There is a tendency to lean towards the sensational when considering what makes a good bug out vehicle. Vehicles laden with armor-plated designs, self-contained weapons or communication platforms along with other military-grade configurations tend to get the most attention. However, in the vast array of circumstances that most of us will encounter, these setups are not going to be very useful. It’s important to focus on practical considerations when choosing bug out vehicles that will be more likely to deliver you and your family to safety. Let’s take a look at a few things to think about.
Simplicity and Reliability
New vehicles are loaded with sensitive electrical components that are tied into sophisticated computer systems. Chances are that a faulty circuit board or connector will disable a vehicle before an engine or transmission failure. While they are easy to fix, getting repairs during the aftermath of a crisis may be difficult. Consider choosing a popular and older vehicle that is easy to maintain and repair instead. Parts will be easy to find, and you can get back on the road after making repairs with some creativity and basic tools.
Any vehicle that you choose to rely on for an emergency relocation needs to be reliable and well-maintained. This means investing in the time and money to ensure that everything is in top-notch condition long before a disaster strikes. The last thing that you want to encounter is a preventable maintenance issue when you are in the middle of nowhere or in a position where you can’t do much about the situation.
Durability
Consider where you will be driving your vehicle. Do you think that there is a chance that you will be doing a lot of off-road driving? Will you be meandering through rough terrain or on streets that are littered with debris and obstacles? The fuel-efficient car that you use to get to work or drive around town may not be suitable for bugging out. Make sure that you choose a vehicle that is durable enough to handle the many potential challenges that you may encounter while on the road.
Practicality
Give thought to whether or not your vehicle of choice is the right solution for your needs. Can it accommodate your family? Do you have space to transport your gear, tools and other necessities? Everyone has their own bug-out plans, and the vehicle needs to be able to help you to carry those plans out. Don’t invest in a vehicle that will not compliment your overall strategy and goals.
Customization
Do you want to install hidden compartments or build a special suspension, add large bumpers or put a winch on the front of the vehicle? Make sure that your vehicle is capable of incorporating the modifications that you want to make without reducing performance or stability. Plan ahead, and evaluate the benefits and limitations of the vehicle that you plan on using before making any final decisions.
Remember that your vehicle may not be available, accessible or capable of getting you from point A to B in a crisis. Think twice before investing a lot of time and money into creating the perfect SHTF mobile command and control center, because it may be useless when push comes to shove. Think of practical expectations above all else, and try and keep things as simple and affordable as possible.
