Packing Lists
This is just a basic outline of what should be brought on a typical camping trip. Make adjustments according to the particular activity and weather that’s expected to occur during the trip. Always plan to have some variability in the projected weather. There have been outings where there was a projected 0% chance of precipitation where it rained like crazy as well as outings where it was supposed to be 70 degrees yet the highs never got above 50. Embrace that Boy Scout Motto: Be Prepared!!!
Enclosed is a good starting point for items that should be included on just about every outing. And, to make sure that you actually bring all of that stuff with you, below is packing information and links. Review the material, then check your list before the outing!
For tips on how to prepare for cold weather camping: There’s a quick video available below that was created by one of the Troop 615 Scouts.
Day Pack
A Day Pack is something small and light weight to bring with you on every outing. You will carry your day pack with you when traveling.
Headlamp: A headlamp allows you to use both hands. The light also goes to wherever you look. It’s just much more practical than a hand held flashlight.
Work gloves: You will generally be setting up tents and cooking areas when they first get to camp. You don’t need something pricey, just something basic (like these from Harbor Freight for under $2) to help protect your hands while you’re setting up.
First Aid kit: A first aid kit is for your personal gear and is intended to allow you to take care of minor cuts and scrapes as well as deal with blisters that may develop. This does not need to be purchased, it can be put together very inexpensively from items you probably have around the house.
Rain jacket/rain pants: rain gear doesn’t have to be expensive. To be effective, it needs to be waterproof and it needs to be available.
Water bottle: Be sure to pack a large enough water bottle (at least 20 ounces) on all outings to stay hydrated.
Mess kit: The BSA mess kit isn’t great. In fact, it’s pretty bad. For general outings, would be helpful to purchase something like the Light My Fire kit or you can even make your own.
Sun Screen: keep it with you so that you can apply it when needed.
Bug Spray: keep it with you so that you can apply when needed.
Small towel or bandanna.
Scout book: labelled with your name and stored in a zip top bag. Include a pen inside the bag to go with the book.
Finally, please do not pack your uniform! You will need your uniform on you in order to go on the outing. If you pack your uniform into your personal gear bag and the bag gets packed onto the trailer, you won’t be able to GET your uniform. You cannot travel to an outing without your uniform. Which means, your gear will go on the outing while you stay home.
Basic Outing Pack List
These items should be packed in your personal gear bag. Ideally, the personal gear bag should be a waterproof bag that is the correct size to store all of your gear, including your sleeping bag. Water repellent bags can be found at relatively modest cost though a variety of online retailers.Please be sure to LABEL your gear! Use waterproof markers and mark every piece of gear and clothing.
We pack the Troop trailer during the Wednesday meeting before the outing. Please be sure that you pack your gear (don’t let your parents pack for you) and bring it with you to the Wednesday meeting so that it can go on the trailer.
Shirts: Avoid cotton because cotton holds onto moisture. Use materials that wick moisture away from your skin e.g., (lightweight polyester for your base layers). For a typical weekend outing, plan to pack at least 3 lightweight shirts. If conditions are expected to be colder, plan to add a sweatshirt or hoodie.
Two pair of shorts or pants, depending upon temperatures and the planned activity. The same suggestions about avoiding cotton applies to pants and shorts..
Sweatpants (sleeping, and in case it gets cold). A lot of Scouts use sweatpants as PJs.
Socks: The type of socks depends on the temperatures expected and the activity, but avoid cotton. For typical outings during the Spring – Fall, light weight socks are generally fine.
Underwear: Again, avoid cotton. Plan on bringing 2 pair.
Sweatshirt: good for adding layers if temperatures drop.
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush, deodorant. Please do not forget deodorant! 😉
Sleeping pad: You don’t want to sleep directly on the ground. It can be uncomfortable, either from rocks and roots or from the cold. An inexpensive closed cell foam pad can make a big difference in comfort. For those that want to step up the comfort, can consider using a self inflating pad (e.g., Thermarest type).
Sleeping bag: The bag you use will depend on the conditions expected AND upon how you sleep. The conditions are important to consider (e.g., don’t plan to bring a 0 degree bag for an August outing in Maryland). Since our troop camps all year round, Scouts end up needing a couple different bags for the different conditions expected. The bags do not have to be expensive. For summer camping, many Scouts use light weight fleece bags.
Optional: travel pillow. They can be inexpensive and may help you sleep more comfortably.
Summer Packing List
How to Pack for Summer camp:
The totes are great for carrying everything you need for camp. Since everyone has something that looks really similar, you need to label your bins.
While bins are great for keeping stuff contained, they are not waterproof. In order to keep your clothes dry, place them in large zip lock bags.
How to pack your bags would be to put a set of clothes (pair of socks, t-shirt, shorts, and underwear) for each day.
What you need in your tote are things like your sleeping bag, hygiene kit (including: soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, towels, shaving needs if necessary), clothes, and other things.
Don’t forget to get a lock for your tote just in case anybody has any ideas.