Personal Gear List

The Boy Scout Handbook is an outstanding resource for use in determining what gear to take when going camping. The following lists were taken directly from chapters 8. Hiking (p. 197) and 9. Camping (p. 217). For greater detail, you can review these chapters in the book. Some additional suggestions and items you might consider taking to summer camp have been added below.

The full Scout Uniform is a MUST for summer camp. It shows great scout spirit to wear your uniform to and from all scouting activities. One of the first things we do after getting to camp is Swim Checks. You may want to wear your swimsuit under your uniform to allow for a quick change.

Actual clothing quantities are up to the individual. Remember we will be away for a full week.

As you gain experience you will eventually come up with your own ideal gear list for camping. The old adage, "Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it." really does apply in this case. You should think of these lists as a good starting point and not necessarily containing everything you will possibly need while camping. You are the best judge of what you will need.


The Scout Outdoor Essentials
Pocketknife  
First aid kit  
Extra clothing  
Rain gear  
Water bottle  
Flashlight  
Trail food  
Matches and fire starters  
Sun protection  
Map and compass  
Scout handbook  

-

Standard items
Backpack or Duffel Bag  
Rain cover for backpack  
Sleeping bag, or two or three blankets  
Sleeping pad or cot  
Ground cloth  
Eating kit
Spoon  
Plate  
Bowl  
Cup  
Cleanup kit
Soap  
Toothbrush  
Toothpaste  
Dental floss  
Comb  
Washcloth  
Towel  
Warm-Weather Clothing Checklist for Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking
Short-sleeved shirt  
Hiking shorts  
Long pants  
Sweater or warm jacket*  
Hiking boots or sturdy shoes  
Socks  
Hat with a brim for shade  
Bandanna  
Rain gear  
Extra Underwear (for longer trips)  
(Items marked with an asterisk [*] should be made of wool or a warm synthetic fabric.)

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Personal Extras (optional)
Watch  
Camera and film  
Notebook  
Pencil or pen  
Sunglasses  
Small musical instrument  
Swimsuit  
Gloves  

Hints and Tips for Personal Gear:
  • Use a Duffel Bag instead of a Backpack for summer camp. You will not be trekking and can fit more in a duffel bag.
  • Include a Day Pack or Fanny Pack for use during the day or on hikes.
  • Pack your Sleeping Bag in a Stuff Sack. It will help to keep it clean and make it easier to transport.
  • Eating kit - most of our meals are at the Dining Hall, but we may have a snack at the campsite.
  • Money for use at the trading post. Be careful here, bring only what you think you'll need for a week. You can turn this over to an adult leader for safe keeping while in camp.
Other Optional Items Not Mentioned in Scout Handbook
Insect Repellent  
Clothesbag  
Merit badge books  
Nature books  
Rope or line  
Personal tent  
Bible, Testament, or Prayer Book, according to faith  
Sneakers  
Repair kit (thread, needles, safety pins, etc.)  
Songbook  
Binoculars