The majority of preppers build their bug-out vehicle by adding gear and supplies to the vehicle that they already have. Some preppers are able purchase used vehicles or modify their vehicle at a friend’s garage.
What if you had no money? Would you buy the bug-out vehicle of your dream? We’ve gathered some examples below, but not to be a list of best-of-the best vehicles. They are just meant to inspire you a bit. They are the bug-out vehicles you would consider, if cost was no issue. These vehicles will attract attention, so be prepared to fight anyone who tries to pass you.
It was originally designed as a medical truck to transport troops during wartime. However, the vehicle can be modified and converted into a bug-out vehicle. This multi-fuel vehicle has a 55 gallon fuel tank with six-wheel-drive and a manual transmission. It can achieve up to 13 miles per gallon, which is equivalent to running up to 650 kilometers on a tank. The bobbed trucks are also shorter and lighter, which allows the top speed to be increased from 55mph to 75mph.
Wheel Drive Expedition RV
This expandable van can fit an ATV and has over 200 square feet of cargo room. It also comes with a Root Top Tent accessible via roof hatch. The engine is fueled by a Caterpillar multi-fuel turbocharged Caterpillar. This expandable van can hold 22 people or all the equipment that you may need.
Creek Stewart’s modified 1985 CUCV (Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle).
Creek Stewart, a survivalist who is well known in the industry. In the first season of Fat Guys in the Woods, his personal BOV was introduced.
The BOV has a diesel motor and a switch to turn off all lights instantly. This allows you to go into stealth mode immediately. The vehicle has a cab, 30 gallons extra fuel and all of his gear. He also carries six spare tires. The vehicle has been modified to have an additional battery, solar charger, fire extinguisher and off-road lighting, as well as an off-the-roof shelter canopy and 12,000-pound Winch.
1987 Mercedes Expedition Truck
The 1987 Mercedes Expedition is a custom built truck that’s as durable as it gets. The living unit can be detached from the truck using six bolts. The truck has a spare tire, a 550 liter tank of diesel, and front-and rear winches. The vehicle comes equipped with a hot water heater and a refrigerator. It also has a propane stove, commode, shower, and countless storage spaces for your equipment.
The vehicle is compact, lightweight and luxurious. It was designed by yachting engineers. You can quickly switch from the camping mode to the on-the-go mode with the command panel. The vehicle has an in-built water purifier that will clean any water you may have access to.
UNICAT Survival Home On Wheels
This UNICAT Survival Home on Wheels is perfect for those who are less concerned about appearance and more focused on functionality.
It can be self-sufficient in the wild for two months. The 110 gallons water it has and the desalination unit that runs off the solar panels on the roof are all powered by the panel. It’s not for everyone. The starting price is $700K.
The Intimidator
The truck has bulletproof armor, 5-point racing harness seats for five passengers and a maximum of 5 people.
The tank can go 2200 miles on a single fill and the armored windows are level 4. The roof hatch is lockable in case you need to fire a gun while moving. The bug-out vehicle comes with its own battery charger powered by solar energy and a large 14 foot bed to store all of your supplies. Cummins 8-liter diesel with bulletproof grille protecting the radiator. You may be heard or seen but the enemy will not have any way to stop you.
Judge Dredd Inspired Land Rover
This fortress-on-wheels is inspired by Judge Dredd, starring Sly Streetone. It was designed by Land Rover and can survive even the most brutal streets of the 23 rd century.
Survivor Truck
Jim Delozier’s Survivor Truck, his personal truck. The company that he runs can build any vehicle modification. His truck is used as a vehicle for rescue. The truck has an Exo cage, is equipped with Rhino lining and has 6-8 cameras that are always watching from all angles. The vehicle also features a generator and winch on top, as well as a rollaway toolbox and refrigerator. He plans to swap in a multi-fuel diesel engine.
2003 Cargo Van converted camper
You might consider a 2003 Cargo van converted to a camper for the realistic and time-conscious prepper.
