceleration would be better than anything running on diesel. Compromise.

Gasoline bug out vehicle advantages

• Low repair costs
• Low emissions
• Gas is more popular
• Higher speeds and better acceleration
• Better suited for small, comfortable vehicles

Gasoline bug out vehicle disadvantages

• Lifespan is limited
• Storing gas is more dangerous
• Low thermal efficiency
• Prone to overheating
• Resale value is relatively low
• Less suited to towing than diesel motors

Diesel bug out vehicle advantages

• Better efficiency, especially for big engines
• Great for long distances
• Good resale value
• Long lifespan
• Rarely overheats
• Better for hauling cargo and towing.

Diesel bug out vehicle disadvantages

• Diesel engines are bulky and heavy
• Poor efficiency in the city
• Diesel variants may affect engines differently
• Not as fast as gas vehicles
• Service is pricey

Bug out vehicle: truck vs SUV

For the most part, you can lump SUVs and pickup trucks in the same category as they share many characteristics. Size, space, towing, off-roading, and so on. However, there are some differences worth noting.

Firstly, SUVs are more focused on the driver and passenger. Whether it is their seating capacities or their level of relative comfort, it is all about the people. SUVs typically have a lot more comfort than pickup trucks in terms of ride quality, amenities, and insulation. The bigger SUVs can seat up to 7-8 people, more than any pickup out there.

Pickup trucks, on the other hand, are more focused on haulage and transporting goods. The load bed is evidence of this, and this feature gives pickups an edge over SUVs when it comes to storage space for gear.

Also, the increased refinement in American trucks combined with European and Japanese influence on the pickup truck market has raised the overall quality for drivers and passengers. The 2021 Ford F-150, for example, is the lap of luxury as far as interiors go.

While both vehicle classes are great at towing, pickup trucks have a significant capacity for bigger trailers. This is especially true for the big boys like the Chevy Silverado Heavy Duty, which can haul up to 36,000lbs. The best towing SUVs like the Ford Expedition top out at 10,000lbs.

The haulage disparity is because modern SUVs are built on crossover platforms, which enhance personal space and comfort at the expense of pulling power. Truck platforms are built specifically for haulage and the big trucks are better engineered for those massive gooseneck fifth-wheels. SUVs can only do a medium-sized camper or cargo trailer.

Bug out vehicle: second hand vs new

Buying a new vehicle simply to bug out is, understandably, a bit baffling for some. I mean, why spend top dollar for a vehicle that could suffer unspeakable bruises, scrapes, scratches, or worse in an unprecedented SHTF storm? Will insurance still be a thing during the end of the world?

The good thing is you don’t necessarily have to purchase a brand spanking new vehicle off the showroom floor. The used vehicle market is loaded with fantastic deals on cars, bikes, boats, and more. Of course, as news of impending doom spreads, the really good vehicles could sell like hotcakes, so stay ahead of the curve.

One serious recommendation before buying a vehicle is that you have it inspected by a trusted mechanic or technician. Make sure to check for things like rust, different paint shading (could indicate an accident). You should also run diagnostics tests for more modern cars to reveal hidden electronic defects.

However, if you can afford it, you should still consider buying new. By doing so, you will have a vehicle without a murky history and potential problems. Stick to reputable brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford, etc. Luxury cars like Mercedes and Range Rovers require lots of expensive maintenance.

Bug Out Vehicle Types Conclusions

The range of choice when it comes to bug-out vehicle types is mind-boggling.

To make the best decision though, you must factor in your budget, repair skills, environment, and storage needs.

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In this guide for prepping with pets, we’re going to tell you the right direction for making individualized pet prepping plans, talk about the specific considerations for different kinds of animals, and discuss the essential prepping supplies you will need for your pets.

Is a bug out sleeping bag really needed by preppers? We answer that question, and give you a list of the 6 best bug out sleeping bags by type. We’ll also tell you what factors to consider when choosing your survival sleeping bag.

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Ford F-series 4×4 as a bugout vehicle

There are several considerations in choosing a bugout vehicle.

