In today’s uncertain world, being prepared for emergencies is more important than ever. For those who prioritize long-term survival in extreme situations, an INCH bag is an indispensable tool. Short for “I’m Never Coming Home,” an INCH bag is meticulously designed to provide individuals with everything they need to survive indefinitely when they cannot return home. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the concept of INCH bags, their purpose, contents, and how to create one tailored to your specific needs.
Understanding INCH Bags: An INCH bag is a type of emergency bag specifically designed for long-term survival in extreme situations. Unlike typical bug-out bags, which are intended for short-term evacuation, an INCH bag is equipped to sustain an individual for an indefinite period, even in the most challenging environments. The acronym “I’m Never Coming Home” encapsulates the mindset of preparedness and self-sufficiency that defines the purpose of an INCH bag.
Purpose of an INCH Bag: The primary purpose of an INCH bag is to ensure survival in scenarios where returning home is not an option. This could include widespread natural disasters, societal collapse, or other catastrophic events that render normal living conditions untenable. By having an INCH bag prepared and readily accessible, individuals can increase their chances of survival and mitigate the risks associated with prolonged emergencies.
Contents of an INCH Bag: The contents of an INCH bag are carefully selected to provide sustenance, shelter, protection, and essential supplies for long-term survival. While the specific items may vary based on individual preferences and circumstances, there are several key categories of items typically included in an INCH bag:
- Shelter and Clothing: In any survival situation, shelter and clothing are paramount for maintaining body temperature and protecting against the elements. Your INCH bag should include items such as a durable tent or tarp, emergency blankets, and extra clothing appropriate for the climate you may encounter. In a survival situation, a shelter provides protection from the elements and can help to regulate body temperature, which is crucial for staying alive. A good shelter can also provide a sense of security and privacy, which can be especially important in high-stress situations. In addition to the shelter itself, it is also important to include items such as cordage, stakes, and a ground cloth, which can help to secure and stabilize the shelter. By including shelter tools in an INCH bag, individuals can be better prepared for unexpected emergencies and increase their chances of survival in a variety of situations. (A person can only survive about 3 hours without shelter). Quality clothing layers, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers, are crucial for adapting to changing weather conditions and ensuring comfort and safety. I keep an extra change of clothes in my pack as well. I pack a set of OCP’s (operational camo pattern) pants ant shirt, two pair of underwear and two pair of socks. This will allow for one set to be washed while wearing the other.
- Food and Water: When preparing an INCH bag, it is crucial to include about a 72-hour supply of food. In addition to that, it is also essential to include tools that can help find food in an INCH bag. These may include fishing gear, snares, traps, and a small game rifle. In a survival situation, finding food can be challenging, and having tools that can help catch or gather food can be a valuable asset. Fishing gear can provide a source of protein and calories, while snares and traps can help catch small game such as rabbits and squirrels. A small game rifle can also provide a source of protein and can be used to hunt larger game such as deer or elk. By including items that help find food in an INCH bag, individuals can be better prepared for extended survival situations, where access to food may be limited or nonexistent. Additionally, these items can reduce the need to carry large amounts of food, which can be heavy and cumbersome. Overall, including items that help find food in an INCH bag is crucial for ensuring adequate nutrition and increasing the chances of survival in a variety of situations. Aim to include enough food and water to sustain yourself for an extended period, accounting for potential delays or challenges in finding additional resources. The number of calories a person needs to consume per day to survive depends on various factors such as age, sex, height, weight, and level of physical activity. However, as a general guideline, the average adult needs around 2000-2500 calories per day to maintain their weight and provide enough energy for their body to carry out its basic functions. This is known as the basal metabolic rate (BMR) and is the amount of energy required to maintain vital bodily functions such as breathing, circulation, and temperature regulation. It is important to note that this is a general guideline, and individual calorie needs may vary based on factors such as genetics, health conditions, and lifestyle habits. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine your specific calorie needs. (A person can survive only about 3 weeks without food).
- Tools and Equipment: Tools and equipment serve multiple purposes in a survival scenario, from fire-starting and shelter-building to navigation and self-defense. Your INCH bag should contain versatile multi-tools, fire starters like waterproof matches or a ferrocerium rod, a reliable compass or GPS device, and a sturdy fixed-blade knife for various tasks. Additionally, consider including items such as a lightweight folding saw, paracord, and a small axe for additional utility and versatility.
- Medical Supplies: A first aid kit is an essential item to include in an INCH bag. In a survival situation, injuries and illnesses are not uncommon, and having access to medical supplies can be critical for treating minor to severe injuries. A well-stocked first aid kit should include items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, and pain relievers. It is also important to include items such as scissors, tweezers, and a thermometer. In addition to basic first aid supplies, it may also be helpful to include prescription medications and any specialized medical supplies that may be needed for pre-existing medical conditions. By including a first aid kit in an INCH bag, individuals can be better prepared to address medical needs in a survival situation, reducing the risk of infection or complications from injuries or illnesses. Overall, a first aid kit is an essential item to include in an INCH bag and can be the difference between a minor injury and a life-threatening situation.
- Communication and Documentation: Including a HAM radio in an INCH bag can be a valuable asset in a survival situation. HAM radios are a type of two-way radio that can transmit and receive signals over a long distance, providing communication capabilities in areas where cell phone reception may be limited or nonexistent. In a survival situation, being able to communicate with others can be critical for safety and coordination. HAM radios can be used to call for help, relay important information, and coordinate with others in a group or community. They can also provide access to weather reports and emergency broadcasts, which can be essential for making informed decisions about safety and travel. It is important to have the necessary skills to operate a HAM radio, including obtaining the appropriate licensing and training (however, in a SHTF situation, licensing wouldn’t be concern). By including a HAM radio in an INCH bag, individuals can be better prepared for communication needs in a survival situation, increasing the chances of safety and coordination with others. Overall, having a HAM radio in an INCH bag can be an important tool for survival in a variety of situations. Having a map and compass in an INCH bag is crucial for navigating through unfamiliar territory. In a survival situation, it may be necessary to leave one’s home or community, and having a reliable way to navigate can be the difference between arriving at a safe location or becoming lost. A map can provide valuable information about terrain, water sources, and potential hazards, while a compass can help determine direction and provide a sense of location. It is also important to have the skills necessary to read a map and use a compass, as well as understanding how to orient oneself using natural landmarks. By including a map and compass in an INCH bag, individuals can be better prepared to navigate through challenging terrain, reducing the risk of becoming lost or disoriented. Overall, having a map and compass in an INCH bag is crucial for increasing the chances of survival in a variety of situations.
- Weapons: While the inclusion of weapons in an INCH bag is a personal choice and subject to legal considerations, having means of self-defense can provide added security in survival scenarios. Consider including items such as a compact firearm, a sturdy fixed-blade knife, or non-lethal options like pepper spray or a tactical flashlight for deterring potential threats. Ensure proper training and familiarity with any weapons included in your INCH bag to use them safely and effectively in self-defense situations.
Creating Your INCH Bag: When creating an INCH bag, it’s essential to consider factors such as geographic location, climate, terrain, and personal preferences. Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your survival needs and tailoring your bag’s contents accordingly. Regularly review and update your INCH bag to ensure it remains relevant and effective in addressing evolving threats and circumstances.
Conclusion: In an unpredictable world where emergencies can strike at any moment, being prepared for long-term survival is paramount. An INCH bag serves as a vital lifeline, providing individuals with the resources and tools needed to weather prolonged emergencies and navigate challenging situations with resilience and confidence. By understanding the purpose of an INC