So I got 6 of them in the size (I think 17 gallon, roughly 2.5 feet by 18 in x 12 in). Size wise I guessed just right. They fit well in my vehicle and with the shelving I already have. That was a lucky happy accident. The bug out stuff will fill 3-4 of them. I plan to get a few more down the road if they work out.
Aesop and Pineslayer also made good points. The Rubbermaid roughneck type totes work. They are durable and perform as designed. They are also regrettably to tall for what I want. I also agree the sterelite el cheapo ones are crap. The ones I have will get replaced, if through attrition.
Totes are a funny thing. They are one of those things that in my head are expensive (and some of the fancy ones like Pelican/ Hardigg, are hundreds of dollars a piece) but really aren’t. I will probably buy another dozen over the next few months as part of my efforts to get the stuff associated with preparedness under control.
One thing I plan to do is get a bed which has space for totes underneath. I need a new mattress anyway and a bed frame which is designed for 18″ of space underneath will let me keep stuff under there. This isn’t strictly necessary now but it would be a benefit. Also down the road I may have some space constraints and it could be important.
Anyway thanks guys. Since this place is no longer monetized one of the biggest ways it brings value to my life is that when I have a question, odds are decent one of you has the answer. Thanks again.