A Bugout Vehicle (BOV) is a pre-prepared egress vehicle that is loaded with supplies and outfitted for mobility during a Life Altering Event (SHTF).
Think realistically when prepping your vehicle and realize that planning an appropriate loadout on a cheap SUV is far more possible than spending money on expensive modifications to a luxury truck. Point being, your basic car could be all you need, no one is saying you need to go buy a truck. It’s about the steps you take to prepare your vehicle with the right loadout.
When selecting a BOV, the following 8 Categories should be analyzed. Assign a rating of 1 to 5 for each below category then add up your total. While it is a subjective rating, you should target an 18+ score.
For example – A motor bike may score high in mobility and mileage (i.e. 5/5) but would score low in storage and seating capacity (i.e. 1/5). A utility van with a ballistic kevlar curtain and sandbagged sides would score low in mileage and mobility (i.e. 2/5) but would score high in security, storage, and seating capacity (i.e. 4/5).
Mileage
(Fuel MPG, alternative fuel options, alternative powering option, fuel tank size.)
Gas/Diesel may be scarce. Bugging out with enough fuel to reach your planned Rally Point or BOL is key.
Mobility
(Off-road capability, turn ratio, ability to navigate in traffic or narrow pathway.)
The BOV should be 4×4 with ground clearance for curbs or downed trees on approach, breakover, and departure.
Maintenance
(Ease of upkeep, complexity of motor/electronic components, ease of locating replacement parts, repair potential.)
Newer vehicles usually mean they are more difficult to make repairs, however troubleshooting and finding spare parts may be easier. Weigh the pros/cons based on your experience, and make sure you can resolve basic repairs and upkeep.
Speed
(Acceleration is needed to quickly escape from hostile situations and have top speed to outrun incoming danger.)
Keep in mind – this category is focused on acceleration and top speed. As a rule, speed isn’t everything, as in almost all scenarios it would be better to sacrifice speed before mobility. Don’t overlook a slow moving off-road capable truck for a powerful sports car.
Storage
(Space to pack and organize INCH/VEK, should have appropriate size truck bed, trunk, aftermarket storage containers, roof rack.)
One of the best ways to extend the amount of storage space is to have external storage such as a roof rack. Consider incorporating features such as an outboard water tank or a Roof Top Tent(RRT).
Security
(Tinted or bullet proof windows, ballistic walls/doors, fully contained, low profile, roll bars.)
Consider the ability to react from inside the vehicle, e.g. can you return fire easily from a rolled down window, is there a rear sliding window, is there a push bar installed for ranking a hostile blockade?
Seating Capacity
(Number of persons that can be carried.)
If you are the only person in your party, then 1-2 seats is acceptable)
Impression
(Low-profile, does not attract attention or standout, concealable, fits in with surroundings, utilized “grayman” system.)
A fully-loaded down BOV that lacks security and planning can become a target for marauders or non-friendlies. Don’t draw attention to yourself.
So if you rank your vehicle a 5 in a category then that means there is absolutely no better vehicle in that field of consideration. Don’t just throw out a 5 unless you are confident, likewise don’t be quick to downplay your vehicle’s capability by giving it a 1. This Evaluation Tool is for you. Make it work. If you don’t exceed 18 total then it’s time to make adjustments. Can modifications or upgrades bring up the grade? Should you consider another ride?
Download the Grayman Bugout Vehicle Guide and Checklist HERE.
This article was originally written by the Grayman Briefing. Stay in the know, sign up for Intel and Situational Awareness alerts pushed to your phone on emerging threats and preparedness warnings. Click HERE to subscribe to the Grayman Briefing.