Letter Re: A Test Load-Up Shows a G.O.O.D. Inadequacy

Hello Mr. Rawles;
First and foremost, thanks for the site, the info is invaluable and a must read every morning

I am writing to add a few simple thoughts (perhaps state the obvious) on the subject of survival vehicle – really just some comments on G.O.O.D. I recently sold my house and am in the process of trying to get into a better situation, and during the move decided to attempt a “live” exercise. I took the opportunity to see how quickly I could load up my truck and bug out.

I wanted to time the load of my truck with all the gear and supplies I have been stockpiling for the past year, and guess what? Yep, I could not get it all in. Never mind my better half and three kids! Many readers may find this amusing (I did as it was not real), but if it was a real situation I would have been in a real bad way. So I suppose this is just a simple reminder to not only plan and prepare, but use the gear you have on a regular basis if possible, and practice often.

I made some necessary simple adjustments (cap and hitch rack), and feel foolish in hindsight. But you don’t know until you try it for yourself.
Thanks again and all the best.- Editor of TheTraderBlog.com

JWR Replies: Your experience is not unique! I’ve heard similar reports from other readers, and BTW, I emphasized this shortcoming my novel “Patriots” . This predicament underscores the great importance of pre-positioning the vast majority of your logistics at your intended retreat. Don’t just guess about fitting “all the rest” in your vehicle. Instead, try doing an actual “test load” to check for volume and compatible box dimensions. And allow room for each family member bringing a lot of clothes. Oh yes, don’t forget the pet paraphernalia. OBTW, you can use empty boxes or tote bins of the same dimensions as your full ones for your test load, to save on back strain.