What would be the best vehicle for bugging out in Europe ?
Posted by Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 128 comments
I'd like to debate aboute what would be the best transport solution for a family, other than bikes, motorcycles and ATVs that would be too small for this purpouse...
I've read many reports from americans about what their perfect bug out vehicles would be, whether it's a Tacoma, a 4Runner, or any other SUV/truck because that seems to be what they use daily so it totally makes sense.
The fact is that this is hardly applying in Europe because most of these trucks are seen as insanely big and not sold or barely owned in here. Mid size trucks like Hilux/L200/DMax being the most used pickups and most Europeans does'nt even think of them as they prefer/have to deal with smaller utility vehicles such as Peugeot, Citroen, Renault, VW or Mercedes "vans". Few citizens own larger bed trucks (Iveco, Mercedes and stuff) but they are mainly company trucks. For example, 99% of plumbers and electricians work with small vans like those I mentioned earlier.
What I want to say is that it's harder for an european to pick a "proper bugout vehicle" (in an american perspective) because we drive much lesser and do not have the need to suffer low mpgs. Owning such vehicles would mainly be part of a hobby or minor lifestyle apart for our countryside populations.
Now that's my point of view to introduce the main question of this post : Fellow europeans, what would be the best vehicle for bugging out in Europe ?
Again, sorry for my english.
Maleficent_Mix_8739@reddit
A project I’m seriously considering. A Hummer H3 retrofitted with an old Mercedes 123 diesel 5 cylinder.
Theoretically you’d have a power plant that could run on damn near anything oily capable of burning that can go almost anywhere if done properly.
I’ve already bugged out so I’ll be bugging in….I’m in it for the long game and old enough to not give a damn one way or another.
456name789@reddit
If I were snarky I might say a boat, but I’m not snarky. 😊
456name789@reddit
I would suggest a caravan or if VW still makes any sort of bus/van, I’d choose that.
Former_Weakness4315@reddit
Where are your starting out from? Any incident in any major city in Europe and you're in gridlock instantly, rendering any four-wheel vehicle absolutely useless. I don't know how people miss this obvious fact. Just trying to get home at 5pm on a Wednesday is difficult enough (which is why I ride).
Dual sport motorcycle, no question.
DeafHeretic@reddit
A 4x4 would still be more useful than a 2WD; it will be more likely to drive off the road and across a median or other non-paved surface - to get around the traffic jams.
Aliman581@reddit
any light motorbike could weave through traffic a 4x4 would be stuck in gridlock or for example on highways where you are in the middle lane and there is a ditch on the side of the lanes. Plus a motorbike can get insane gas mileage like 100-120 MPG. So carrying a 5 gallon tank gets you 500 miles of range
DeafHeretic@reddit
That would be a small motorcycle to get that kind of fuel mileage. The faster you go, the worse fuel consumption will be. Motorcycles have poor aerodynamics, especially a dirt bike or dual sport.
The DR350 I used to ride would get at best, about 50-60 MPG, and that only if I was keeping the speed down. Push the speed up to 75 MPH and the mileage would drop to 35 MPG - my SUV gets that mileage at the same speed. My Husaberg 570 gets about the same fuel efficiency.
That said, yes, motorcycles are a lot more agile/nimble, but cargo/passenger carrying capacity is very poor.
Riding in poor weather is a arduous, and even in the best weather riding a motorcycle is fun at first, but tiring after a few hours. An injured or ill person will have issues riding a motorcycle, but can usually still manage a 4 wheeled vehicle without too much trouble (I was able to drive a Bronco II with my foot in a cast, but could not manage riding a motorcycle for months).
Aliman581@reddit
I was talking about an extreme emergency scenario eg a mass evacuation from somewhere like new York or Washington DC or really any major city with only 1-2 hours of notice. It is impossible for the entire city to evacuate in that time frame safely as traffic would be gridlocked as everyone gets in their car to escape.
This is where motorbikes shine as you could weave through traffic (lane splitting pretty sure cops won't even enforce it in a SHTF scenario) or ride the sidewalks etc if you are in a car you would be dead in the water. in this scenario I would literally just pack a tent, food and some gas to survive a few days until I get to safety this would take me 5 mins to assemble and I could be on the road I wouldn't waste longer getting more supplies.
