What To Expect And Bring On A Bug-Out To Someone Else’s Place

bug-out

A SHTF ‘bug-out’ to someone else’s place may not end up the way you envisioned.
Will the doors be open?

The circumstances which caused the decision to bug-out (evacuate) may be a factor that will affect how well one is received. The relationship with the person (people) at the presumed destination will be a factor. One’s past history, reputation, and behavior will be a factor. The probable length of stay will be a factor. One’s skills, potential contribution, and what is brought to the table will be a factor.

There are all sorts of factors which may help or hinder one’s ability to get in the door at the other end of a bug-out. In fact, the door may very well be shut…


 
Generally, bugging-out is a last option for people. Most plan to hunker down at home if things get ‘bad’. After all, home is where your supplies are – so why would you leave? Unless a hurricane is bearing down on top of you, it is generally a good idea to stay put at home and implement your survival plan rather than venturing out into the unknown… But there are always caveats. And only you can make the judgement call. Circumstances are everything…

For example, if utilities have been down for an extended time, and if you live ‘in the city’ or in a very densely populated MSA (metropolitan statistical area), at some point it’s going to get real bad there.

For the sake of this discussion, lets presume that the circumstances are real bad, and the ‘SHTF’ is not going to be over any time soon. It is long-term, and truly TEOTWAWKI.

While avoiding the ‘rabbit hole’ conversation of whether or not ‘to bug out’, lets just presume that the threshold has been crossed such that a person (or persons) must leave their home or else suffer terrible consequences due to their location and situation.

What should that person expect to encounter? What are some of the obstacles to overcome and what should they bring along?

 
Here are a few thoughts:

First, have a plan. Figure it out BEFORE the SHTF.

Understand (as quickly as you can) the extent of circumstances surrounding the SHTF, enabling you to make quicker decisions before the herd gets into motion.

Before it ever happens, ask yourself, Where might I go? Do I know others who already live in a safer location? Have I talked to them (even casually) about the notion?

Swap roles and ask yourself how you would feel if everyone (or some of the people) you know suddenly showed up at your door – with all those additional mouths to feed… What would you expect from them if you let them in?

If you are the one who is already living at the so called bug-out location, and you’ve spent much of your time, money, and energy getting set up for your own preparedness, you might have second thoughts about running prematurely short of food and supplies if others come knocking on your door (all the reason to store more). Maybe you have planned ahead by having some extra food and supplies beyond your immediate needs, but if the ‘balloon has gone up’ and the world as we know it is experiencing significant breakdown, now it’s ‘real’… Tough decisions have to be made.

How can the person doing the knocking offset this? Answer: Bring something (significant) to the table. Know that acceptance will also depend on one’s track record. If there’s a history of being more of a freeloader than a ‘doer’ (for example), then don’t expect a warm welcome. If there are no practical skills whatsoever, things might not go in one’s favor.

Even if you have a good record of being a responsible individual, by bringing practical supplies with you (e.g. food, ‘tools’ for security, etc..) and by having the skills to contribute to the overall survival condition of the bug-out location, you may stand a better chance for the door to open after you show up… Thresholds are very different for everyone, but the more you can offer the better it will be.

Note: The hypothetical BOL in this discussion is NOT ‘the woods’ (hardly anyone will actually be able to survive there). We’re talking about an established home or homestead in a safer location than otherwise (wherever that might be) which is occupied by preparedness-minded individuals.

The circumstances will dictate the scenarios of how someone will be traveling during their bug-out. If there’s a vehicle, then a fair amount of supplies could be brought along (as opposed to walking – which most people today could not do anyway).

From the perspective of the person who is already residing at the BOL, I would imagine that food would be a high priority for a ‘friend’ or relative showing up at the door. Do they have any with them? How long will it last?

Next, I would ‘size them up’ with regards to their practical skills. What can the person do that will contribute in a meaningful way?

Having more bodies can mean better security (important), however at what cost? Are they capable?

I realize that some of these notions may seem cold, however if you put yourself into a SHTF world like we’ve never seen before – we may literally be talking about life or death decisions. Naturally, we do not ever wish for such circumstances to ever come upon us, however when I look at the vast majority of today’s modern society and how very different and dependent they are compared to, say, 100 years ago, then I realize how deadly it could become if the modern world as we know it were to fall down around us…

 
This is a very broad subject with many subtopics. But it’s worth general discussion.
What’s your opinion?

