What to Bring to a Campout

Many people have asked for a list of suggested items to bring on a typical campout. Keep in mind that the needs may vary from campout to campout, but in general, here are some suggestions.

Warmer Weather Camping (Spring/Summer)

  • Pack or duffle type bag - with plastic bags to pack clothes in so they don't get wet
  • Boots / Sturdy shoes (for hiking)
  • Sneakers (for around camp)
  • 2 pair underwear
  • 2 Tee shirts (Troop or scout-related)
  • 1 sweat shirt or light jacket
  • 1 pair shorts
  • 1 pair light long pants
  • Swimsuit
  • Scout uniform with Neckerchief and slide - worn for travel, dinner, chapel
  • Cap or Hat
  • Raincoat
  • Insect repellant (non-aerosol)
  • Sun block
  • Mess Kit or bowl & plate
  • Spoon, spork or silverware kit
  • Mug or cup (for hot or cold drinks)
  • Metal or plastic water bottle (Nalgene) or canteen for water only
  • Toilet Kit: Soap, Tooth brush, Tooth paste, Small hand towel, Brush or comb
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Ground pad / thin mattress (foam or air)
  • Small pillow
  • Flashlight
  • Pocket knife and Totin’ Chip
  • Pen and paper
  • Scout book (we almost always try to do some advancement)
  • Compass
  • Any medications needed - clearly labeled with medication form and in a ziplock bag
  • Money (one dollar in coins)

Cool Weather Camping (Fall and early Winter)

  • Pack or duffle type bag - with plastic bags to pack clothes in so they don't get wet
  • Boots or Sturdy shoes (for hiking)
  • Sneakers or light shoes (for wear around camp)
  • 4 pairs warm socks (wool or poly cotton blend)
  • 2 pair underwear
  • 1 pair long underwear
  • 2 long sleeve shirts
  • 1 sweater or sweatshirt
  • 1 jacket or coat
  • 1 extra pair long pants
  • Scout uniform with Neckerchief and slide - worn for travel, dinner, chapel
  • Warm Cap or Hat (watch cap)
  • Gloves
  • Raincoat
  • Mess Kit or bowl & plate
  • Spoon, spork or silverware kit
  • Cup or mug (for hot or cold drinks at mealtime)
  • Metal or plastic water bottle (Nalgene) or canteen for water only
  • Toilet Kit (same as above)
  • Sleeping Bag (suitable for cooler temps.)
  • Ground pad / thin mattress (foam or air)
  • Small pillow
  • Flashlight
  • Pocket knife and totin’ chip
  • Pen and paper
  • Scout book (we almost always try to do some advancement)
  • Compass
  • Any medications needed - clearly labeled with medication form in a ziplock bag
  • Money (one dollar in coins)

What not to bring

Scouts should not bring:

  • Electronic toys and gadgets - games, iPods, etc. (They can be used in the car traveling to and from camp but must be left in the car)
  • Soda pop
  • Snacks - there should be plenty to eat without having to bring snacks. If there is a problem with the menu choice, it is up to the scout to work that out with his patrol. No food should ever be kept in tents.
  • Cell phones - these should not be carried or used in camp because they are a distraction. Boys may bring them in the car to and from camp, but they must be left in the car. Adults are requested to leave their phones in their cars or tents.
  • Open-toed shoes (flip flops, sandals) except when worn at the waterfront. Closed-toe shoes only while in camp.

Thanks to Troop 63 for parts of this list.