This list is not specific to any particular type of campout. The gear needed will vary depending on whether the Scout is hiking, biking, canoeing, attending summer camp, or camping for a weekend with vehicle access. None of these items are mandatory, except for the Scout uniform—both the shirt and neckerchief should be taken on every outing.
While this list is comprehensive, it's best to create your own personalized list to suit your specific needs. It can't cover every situation, so consider where you're going and the time of year when packing. Start from your head to your feet, thinking about what you need to protect against rain, heat, cold, wind, sun, blisters, etc. For your tent, include everything from the ground cloth to the rain fly to make it comfortable. Plan for all your meals—breakfasts, snacks, lunches, and dinners. A daypack is usually necessary (except on long hikes with a rucksack). It should contain a snack, rain gear, extra shirt, extra socks, sunscreen, bug spray, a first aid kit, water bottle or hydration pack, and the remaining 10 essentials.
Synthetic materials dry quicker and are often water resistant and/or moisture wicking. A dry Scout is a happy Scout. There are some Troops and some outings (summer camp Alpine high adventure camping) which do not allow cotton shirts or pants (t-shirts, sweat shirts or jeans, etc). Between the layered shirts and rain jacket, there should be no need for a heavy jacket, unless we are doing a winter campout in the mountains.
Clothing
- Hat: Suitable for cold or warm weather.
- Undershirts: At least two; both short-sleeve and long-sleeve (preferably synthetic materials).
- Outer Shirts: Long-sleeve shirts for cold weather or sun protection (synthetic).
- Warm Shirt: Such as a polypropylene (polypro) shirt for insulation.
- Underwear: Enough pairs for the duration of the campout.
- Gloves:
- Work Gloves: Useful for service projects.
- Warm Gloves: For cold weather conditions.
- Shorts: Running shorts, swimwear, or sleepwear.
- Pants: At least two pairs of long pants with zip-off legs (synthetic).
- Socks: At least one pair per day plus an extra pair (synthetic materials help prevent blisters).
- Stuff Bag: For organizing clothes.
- Hiking Boots: Broken-in boots suitable for trails.
- Running Shoes: For transportation and post-hike comfort.
- Scout Uniform:
- Scout Shirt
- Neckerchief: Bring extras and slides if you plan to trade.
- Activity Shirt: Optional for casual wear.
Gear
- Rain Gear: Invest in quality rain gear like Gore-Tex; should be packed for every event, including meetings.
- Daypack (Daysack): Essential for carrying items during the day.
The Ten Essentials
- First Aid Kit
- Filled Water Bottle or Hydration Pack (CamelBak)
- Flashlight: Headlamps are effective; pack extra batteries.
- Trail Food: Snacks for energy on the go.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Whistle: For emergency signaling.
- Map and Compass
- Pocket Knife: Only if you have earned the Totin' Chip.
- Fire Starter/Matches: Only if you have earned the Fireman's Chit.
- Rain Gear: As mentioned above.
Accessories
- Watch: For keeping track of time.
- Identification:
- Military ID: If applicable.
- Passport: If traveling outside the country.
- Toiletries Kit (keep it minimal for hiking):
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Soap: In a ziplock bag or container.
- Shampoo: Optional.
- Small Washcloth
- Towel: Quick-dry synthetic towels are ideal.
- Hairbrush or Comb
- Shower Shoes: Especially for summer camps.
- Bug Spray: To repel insects.
- Sunglasses: For eye protection.
- Spending Money: As necessary for the trip.
- Scout Book: Keep it in a ziplock bag to protect from moisture.
- Paper and Pen/Pencil: Also stored in a ziplock bag.
- Camera: Optional, for capturing memories.
Camping Equipment
- Tent Assembly (can be shared with tentmates for long hikes):
- Ground Cloth
- Tent
- Rain Fly
- Poles
- Stakes
- Storage Bags
- Sleeping Gear:
- Sleeping Mat: Self-inflating air mattress or foam pad.
- Sleeping Bag: Synthetic, with a waterproof stuff sack; rated appropriately for the temperatures (at least 20°C/5°C).
- Pillow: Optional; consider inflatable or compressible types.
- Mess Kit:
- Drinking Cup: At least one; consider having separate ones for hot and cold beverages.
- Utensils: Fork, knife, spoon, or a spork.
- Plate/Bowl
- Portion of Patrol Cooking/Eating Kit: If applicable.
- Small Folding Chair or Camp Stool: For comfort around the campsite.
Electronics
- Cell Phone: For emergency contact only.
- Other Electronics: Not recommended except during transportation.
Medical and Documentation
- Medical Form: Ensure the troop has a current medical form (within the past year).
- Prescription Medication: Bring any required medications in their original containers.
Additional Tips
- Personalize Your Packing List: Develop a list that suits your specific needs and the requirements of each trip.
- Plan According to Destination and Weather: Know where you're going and the expected conditions to pack appropriately.
- Layer Your Clothing: Start from your head and work down to your feet, considering protection against rain, heat, cold, wind, sun, and blisters.
- Tent Essentials: From ground cloth to rain fly, ensure you have everything needed for a comfortable shelter.
- Meal Planning: Consider what you need for breakfasts, snacks, lunches, and dinners.
- Daypack Essentials: Usually required unless on a long hike with only a rucksack. Should contain:
- Trail snacks
- Rain gear
- Extra shirt and socks
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- First aid kit
- Water bottle or hydration pack
- The remaining items from the Ten Essentials
Remember, the key to a successful camping trip is preparation. Tailor this list based on the specific activities and duration of your outing. Happy camping!