If my life was on the line I'm pretty sure I could handle any amount of discomfort for weeks on end.
ilreppans@reddit
IMHO, the problem in a serious gridlock situation is that there will be plenty of folks (eg, regular sedans w/ AWD & all-seasons) who think they can make it, but can’t, get stuck, and end up blocking the path.
In my urban/suburban area, all the roads are bordered short strips of dense woods or homes/lawns. A dualsport can bushwhack through most of that to switch roads - the trees would stop a 4x4.
DeafHeretic@reddit
I don't necessarily disagree, but IME I have (a few times) been able to use 4WD to get around a traffic jam. Once it was by climbing across a small grassy hill to take an exit ramp I had already passed (before seeing the traffic stretched for miles). Sometimes I have been able to take alternate routes that a 2WD/FWD would not be able to traverse.
I've never been to Europe, so I can't say how much this would help there, but I would still want 4WD.
And yes, I have seen 4WD rigs of all sorts stuck in a median strip when they thought they could cross it. Here in the PNW (USA) those strips look deceptively firm, but the ground underneath the grass is bottomless mud in the winter (unless it has frozen - and sometimes that is worse, depending on your rig's capabilities).
I agree that a "dual sport" dirt bike is generally more capable of crossing such terrain, and/or weaving thru traffic. I own (and used to ride) a Husaberg 570 and a Beta Alp 250. I am going to get a folding e-bike with dual suspension and dual motors as backup transport to be carried in my daily driver (AWD SUV) and my BOV (4WD Hilux).
That said, such "backups" may not be that helpful for people with small children, elderly/infirm/disabled persons - especially in severely inclement weather. Also, range and cargo/passenger capacity is very limited.
ilreppans@reddit
Sure I understand. It’s a sliding scale - in normal-ish times the 4WD offers more options, but I think the more severe the bugout situation gets (and therefore more desperate folks), the less effective a 4WD becomes.
I’m with you on back-ups though, as a now single this BOB would be lashed to my DS’s back seat, and if I had a wife/young kids, I’d add this rig(photo credit to humofthecity), to whatever car (of course). The bike + board can move a family of five about 3x as fast/far as walking, while still portable enough to utilize other forms of transport, when and if available.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
I was more thinking of a vehicle you would take once you're home and realizing bugging in won't be an alternative for any reason. But I share the same vision. Getting to work on a bike when it starts smelling like shit is part of my "plan". Thanks for your comment !
muirnoire@reddit
Thread breaker. It's ALWAYS a motorbike.
Dark__DMoney@reddit
Lada
dittybopper_05H@reddit
Not a European, but I think you answered your own question.
If you use one of those kinds of vans and you brand it with something that wouldn't be useful/valuable during an extended crisis you should be OK.
I mean, you're not going to ransack a van with "Yari's Housepainting Service" on the side a ladder or two on top because all that's going to be inside is paint and brushes. No food, no warm clothing, no valuable tools or materials like copper.
tlplc@reddit
"Asbestos removal unit" works well too to deter people from breaking in.
BrobdingnagLilliput@reddit
"Sewage Pumping" works, too!
Superslim-Anoniem@reddit
To me that says hazmat suits and masks, so depending on the scenario you might still get visitors.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
Very interesting, thanks for the recommendation. I'm wondering if these alternatives would'nt lack of permanent 4wd for any reason though. What's your opinion on this ?
Ropesnsteel@reddit
4wd is useful, but an always-on 4wd (like Subaru) is useless. You can get a lot of places with 2wd if you know what you're doing, and then if you get stuck, you can still resque yourself with 4wd, but if you get stuck in 4wd you better be real lucky or have a winch. I've gone a lot of places most would think impossible with a front wheel drive sunfire, I've even hauled de-limbed trees with it, just needed some creative rope use and zero regards for scratching paint.
dittybopper_05H@reddit
I've pretty much always driven front wheel drive cars, and we get some very heavy snows here in the northeast. I always pass people who drive 4wd and awd vehicles who slid off the road every year during the first snow because they are over-confident. They see, tp think that because they have all-wheel drive and anti-lock brakes that the laws of physics don't apply to them.
A good front wheel drive vehicle with good tires on it will handle pretty much everything except cross-country driving.