Either put yourself in the shoes of the person bugging-out or in the shoes of the person at the destination BOL. If you’re doing the knocking, what might be your best attributes? If you’re on the other side of the door, what are you thinking? What things would you expect them to bring to the table (assuming you open the door at all…)?

61 Comments

  1. Anyone who gets invited in to our BOL will have to know the password. (I brought my own supplies)

    1. Then my family and I would be more than welcome. That’s if I can make it with all of my supplies. But supplies are not all that I would bring but all of my knowledge. skills and tactical experience.

  2. Ken, This is precisely why we “polled” all of our kids (and their family members) and BFFs as to skills, portable preps and willingness. We also have sent ALL of our kids, their families and ALL of our immediate BFFs to FrontSight for training. We have had some very candid and often heart wrenching discussions on bugging out to our ranch.

    I took the liberty of sending each of my kids a letter (on official letterhead) that they have a place to go to, employment, and security in their living arrangements so that they would have a “letter of transit” if marshal law were declared and travel limited. I sent them each funds and instructions to keep (and rotate) enough fuel to drive their family and pets here, with a bit of extra fuel in the instance of back roads or traffic. For Christmas exchange one year we provided 72 hour MRE’s and “life straws for each family member as well as travel blankets and warmers for their personal BOBs.

    Initially my kids would tell me they were “worried” about me, when I expressed the need to prepare for the entire family and for any possible event. Now, most, if not all, are on board and awakened to the plan. And, they are glad to know they have a place to go where they can be productive and safe.

    I should add that this has taken YEARS to accomplish and has taken extreme dedication by the whole family. We meet twice per year (at least) to practice skills and re-vamp the work lists and inventories. Getting your kids (and their families) to give up Disneyland or whatever, in favor of FrontSight or the ranch isn’t always easy. But, since they have seen what WE have been willing to sacrifice and build, they all “get it”. We try to make the meetings both fun and informative, so when planning we always include specialty foods, new ways to use freeze drieds, have a bon fire and make popcorn outdoors….things to show the grandkids that life won’t be boring with just beans and rice!

    We purchased a telescope that has a special night sky display (battery operated), walkie talkies (they love those), have lots of books , game boards and puzzles, and with the horses and other livestock we keep the kids busy and learning the whole time. We believe it is as important to prepare for QUALITY of life and good spirits as it is to prepare for feeding and sheltering ourselves.

    Keep on prepping folks…but practice, practice, practice. And keep talking it through with those you most expect to join you.

    1. Please consider that if Martial Law becomes a reality, check points might be manned by UN troops who may or may not be able to speak or read English. To learn Russian, Chinese, Spanish or Arabic might come it handy now and/or in the future! Perhaps a new language for each person. Hopefully they all have maps and alternate routes planned if needed.

      Sounds like you’ve planned much more than most. If any have an RFID chip in any credit card or work ID have them place them in an Altoid candy or cookie tin to block it from receiving any signals that would provide their location.

    2. I think you should be called Wonder Woman my warmest congrats on your “walking the walk” I have struggled with family in the same way, only a few have found the enlightenment yours have. Instead I sadly realize that there are going to be Shepple and up to the last minute they will depend on technology to keep them brain dead until the day of awakening hits.

    3. Wish I was this set up. I have been into prepping since 2009. While I am more prepared than the majority I bow to your ackomplishments. The hardest part is finding like minded folk. I will probably have to turn away anyone that shows up at my door. I have prepared for my family, if someone shows up with out supplies I can’t afford to take them in. This is a hole in my plans as numbers are need for security and long term survival. Sounds like you have this more difficult part covered.

  3. I live off the beaten path and have been asked a few times by friends and coworkers about this subject. I tell them if you and your family show up at my door with your own shelter, food,and means to protect themselves (RV/trailer and food for several months) they will be welcome. If not they will be sent away. I explain to them that I only have enough room and food for my own family. Most of the people understand this and have purchased small camping or pop up trailers and already have a food storage plan.

  4. I live alone and have invited my brother, nephew, and nephew’s wife to come if they can. They are 500 miles away, so I don’t know if they can make it. I need them for security and have been storing extra things they might want or need in case they can come. My nephew has an old model jeep that might work after am EMP, but they might wind up traveling the last part of the trip on foot. I have suggested they store extra gas, but they think that is silly.

    1. Your relatives can’t see into the future nor can you or I. You might consider telling them that if they are planning on using the most direct route to your place, that it may not be availiable when SHTF and so an indirect route requiring more gas may be their only option!! Gas stations may have sold out because of the sudden surge in sales, plus having to stop and wait in line could place them in danger that could have been avoided!!

