The supplies in your bug out bag are there to help you to stay alive in a situation where you have leave home. If you pack everything except the kitchen sink, you will not be able to carry it very far. One way to cut down on what you pack is to use items that can have multiple uses.
Shelter
If your climate permits, instead of packing a heavy tent for a shelter, pack a tarp. Not only can it be used in place of a tent, but it can also be used as a hammock, a windbreaker, and a water collector.
Tools
Sporks are a great way to save space when you pack them instead of packing eating utensils.
Rather than taking you toolbox with you, why not find a multitool that can do the job of several different items. I have one in the glove box of my car and another in my backpack and both have proved their usefulness over and over.
You can get a multitool that can be used as a screwdriver, as a wood saw, as a knife, a wrench, pliers, hardwire cutters, a crimper and even as a hammer.
Gadgets
While a radio, a communication device, flashlights are necessary gadgets, try only packing gadgets that can do more than one thing. Instead of carrying a separate flashlight and radio in your bug out bag, get one that’s both a flashlight and a radio and charging device for your smart phone.
One item that can do the job of several other things is dental floss. It can be used to secure shelter to a tree instead of rope or used to fix tears in clothing. You can also use it to create a warning system against possible intruders, to sew up wounds or as fishing line. In a pinch, it can be used as tinder or to slice through something if you don’t have a knife.
Common Items with Surprising Uses
You might think of salt as a flavoring for food and nothing more – but this can be used as an antibacterial treatment and it can be used to disinfect items.
You can pack small salt packets in your bag instead of bulky containers of antibacterial treatment that only serve once purpose.
Bodywash can take the place of soap as well as shampoo and can even be used to wash clothing.
Vaseline can be used as an antibiotic treatment and as a fire starter.
Trash bags can be used as rain gear, water proofing or as a water reservoir.
So, get out your bug out bag and have a look through it. I’ll bet you can find some items can be combined to save space and allow you to pack something you may have had to leave behind instead.