Johhannes@reddit
4wd a must in hilly frozen winter germany
PeterRuf@reddit
In my preparation I would consider local laws. In Poland in case of emergency or war the government can take your car. On the list of vehicles are 4x4 and vans. I would also avoid vehicles that make you look rich or preppered.
Your daily car seems the best option. It works and kids are used to it. You have a routine when packing. Add a few things or keep an extra bag ready with essentials. Keep the fuel tank at half minimal. You don't need a 4x4. You need a reliable car. One that doesn't stick out. Take a look at your city. Get something that people in your family situation use. Blend in.
theLogic1@reddit
Same goes for Sweden. I would be drafted and so would my wife and 16 year old son so my 11 year old would be hauled to grandma and grandpa and the rest of us will work so no bugout for us most likely. Our allroad would work just fine. Can do light offroading and will pack decently. Good with packbox and will pack two bikes also.
FlimsyDebt3361@reddit
Toyota
Leather-Site9152@reddit
Motorcycle, preferably efficient and endurance oriented like the Honda Africa.
357-Magnum-CCW@reddit
Any dirt bike.
Many European countries are small and its roads will be CLOGGED if shtf
They're jammed more often than not even now, as soon as business hours start or any construction takes place.
Imagine when real blackout happens ^
JezusOfCanada@reddit
Lada niva
quast_64@reddit
Unimog if you can find one...
vba7@reddit
Passat B6
pakZ@reddit
Bicycle.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
Can't carry three children, a wife, two dogs and their stuff on a bike mate.
Creepy-Cantaloupe951@reddit
You can!
https://www.amsterdam-bicycle.com/
That said, your wife should probably pedal, too, and depending on age of children, they should too.
Smash_Shop@reddit
Can your 3 children and wife not bike? Can your dogs not walk? Surely the people in your life have *some* form of agency of their own.
lexmozli@reddit
Wife and him could bike, each could have a child seat. Dogs can be hauled with a bike trailer no problem. At least one kid should bike on his own, ideally. If all 5 of them could bike, this mean that each could haul more (dogs + stuff).
Creepy-Cantaloupe951@reddit
Personally...
The Hilux. Good enough for insurgents to mount a 50cal onto... Good enough for a bugout vehicle.
You can even get them in a version that runs on ethanol.
Eredani@reddit
Waiting for someone to say "the best bugout vehicle is the one you have" or some such nonsense.
Creepy-Cantaloupe951@reddit
I mean, it would be better than the one you wish you had... The whole "bird in the hand" and "Do you want to go into deep debt, just for an overlander Tacozilla?"
apophis-984@reddit
Dacia Petrol , manual gearbox
Its all fun driving Japanese but if ShTF you are fucked for spare parts.
juancarlospaco@reddit
Dirt bike air-cooled extended gas tank camo painted, can jump over fallen tree trunks easily while vans will get stuck.
Pandazoic@reddit
Unless you’re planning on bugging out within a city something like a Land Cruiser Prado is a what’s typically used in situations where you might need to bug out. It’s often assigned to UN or military officials in high risk areas. Not insanely expensive, often driven by locals globally so blends in, can be repaired anywhere, comfortable to drive, capable off road, durable, and large enough to sleep in and carry supplies while not being huge.
ShidOnABrick@reddit
Bug out vehicle is supposed to get you out and away. If its just you an ADV bike is still a valid choice. All the bags can be quickly attached and prepacked. Drive into the plentiful nature and disappear.
Impartial_Negotiator@reddit
Eh… I have a Tata Telcoline at hand plus a 4 meters long trailer - serving me in beekeeping normally, but it can survive among very harsh conditions and still serves. Not the fancy car someone aims to steal…
Xterradiver@reddit
First is where do you plan on bugging out to? Then consider a vehicle that would be able to contain your family and your gear and still get where you are going.
Various_Length2879@reddit
Something 4wd/ AWD with a long range so you don’t have to stop.
DietOne9813@reddit
Consider a small boat, extensive canal and river system. Less likely to become caught in a giant traffic jam.
TheEvilBlight@reddit
Wise
Perfect-Gap8377@reddit
I think best depends on your location and your desired bug out location. In a shtf situation city roads are going to be locked. In this case, a bike and a trailer would be best. If a bigger vehicle is desired, look out for legislation about vehicle class ownership and taxes (M1,N1). I would love a nondescript white van, older and dented, with intact mechanics, but it's not practical for city family life.
