Camping Equipment
Patrol Gear
Section titled “Patrol Gear”Each patrol has its own set of gear, which is administered by the Patrol Quartermaster. The gear is stored on the patrol’s shelf in the Quartermaster Room. Patrol gear includes things like tents, cooking equipment, water jugs, coolers, canopies, etc.
Troop Gear
Section titled “Troop Gear”There is also troop-level gear, which is administered by the Troop Quartermaster. This includes things like backpacking gear, dutch ovens and other specialty cooking equipment, canoes, and much more. Scouts can talk to the Troop Quartermaster to sign out troop gear for their personal use.
Personal Gear
Section titled “Personal Gear”There are a few pieces of kit that every prepared scout should have, which we call “personal gear”. It’s a good idea to permanently mark it with your name. Before each trip, check the forecast and pack accordingly. Troop camping trips will generally not be canceled on account of “bad” weather! Talk to your Patrol Leader if you have questions about personal gear. You can find lots more information about camping gear in your Scout Handbook.
Sleeping bag
Section titled “Sleeping bag”Sleeping bags are rated for a certain temperature. Make sure your bag will be sufficiently warm for the trip you’re going on. Beware of the difference between “minimum/extreme” temperature ratings and “comfort” ratings. You can also combine two lesser sleeping bags to increase warmth.
Sleeping pad
Section titled “Sleeping pad”These are for thermal insulation and ground padding. No matter how warm your sleeping bag is, you will need to supplement it with a sleeping pad on cold nights. The warmth of a sleeping pad is measured in R-value. 2 is enough for moderate weather. In winter weather you’ll want 3.5 or more. The R-value ratings add together when you stack multiple pads.
Duffel bag
Section titled “Duffel bag”You’ll need a duffel bag or some other container to carry your gear in the car/trailer.
Appropriate footwear
Section titled “Appropriate footwear”Your footwear should be matched to the activity. Always bring at least one pair of closed-toe shoes. Hiking shoes/boots are often good to have on trips. Multiple pairs of synthetic or wool socks are recommended.
Appropriate clothing
Section titled “Appropriate clothing”You’ll need to wear clothing matched to the conditions- we rarely cancel for bad weather! Consider bringing some extras in case you get wet.
Snow boots and gloves
Section titled “Snow boots and gloves”These are sometimes necessary during winter trips. They should be warm and waterproof.
Mess kit
Section titled “Mess kit”A bowl to eat out of, and a utensil to eat with. Metal or plastic. Optionally, a cup for hot drinks.
You must earn your Totin’ Chip before carrying a knife at scouting events. It’s recommended to use a knife that locks in the open position or has a fixed blade. The use of folding knives with non-locking blades is discouraged because they’re less robust and can accidentally close on your fingers while in use.
Reusable water bottle(s)
Section titled “Reusable water bottle(s)”Should hold at least 1 liter total. Nalgene bottles are a popular choice.
Headlamp or flashlight
Section titled “Headlamp or flashlight”A headlamp is the suggested option for light, but a flashlight is also okay.
Rain gear
Section titled “Rain gear”A scout is prepared for rain on every trip regardless of the forecast. Always have a rain jacket or poncho. Rain pants can also be good to have.
Daypack
Section titled “Daypack”A simple backpack to carry things around camp or on a day hike. This could be your school backpack.
Basic first aid kit
Section titled “Basic first aid kit”A minimal personal first aid kit. Look in your scout handbook to learn about what you need. Tell the Scoutmaster if you need to bring personal medications.