• Unless your bugout location is in an apartment complex or at a home that everyone has access to, you may need to go off road to get to it. Even if the location is accessible, you’ll need to get firewood and hunt for food so a 4WD almost always trumps 2WD.
• If you’re going for an extended period, you’ll want to carry more than just a bugout bag. It’s tough to beat a pickup truck to carry your stuff but you may want to consider an SUV if you want everything within reach at all times. A good compromise is to put a cap or camper on the back of a pickup truck.
• Even if a truck can hold a bunch of stuff, it may not be able to hold a bunch of heavy stuff. Most trucks come in half-ton, 3/4-ton and 1-ton varieties.
• Check your towing capacity. This isn’t just limited by the size of your engine or truck, it’s also limited by your stopping power. You may be able to start pulling a fully-loaded car trailer with your Jetta, but you’re gonna be wearing it as a hat if you have to stop quickly.
• These are two sides of the same coin. It’s not just how reliable your car is (which is important), it’s also how difficult it is to get parts and how hard it is to put those parts in your vehicle if they break.
• I still keep tossing this one up. Diesel engines last longer and can run off bio-diesel that you can make at home. Gas though is a LOT easier to find.

Each vehicle has its own plusses and minuses. Today, I’m here to talk about the old reliable Ford F-series pickup truck.

Ford has been making the F-series since 1948 (called the Ford Bonus Built), an upgrade from the car-based truck started in 1941. Ever since, it’s been one of the most popular vehicles of all time. And for good reason, it’s capable, affordable, and reliable.

Because it’s so useful, easy-to-fix and there are TONS of upgrade parts available for it, it’s been a popular vehicle for planning for SHTF. It’s also super useful in the meantime as just a work truck or for helping your buddy move away from that psycho he’s been stuck off and on with for the past 5 years.

I started my love for these trucks because my dad always had a 1979 Ford F-150 for hauling trees out of the woods, hunting and plowing snow. He had more than one, but always seemed to end up with a 1979 for some reason. Great looking truck.

For all these reasons, I ended up getting a 3/4 ton 4×4 (2610 pounds payload capacity), called the F-250. It’s an extended cab because I wanted to be able to carry a few people in it or a couple of bags of gear inside the cab.

Each pic will open up to a larger size if you want to see it closer.

The way you get clearance in a truck is by using bigger tires. Lift kits exist so you can put bigger tires on to give you more clearance. The problem with lift kits is that they draw attention to your truck so if disaster hits, you may find your truck stolen. Worse, if your truck is all kitted-out, they may assume that you’ve stocked food and ammo etc and come after it. Bad OPSEC. Because of all this, I chose to increase the tire size but not lift the truck. These are LT265/75/R16’s.

A truck is immensely more useful if it can tow something. To tow a larger trailer, you need to actuate its own brakes. This electric brake actuator does exactly that.

And here’s the towing hitch. If you want to tow something fairly heavy, you’ll want something like this. A bumper hitch just isn’t gonna cut it.

Transmission

This one’s a 5-speed with a granny gear. The granny gear gives you a super-low gear in first to give you a LOT of torque. Great for climbing steep hills or pulling a boat up a ramp. If you look just below to the left, you can see the 4×4 shift selector. I prefer these to the push-button selectors.

Four Wheel Drive

This one has manual locking hubs. The good part is they work really well. The bad is that if you need to shift into 4WD somewhere, you have to step out of the truck to do it.

Seating / Inside Cargo

Even if you’re by yourself, you’ll want either an extended cab or crew cab. You don’t want to have to carry all your gear in the bed of the truck if you’re out for an extended time. This particular one has a fold-down bench seat that sit’s three people.

If you’re gonna use a large truck as your bugout vehicle, you need dual tanks. Together, these hold about 37 gallons.

5.8L Engine

The type of engine for a bugout vehicle is also a large point of contention. Some say small with good gas mileage and some say large with lots of power. This one’s a 5.8L v8 that has about 145hp and 265ft-lbs of torque. It gets about 16 mpg.

Air Conditioning

For a  lot of people, A/C isn’t an important option. Because I live in the desert in AZ, it’s a necessity.

The truck works great. I don’t know of any rust in it and the 4WD functions like it should.

About the only thing it really needs is a gasket somewhere in the engine that leaks a little oil after a while. Everything else works just fine. I was gone for a couple of years so when I got back from Afghanistan, the fuel line was a bit gummed up. I went through and completely changed the fuel pumps, all the filters, rebuilt the fuel injection and changed out the electronics that’s involved. Works great now.

How much? Only $3,112.74

Email me at  [email protected]  if you’re interested in getting a bugout vehicle.

I am a former federal agent and military veteran who has deployed to combat theaters in Africa, Iraq and Afghanistan and have almost three decades of military and military contracting experience.

My goal is to help families to understand how to intelligently protect their family and their way of life against real threats, without all the end-of-the-world doomsday crap.