      1. Being Watched:

        Unlike more populous states, Wyoming doesn’t have many roads. There are 98,000 square miles and half a million people, most of whom live within 10 or so miles from the interstates. The rest of the state consists of ranches and little towns every 30 miles or so with one road connecting them. Other roads just go to the various ranches and then dead end.

        There are multiple ways they can get from where they live in Colorado to the Wyoming border, but after that there is the Interstate and there is Hwy 287 through Laramie and Rawlins and branching north to Riverton, Shoshoni and Wind River Canyon. There is NO other road through Wind River Canyon except WY 789 (US 20) between Shoshoni and Thermopolis — not even horse trails that I know of. To detour would mean several hundred extra miles. Even if they use the Interstate, they either have to get off the Interstate at Casper and take US 20 to Shoshoni, running into that bottleneck at Wind River Canyon. The only other way between Casper and me is to go over the Big Horn Mountains (2 ways, one through Buffalo and over Power River Pass and the other through Sheridan and over Granite Pass. Both passes are often closed in winter. So is Yellowstone Park in winter and that is a VERY long detour.

        So if they can’t get trough Wind River Pass, it is about an 80 mile walk. So what I want them to bring is warm clothes, good shoes, water bottles, portable water, matches, and any medications they need. If they can make it through the pass, then I hope they bring lots of clothes, blankets, any medications they need, and whatever food they have in their houses.

        If there is cell service, and my car runs, then I could probably meet them at the north end of the pass or somewhere in between.

        The good news is that not many people can get here, so we won’t have the hoards of people that most of you worry about. The nearest big city is Billings 130 miles away.

        1. Sorry, I meant Powder River Pass not Power River Pass.

          The other way they could come, avoiding mountain passes and steep narrow canyons, would be to go all the way north to Billings and then around the Big Horns and south to me. But that would mean about 230 extra miles and a 90,000 city to get through.

        2. Daisy K,
          Thanks for that explaination. Sounds like where you are is an ideal BOL.
          I hope that perhaps your daughter and Grandchild will be able to get there as well. Hope you have some veg seeds and have the room to get them planted indoors in late winter. I imagine you would have just enough time to grow and harvest once before cool weather returns.

          Good luck with that stove!

        3. My daughter and grandson are more than 1,700 miles away. I doubt they could get here in an emergency. Relocating is also not an option for them. My grandson is in medical school and my daughter refuses to leave Louisiana.

          Except for the cold winters, this is a good bug-out location. There are less than 25,000 people living in the Big Horn Basin which is most of the NW quarter of the state. We have high mountains to the east and to the west which are often (or always) closed in the winter and they are not easy to navigate even in summer, often 7% or even 8% grades. There is a two lane road through the steep narrow canyon at the south end of the Basin. One of the roads to the north is also closed in winter. That leaves the only easy access through Billings to the north which is 130 miles away.

          Most of the people here are preppers, although they don’t know it. About 1/3 are Mormons and in the small town where I live, it is 120 miles round trip to the nearest supermarket. We do have a convenience store and a Mom & Pop grocery, but for serious shopping you need to drive to Cody. I do that about 6 or 7 times per year, as do most of us. So we have lots of food and supplies stored. Most every one in the area is related or close friends with many of the other people in the area.

          It occurs to me that residents of the Basin could close off just about all access to our area from outsiders by closing just 7 access points: at the bottom of the 4 high passes, the north end of the canyon, the road from Billings, and the base of the Boysen Dam which eventually becomes the Big Horn River. I think the residents here would do it. (I guess we would also have to close off access by rail. That’s two more barricades.)

          Do you have a link to that stove?

        4. My son worked for a phone company in SW WY about ten years ago as a purchasing agent but has since moved back to TX. I do business nationally with Chemtrade Logistics that has a facility in Riverton, that’s fairly close to you. I also live in Louisiana!! Its a small world!!! I love to cook so when I bug out, my supplies do include all the good cajun recipes and food required. Have considered opening a cafe away from Louisiana where its cold, our style of food is very seasoned. Your daughter can tell you how well a bowl of hot Louisiana gumbo tastes in the winter. It always tastes better after being in a cold deer stand all day. LOL!!

        5. DaisyK,
          Stove info: cabelas.com, use their search and key in part #JF-51-9238.
          Its called a barrel stove kit. For its size, rugged construction, its a good buy. Just please remember to season the vent pipe outside in an open area at least two times by connecting all the pieces for pipe together to the stove and fire it up. You’ll see the difference on the exterior of the pipe change from shinny to a dull finish. Once set up inside, you’ll be surprised by how much heat this little stove generates.

        6. Thank you. I found it. I would have to have it shipped; I can’t carry 72 lbs, but maybe I could lift the component parts, or maybe, once it got here I could hire the teenage boys who mow my lawn to assemble it for me.

          SW Wyoming and Riverton are both warmer than we are here. We are in a low point and the cold settles here. I think that Torrington might be in growing zone 5. I planted some zone 4 bushes 2 years ago and last winter they died from the cold.

  5. @ Chameleon….
    Remember I said several candid and heart wrenching discussions! Sometimes those harsh statements are necessary!

  6. Have to say “Welcome to the United States of America of today”. With only 3% of the population being prepared. I can see it spinning out of hand real fast with adult kids bringing girlfriends/boyfriends/pets along with our own friends just showing up at the compound. Was having a great day till Ken put the thought in my head of who may show up.

    1. It’s better to think about it now – rather than having to process everything in your head as the door knocks… (it is an uncomfortable thought process)

  7. My situation, is that I reside in the suburb of a mid size southern city, plus I’ve been an outspoken critic of our corrupt Govt agencies. I have confirmed that I will be dealt with if I stay! So I have a BOL that already has most of my preps already moved there. Others that already reside at the BOL have only recently started to Prep for long term, except for firearms and ammo. My advice to those who also plan to BUG OUT, pre-plan, start moving supplies now!! UNKNOWNS can happen like an EMP or Martial LAW checks points if you wait too long to leave. Then most of your supplies would be left behind for someone else to benefit from!! MY plan is to exit at the first sign that trouble is about to start by using one or a combination of routes and once at the VERY RURAL BOL, and settled in, set up perimeter SECURITY and recon duties.

    Make every possible attempt to top off supplies without sacrificing security. Telling others where your BOL is WILL result in a breach of security because you have no control over how many people that individual has also told! Information will be used by those who have not prepared and are looking for ways to take your supplies from you or worse to gain favor from Govt authorities who will use force to redistribute your supplies!!

    Be realistic if you plan to participate in resisting tyranny, whether it be by helping those that are fighters by providing food and shelter or actually involved in the fight by getting in the best physical shape you can be NOW!!

    Also consider having a plan of how to escape from your BOL, because regardless of how well you think have hidden your BOL, Big Brother has technologies that we have never heard or seen. Don’t ever make the mistake of turning on a mobile phone or wireless device that emits a signal that can identify your location even for a short time. I will only consider turning on a small handheld emergency radio a minimum of a mile away from my BOL.

  8. Ken,
    This topic is probably the most uncomfortable topic of discussion for tough times . However, it must be talked about and some groundwork laid out so that you are not faced with a dilemma at your doorstep and have to make a quick decision . By saying “NO” to someone you, in most cases, will develop an enemy, family or not. As difficult as the situation may be, you must make a logical decision and not an emotional one .
    Wife and I have discussions about who will get in and who will not. We set aside storage items to help to accommodate guests, food, sleeping bags, meds., etc. We expect guests to provide all they possibly can if they arrive and to work for their keep while being there . Worst case scenario is grid down , no electricity,and that will entail a tremendous amount of work on everyone’s part , kids too .
    The Boy Scout motto ” BE PREPARED” is very appropriate in this case .
    Bluesman

  9. @ Beingwatched.

    All true and good advise. Our ranch is waaay off the beaten path and has a wonderful 11% grade to the road out front coming in. We can SEE everyone who chooses to use the road LOL. Since we live at altitude and work the ranch daily, we are pretty fit (even if senior in age).

    You are probably right about not knowing who told what to whom, so we have always kept our cards pretty close to the vest so to speak. But, we have also been pretty clear that we are well trained and vigilant! Once the SHTF, we too, will only use technology OFF SITE. and, we are so remote that there is NO reason to use a radio! Can’t tune in anything!

  10. Turning away a woman with three hungry kids would be harder to do than anything I had to do in the marines. I have seen hungry people with small kids and its not a pretty sight. I wish I could feed everyone but I know this is not possible but it will be one of the hardest that you will have to do. MAY GOD HELP US.

    1. First of all, they’re not my kids and I don’t know that woman! So no soup for you!
      Secondly, I don’t remember anyone lining up to help me out while the times were good. They got their huge flat screens and cable TV and fancy cars and houses. Well they had the same opportunities I had and could’ve spent their money on less material junk and bought more supplies like I did. I had to buy and store all my supplies myself and suddenly I’m going to be expected to share them? Ok then while things are still going good right now then I’m going to assert my right to walk up to a stranger and “borrow” his Maserati or Bugatti and drive it back to his mansion and watch Atlas Shrugged on his 80″ flatscreen and eat all his fancy gourmet grub.

      Fantasy scenario: You’re on a cruise ship. Everyone is allowed 3 suitcases. In one case I pack clothes. In the other I pack food. And in the third I pack an inflatable boat. The ship begins sinking. I throw my cases overboard and jump. Inflate the boat and pile in with my food and clothing. Am I obligated to invite any of the other passengers into my boat? NO! Every single one of the other passengers had the same opportunity to bring their own boat with them!

      1. Anonymous, try not to pee in your pants the first fire fight you get into. I know what has to be done been there and done that I TRYING TO TELL EVERYONE THAT IT WILL NOT BE EASY AND ANYONE THAT THINKS IT WILL BE IS A FOOL OR A MAD MAN. I encourage everyone to get prepared mentality . WHEN SHTF HAPPENS IT WILL NOT BE OVER AT THE END OF THE MOVIE LIKE SOME PEOPLE THINK. A MAN THAT LEADS PEOPLE HAVE TO HAVE THEIR RESPECT.

        1. @ hogdog
          No reason to be rude, this is an open discussion, and everyone’s opinions are welcome, even if you disagree with them. And yelling does no good, once someone has to raise their voice, or use CAPS, the conversation is always lost.

          I don’t believe anyone here has said a single word about the decision being an easy one. I see a lot of people that have thought about this and made decisions accordingly.

          And you’re absolutely correct, A leader has to have the “respect” for others to follow. In order to lead one must make the hard decisions, and not just yell orders. No???

          JMHO
          NRP

        2. I have NEVER thought of caps as yelling. I just think of it as ’emphasis’.

        3. @hotdog, NRP is correct, no where in my post did I say it was going to be easy. I’m just saying that anyone showing up after the fact better not be coming empty handed and assuming they are owed anything. I also never mentioned anything about wanting to lead anyone. Like you I also wish I could feed everyone but this is not about wishes. I know that every meal I give away will be one less for me. If it were about wishes I would wish that everyone would get prepared so instead of looking for someone to feed them they could feed themselves.

          The optimal “party guest” after the SHTF would be one where all I would have to offer is a roof and nothing more. Meaning they show up with their own beans, bullets, and band aids and not expecting a handout.

    2. The bible I read says feeding the hungry is like feeding Jesus Himself (Matthew 25:31-46). I am not a believer in eternal security and really want to be a sheep so I have a plan. I live in desert where the only water I know of is pumped from deep wells by electricity. I fill empty plastic bottles with water and I have some food I could give with directions to the nearest city. I am a ham and am working on faraday caging a radio. In an EMP event, thirsty and hungry people would be given about a gallon of water and the equivalent of a meals food and directed to the nearest relief. My hope will be that they will go far away and not come back and my prayer is that God will not look on me as too miserly.

      1. Another part of the bible says do not cast your pearls upon the swine…………you have to be “family first” with a “small portion” for the needy. Sell your garmet for a sword takes on a special meaning does it not.

  11. @ hogdog. TOO TRUE, however, when the hungry child shows up at your door, ask yourself where is Dad? Part of that candid and heart wrenching discussion we had was just about that. How did the kid end up at the gate? Who is he possibly sent by? and for what purpose? If you take them in, you better plan on them NOT leaving! and that, creates a whole new set of problems.

    We live so far out that it would be clear if someone ends up at our gate or door step, they came with a purpose and possible knowledge or were sent as recon. Tough decisions will lie ahead, have no doubt about that.

    1. Recon miles away with night vision when needed. If you wait till they are close enough to see from your ranch house, it might get tough if there’s a group! Consider limiting your heat signature at night as much as possible. Military Drones have thermal telescopes that are effective miles away.

  12. I live in the woods and surrounded by national forests where food is plentiful in warmer months but winter is much harder. I am the woods BOL so I don’t fit your hypothetical scenario, but people can survive here and have for hundreds of years before modern conveniences and farming. I have a years supply of food and knowledge of edible sources, but my brother ignored my warnings, said I was a crazy for living this way, and preferred to die than come up here. I doubt they will come being 600 miles away. My daughter is 250 miles away and is now starting to learn from me. However if they or any old friends/relatives show up, they must contribute and learn to get food like I do and supplement what can be found to extend my food supply.

    I ate lunch yesterday which included left over lettuce leaves I found still growing in the garden, a carrot I found that escaped my garden harvest, rose hip shells, onion flowers that bloomed very late, and birch buds and blackberry leaves for the salad, along with a fish fillet from the lake. I only added salad dressing from my “bought” food supply for an early winter lunch living near Canada. If I can eat this way, so can they.

    Now if I had to BO to another location, it would be to my cousins cabin on the lake, but he may not be there since he lives far away. He always says I am welcome, but he wouldn’t have any food storage. I’d have to bring some food stock myself, or expect to eat fish as a main staple until summer. It is in the area I learned to forage and fish with my mom growing up. If my cousin was there, he’d be happy to have me show him the ropes on eatable foods because his life may depend on it.

  13. @ Being Watched….anyone coming down the hill, will not have the opportunity to come back UP the hill to the house without identification first! And, we can pick them off well before that!, rest assured. Part of the training included use of night vision equipment and night time clearance and recon as well. We attended a FOUR NIGHT class in July. was great fun, and good exercise.

    Don’t believe we would be able to stop a military action….not that naive. But, won’t give them a reason to visit either.

    We have designed window coverings for every opening, each labeled and readily available. Did this mostly for storm protection, but will work for other scenarios as well. The home is built of steel, works great for passive solar, and stronger than heck…did that for fire danger in the middle of nowhere, but has turned out to be very advantageous!

  14. I can see having to bug out only if the event is short term, where a few months of food can be put in the trunk of the car..and you can literally live in your car if you have too. So, if you can drive to your nephew’s house, which is out of the zone, fine.
    But, a long term event, like an EMP, makes bugging out virtually impossible, if you must carry everything on your back..or drag it in a cart. And, you would be humping along right past packs of desperate people, who have no problem killing you for your stuff.
    The fact is, for me, any long term event means my death, as it means the death of over 90 percent of everyone else. I simply would not turn away that woman and her kids, as it shall not be a matter of saving your life, but of dying well.
    There is little point to trying to turn away people, who will just collect into a force that will kick in your door and take what you have. You cannot protect your stash, if its only you and your wife…no matter what weapons you have.
    If you are not already set up to survive for the rest of your life, and the lives of your family, you simply will not survive for very long..when the lights go out in the next 15 minutes.

    1. Ision, I feel the same for me, that should things go way bad, I won’t be alive for long. I have prepped for years. It came in very handy when I had a job loss several years ago. Since then, I’ve come to think that I most likely won’t be one of the survivors, even though I have military experience and still a fair amount of preps. The reason is that I don’t have family members or friends that don’t think I’m crazy for suggesting we consider far-out SHTF possibilities. These are the same people who love to watch “The Walking Dead”, “Game of Thrones”, and other apocalyptic shows, and enjoy talking about what they would do. That is more crazy to me. I wish I had a group to practice and train with, but it seems that most prepping groups won’t consider someone who isn’t the same religion as them. As if I cannot care and love a fellow human being because I don’t share the same religious belief. Sad, but true, I’m trying to accept my situation – it’s helping me live more for today than previously. All good things to ya!

      1. I’ll preface with echoing what Pioneering Woman says a little further down the comments: @ Lady Leatherneck…. I have noticed a similar problem with folks of differing religious beliefs not being willing to work with others. This is a sad reckoning, (and to my thinking particularly un-christian of them)

        @Lady Leatherneck, Don’t know you, but as a former Leatherneck myself, as is my sister, I would not refuse entry on religious beliefs. As for family members, I believe we all have those in our families who look at us with that “scared/stupid” look and don’t know just what to make of us. That’s sad but OK by me. It reinforces my decision to deny them access if they make the choice to be ignorant of their situation. I am currently in Fl. but am working on securing a fairly remote homestead in Tn., and if you & your skills “fit” and can get there, you would be welcome, should that time come. It cant be done by lone individuals and very small families, there is just too much work to do with security 24/7, gardening, wood-cutting, etc.
        Loclyokel AT gmail DOT com.

