Survivability isn't just a matter of carrying the right tools or following the most punishing physical training regimen available. Beyond muscle, brawn, and a crisis-oriented readiness kit, the most important element of survival training begins with the adoption of a pre-emptive, proactive mindset.

When discussing bug out, whether it's a vehicle, a bag, or even a motorcycle, you have to talk about planning and executing the plan. The biggest piece of that is routes. In the world of surveillance, we call it AK, which is Area Knowledge. You have to know the bigger area in which you live in an...