Backpacking: What to bring

A list by Mr. Kirschner:

What to bring

  • Backpacking Backpack (Troop will provide to boys that do not have)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat (e.g., Z-rest or inflatable pad) if available
  • Hiking boots/shoes (waterproof if at all possible)
  • Lightweight, closed toe camp shoes (NO sandals)
  • 2 pairs liner socks. Wear 1, pack 1 (consider bringing a 3rd pair if using cotton socks, just in case they get wet)
  • 2 pairs oversocks. (Wear 1, pack 1)
  • 2 pairs of Hiking pants or shorts (wear 1, pack 1)
  • 2 shirts (wear 1, pack 1)
  • 2 pairs underwear (wear 1, pack 1)
  • 1 fleece (or sweatshirt)
  • 1 lightweight rain jacket
  • 1 pair rain pants (if available)
  • 1 cup
  • 1 bowl
  • 1 spoon
  • Water bottles enough to carry 4 liters (can use Nalgene-type bottles, or empty 1 or 2 liter soda bottles work fine)
  • Toothbrush (toothpaste can be shared by everyone)
  • Small flashlight or headlamp
  • Backpack cover (large trash bag will also work)

Things to consider bringing:

  • Hat with brim (strongly recommended. Baseball cap ok)
  • Lightweight Sleeping clothes (T-shirt, shorts, socks—will ONLY be used in sleeping bag, not for hiking)—also strongly recommended
  • Sunglasses
  • 1 or 2 bandannas if you have them
  • Long-sleeve shirt (DuoFold, UnderArmour, etc) and/or long underwear, gloves, warm hat (if weather appropriate)
  • Book to read/cards/Frisbee/other small entertainment (BUT NO ELECTRONICS)
  • Journal
  • Small pocket knife
  • Small first aid kit (band-aids, Tylenol/ibuprofen, Antibiotic ointment, moleskin, anti-itch cream, etc)

Luxury items

  • Backpacking pillow
  • Lightweight hammock
  • Camping chair

NOTE1: As much as possible, everything should be quick-dry, since wet cotton clothing can take a long time to dry out!

NOTE2: For the trip, everything should be packed in plastic bags (zip-lock bags recommended) in case of rain

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