Prepping is a hobby that is easy to throw money at, no different than people do with audio.
You cannot buy product and expect it just to work it takes experimentation and actually using the product to learn its benefits and pitfalls.
Bugging out as a general idea has one big issue. Where do you go? If you have land off in the country, do you have multiple route to the property planned out in case one is blocked with traffic?
Food sources are an issue that will be easily overcome within the first year or two but to have it pre-established reigns king.
Water supply is a mixed bag depending on the region. Down here in the swamp water is everywhere and a good filter and a couple drops of bleach or boiling it will clean it up. The south Texas coast is much drier with access to mostly salt water which requires a different process.
Protection is often overblown but can't be forgotten. Distressed people will do anything for self preservation. And organized crime will likely be a new form of govt since they are already semi self sufficient.
Can you turn away hungry people? Your supplies w
Are designed for your use. Add in even 1 mouth to feed and you food supply now gets cut drastically. Could you turn away family? Yes our greatest strength is our greatest weakness. Working together makes us strong but again set amounts of food only last so long. Especially when that person could be just as capable as you to prepare for disaster.
For any new prepper I'd suggest looking to your most likely scenario first for me and louisianacrx that would be hurricanes, tornados, and floods. Possible a fuel shortage.
Start with a 2week supply then add another 2 weeks and keep adding. But don't forget to rotate supplies.
Get out and take some classes in emergency response and basic medicine. Hell sign the kids up for scouts and participate along side them, pick up a book and read. Knowledge weighs nothing and gear can be an anchor.
If you are going to buy out. I'd say every 6 months to a year try your plan. Don't deviate, if it means walking 10 miles do that. Find out what you need and what you don't need