Having a well-thought-out bug out route can mean the difference between safely reaching your destination and getting stranded in a crisis. Unfortunately, many preppers make critical mistakes when planning their evacuation routes. In this guide, we’ll break down the top five mistakes in bug out route planning and how to avoid them.
❌ 1. Relying on a Single Route 🛑
One of the biggest mistakes is depending on just one route to your bug out location. During a disaster, roads can become:
- 🚧 Blocked by traffic – Mass evacuations lead to gridlock.
- 🌊 Destroyed by floods or landslides – Natural disasters can make roads impassable.
- 🚔 Controlled by law enforcement or military – Checkpoints and roadblocks could prevent access.
✅ Solution:
- Plan at least 3 alternative routes to your bug out location.
- Use a mix of highways, backroads, and off-road trails.
- Have a printed map and compass in case GPS fails.
🔗 Related: Best Bug Out Vehicles for Any Situation
🏭 2. Ignoring High-Risk Areas 🚨
Many people plan routes that pass through dangerous zones, including:
- 💥 High-crime urban areas – Looters and desperate individuals could target travelers.
- ☢️ Industrial sites or power plants – Potential for chemical leaks, explosions, or radiation hazards.
- 🛑 Bridges and tunnels – Easy for authorities or criminals to set up roadblocks.
✅ Solution:
- Study your route for potential danger zones.
- Mark choke points where you could get trapped and find alternatives.
- Avoid areas prone to civil unrest or natural disasters.
🔗 Related: Bug Out Location Selection: Urban vs. Rural Retreats
⛽ 3. Failing to Plan for Fuel & Resupply 🏪
Most bug out routes require fuel, food, and water, but many preppers fail to plan for resupply. This leads to:
- 🚗 Running out of gas – Gas stations may be empty or overrun.
- 🍔 Lack of food & water – Convenience stores may be looted.
- 🔋 Dead batteries & electronics – No way to recharge devices.
✅ Solution:
- Keep a fuel reserve in your vehicle (but store it safely).
- Pre-position supply caches along your route with essentials.
- Carry a solar charger or power bank for electronic devices.
🔗 Related: How to Pack a Vehicle for a Bug Out Scenario (Coming Soon!)
🧭 4. Not Practicing the Route 🚙
Many preppers map out a great route but never test it. This leads to:
- ⛰️ Unfamiliarity with terrain – You won’t know tricky turns or obstacles.
- 🗺️ False assumptions – Roads that look open on maps might be closed or impassable.
- 🕒 No time estimates – You won’t know how long it actually takes to reach safety.
✅ Solution:
- Drive your bug out route at least once every few months.
- Test your alternative routes in different seasons and conditions.
- Time your escape and adjust plans based on real-world experience.
🔗 Related: Ultimate Bug Out Bag Checklist (Coming Soon!)
🔊 5. Not Considering OPSEC 🕵️♂️
Talking about your bug out plans or making them obvious can attract unwanted attention. Common OPSEC (Operational Security) mistakes include:
- 📢 Telling too many people about your route and plans.
- 🚐 Driving a conspicuous vehicle that screams “prepper.”
- 🌐 Leaving behind digital footprints that reveal your safe house.
✅ Solution:
- Keep your plans private, only telling trusted family or group members.
- Drive a low-profile vehicle that doesn’t attract attention.
- Avoid using GPS apps that track your location—use offline maps when possible.
🔗 Related: Why Preppers Should Practice OPSEC (Coming Soon!)
🏆 Final Thoughts: Plan, Test, and Stay Flexible
Bug out route planning isn’t just about drawing lines on a map—it’s about having a real, tested escape plan that ensures you reach safety no matter the situation.
✅ Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ Always have multiple routes planned.
2️⃣ Identify and avoid high-risk areas.
3️⃣ Pre-plan fuel and supply stops.
4️⃣ Practice your routes regularly.
5️⃣ Keep your plans private and secure.
🚨 Your Next Steps:
- Map out three alternative bug out routes today.
- Take a test drive to your primary bug out location.
- Start pre-positioning emergency supplies along your routes.
🔗 More Prepping Guides:
- How to Choose the Best Bug Out Location (Coming Soon!)
- Top Survival Tools You Need in an Emergency (Coming Soon!)
💬 What’s your biggest concern about bugging out? Drop a comment below! 👇