Awesome, I have the 2007 F15o FX4, and a newer Grand Cherokee V6 get 22MPG NICE COMBO DUDE

And the 1966 Mustang, post EMP, post Carrington Mad Max vehicle

I love my Ford F250. Have a 75 gallon tank in the bed, also. It gets very very good fuel mileage and is definitely my bug out vehicle.

Think you’re grossly short-selling that 351w. http://www3.telus.net/cbradley/Engine_Specifications.html

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CUCV vs excursion, F350, or other pick up for bug out and snow vehicle.

• Thread starter alfred10
• Start date Oct 23, 2009

More options

I am considering a CUCV as a bug out vehicle and a vehicle to drive in the snow. Why is the top speed only 55 and why is the horse power so low for such a large engin? I drive roads that are typically 45 and 55 mph but sometimes its a 65. I doubt I would be going that fast in the snow. What will the CUCV do better than an F250 or K30? How many miles per gallon do they get just out of curiosity?  

Active member

What will the CUCV do better than an F250 or K30? Click to expand...

Well-known member

Think back to 1984. Ford's naturally aspirated 6.9 diesel was a gutless wonder too. The 6.2 was as good as it got back then. Our military just happend to keep the trucks while the rest of us sent most of the 1980's trucks to the scrapper long ago.  

acesneights1

the gearing. a Civilian equipped k30 with a 6.2 can easily do highway speed.  

4bogginchevys

I would say more being NA then the IDI.  

alfred10 said: I am considering a CUCV as a bug out vehicle and a vehicle to drive in the snow. Why is the top speed only 55 and why is the horse power so low for such a large engin? I drive roads that are typically 45 and 55 mph but sometimes its a 65. I doubt I would be going that fast in the snow. What will the CUCV do better than an F250 or K30? How many miles per gallon do they get just out of curiosity? Click to expand...

alfred10 said: I am considering a CUCV as a bug out vehicle and a vehicle to drive in the snow. Why is the top speed only 55 and why is the horse power so low for such a large engine? Click to expand...

I drive roads that are typically 45 and 55 mph but sometimes its a 65. I doubt I would be going that fast in the snow. What will the CUCV do better than an F250 or K30? Click to expand...

How many miles per gallon do they get just out of curiosity? Click to expand...

Whats the top speed on the 1009 Blazer? How does it differ from the truck? Are these less likly to fail in the woods than a newer vehicle?  

i must not be up to speed on bug out vehicle. whats this term mean  

UHHHH mine will do 80 mph easy and it's stock from GL. Heck I towed an ammo trailer at 70+  

papercu said: For myself, I could take either one to the woods and they would fail but I'm just real lucky that way. Wayne Click to expand...

SuperJoe - A Bug Out Vehicle or BOV is a vehicle that has primarily been set up as a survival vehicle should the sh#t hit the fan...otherwise known as SHTF. The idea is that you have your survival necessities, spare parts, and fuel on board so when SHTF you can get somewhere safer than where you are in a hurry. The most desired vehicles are older non electronic 4x4s. The idea is that they can go where you want. They are easy to find parts for and they can most likely survive and continue to operate in the event of an EMP. Electro-Magnetic Pulse can take out the electronics on modern vehicles. As b4thundr pointed out the 1031 is a good choice. It has all of the 4x4 goodies I need, no electronics, with the exception of the alts and GP control, and it has lots and lots of storage space. Should work well if the SHTF!  

i must not be up to speed on bug out Click to expand...

A CUCV will take a pretty good beating if you ask me. I got a 100 ngal fuel tank in mine. It will get me pretty far. remember aside from legalities , which in a Bug ouot sit are meaningless, these trucks can run on kerosene, heating oil, vegatable oil as well as diesel. Some have even mixed in used motor oil although I would NOT personally recommend that.  

How does a Electro-Magnetic Pulse occur? What years chevys, fords, and dodges arent effected?  

nuclear blast. Anything mechanically injected with either manual or non electronically controlled Auto's should not be affected although as previously stated no one really knows for sure the effect of EMP on elect veh's.  

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Home > News > Best Bug Out Vehicles | Every Thing You Need to Know About

Best Bug Out Vehicles | Every Thing You Need to Know About

In case of emergency, sometimes, you need to leave your home. Luckily, finding the best bug out location is not that difficult in most cases, but the trickiest part is to move from the first place to the second if you don’t have a bug out vehicle or BOV.

If you don’t have any bug-out vehicles, now is the time to have one. Owning a bug out car or the truck is not only preferable, but also makes your idea of bugging viable. Have you made up your mind to buy a BOV?  

