In today’s uncertain world, being prepared for emergencies and unexpected situations is crucial. One aspect of preparedness is having a reliable vehicle that can handle various challenges and provide a means of transportation during difficult times. This blog post will discuss how to upgrade, alter, and improve a standard vehicle to make it more reliable for emergency situations and bug out readiness. We will cover essential supplies, equipment, part upgrades, budget needs, and possible upgrades such as suspension, tires, fuel tanks, storage, towing, winch add-ons, lighting, light armor, and camouflage. We will also touch upon the possibility of acquiring a surplus military vehicle from auctions or purchasing a purpose-built vehicle for upgrade options.
- Assess Your Needs and Budget:
Before diving into the upgrades, it is essential to assess your specific needs and budget. Consider the following questions:
- What type of emergencies are you preparing for (natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.)?
- What is your budget for upgrades and alterations?
- What is the terrain you will be traversing (city, off-road, etc.)?
- How many people and supplies will the vehicle need to accommodate?
These questions will help you determine which upgrades and modifications are necessary and feasible within your budget.
- Essential Supplies and Equipment:
No matter the situation, it is crucial to have essential supplies and equipment in your vehicle. These items should include:
- First aid kit
- Emergency food and water supplies
- Navigation tools (maps, compass, GPS)
- Communication devices (mobile phone, two-way radio)
- Flashlights and batteries
- Basic hand tools
- Fire extinguisher
- Part Upgrades:
Upgrading various parts of your vehicle can significantly improve its reliability and performance in emergency situations. Some essential part upgrades include:
- Suspension: Upgrading your suspension system can improve your vehicle’s handling, especially in off-road situations. Consider installing heavy-duty shocks, struts, and springs for optimal performance.
- Tires: Choosing the right tires is crucial for emergency situations. All-terrain or off-road tires can provide better traction and handling in various conditions.
- Fuel Tanks: Increasing your vehicle’s fuel capacity can be invaluable in emergency situations. Consider installing auxiliary fuel tanks or upgrading to a larger factory tank.
- Supplies Storage: Adding storage solutions to your vehicle can help keep essential supplies organized and easily accessible. Consider installing cargo nets, storage bins, or roof racks.
- Possible Upgrades:
In addition to part upgrades, several other modifications can improve your vehicle’s performance and reliability in emergency situations:
- Towing: Adding a tow hitch and recovery equipment can be useful for towing other vehicles or moving heavy objects.
- Winch Add-Ons: A winch can be a lifesaver in off-road situations or for recovering vehicles stuck in mud or snow.
- Lighting: Upgrading to LED lights can significantly improve visibility in low-light conditions. Consider adding auxiliary lights, spotlights, or light bars.
- Light Armor: Adding light armor, such as brush guards, skid plates, or rock sliders, can protect your vehicle from damage in off-road situations.
- Camouflage: Camouflaging your vehicle can help it blend in with the surrounding environment, providing an additional layer of security.
- Surplus Military Vehicle or Purpose-Built Vehicle Options:
If you have the budget and resources, acquiring a surplus military vehicle or purpose-built vehicle can offer numerous benefits for emergency preparedness. These vehicles are often designed to withstand harsh conditions and are equipped with features such as reinforced frames, upgraded suspension, and ample storage space. Some popular options include:
- Humvee (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle)
- M35 Deuce and a Half (2.5-ton cargo truck)
- CUCV (Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle)
- Mercedes-Benz Unimog
Before purchasing a surplus military vehicle, be sure to research its history, maintenance requirements, and potential legal restrictions.
Upgrading, altering, and improving a standard vehicle for emergency situations and bug out readiness can be a complex process. However, by assessing your needs, budget, and desired upgrades, you can create a reliable and capable vehicle that can handle various challenges. Remember to prioritize essential supplies, equipment, and part upgrades, and consider additional modifications and alternative vehicle options to enhance your preparedness.
