A bugout trailer, also known as a survival trailer, is an extension of your bugout bag (BOB). It makes it easier to carry extra supplies without the added weight slowing your bugout.
Plus, few preppers dream of having a legitimate bugout location because it's often out of their budget. A bugout trailer will, at the very least, keep you off the ground and out of tents in a survival situation.
Ideally, a bugout trailer is lightweight and easy to maneuver so that you can easily bring it along when SHTF. If you find that you can only carry so much in your BOB, then you may want to consider building a bugout trailer.
Here are five tips to keep in mind when putting together a bugout trailer: (h/t to SurvivalCache.com)
1. Choose the right-sized trailer
Bugout trailers come in all shapes and sizes, and each has its pros and cons. For instance, small bugout trailers, though lightweight and mobile, can only pack so much. It may also only be enough for one person to sleep in.
Meanwhile, some bugout trailers are big enough to house two or more people on top of the supplies. The only downside to big trailers is their weight. You'll need a more powerful vehicle, such as a truck or an SUV, to tow a large trailer. Consider these factors carefully when choosing what size trailer to get.
2. Choose whether to get an open or an enclosed trailer
Trailers can be open or closed. An open trailer has lower sides, which makes for easier packing. It's also lighter, meaning you don't need a large or powerful vehicle to tow it. Because the trailer is open, your supplies will also be exposed. You also can't use an open trailer as a shelter because of the lack of protection.
An enclosed trailer, on the other hand, has solid walls, a roof and a door, allowing for privacy and protection. It can also be easily secured by adding locks to the door. However, enclosed trailers tend to be heavier and more expensive. Packing and unpacking can also be more difficult because of the cramped, walled-in space inside.
3. Determine where to store the trailer
Don't just leave your bugout trailer out on the driveway where it could be looted or stolen. Consider where your trailer will be stored. Ideally, your trailer should already be loaded with supplies so that it's ready to go when you need to bug out. An example of a good location would be the garage or somewhere close to your home.
4. Pack the trailer with survival essentials
Pack your trailer the same way you would your BOB. Pack survival essentials, such as nonperishable food, bottled water, matches, multitools, radio, batteries and first-aid kits. (Related: Non-traditional places to find inexpensive survival supplies.)
5. Consider adding accessories
Some items help make it easier to keep supplies in the trailer in place, protect the trailer itself and do necessary repairs. Here are some items that would be helpful to have in a bugout trailer:
- Cordage – Ropes and straps help keep your supplies secure inside the trailer. You don't want supplies to end up on the floor every time you tow your trailer somewhere.
- Large tarps – Large, heavy-duty tarps help protect your trailer from the elements and keep your supplies hidden from curious eyes.
- Extra locks and keys – If your trailer has been broken into, chances are the lock has been damaged. Change it immediately to secure your trailer and leave the area immediately.
- Flashlights – Pack extra flashlights if your trailer doesn't come with interior lights so that you can easily find what you need inside the trailer when it's dark out.
- Tools – Pack hand tools and hardware to fix possible issues, such as a flat tire or a broken door.
Preparedness.news has more articles about what survival essentials to pack in a bugout bag or trailer.
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