There are two types of bug out vehicles. The first ones are very expensive so not everyone can afford them. The second ones are available at an affordable price, so many of us can easily buy them. In this article, we will help you determine which BOV you should choose and how to choose the best bug-out vehicle. Let’s get started…

Things You Should Consi der Before Buying a Bug Out Vehicles

Buying a car is not an easy job, and purchasing a great bug-out vehicle is an even more difficult task. Here are some things you should consider before buying a bug out car:

Is the vehicle durable and easy to maintain?

Do you want to buy a new bug out vehicle or a pre-owned one? If you want to buy a new vehicle, almost all new vehicles are durable, especially if you purchase them from a trustworthy company like Armormax®.

However, if you are intending to buy a used bug out car, you should be very careful. Some older vehicles need huge maintenance work. In this case, you should buy a car with easily accessible spare parts in your area. Otherwise, repairing your vehicle will become a headache.

How Fuel-Efficient is Your New Vehicle?

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider before buying bug out vehicles. A BOV is useless if it won’t take you to your destination at all. Therefore, you must know how much fuel you need to get to your destination and what the fuel or gas mileage is on the bug out car.

Plus, you should also consider the detours you might make, the off-road courses, and the traffic you’ll encounter. So, you should always buy a fuel-efficient vehicle.

Is Bug Out Vehicle Off-Road Capable?

For an ordinary vehicle, you might not need to consider this point. However, you must consider this thing when buying a bug-out vehicle. Because off-road capabilities are a must for these vehicles.

You quite often need to be on the back road when bugging out. And, those off-roads can be disastrous for a car that isn’t off-road capable.

Types of Bug Out Vehicles

There are multiple modes of transportation you can utilize as bug out vehicles. For example:

The camper can work as a bug out vehicle if you hook it up to your car. It will not only give you a good functional space for a bug out bag but also can carry several people. You can consider it as a bug out trailer. However, it might not have good handling along the rougher type of terrain.

It is an ultimate bug out vehicle for the badass solo rider. The best thing about this monster machine is how easily you can get in and out of traffic. Plus, a motorbike gives you a smooth ride on dirt road and tougher routes. However, it doesn’t have enough space to carry survival gear.

The bike is another best bug out vehicle you can consider for your journey. You don’t need to rely on fuel and can get in and out of traffic easily, even in case of traffic jams. Above all, it is way cheaper than a big bug out trucks and cars. However, it’s not preferable for a long journey.

A boat can be both a good bug out location as well as a bug-out vehicle. It’s got good space to carry several people and a lot of gear as well. However, having an alternative mode of transportation with the boat is preferable. Sometimes, you might need to leave your boat behind in the water.

An SUV is the perfect bug-out vehicle. Because it has a huge space to pack gear and can transport you and your family easily and safely. You can customize it to fit more to your needs.

If you want more cargo space to transport gear, no option is better than a bug out truck. Plus, it’s an ideal choice for a family of three to four members. Big bug out tracks are also perfect options for off-road journeys. Likewise trucks, bug out jeep, four-wheel-drive- are also a good option to consider for bugging out.

Top 5 Bug Vehicles for 2021

Sometimes, it becomes crucial to leave your home in different scenarios like civil unrest, flooding, pandemic, and EMP attack, etc. For this purpose, here are some best bug out vehicles you should consider:

Ford Raptor Truck

If disaster strikes in your area, Ford Raptor Truck is one of the best options for bugging out. It comes with a 450 horsepower diesel engine and sleek design. To achieve the highest protection level, you can armor this vehicle by contacting Armormax.

Mercedes Benz GLE 63 SUV

It is another astounding bug out vehicle that comes with a ton of customization options. For example, you can install armor, run-flat tires, a smoke screen system, and an advanced tire pressure monitoring system. If any disastrous situation forces you to driveway, the Mercedes Benz GLE 63 SUV is a great backup for you.

Jeep Wrangler

If you are looking for a stunning off road runner, the Jeep Wrangler is for you! You can carry much gear space along with you when bugging out. However, it doesn’t have much space as compared to Ford Raptor Truck. The design of this vehicle is fabulous.

Ford Transit Cargo Van

It is another one of the best bug out vehicles. Ford Transit Cargo Van is the finest option to transfer cargo safely to the destination. Further, you can contact Armormax to add armor to maximize its protection level. You can transport gold and other precious material using this van.

Mercedes S 560

It is another luxurious bug out vehicle to reach bugging out location safely. Its eco start-stop system is undetectable which is a great advancement in this vehicle. Mercedes S 560 comes with an innovative form of LED lighting and the rear taillights feature a wafer-thin layer of organic material.

