10 Essentials
Ten items considered essential to camping are:
- Pocket knife — Younger scouts should have a sturdy pocketknife like the official scout pocketknife. Swiss Army knives are easier to break, and are appropriate for older scouts.
- First aid kit — scouts will make their own as part of rank advancement. Inexpensive one and two person first aid kits are available locally.
- Extra clothing to match the weather. Multiple layers are superior to a single massive jacket, because layered clothing is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. We suggest putting extra clothing in a waterproof bag (e.g. a large zip lock bag).
- Rain gear — A rainsuit will keep the rain off, and will add warmth in the colder weather. A poncho will also keep the rain off, and the extra ventilation is welcome in the warmer months.
- Flashlight
- Emergency food — good for those times hikes take longer than expected, and occasionally when dinner takes longer than expected. Or just as a midday snack..
- Water container — Canteen, water bottle and/or hydration bladder.
- Matches and/or a firestarter
- Sun protection — sunblock, sunglasses, lip balm, hat, long sleeved shirt, long pants. Prevent sunburn and possibly heat exhaustion.
- Trail maps and compass
We also suggest:
- Insect repellent
- Duct tape
- Rope or parachute cord