Packing for Camp

I'm going to camp - what should I bring?

A lot of that depends on what kind of camp you're going to, what time of year it is, and what activities will be going on.  A good place to start is, as always, your Scout Handbook--turn to page 268 for a checklist that should serve you well in most camping situations!

This is what you'll find there:

The Scout Basic Essentials

These 10 items are good to have with you, anytime you're out in the wild.

1. Pocketknife (you should have earned your Totin' chip or had knife safety training to use it at a scouting activity)

2. First Aid kit

3. Rain gear

4. Water bottle

5. Flashlight

6. Matches and fire starter (you should have your firem'n chit to build fires at a scouting activity)

7. Sun protection

8. Compass

9. Insect repellent

Clothing

Bring clothes appropriate for the weather and season.  Choose materials that will keep you warm and dry, such as wool, wicking fabrics, etc.  Dress in layers so you can adjust as you get warm or cold.

Shelter

When it's not too cold, we prefer to tent outside!  While we have a few troop tents, and some camps (like Tomahawk) provide tents, many scouts prefer to bring their own tent.  Think about who you plan on tenting with and what tent you plan to use.

Sleeping gear

• Sleeping bag - with an appropriate temperature rating. 

• Sleeping pad

• Pillow, if desired

Mess kit 

• Eating utensils

• Plate

• Bowl

• Cup or water bottle - best to put your troop number and name on it

Personal hygiene

• Soap

• Toothbrush

• Toothpaste

• Dental floss

• Comb

• Small towel

• Deodorant

• Hair ties, if you have long hair

Personal items

• Watch

• Camera

• Pencil or pen

• Small notebook

• Scout Handbook

• Camp chair (optional)

What not to bring

When Camping with Troop 1, you won't need your phone or other electronic distractions, please leave them at home, or have a leader lock them in a vehicle.