Packing List

For those of you who have not camped with the Cubs before (and even those who have), here is a list of gear you will need... not all of it all the time, but if you have everything you'll be prepared!

If you do not already own something on this list, we recommend you borrow it from a friend or from another Cub family who is not going on this trip. Locations like Sports Basement also rent camping gear in case you need something specific, or you want to try out a new tent or sleeping bag. As your family gets more experience with camping, you'll find you can acquire gear cheaply from garage sales and craigslist.

Our fall campouts can be chilly at night, so don't skimp on the warm clothes!

The 10 Essentials - This is what Scouts consider essential gear for any hike:

  • Water bottle

  • Trail food

  • Flashlight

  • Rain gear

  • Sun protection

  • Pocketknife (Cub must be at least a Bear and have earned their Whittlin' Chip to carry a knife)

  • First aid kit

  • Map and compass (one per group)

  • Watch (one per group to pace your travels and return home when you are expected)

  • ...and of course a day pack to carry this gear.

Shelter and Sleeping

  • Tent for your family

  • Ground cloth or tarp to put under tent

  • Sleeping bags for everyone (rated down to 20 degrees F)

  • Sleeping pads, air mattresses, or blankets to put beneath sleeping bags

  • Pillows (optional)

  • Portable chairs and stools for sitting at the campfire program

Gear

  • Mess kit for family (plates, utensils, cups, bowls, coffee mugs if desired)

  • Flashlight for each person with extra batteries

  • First-aid kit

  • Canteen or water bottle for each person

  • Day pack

  • Toiletries

  • Toilet paper (half-roll in plastic bag)

  • Bug spray

  • Garbage bags

  • Battery to charge up your cell phone (+ cable)

Clothing

  • Season-appropriate clothing (pack for one season colder than you expect and wear layers)

  • Trail-running shoes or hiking boots (broken in and waterproofed)

  • Sandals/flip-flops (for public showers or late night bathroom trips)

  • Wool socks

  • Synthetic shorts or convertible pants

  • Underwear

  • Synthetic/wicking t-shirt

  • Rain/wind jacket and pants, or poncho

  • Wool or fleece sweater or jacket (vest, if warmer)

  • Waterproof pants (if rain is possible)

  • Pajamas

  • Sunglasses

  • Wool or fleece hat

  • Wool/fleece gloves or mittens

  • Towel

The Pack Will Provide:

  • Cooking stove or fire

  • Some meals (see email before each campout)

  • Cooking equipment

  • Dish soap

  • Sponges