        1. Ladies, consider this…When SOME persons refer to being with people of like beliefs, they often refer to More than religion…”people of like beliefs”, as persons who have basic values…have the same mindset. Those struggling to provide for others. Those who are expecting a handout- need not apply. It just ain’t happening. There is no room for a deadbeat. I would not want trade with someone who is not providing for their family. So someone with like values/beliefs are important to each of us. If we have nothing to value,there is no reason to prep. Just think about it…

  15. @Ision PRECISELY. That is why my kids thought I was nuts to leave my mainstream job and home in suburbia and begin this new lifestyle and planning. However, 11 years later, well equipped, well trained, well stocked and productive, they all have come to enjoy what we have created. Whether or not they will all be able to make it here remains to be seen. We have done what we could. We continue to do what we can. We have taught, planned, shared and will continue to do so.

    After a life time dedicated to the betterment of society, I would not quit tomorrow. But I will continue to assess and act judiciously! I can not save everyone, my career and life has taught me that, but taking a line out of the movie World War Z…each one we save is one less we have to fight off. Hold that thought.

  16. The most important question you have to answer yourself, is, ” What do I have to offer to make myself an asset.” If you don’t have anything positive to add to the place you’re going, you’re not going to be accepted. You absolutely have to bring something to the table! Expecting Charity for charity’s sake is not going to cut it. If a bug-out is one of the options that you are considering, prepare for it by making sure you will have something useful to offer. NOW is the time!

  17. @ Lady Leatherneck…. I have noticed a similar problem with folks of differing religious beliefs not being willing to work with others. This is a sad reckoning, (and to my thinking particularly un-christian of them)
    I have also noticed that many of these same people talk too much and as you say are fond of watching apocalyptic type movies, but not really grasping the true message of them.
    Be well, and keep living a good life.

  18. We would bring as much supplies as we could carry, leaving behind buried supplies for future possible retrieval. We also bring knowledge on a variety of skills. I would expect anyone coming to our door to do the same. I also realize that some people could lose everything in their travels and end up at our door with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Family would likely be allowed in anyway, but with the knowledge that they will be asked to do more physical labor than others that have come with supplies. If they don’t like those arrangements, we will direct them to the nearest FEMA camp. These are tough decisions that will have to be made in order for the best chance of survival. If the person is not family, then they must also have a highly useful skill that will be needed in a SHTF world. I can’t say what that will be as it will depend at the time what we are lacking. Although we do have 2 certified EMT’s, a doctor would be one we would likely take in.

  19. I’d have to agree with the suggestion that if someone was to arrive at my property (acreage) with an RV of some type to live in, with their own supplies, and willing to work, they would be the type that could (possibly) be accepted. There could even be some land that they could work themselves. Now THAT would be an asset!

  20. We have had a number of folks from our “neighborhood” tell us they were coming to our home, when the Schumer-hits-the-fan. I pointedly said, “Then you will die at the bottom of the hill with everyone else.” Some were highly offended, (I don’t care at all), some were “surprised”, and decided to get better prepared OR, start prepping, and a very few said, “We understand, we would be bugging out to your place after ours became untenable WITH OUR OWN SUPPLIES and DEFENSE MEASURES.” We kind of figured that they would be coming anyway, and the reciprocation is there of course for us, if needed. It works both ways with good decent people.
    Mooches, whiners, lazy people need not to bother with even trying. While it sounds “tough” or heartless to the uninformed, our family is NOT a philanthropic organization with unlimited funds donors, celebrity endorsements, etc. If you want to eat, you had better hump it here.
    Our immediate family is now spread out over 1500 miles, so my wife and I have pre-positioned supplies for US, at our adult children’s homes, so if we are there, when the bubble bursts, we won’t be an additional burden. If we are not there, we pretty much figure getting there won’t work due to a variety of uncontrollable events, disasters or scenarios, so they can use the extra supplies as needed for their families.
    For the last several years now, at birthdays and for Christmas, we’ve given the Gift of Preparedness to our three adult children and their families to help get them prepared with gear and some supplies as well.

  21. I’ve often wondered how I would be Treated,if I was en-route to my bug-out location and had trouble. And now after reading some of these comments,I would probably have a hard time getting there. You would think we are all in this together, and not apart. Sure you should have your Guard up, but you can be civil, maybe we should all take a step back and THINK could this Happen to me. There are so much evil in the World today, don’t you think I would have my Guard up from someone who is trying to Help me……….

  22. This is such a difficult subject to discuss. How do you say “yes” to one and “no” to another and still live with that decision.