In shtf situation you want to stay on roads, if you go offroad in a car you will get stuck and loose everything, so 4wheel drive is a non-issue. Gas will be a concern, however, so diesel is better (you can run it on a mix of vegetable oil in a pinch, but it will break down faster, and gasoline is more sought after for people's cars).
TheEvilBlight@reddit
Or worse, some kind of lockdown and exfiltrating on foot, which would zap a great deal of stockpilatory prepperism
TheEvilBlight@reddit
Do you have a secondary site you’re planning to get to or is this generically “bug out with everything in the vehicle”
TheEvilBlight@reddit
There are some considerations about road congestion and getting out of the city. Getting out of the city you’d want something that could cut through traffic jams, presumably to a designated place outside of city limits
NickMeAnotherTime@reddit
Dacia - cheap, reparable, mass produced, practically everywhere, european made, saved Renault from bankruptcy, it does everything.
w3bb0y@reddit
4x4 ford transit or ford ranger pick up. Both pretty common for parts and lots of space
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
I never thought of Transit before. Are they reliable ? Which year/generation are thinking of ?
w3bb0y@reddit
Depending on the model it is very reliable. And some come in 4x4 configuration.
Avoid any with a wet belt (same for any engine)
Lot of room, very common van so inconspicuous and again due to its availability will be lots of them around for spares
gustavotherecliner@reddit
But too big.
w3bb0y@reddit
Suzuki Jimmy maybe?
gustavotherecliner@reddit
That is too small. Something like a Mercedes C-Class T model.
MrsEDT@reddit
bike
ChronicLegHole@reddit
You said "except bicycles and motorcycles"... why are you discounting the 2 most effective bug out vehicles?
Late-Professor-9404@reddit
Nothing too long and 4x4 is a must to find places off the beaten track to hole up! You also do NOT want to get stuck in mediavel villages' narrow streets as you'd be a sitting duck. I just witnessed a large white panel van get stuck for 10mins at a narrow turn in Portuguese village. The driver was super stressed and he had 4/5 bystanders helping him out of the situation inch by painful inch. Personally would stick to country roads and avoid entering historical centres!
Metro2005@reddit
Since europe is extremely densely populated (at least western europe) you won't get very far using a car so i would choose a motorcycle, moped, ebike or bicycle. Anything on two wheels will be your best bet unless you live very remote with no possibility of a traffic jam. Then i would go for a small van where you could also live in.
XilodonZ@reddit
Volkswagen Transporter 4MOTION. It's common to help you avoid drawing unwanted attention. The interior space is sufficient and can handle different terrain.
jedtom@reddit
Subaru Outback. Period. You're welcome.
turbomommo@reddit
Can't say which one is the best, however i've been dreaming about building a Volvo c202 or c303 with axles and engine and drivetrain from a hilux or similar
Vegetaman916@reddit
A bluewater-rigged, full-keel monohull sailboat. Because bugging out in Europe means getting the hell out of Europe, PDQ.
smsff2@reddit
Frankly, I’m seeing one serious reply in a thread full of jokes.
Florreke_Jeirbees@reddit
At the beginning of the war in Ukraine, for example. I think it is especially important to have sufficient fuel. Everyone wants to fill up with fuel.
DeFiClark@reddit
Suzuki Jimny off road
Dacia Duster slightly less capable off-road but more comfortable/practical for everyday
Fiat Panda 4x4 Somewhere in between, but it is a Fiat so not sure about reliability
Perfect-Gap8377@reddit
Owned a couple for 10+ years. Insanely reliable, very rugged, somewhat cheap. just don't skip maintenance.
prepsson@reddit
How bout a Volvo Puppy? https://expeditionportal.com/featured-vehicle-1968-volvo-valp/
I personally find these horrible but they are super simple and very reliable, and they have a redblock engine.
MetalHeadJoe@reddit
Off road style scooter
Achnback@reddit
As a 4Runner owner (2005) these are incredibly reliable can haul like a pack mule and I beat on her like a rented mule. That is the good, the bad: AWFUL gas mileage so hopefully your location is within 350 miles and you have a full tank.
aggrocult@reddit
Gas will run out pretty fast in a shtf scenario, so you'd be best of in an older diesel vehicle, one that tolerates any old oil while running reasonably well.
aggrocult@reddit
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_OM617_engine
Find an old mercedes and you'll be golden.
stig316@reddit
In a hot air balloon. Imagine the views while you make you escape with a glass of champagne.
preppers-ModTeam@reddit
I don’t think the joke is particularly funny.