These hard-core bug out cars are just out of our reach for the majority of us. When it comes to choosing a bug-out vehicle, we have to be more realistic. What is important to consider when choosing your bug-out vehicle? How can you ensure that it will get you and the family to safety?
When choosing your bug-out vehicle, you should consider seven factors:
Reliability
The reliability of your car is a major concern. You must have confidence that your bug-out vehicle will start quickly and operate efficiently. Your bug-out vehicle’s primary function is to transport you to the bug-out location, and even further if needed. You can learn how to do basic repairs on your own. Make sure the replacement parts you need are easily available and not too expensive. Stock up on the parts likely to break or wear down when your vehicle is driven at its highest speed or over rough terrain.
Traveling Range
You want the longest range possible on a single tank of gasoline. It’s not practical to stop for fuel every 300-400 miles. You won’t have access to fuel if you don’t stock up. Get a diesel or multi-fuel vehicle if you can get it. It is important to consider the horsepower of your vehicle.
If you are going to bug out in your car, it should be set up to take you the farthest distance possible without having to fuel. You should practice refueling as fast as you can if the tank is not large. Modify the tank to allow you to refuel the car from the inside using your own fuel. It is important that the vehicle you choose has enough horsepower to keep up with anyone following.
Capable of Off-Road Driving
If possible, try to have your car equipped with AWD. If you can, get suspension shocks and hydraulic brakes. You want to have a car that is not too low so you don’t damage the vehicle underside when you drive over small debris. You want to make sure that it can handle most terrains in your region so you don’t have to limit yourself to paved roads.
Security and Safety
The first step is to change all your windows to plexiglass, which is more durable and shatter-resistant than regular glass. Install a bumper protector to shield the radiator and lights. You may wish to replace the regular seatbelts with five-point harnesses, at least for children who may accompany you on your trip.
Ramming ability
You will encounter roadblocks in a post-SHTF or natural disaster scenario. These could be debris, trees that have fallen, or abandoned vehicles. It’s a big plus to have a bug-out vehicle you know you can use to ram and push obstacles out of your way.
Carry Capacities
Carrying capacity is the last thing to consider when choosing a bug-out vehicle. It is important to consider both the number of people you are able to take along with you and how much storage or cargo you have. Consider modifications to your vehicle that allow you to secure gear to the sides and top.
Capable of Off-Grid Operation
It isn’t a requirement for an off-grid vehicle, but having one would be nice. Most vehicles have power outlets for charging your laptop or phone. It would be nice to have solar panels installed in a car so that you could recharge the battery or use a refrigerator.
Be sure to consider your bathroom needs while driving, not only when you are parked. You won’t have time to stop in the forest if you need to use the bathroom and are being watched. Water is another thing you should consider. Modify your car to include a large capacity water tank. It is still better to have 5 gallon jugs attached to the interior walls than not having any. If you keep a large quantity of water in your car, you will have more choices as to where you want to camp.
Resistance to EMP
It is still debated what an EMP’s effects would be. However, it is clear that any damage will occur to the electronic systems and components of vehicles running at the moment of the EMP. The effects of an EMP on cars and trucks will not be felt if they are switched off.
The integration of electronic components into automobiles did not begin until the 1960’s. From 1986 onwards, electronic components became common in automobiles. Vehicles from the 1990s (and newer) are required to meet EMI/EMC standards. These standards reduce vulnerabilities.
After you have chosen your vehicle using the criteria listed above, be sure to check which components are electronic. Check if the parts are compliant with EMI/EMC regulations, such as grounding and shielding. Also, look at hardening or immunity. Prepare to replace the parts, if necessary.
The article highlighted some prepping vehicles that have some excellent survival features. You should plan for all possible scenarios and categories, regardless of which bug-out vehicle you select. You will enjoy a smooth trip to BOL, but you may encounter some unexpected obstacles.
Comment below and tell us what you think of your vehicle in each area.