5 Simple Tips for a Quick Exit Plan

Because when it’s time to go, you won’t get a second chance.

Whether it’s a wildfire, flood, power grid failure, or civil unrest, the ability to leave fast and smart can mean everything. You don’t need to be a doomsday prepper or ex-military to have a solid exit plan—just a little foresight and a few basics.

Here are 5 practical tips for building a quick exit plan that works.

1. Know Your Escape Routes

Your usual route might not be usable when disaster strikes. Roads get blocked. GPS fails. Panic spreads fast.

Take 30 minutes and identify 3 ways out of your neighborhood—not just by car, but also on foot or by bike. Use apps like Google Maps or Gaia GPS to plot alternate routes. Then print out hard copies and stash them in your glove box and go-bag.

Pro Tip: Actually drive or walk these routes. It’ll burn them into your memory and reveal any surprises.

2. Have a Go-Bag (No, Really)

Every second counts. You won’t have time to think about what to pack.

Put together a go-bag for yourself and anyone you live with. Keep it in an accessible spot like near the front door or in your trunk. Here’s what to pack (modify for your climate and situation):

• ID, insurance cards, and some cash

• First aid kit

• Knife or multitool

• Flashlight + spare batteries

• Water + high-calorie snacks

• Change of clothes, socks, gloves

• Phone charger + power bank

• Copies of important documents in a ziplock

• Lightweight rain poncho or jacket

Pet Preparedness: Don’t Leave Them Behind

If you’ve got a dog, cat, or other pet, they need a bug-out setup too. Here's what to keep ready:

• Collapsible water bowl + 72 hrs worth of pet food

• Leash/harness and ID tags

• Vaccination and medical records (copies)

• Small blanket or towel

• Waste bags or litter solution

• Comfort item like a toy or chew

Keep pet gear in a separate bag or clip it to yours. In high-stress situations, animals sense your energy—being prepared keeps everyone calmer.

3. Set a Rally Point

You may not be with your partner, roommates, or family when things go sideways.

Pick a designated meeting spot now—outside your neighborhood, but close enough to reach without

a car. This could be a relative’s house, a parking lot, or even a safe business location. Then pick a backup spot. Make sure everyone memorizes both.

Communication may fail. Your plan shouldn’t.

4. Build a Grab-and-Go List

In a rush, you’ll forget something. That’s just how stress works.

Create a laminated checklist of what you need to grab—gear, meds, documents, essentials. Keep it next to your front door, fridge, or go-bag. Include reminders for your wallet, passport, firearm (if applicable), keys, and chargers.

Update it every 3–6 months, especially if your setup or needs change.

5. Run the Drill

This is the part 90% of people skip.

Pick a day every few months and practice your exit plan. Time how fast you can get out with your gear, pets, and everyone accounted for. Try it in daylight and in the dark. You’ll find weak spots—and fix them—before it matters.

Bonus: It builds muscle memory so you’re not frozen when pressure hits.

Final Word

Preparedness isn’t panic—it’s insurance. You hope you never need it, but if you do, it’s already too late to start planning.

Take one weekend to set this up. A few hours of effort now can save your life later.

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