Miff1987@reddit
If long range and endurance are your goal, Check out earthcruisers. Very conspicuous but huge range, water tanks, solar, potentially everything you would need to get off grid for months without resupply
El-Pollo-Diablo-Goat@reddit
A 4x4 diesel with a large-ish cargo space would be my recommendation. Preferably something with as few electronics as possible. Easier to fix and to convert to run on plant oils. Diesel has a longer shelf life than gasoline, too, and is easier to find when you get out into the countryside.
Acceptable-Friend-42@reddit
Fuel would run out almost instantly assuming a sudden catastrophic breakdown so hoping you have a full tank where would you go?
SnooLobsters1308@reddit
Your english is great!
I don't know what vehicles are good for EU, but, here's some thoughts / considerations from the USA on classes of vehicle. :) And, are you just "bugging out" going from your apartment in city to your family residence in a rural area? Or, are you "high tailing it to the hills cause the city is falling" ? Or are you in a rural area already, and need to move to a safer area because of a local disaster like storm, flood, etc.? Do you just need to go 500 KM to a safe area or are you going to be weeks on the road? Tuesday or doomsday bugout?
SOME OPTIONS
1) VERY RELIABLE CAR. really, anyone that you keep well maintained, newish battery, good tires. SUPER BONUS if its a really high RANGE car, where range = gas tank size + miles per liter. Often, (at least in USA) no power = no gas station. So being able to drive further without needing a fill up can be super clutch.
IMO, true prepper will never run the gas tank low, and fill it up everytime it gets to half full. BONUS if you keep a spare gas can or two full at your residence in case you need to bug out. (use it rotate it every few months)
2) VAN = can bug out with more stuff, sleep in it easier if needed. CON is usually less gas mileage BUT, often bigger tanks = can still get good range. Best option IMO if you plan to be homeless for a few weeks in your disaster du jour. can check out r/vandwellers , some folks can/do live indefinitely out of their vans.
RANGE, IMO, is more important than miles per liter in a BUG OUT. You really don't care too much about the price of gas in 2 day emergency just getting to your bug out. In a more long term scenario (so not a bug out), if gas becomes scarce, then miles per liter can be more important favoring a smaller car.
3) SUV/Truck = the favored american disaster car :) Off road vroom! vroom! I have one. I have a jeep pickup truck with a bed cap. I do some overlanding = week long live out of your car camping. I'll bug out in this if I need to bug out. I have stove, heat, small car refrigerator, solar panels, recovery gear, winch. I can (and have practiced) driving on grass, mud, sand, rocks. (off roading is a semi common hobby in USA). But, when do you really need this in most bugouts? Not too often really. In USA, there may be cases when highway is blocked, and you might need to travel some in a grassy median around a stuck car, and 4 wheel drive can help you not be stuck. But, most bugouts don't need car camping or heavy off roading, but to get you from your location to a safe location.
4) Unpopular choice I most often recommend FOR FAMILIES is a newish AWD (all wheel drive) minivan, like a Toyota Sienna minivan . The hybrid version can get 640 MILES (1,000 km) on one tank of gas. Lots of space for family and gear, awd in case you need to drive in a median or ice, and 1000KM should get you most of the way to a safe location in a bug out. Not sure if that is available in EU. Maybe not the best for a long term disaster, but, for EMERGENCY GO NOW BUGOUT IMO its hard to beat.
I drove around in both USA post hurricane katrina NOLA, and in NJ after super storm sandy. Most gas stations were shut down. I didn't need to go off roading ever, but, range was key, as not knowing how far you needed to go before you could fill up gas again was nerve racking. (I had a ford F250 diesel with dual fuel tanks, so could go further than most vehicles between fillups) In katrina, I'd sleep in car at night in Baton Rogue (80 miles to NOLA) fill up, then go into NOLA (no gas stations) to help during the days. Range is key. Also, phone navigation doesn't help get around floods much, google maps just tells you to turn around cause you missed your turn ....
mega_neo@reddit
Underrated commet. Most Bug Out situations are more a need to get out of dangerous situations rather than SHTF TEOTWAWKI
Pootle001@reddit
No vehicle will be good for more than a few days. If you don't have your own fuel supply you can't go anywhere. If you DO have your own fuel supply, someone much more ruthless than you is coming to kill you for it.
