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T-210: Packing for Backpacking Trips

Backpack Checklist - Please pack carefully.  Please don't forget that in addition to your personal gear, you will need to carry your portion of the troop gear including the tent and food.  Remember when packing, that every ounce counts; so if you don't need it, leave it!

Essential Items:

  • Compass
  • Extra Clothing (enough to survive most probable adverse conditions)
  • Extra food (not "smellable")
  • Small flashlight utilizing AA batteries (or smaller), plus one extra set of batteries)
  • Neckerchief, folded in pocket
  • "Steve" book with capped pen.
  • First aid kit, personal (Moleskin, tape, all medicine must be given to Scoutmaster before leaving)
  • Pocket knife (no sheath knives) [Tote'nChip]
  • Waterproof matches (or matches in waterproof container)
  • Boy Scout handbook
  • Small water tight baggie to hold totin' chit and other assorted necessary identification cards
Clothing to wear:
  • Socks (either pile or wool); two pair (one thick, wear thinner nearest skin)
  • Boots or sturdy sneakers
  • Long pants (loose-fitting and preferably wool in winter)
  • Wool or pile gloves or mittens and hat
  • Parka or jacket (wind and water resistant)
  • Scout Shirt and fleece sweater along with windbreaker  (utilize the layer method)
  • Tee shirt under Scout Shirt (Troop Tee preferred - no un-Scout like logos allowed)
Additional Items:
  • Pack with STRAPS for sleeping bag
  • Nalgene canteens (2 quarts)
  • Insect repellent
  • Drinking cup - Sierra cup or lexan
  • Ground cloth (lightweight, waterproof)
  • Sleeping bag in waterproof STUFF BAG
  • Sleeping pad
  • Extra flashlight battery 
  • Lexan eating utensils and bowl
  • Plastic bags and ties (for waterproofing gear)
  • Tissue and/or toilet paper in plastic bag
  • Poncho & rainpants
  • Sunscreen lotion
  • Notebook and pencil
  • Nylon cord, 50 ft
  • Personal toilet items
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Rain cover for pack (large plastic bag OK)
  • Extra stuff sack (Marked) for troop food and gear
Optional Items for Overnight Trips
  • Fishing gear
  • Camera & Film
  • Playing cards
  • Natural history guides
  • Paperback book
  • Candle lantern & candles
Patrol Gear: provided by Troop, carried by Scouts:
  • Cooking gear (pots, pans, etc.)
  • Cooking stoves
  • Fuel bottles
  • Water purification equipment
  • Rope for hanging food
  • Food (will take up about 1/3 in each pack)
  • Maps
  • Full first aid kit
  • Trowel for digging "cat hole"
Notes on Gear:
  • Most packs (internal as well as external frame) are adjustable; be sure your pack is adjusted to your height).
  • All gear should be secured in or onto the pack; nothing should hang loose or be carried in the hands.
  • Sleeping bags should be secured by STRAPS, not Bungees or string.
  • Pack weight will vary, but as a general rule should not exceed 1/5 - 1/4  the hiker's weight (including all water, personal and Troop gear).
  • Waterproofing your boots!
  • Hiking staves help!