Packing List – Backpacking

LABEL EVERYTHING! Wear Scout shorts, Scout belt, white socks and Troop T-shirt.

PERSONAL GEAR/SUPPLIES (MANDATORY)

  • backpack *backpack rain cover
  • sleeping bag w/stuff sack (all inside trash bag)
  • sleeping pad/air mattress
  • 1 tent (shared by 2-3 scouts)
  • 1 qt. water/mixing bottle (1 qt. sufficient, if you also bring a water bladder, otherwise bring 2 qt.)
  • bowl, cup, fork, spoon (or Spork) (Lexan or metal)
  • camp towel (hand-towel size)
  • sm camp soap (biodegradable)
  • toilet paper (1/4 roll or less)
  • toothbrush/paste (sample sizes)
  • sm bug spray
  • sunscreen (sample size)
  • sunglasses
  • personal medication
  • bandana
  • sm bottle of Purell Hand Sanitizer

* Min. approx. 4,000 in3 / 70-litre (internal frame pack) or 3,500 in³ (external frame pack) with external straps (not bungee cords or rope) for attaching tents, sleeping pad, etc… A detachable hood which converts to a hip bag is useful. All items should be packed in Ziploc bags to prevent loose items from floating around in your pack getting damaged, lost or wet. Sleeping bag and stuff sack should be packed inside a small garbage bag to protect it from rain. Avoid cotton clothing! Leave space for Troop Gear and Food!

10 ESSENTIALS (MANDATORY)

  1. map of area (supplied by Troop)
  2. sm. flashlight w/extra batteries
  3. sm. pocket knife
  4. compass
  5. weatherproof lighter, matches
  6. sm. medical kit w/moleskin for blisters
  7. sm. signal mirror (plastic or metal)
  8. 25’ extra line (parachute cord)
  9. whistle
  10. reflective emergency blanket

CLOTHING (STRONGLY RECOMMENDED)

  • hiking boots (sturdy & waterproof)
  • extra tennis shoes or Tevas (for water crossings and in camp)
  • 1 convertible shorts w/zip-off legs -or- 1 shorts & 1 long pants (synthetic)
  • 2 T-shirts (synthetic)
  • 1 long-sleeve nylon/polyester-blend shirt
  • 2 SmartWool socks
  • 2 pr. underwear
  • 1 sweat shirt or fleece vest
  • 1 hat (w/wide all-around brim is best)
  • 1 long-sleeve thermal undershirt (weather dependent) **
  • 1 light synthetic thermal underpants (or fleece) (weather dependent) **
  • 1 fleece jacket (med. weight) (weather dependent)**
  • 1 fleece or knit cap (weather dependent) **
  • 1 fleece or knit gloves (weather dependent) **
  • 1 rain jacket (or rain suit) (weather dependent)**

OPTIONAL PERSONAL GEAR

  • water bladder (platypus or camel back style)
  • sm. camping pillow or pillow case to stuff clothes
  • sm. repair kit (duct tape, sewing kit, etc..)
  • fishing equipment (light & collapsible)/flies/lures
  • paperback (or other lightweight reading mat.)
  • travel cards/games (lightweight – share)
  • camera
  • hiking pole(s) (highly recommended for river crossings!)

** Check with leaders about weather/temperature conditions for specific trip. Some items** may be omitted.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS

  • All “Personal Gear/Supplies” and “10 Essentials” are mandatory.
  • “Clothing” items are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for protection, warmth and durability.
  • The “Optional Personal Gear” items are recommended to enhance the Scout′s enjoyment and comfort on the trip.
  • Check with leaders before hike about availability of fishing at specific campsites.