Panthean@reddit
Whatever gets the best gas mileage to get you farthest from Russia
HajjiBalls@reddit
G5. Bug out in style.
Mountain_Answer_9096@reddit
Lots of people have said everything about walking, bicycles, horses etc and they're all right
I live in France and have one of those small vans. That's been a conscious choice. We can't afford to run a 4x4 everyday and it wouldn't be practical for what we need anyway.
It does have it's advantages in a situation though. It's relatively lightweight, has enough carrying capacity for essential gear and can be used as a mobile shelter easily. It's very fuel efficient, 2 full tanks will get us into Africa if we had to. And in Europe parts are everywhere.
It's not good offroad for sure but it can handle bad roads and narrow roads and it's great camouflage in it's unremarkableness
isUKexactlyTsameasUS@reddit
the old panda 4x4 could always flew below the radar, just sayin...
Dangerous-School2958@reddit
Where do you suspect you'll want to take it? We talking highly populated western Europe or more sparse eastern Europe or northern Europe?
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
I'm thinking western europe.
Dangerous-School2958@reddit
The un populated parts of Spain and Portugal are pretty arid. The Hylux have a really reliable reputation in those environments. Parts are available, mods are ridiculous, Millennium Falcon type reliability.
Quirky_Panic_5659@reddit
Your English is great! Not sure where you are in the EU, but I'm here as well...former US prepper still adjusting to the differences. You're so right when it comes to any of the traditional vehicle choices...I've seen 2 RAV4s in 8 years. I have a sturdy, older VW that actually has a ton of space. I figure that in a true SHTF situation that might get me halfway to my destination, but the roads/traffic here will quickly have me opting for a bike/hike. I love the other guy's suggestion about the light work van - the Ford Transit is everywhere and could be a perfect smaller mobile bug out choice, but I'm personally preparing to hike it, because if it's hard to drive between 3-8 on regular days in a smaller city, I can't even imagine trying to cover distance in a true emergency
Very-Confused-Walrus@reddit
Not European but i do live here currently. A wagon (or estate, whatever you call them) or one of those utility vans would fit the bill. They’re both super common, and that means parts availability isn’t an issue and the fact they won’t stand out. Whichever you chose, I’d aim for 4x4 or awd options if possible.
Ok-Buffalo-7398@reddit
Not a European, but just like any American or folk from most first world countries camping is a normal thing on your side of the globe. I believe some folks over there call is "caravanning". Purchasing a Mercedes sprinter van or any smaller van for caravanning doesn't look suspicious or paranoid and its always ready to head out. If something smaller is preferred than you guys over there have really awesome station wagons. A bit cramped for a full family but a shelter none the less. And I think our Tacoma's and 4 runners are about the same size as your Hilux if that strikes your fancy.
roberttheiii@reddit
Also an American chiming in. Mostly I think people with bug out vehicles in the US are fooling themselves, for a variety of reasons. If there's some local disaster, get out, and use what you've got. There will be hotels, apartments, gas, and fresh underwear once you escape the disaster area. So if you want a tacoma anyway, and it fits your lifestyle and family, sure, go for it. But let's not pretend that if there's a black plague that kills 90% of the population in 30 days you're just going to have easy access to gas to get to some empty corner of the continent with easy.
Now, the US has a population of less than 40 people per square kilometer. Europe has just over 100 people per square kilometer. So again, where exactly are you bugging out to?
So my vote is, sure, get a van, or something with 4wd if it makes sense and is fun for you otherwise, but don't get it just to bug out. Roll what you've got!
AlphaDisconnect@reddit
Did you say a 2005 Chevy tahoe in less words. Easy to work on. The transmission will be the death. But the 5.3 l will never die.
