Guides & Resources

During major disasters, a city is one of the most dangerous places to be. Even safe neighborhoods can turn into hazard zones within a matter of hours. That’s why it’s so critical to be able to evacuate quickly and efficiently. The key to a successful evacuation is having a Bug Out Bag (BOB) packed and ready to go.  Bugging Out in the City: Navigating Urban Challenges Evacuating from a city presents challenges that differ significantly from rural areas. You’re more likely …

There are approximately 300 significant power outages in the United States each year. Most of these power outages last a day or less. Yet, even these short power outages can wreak havoc. That leaves us to wonder: what would happen during a long-term power outage—and how can we prepare? Extreme Weather Is the Main Cause of Power Outages  Most major power outages are caused by severe natural disasters. For example, Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused 3.5 million people to lose power, and the …

Shopping for bunk beds can feel overwhelming, especially when safety is your top priority. Whether you're furnishing a kids' room, outfitting a military barracks, equipping a college dormitory, or setting up commercial accommodations, understanding the essentials of bunk bed safety features and sizing options will help you make a confident decision. Essential Safety Features Every Bunk Bed Should Have Safety Rails: Your First Line of Defense Bunk beds sold as a fixed set that can only be used to …

Military surplus boots are built to withstand rough terrain, bad weather, and long hours on foot—so they can be a great choice for hiking, hunting, or preparedness. But a common question people ask is: Are military boots actually comfortable to wear? The quick answer: they can be, but you will likely need to break them in first. What to Expect from Military Surplus Boots Military boots are designed for function. They’re tough, durable, and made to support your feet under heavy loads, …

If you’re looking for a sturdy tent that can handle anything from wild storms to sub-zero nights, military surplus tents are a great place to start. These are no ordinary camping tents—they’re built for war zones, field hospitals, and arctic expeditions. But before military tents became the rugged shelters we know today, they went through a long evolution of design, materials, and use. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types available and what to look for when buy …

Military surplus stores are treasure troves of gear—everything from vintage field jackets to modern tactical equipment. And yes, in most cases, buying and owning this gear is completely legal. However, there are a few important exceptions to keep in mind to ensure you’re not unintentionally breaking the law. How Is Military Surplus Legal for Civilians to Buy? When the military no longer needs certain equipment—whether due to overproduction, outdated standards, or the end of a c …

Survival Items Every Driver Should Have in Their Vehicle for Winter You hopefully already have emergency essentials in your vehicle, such as jumper cables, a first aid kit, roadside reflectors, and basic repair items. But, when winter comes around, you’ll need to update your vehicle emergency kit to include these items for cold weather survival. 1. Winter-Proof Water Water is one of the most important survival items to have, but it can easily freeze in your vehicle in winter conditions. To …

How to Stay Truly Warm in Your Sleeping Bag You went out and bought the warmest sleeping bag you could find, expecting it would keep you warm in cold temperatures. Yet, you still ended up freezing through the night. It might not be the sleeping bag which is at fault but rather how you used it. Here’s what you need to know to truly stay warm in a sleeping bag. First, Check the Comfort Rating Most good sleeping bags will list their temperature rating. However, the rating you see is usually …

Ways To Use a Military Dry Bags AS A PACK LINER A dry bag is a must-have for any outdoor adventurer. A pack liner is a specialized type of dry bag that attaches to the outside of a backpack or gym bag, allowing you to easily transport gear that needs to stay dry. Packlines are perfect for hiking, kayaking, rafting, and other water sports, but can also be used for carrying extra gear on any type of hike or backpacking trip. When choosing a dry sack to be used as a pack liner, look for one that is …