Essential Gear

Be Prepared.

Pack the right Gear.

Bring layers.

Anticipate bad weather.

Stay dry.

ESSENTIALS:

• Water bottle + flashlight (consider a USB rechargeable headlight)

• DRY shoes

• Boots (aka WET pair)

• Extra socks, including Wool Socks

• 2-3 changes of clothes: underwear, long pants, long shirt (Fleece)

• Gloves + winter hat?

• Scout Uniform + Scout Handbook (in a Ziploc bag)

• Mess kit: plate, bowl, utensils

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush

• Insect repellant + sunscreen

• Rain Gear: WET shoes, rain pants, rain jacket, hat

Gear you can borrow from the Troop:

• Tent

• Tarp

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad

Layers:

• Wool will keep you warm – even when wet!
  Wool is durable and keeps moisture away from the skin. A nice pair of wool socks will last a long time – and they are odor resistant! Just be careful putting them in the clothes dryer, instead lay them out to dry.

• Fleece is soft, lightweight, quick drying and easy maintenance. Fleece does not shrink like wool, but fleece will not act as insulation when wet. However, fleece is not as durable as wool.

 --  AVOID cotton! Cotton absorbs moisture and will make you cold. This is helpful on hot days, but can be dangerous when raining.

A quality pair of wool socks is one of the best investments you can make. You’re worth it.

Rain pants + jacket will increase the number of days available for camping/hiking/canoeing.