xeo wrote:Change of clothes no, would take up far too much room. Although another undershirt and pair of socks wouldn't be a bad idea.
While bulky, in the past I've found it to be worth the space if you're out in the boonies, but since you're in an urban area I guess you have a possibility of scrounging up replacements if it comes down to that. A change of socks can be like a mini vacation if you're having to hoof it long distances, or to just keep your feet healthy if they get wet. They're also nice as improvised mittens in winter or at night when the temp drops.
xeo wrote:Plastic bags aren't a bad idea. Collecting water I would use the 40oz thermus.
You can use the clear plastic to make a solar still. Another variant of the solar still idea is to put a clear plastic bag around the leafy end of a tree branch and tie the opening tight against the branch to keep the air inside, then as the air heats in the sun the leaves release surprising amounts of water that will accumulate at the bottom of the bag. You can also use them (along with your tarp) to collect rainwater and funnel it into any containers you have (thermos, empty tuna cans, etc). They make a half decent poncho if you cut head and arm holes. Your backpack sounds rather full, so if you end up scrounging for supplies somewhere you probably won't be able to fit any liberated food or other supplies in there. A plastic bag can be handy for temporarily carrying any useful items you might run across. They weight almost nothing and can be folded pretty tightly so they don't take up much space in your backpack until the time comes when you need them.
xeo wrote:I've dismissed the idea of a pocket knife since I have a gigantic gerber knife, and I always carry two pocket knives with me everywhere I go, so those will likely be with me.
Yeah, if you always carry a pocket knife then it'd be a bit redundant having one in the bag if you're trying to save space and weight.
xeo wrote:What is your reasoning for the lighter? Quick instant flame? I've owned a Zippo and I wasn't impressed at all to say the least.
Fire is so crucial if you're roughing it. I never like to put all my eggs in one basket by relying on only one method of fire starting. For example, if all the available tinder is a little damp, it's a lot easier to heat it up and get it to light so you can start a proper fire by using a lighter. Firesteels are nice but they don't mix well with damp tinder. I'd also recommend learning at least one or two methods of fire starting using only improvised materials, like a fireboard, bow drill, etc. Just in case.
It's nice that Zippos can be refilled, but that same feature can be a downside if it's stored for a long time as the fuel can evaporate out of it, leaving you high and dry. I'd go with a two or three disposable lighters over a Zippo. Just personal preference.
Also, most people are not very prepared so a lighter is an excellent item for use in a trade during the type of emergency situation where you'd be using a BOB.
Wed Sep 03, 2014 8:01 pm 