Things to Carry in Your Bug Out Vehicle

Things to store in your BOV depend on the space in the vehicle. For example, you may only carry a bag out bag on your bike. But you can take a lot of things on the truck or jeep. Whether you use big bug out trucks or motorcycles, storage space will be still limited.

Therefore, you should be very careful about utilizing that space and what to bring. Here are some important things to put in your car:

Communication and Signaling Gear

You can keep yourself sane even in dire situations by keeping in contact with your loved ones. So don’t forget to bring accessories like a solar phone charger, flare, extra phone, car phone charger, and radio, etc.

Bug Out Bag

Bug out Bag is the most essential thing to carry on BOV. It should have enough space to help you survive for at most three days. Therefore, you need to be very smart to fill this bag.

Water and Food

Your bug out bag must contain an additional stock of food and water. Besides these reserve stock, you should outfit your vehicle with the essentials, too. Your vehicle should contain bottled drinking water, a water filter, a cooking pot and utensils, non-perishable food, and an emergency stove.

Vehicle Emergency Kit

You should hope for the best when bugging out but prepare for the worst as well. So you should carry all the necessary tools to repair your vehicle in case it breaks down. Vehicle emergency kit should include a car tool kit, spare parts like spare tires, jack, emergency jump starter, and air compressor.

Some other items include extra fluid, spare keys, tow cables and straps, fire extinguisher, tactical gloves, and duct tape. Seatbelt cutter, reflective vests, siphon and pump, extra fuel, emergency warning

triangles, cordage, and rope are some other necessary items. Plus, don’t forget to bring a folding shovel or entrenching tool and devas well.

Navigation Kit

This is the self-explanatory thing. When SHTF, you must have a navigation kit that will help you to navigate your way. This kit includes A GPS, compass, and maps that help you to reach your bug out location.

Warmth and Shelter

You can’t sleep in your car, especially, if some people are along with you in BOV. Plus, bad weather can also affect your sleep. Different warmth and shelter items give you a comfortable sleep. Some of these items include a tent or tarp, blankets, change of clothes, sleeping bags, rain gear, dry tinder, lighters and matches, and fire starter.

Survival Kit

You must carry a survival kit in case of an emergency. This kit includes a bolt cutter, headlamp, flashlight, knife, ax, binoculars, and protective gears.

Imp ortant Documents

You must carry important documents to abide by the law. Sometimes, authorities ask you to show these documents. Keep these documents in the glove compartment for safekeeping. These documents include vehicle manual, license, car registrations, and contact lists.

Wound Care and Personal Hygiene Kit

It’s our moral duty to keep our home and roads clean. So instead of throwing personal hygiene out the window, use a personal hygiene kit to stock up things. Plus, you should carry a wound care kit in case of an emergency. These kits should include toilet paper, sunblock, insect repellent, vitamins, soap, and a first aid kit.

Find The Best Bug Out Vehicle for You

Finding the best of the best bug out vehicle is a tedious job. In this article, we have covered everything you need to know about these vehicles. If you want peace of mind, you need to purchase a vehicle from a trustworthy platform. Are you looking for a trustworthy platform? If so, Contact Armormax.

You can see plenty of bug-out vehicles for sale available on the Armormax site. You can purchase all types of bug-out vehicles ranging from bug out SUVs to trucks. Further, you can install armor for the highest level of protection.

Armormax Team 205 articles

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an rv a good bug out vehicle.

RVs fit the bill when it comes to survival. They are large and roomy, but are hard to maneuver.

What do you Carry in a Bug Out Bag?

Bug-Out bag essentials include a map or compass, an LED flashlight, extra pairs of underwear and socks, plus water and high-energy foods.

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2003 Ford Excursion w/ Built Powerstroke - Excellent Bug Out Vehicle or Daily Driver

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Its a 03 6.0l diesel. Doesn't matter what you fixed it's not a good emergency rig cause of all the electronics. Would be the last vehicle I would have for a BO rig. IMHO.. Yes I've owned a couple Excursions and 6.0 diesels.  

Too big for not enough power. Too flashy. Too complicated. A lot of "too"s  

now why would I say i would buy a vehicle on a prepper forum? especially one you don't want anymore? Craig's list, buddy Craig's list.  

they are nice SUV but with the 6.0l power stroke I would then have to go to https://www.dieselconversion.com/kit-builder-search and put in a cummings engine to make it 100% reliable.  

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