Outspoken_Idiot@reddit
Depends where you live for example France a Renault traffic, Germany a VW Transporter. And I'm talking about twin cab vans, they are common enough that you can upgrade them to 4wheel drive they hold a good bit of kit and with the right mechanic the diesel engine can be set up to bypass the majority of the technology and still run very efficiently. Add on a roof box or rack and there are more options available to you (carry bike etc) it can be cheaper on Tax and insurance than a regular car also, if you do it right it becomes the everyday second vehicle to do the school runs, weekend kids sport runs etc, and you could have your boxes stored at home and quickly load up and go. Someone else a few nondescript boring signs would also make it less of a target, which could easily be stored as magnetic signs inside the van until needed, you could go a step further and use vehicle wrap to make it look older/rusty than what it really is.
TotalBrainFreeze@reddit
Please note that in countries like Sweden the military has a list of vehicles that would be impounded and used by the military in case of war. They are quite open about and even send a physical mail to the owner of vehicles that are on their list, so you know that this will happen.
And this kind of very useful trucks goes directly to that list, so if shit hit the fan it may be that your truck will disappear quite quick by armed military personnel.
So they are pointless to own if you plan to have them for this task.
It_is_Fries_No_Patat@reddit
Hi Rotterdam calling into this discussion,
For me I have 3 options.
1 Bug in so stay at home/work
2 Bug out to a walking distance hide-out
3 Buy a bug out BOAT
Option 3 is imho the best if you live near the coast
Traffic on the road will be next to impossible due to how crowded our country is it will be a 2000 km looped traffic jam til all run out of fuel/battery-power.
gustavotherecliner@reddit
Get a station wagon. Preferably some 4x4 or awd type. You've got plenty of room in them (also possible to easily add a roof rack), they are small enough for narrow European country roads, as fast as any other car and have a decent range of about 800-1200km with a full tank of gas. They are also very common and won't stick out like a sore thumb as a big American truck would.
lynivvinyl@reddit
I feel like you are describing the West Virginia state car. The AMC Eagle wagon.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
The fact that we never got such battlewagon bases in Europe makes me so mad... Best we can do here is AE95 Corolla or Subaru Outback...
Wooden-Sprinkles7901@reddit
Subaru Outback would be a great bug out car for someone in europe, or anywhere.
lynivvinyl@reddit
But you guys have the whole series of Land Rover Defenders! And better access to Unimogs than we do. That's not nothing!
bareback_cowboy@reddit
Stop it, I can only get so erect.
lynivvinyl@reddit
Oh, you like that? Are you ready to see what I got dusted by yesterday?...
Interesting-Trip-952@reddit
You will need something mean, fast, built like a tank. Anything old like a 50s-70s car or truck. Put some extra thick grill guard on front. Chop off the muffler so it screams get out of the way, maybe even skulls painted on it and some rock music playing loud on the radio.
DeafHeretic@reddit
nrcvandemaele@reddit
A pair of hiking shoes. At most, a bicycle.
I just had to spend 30 minutes to drive 2kms just because there is a repair crew on the autoroute. First hint of a big problem and whole regions will be gridlocked.
Wrong-Routine-5695@reddit
Old G-Class with 250/290 or 300 Diesel OM60x engine.
They even run on waste oil fuel. Injection complete mechanical
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
Can you think of any cheaper alternative that's powered by mecanical injection ?
Wrong-Routine-5695@reddit
Volkswagen till around 1995.
I drive an VW T4 with 2.4 AAB. Engine is complete mechanical just needs 12v for the fuel valve.
Content_NoIndex@reddit
It all depends what your bug out scenario looks like, how many traveller’s you need to take and so on. If you want to be able to live in the vehicle a mobile home with 4x4 and maybe a solar setup could get you a long way. Other wise if you need to travel to a bug out location i would just have a basic suv or pick-up. If you want to go solo a motorcycles might also benefit flexibility and speed. I personally own both an electric suv and a American pickup truck with lpg tank when full gives me 1000 km range. And yes an American car comes with downsides when looking for a parking spot in Europe but then again the ability to tow and the luxury for longer trips is a nice bonus. Extra you also can ask the question on r/europreppers since that subreddit is specifically focused on European prepping.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
Thanks for the recommandation. I'll check it out!
lynivvinyl@reddit
Probably a unimog. Yeah it's noticeable but it also says fuck you. Or on the other end of the spectrum one of those 4x4 Toyota station wagons from the '80s if you just want to keep going.
dittybopper_05H@reddit
I wouldn't get a Unimog. Too hard to keep everything balanced on that single wheel. Get a Trimog at least, and consider a Quadmog.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
Hahahah, you definitly made my day!
lynivvinyl@reddit
Modern gyroscopic stability will surprise you.
