This list summarizes the minimum equipment necessary for a typical weekend “plop-down” campout from mid-March to mid-October (Specialty Campouts – Winter Camps, Backpacking, etc., are addressed by other specific handouts). Packing should be in an appropriate pack (see new scout buyers guide). Alternately, a medium size duffel bag with clothing separated in small stuff-sacks (or larger clear plastic bags) may be used. Your Scout should check off each item as he packs it.
Sleeping Gear:
_____ A sleeping bag, less than 3 lbs and rated to about 20 degrees.
_____ A foam pad or self-inflating pad (preferably not just an air mattress).
_____ A small pillow.
Do not bring large or heavyweight sleeping bags or pillows; if your son’s sleeping bag is too light, add an additional light blanket for warmth.
Eating Gear:
_____ A medium sized bowl, preferably plastic, with name plainly marked.
_____ A knife, fork and spoon kit (trashy kitchen-ware will do).
_____ A medium sized plastic cup, with name marked plainly.
Do not bring cheap plastic or breakable glass items, expensive silverware or anything overly heavy. Don’t send “everyday” Tableware you cannot afford to lose.
Clothing and Equipment:
_____ 2 pair underwear
_____ 3 pair socks
_____ 1 pair gym shorts
_____ 2 T-Shirts
_____ 1 pair long pants
_____ 1 sweatshirt
_____ 1 long-sleeve shirt or sweater
_____ A belt
_____ A wind/rain resistant jacket
_____ A hat (Baseball Cap OK in warm weather)
_____ An extra pair of sneakers or boots
_____ A small towel
_____ A “dirty clothes” bag, preferably cloth
_____ A rainproof rain-coat or poncho (not preferred).
_____ A pack-cover
_____ A small/medium sized flashlight (2 C-cell or smaller) with fresh batteries.
_____ A one quart water bottle
_____ A toothbrush/small tube tooth paste
_____ A small scout-type knife (absolutely no sheath knives!)
Note: Most parents of new Scouts outfit their sons with enough clothing to last a week, instead of two nights. Do not pack more than the above, which is already more than he’ll need; remember, he may have to carry it some distance to the campsite. If the expected weather appears to be unusually warmer or colder than normal (keeping in mind that the local camping areas are typically about 5 – 10 degrees cooler than Baltimore), make appropriate deletions and substitutions call the SPL if you have any questions. Don’t bother packing cleaning gear other than a toothbrush – it won’t get used, period. Make sure everything has his name and T 456 marked on it. Pack nothing you cannot afford to lose.