Before even deciding on the vehicle to bug out with, you have to first choose between two options:
You either stay at home or bug in to be technical, provided you have a bunker to lock yourself in and adequate supplies in your stockpile. But more importantly than this, you need to have confirmed that the disaster will not affect you at all. If there is the probability that hunkering in may later turn disastrous, then you should get to a safe place ASAP (without waiting for things to turn bad, that is).
OR
You hit the road to somewhere safe. You bug out, most preferably to a location you’ve previously fixed. Yes, you’re advised to have mapped out a clear escape plan before SHTF, so if you’re bugging out, every member of the family knows where you’re all moving to. Note that it is unwise to wait until a catastrophe hits home before you leave. If you’re leaving home and have the resources to, do so as soon as possible, even if there are no resources, bug out if there’s the possibility of danger reaching you where you are. Your prepping skills will keep you alive, even without food in the wild.
Choosing The Right Vehicle To Bug-out With
If you’re bugging out, you have to do so with the appropriate vehicle. Choosing the wrong escape ride will be a major problem. Your bug-out vehicle is often determined by the number of family members, the environment you’re bugging out from, the road to your location & the location itself. If you think about it, you’ll see that the needs requiring a truck will hardly be fulfilled using a car.
Now, to most preppers, the ideal bug-out vehicle is an SUV, but this is not always true. There are pros & cons of using the different types of vehicles for your bug-out. Certain SHTF situations are best navigated using a bike, others using a minivan. There’s hardly an all-rounder choice.
So, below, we’ll look at the strengths & weaknesses associated with using three common bug-out vehicles. Here we go.
The SUV
The SUV is a common vehicle for American families and, to be honest, makes a good bug-out vehicle. There are several models of SUV across the country, with each bearing little differences from the other. Hybrids are available too, and they are usually better travelers. Also, SUVs these days are built for off-road navigations, so getting through any terrain is a piece of cake with a good SUV.
Before leaving home, pack tires for different terrains, so you can change into them if things become too complicated. A moderate drag (for low fuel usage) and a roof rack are also advisable.
Pros of the SUV
- Large enough for four persons to sit comfortably.
- You already have it, so you won’t be forking out cash to get it.
- Carries plenty of loads. You can carry a small boat with your SUV.
- It protects you from direct attacks.
- Nearly perfect for off-road operations.
Cons of the SUV
- Requires expensive purchases to navigate extreme terrains.
- It consumes gas remarkably more than other vehicles.
- Hard to maneuver in case of road blockades or similar blockages.
The Motorcycle
This two-wheel vehicle is also a common possession of various families. Fortunately, there are several variations of motorcycles designed to endure extreme adventures under tough circumstances. Hundreds of us travel daily using this vehicle, as we don’t mind the supposed lack of convenience. With just 8 liters of fuel, your bike can travel over 500 miles, which is a great thing. Fuel is typically scarce during crises.
A high-standard motorcycle powered by a high-capability engine will take you wherever you want. Additionally, your bike can pack quite a decent load. You can attach top cases & side bags to carry your supplies in and go round the whole country with your helmet over your head.
Pros of the Motorcycle
- Great day-to-day vehicle with remarkable off-road specs.
- It optimizes the usage of fuel better than other vehicles.
- Easy to make an escape and maneuver. A gridlock can’t delay you.
- Carry supplies a lot (if there’s only one rider).
Cons of the Motorcycle
- Restricted carrying capacity, supplies inclusive. Hardly advised for a family.
- There’s no protection from direct attacks.
- You’re vulnerable to the wind, rain, sunshine & other elements.
- Fuel can not be carried about, so it’s dangerous if fuel finishes anywhere far from a filling station.
The Motorized Bike
Courtesy of the increasing awareness of prepping, motorized bikes have become quite popular in America. There must have been some of us who were nearly obsessed when the bike was just released, mainly due to its exotic looks.
For some of us, the motorbike is the ultimate bug-out vehicle, thanks to its excellent versatility. With a vehicle like this, fuel isn’t a worry as you can always pedal yourself until you get to where fuel is available. As long as you’re fit, a motorbike is such a great BOV.
Considering that these vehicles are specifically engineered to navigate all terrain types and that with decent supplies, you can cycle them over 400 miles before taking a break. They serve just fine as your main BOV and a backup option in case your SUV or motorcycle gets spoilt or runs out of fuel. More recently, motorbikes are created with an eye on survival, as they come with survival specifications, such as weapon holster, bags, and straps. Most pertinently, the motorized bike is very affordable.
Pros of the Motorbike
- Best fuel optimizer among all BOVs.
- It can be pedaled to safety when the gas runs out.
- New features, harnesses, mounts & fitments enable the carry of additional supplies.
- A great backup vehicle.
Cons of the Motorbike
- It is meant for only one rider.
- Compared to a car, it falls short in carrying capacity.
- Direct exposure to elements & attacks.
Takeaways from The Vehicle To Bug Out With
The vehicle to bug out with must be chosen carefully, as it plays a crucial role in your survival. The inability to make a wise choice based on assessment will hamper your safety and that of others. In the concluding part of this article, we’ll look at three other BOVs available for use: ATV (all-terrain vehicle), bicycle & the human body.