TalpaMoleman@reddit
How far and through what kind of country would you need to travel? I would suggest something less conspicuous. If you are the only guy in a SHTF scenario who drives a 4runner, you would stick out quite a lot and make yourself a target.
Tenacious_Aldamir@reddit (OP)
That's exactly the point I was trying to elaborate earlier. I probably seen one 4Runner in my whole life and it was a second generation. Driving such thing would definitly be a vulnerability.
CorrinFox@reddit
I for one have no interest in waiting in gas lines in the apocalypse.
1st gen Nissan Leaf for 2-3k. These are super modular, easily repaired down to individual battery cells, spares available in every junkyard.
Lift kit, mud tires, roof top tent.
4x 400w solar panels ($80 each) and an inverter gets you 30+ miles of range per day.
The Leaf can supply 1.8kw from the main battery, can run your house or your mobile setup (fridge, computer, induction hob etc) for days.
Use it for running around town while you wait for the end times and it will pay for itself in a year or two.
DeafHeretic@reddit
If you are considering a Hilux, then a pre-2000 Hilux with a diesel (assuming diesel is still common/popular/affordable in Europe and/or where you intend to use the vehicle) and a manual transmission. Do not get one that has the 2L-TE engine, or with an "E" on the end of the engine designation (the "E" means it has EFI - i.e., electronically controlled injection - some earlier diesel powered HIluxes and many Hilux Surfs have the 2L-TE).
Beyond that, I try to minimize the electronics. I think EMP is a low probability, and CMEs, while more likely, not very likely either (Miyake events even less likely, but if it happens it could be a lot more harmful) - so this precaution is more about the probability of electronics eventually causing a problem.
My daughter's 2010 Audi Q5 has been a money pit - mostly electronics issues that are expensive and sometimes even specialists could not figure out what the issue was.
My own 2014 SUV (BMW X1), has had almost not issues (aside from mice eating the wires), but in the last few years the "Comfort Access" features stopped working, and now, the doors will not unlock from the inside (intermittently) using the door latch or the central door unlock button or the key fob - so it goes into the shop today since this is obviously a safety issue.
I really like my SUV - it is my "daily driver" - but it isn't my "BOV".
My BOV is my '98 Hilux (LN172H), 5L three liter mechanical injection diesel with manual transmission. Very dependable, almost no electronics (it does have ABS & a steering wheel airbag) and I can sleep in the back (it has a canopy) and carry supplies/etc.
It currently has a "contractor canopy" on it so it is kind of stealth:
grubbygromit@reddit
Unimog with a decent winch and a camper conversion. Get anywhere and the height is an added bonus . You'd need some fuel though.
mig19farmer@reddit
C15
Cute-Consequence-184@reddit
What terrain? And distance?
My bug-out location is 4 miles away. But if the road is blocked....
Here, honestly, a tractor would be the best if you can't use the today.
Or a horse.
A 4wd would be third.
Size doesn't matter when the roads you need to take were made for a horse and buggy.
What would you be carrying?
With a tractor I can pull a wagon.
A horse can pull a buggy
A large truck can pull my 5th wheel
A 4wd can pull a wagon
itamau87@reddit
Something like this one?
https://www.subito.it/auto/iveco-vm90-torpedo-monza-518932503.htm
WTFisThatSMell@reddit
Oddly enough
Volkswagen Scirocco GTI
To Berlin to Warsaw in one tank!
Topgear advert
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GmYFJcf-vho
Fit-Sort-1690@reddit
Can't comment on the roads where you are but I'm in the UK. I recon roads would be gridlocked pretty quickly in certain situations.
Unless your bugging out at the earliest sign of trouble I think any vehicle may end up being abandoned and you'll be on foot with whatever you can carry. A motorbike is the ideal vehicle but not for a family.
Rather than focus on a vehicle id focus on your bugout plan, where you plan to go, the route you'll take there and what happens if that route is blocked.
Nibb31@reddit
Bugging out to where?
In a SHTF scenario, there is no petrol and no electricity and the roads are closed.
So sorry, but a bike it is.