    For me, life events of late made the decision for me. My half-brothers disowned me days after their mother’s death while I was still grieving. My step-mother wasn’t the most lovable person but was the only mother that I had known. Mine had died shortly after my 4th birthday. So I crossed both of them off my list. My extended family aren’t close like some families so they never even made the list.

    Hubby’s kids live in California, Oklahoma and Missouri. In a SHTF situation, their distance from us will make it impossible for them to join us. His mother and siblings and their partners are pretty much clueless as to what’s going on. Mind you, if some of them were here visiting when it all came crashing down, I would never turn them out.

    That leaves my son, daughter and son-in-law, who are 2 hours away from us. Hubby understands that we may have to take them in and he’s okay with it.

    The trouble is that they’re still somewhat asleep despite all the talking we’ve done. So we left it at if there’s any reason you have to leave home, come straight here. The door is open but bring as much stuff with you as possible.

    In the meantime, I prep as best I can for the 2 of us and possibly another 4 people in case my son shows up with a significant other.

    Friends think we lost our minds when we left the city and moved out into the country. Hubby’s co-workers think the same. They just can’t imagine living without the malls, restaurants and Starbucks close by.

    We chose to live a less materialistic lifestyle and dare I say it, we’re far more content for it. And when things break down, this lifestyle may be the only way you can stay alive.

  23. For various personal reasons bugging out is not an option for me. The goal is to hunker down and wait out the initial chaos. If 90% of the people around me are gone by that point I can pull down fences and start my own BOL. If I’m dead, well I probably would have been dead anyway running with the herd and no destination in mind. I don’t have family or friends with remote property and running without a plan in that situation is just suicide.

  24. NASA did some work to try to discover what the ideal crew size would be for long space journeys. One person was a disaster and always ended in some form of mental instability. Three or more people always ended with two or more clicks forming in the group and a subsequent power struggle. The only crew size that worked long term was two people. I believe this could be extended to include close family member, i.e. children and even then if there were spouses of those children that could be a problem. This might be why in countries where tribalism is still the rule the family is ruled (usually) by the father/grandfather and sometimes by the mother/grandmother. And usually these family clans are ruled with an iron fist. Humans aren’t easily controlled and this will be the biggest problem.

  25. In answer to the subject of how many people can work together in a group, as a Veteran in combat, I can tell you that for us, 3 was the magic number.
    When 1 was occupied, the other 2 always kept watch. I also heard this from POWs. Biblical: Ecclesiastes 4:12 “A threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

  26. One item not mentioned is the dynamics of adding additional people in a small confines or homes. Personal space lost, the freedom to move freely about with out the constant set of eyes watching you’re every move or gesture. From time to time, people need space in order to regroup thoughts and energy. This issue would create a great problem, unless sleeping & living arrangements have been pre-determine.

  27. We have a small log cabin on the other side of the hill that we have designated “the love shack”. When we have a houseful, it can be “booked” for private time. Lol the kids (adults all) have enjoyed it and thought it was a great relief.

    1. Now, thats being prepared!!! I would venture to say someone in your group has extensive medical training, perhaps a medical professional!!

  28. Ken, You have opened a very very interesting topic in this one, again thank you so much for the brain awakening that you provide….are you sure you are not a computer? Anyway, the comments by everyone are thought provoking, we as preppers are now about 35 plus million (Govt estimation) in some sense of the estimation/definition of the term or about 10% of the population. We all travel the other road which is lonely and against the mainstream shepple…..so be it, do not lose faith you are the 3% like in our countries founding God Bless and good prepping to all of you. a 30 year practicing prepper in Nv

    1. @icecathook, I assure you, I am not a computer ;) Although I spend a fair amount of time in front of one… I’m grateful and humbled when I hear that someone else is appreciative. We have a history of good comments and much added value due to everyone’s input.

  29. I can’t imagine saying something like that to a real friend! Sheesh!

    I’m as gray as I can be. Nearly everyone around me, in this extremely poor rural area, is on welfare for food and heating assistance at the very least. They all have free health insurance too. No one is aware of my preps aside from a small garden and a few chickens. “really” I should find some place else to be, as a single female even with multiple big biting dogs and guns is simply out manned and out gunned too easily. But til I find it, I’m prepped for a year minimum.

    1. MaineGal,
      That’s great that you’re prepared as such! It sure is a great self-sufficient feeling when you’re prepared for a year or more. Peace of mind for sure. Nice job.

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