When considering the very real possibility of one day having to “bug out,” there are four things everyone should keep in the forefront of their minds at all times.

Those are what vehicle to use, what to bring for supplies, where you're headed, and what route to take. It's important to consider these things before you ever come close to having to evacuate; if you wait until the last minute, you will forget something. It's that simple.

Ready to get prepared? Read on below.

1. Which Vehicle Do I Take?
For those of us who don’t own a Hummer, the decision may be a little harder. Things to consider in an escape vehicle are ground clearance, four wheel drive or not, load capacity, fuel consumption and toughness.
I would take the vehicle that I feel is the safest for me and my family. In my case, we have a GMC Envoy 4WD. It is not the toughest vehicle but it is better than our Kia Spectra. This GMC gives me a fair load capacity and the option of better traction if needed. I always keep at least three quarters of a tank of fuel in my vehicle at all times and make sure my oil, fluids and tire pressure are good.
2. What Do I Take With Me?
Decide that now and not when you find yourself having to haul butt. It may be the last time you your home and the things we have to leave behind.
Always keep emergency supplies in your vehicle at all times. We are seeing more of these extreme weather patterns throughout the United States so be prepared.
My list includes the following:
1. Two blankets (wool if possible).
2. Drinking water (can be used for water for the vehicle if needed).
3. Food bars
4. Fire starter
5. Emergency shelter
6. Small stove with fuel
7. Flash light with extra batteries
8. Multi tool
9. First Aid Kit
10. Cell Phone and charger
Things in my Jeep:
1. A ranch jack: Can be used to lift the front or rear onto stable ground.
2. Straps or chains: Can be used with a jack or come along.
3. Folding shovel: Dig around the tires to improve traction
4. Ratchet straps: Can be used to strap a board or tree limb for self rescue.
5. Snow chains: Can be used in snow, ice or mud to improve traction.
6. A hand operated come along: Able to wench the vehicle out.
7. A tool kit: For small repairs.
8. Leather gloves
9. Extra towels
10. Hatchet or hand axe
My advice to everyone is to take the time to do this now, not at the last minute when you are under intense pressure. You will be glad you did. If you take the time now when not under pressure, you will be less likely to forget the things you will need.
3. Where Am I Headed?
Every evacuation plan should have a well thought-out destination. It is good to consider the resources you need to survive and for the location to be defensible against undesirables. In emergencies, you will not want to have to depend on protection from the government. Law enforcement and rescue/EMT personnel will be stretched thin so learn to meet your own needs.
4. What Will Be The Safest Route To Take?
Evacuation routes are going to be packed. People who don’t know the back roads will all follow the signs and before long the roads will become blocked. I have planned two alternate routes to our bug out location and there are even more if I need them. Avoid stopping at rest stops or crowed public places as these can be a point of ambush for people who want to steal or do you harm.

When considering things to bring along, it is also highly encouraged that you have your computer hard drives saved onto an external backup drive that you can just grab as you run out the door. Our entire lives are on our computers, and if you lose your home and belongings to a disaster, it's comforting to know you'll be able to start over where you left off.

We also strongly recommend that you keep some maps stored in your bug out vehicle. Even if you have several alternate routes memorized, you never know what will happen. You can bet that in a national disaster, there will be no way to ensure that your phone or car GPS will work properly with so many other people clogging the system.

Following these steps ahead of time will make this process a lot less stressful, for you'll just have to jump in the car and go. This is excellent advice, and if you'd like more visit SHTF Blog today and get started with your preparations.