Bugging Out On Foot – How a Runner Has an Edge

I don’t know where this came from but bugging out on foot seems to be a complete myth. In reality, there are several problems associated with bugging out on foot. While looking through different items, we can come across different myths. Before any one of us plans to bug out there must be some questions we should ask ourselves. First of all, are you a good runner and can you take the pressure of uncertain conditions while running for safety. It’s all about undefeated stamina and endurance. Do you have that in you? If you believe you can bug out on foot, read further to note two common myths and stand your guard.

Myth # 1: there are only a few miles on foot?  That must be easy!

When someone preps by walking a certain known miles of distance from work to home, it will be a good practice. But they are certainly not taking into account other factors like the difficulty of terrain, weather and the possible hostile situations that might force them to bug out.

Even if you have practiced walking that distance between your work place to home, it was without carrying the bug out gear. Moreover, roads provide a luxurious means to overcome any distance but in some bugging out situations roads cannot be used. So if you are prepping for X distance, it’s important that you plan on 2X amount.

Moreover, you must be familiarized with alternate routes from your home so that you can take a detour in case the roads are impenetrable or the streets are flooded with people.  Hence, you will have to prepare for secondary routes while keeping notes on the possible hazards that can come up and any factors that can go out of control. All this will help you identify the best possible route while bugging out.

Plus, you will have to identify some spots where you can easily stay overnight. Keep the tools that will help you cross natural or man-made barriers. If different obstacles like the weather or terrain slowed you down, then are there ample supplies to keep you sustained throughout the trip. Can you navigate your way in the dark without any compass or maps? What areas will be safe? These are the possible questions one must ask before bugging out.

Myth # 2: putting on military clothing can make you a target

 
The question is you will become a target for whom exactly? In desperate times, one needs to take desperate measures. Military gear is cheap, far more protective and doesn’t make you a target any more than a commercial Kelty pack. When you are on the run and scared of becoming the victim of roving gangs, then it really doesn’t matter what you are wearing.

However, it’s very important that you carry the basic requirements for bugging out. Many times, we are surrounded by people who are in a habit of overdoing everything. Unless you are not dressed like you are about to invade Fallujah, no one will consider you a target. But if you are in a complete combating ensemble, you can easily be noticed by gangs who might stash you in search of weapons or law enforcement agencies who can consider you a threat.

Since you are bugging out to find a safe refuge, your looks don’t matter at all. What really matters is achieving a balance between functionality and practicality. To negate the possibility of this myth, one must ask why you are bugging out.

Is there a long gun strapped to your back pack to lure attention? Does your bug out bag looks like a bag full of goodies? If not, then you may not need to camouflage or conceal your identity.