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: