Bare-bones Backpacking
Personal Equipment List
This list summarizes the minimum
equipment necessary for a typical 2 day (Sat/Sun) warm-weather weekend
backpacking campout from late April to mid-October. All packing should be
in a backpack that fits and is in good repair. With respect to all your
equipment, when you have a choice, take the smaller or lighter item. In
packing the backpack, try to keep heavier items higher, closer to the
frame and centrally balanced. Remember, you also need to leave some room
for Troop gear. It is a good idea to keep everything in small stuff-sacks
or large, clear plastic bags; this helps you keep things organized and
weatherproof. Check off each item as you actually pack it.
Sleeping Gear:
_____ A sleeping bag, less than 3 lbs or rated to about
25 degrees.
_____ A foam pad (not an air mattress - they weigh too much!)
Do not bring large, heavyweight sleeping bags; if your sleeping
bag is too light for the expected weather conditions, bring an extra light
blanket or flannel liner. Do not bring pillows.
Eating Gear:
_____ A medium sized bowl, preferably plastic, with name
plainly marked.
_____ A heavy-duty plastic soup spoon, with name plainly marked.
_____ A medium sized plastic cup, with name plainly marked.
Do not bring cheap (breakable) plastic, metal, glass/porcelain or
other heavyweight items!
Clothing and Equipment: You should hike wearing a pair of gym-shorts a
T-shirt, hiking boots or a good, study pair of high-top sneakers (boots
are much preferred) with thick socks. If you don't have hiking socks,
wear two pair of regular, cotton socks. Make sure the shoelaces are in
good condition; if not, install new before departure. Additional
clothing, packed:
_____ 1 pair underwear
_____ 2 pair socks
_____ 1 pair gym shorts
_____ 1 T-Shirt
_____ 1 pair long pants
_____ 1 light sweatshirt or sweater
_____ A light belt
_____ A medium wt. wind/rain resistant jacket
_____ A hat (Baseball Cap OK)
_____ A small towel
_____ A toothbrush
_____ A small "dirty clothes" bag, preferably cloth (doubles as
pillow/stuff-sack)
_____ A 1-quart canteen, full
_____ 1 - 2 large, plastic trash-bags
_____ Any Required Medications (Consult Scoutmaster!)
_____ Scout Uniform (left in cars!)
Ancillary Clothing and Equipment: Bring Only if told to do so by the SPL
at the Planning Session!
_____ A poncho or rainproof rain-coat, poncho preferred.
_____ A pack-cover
_____ A small/medium sized flashlight with fresh batteries.
_____ A second 1-quart canteen, full
_____ A medium weight jacket
_____ A knit, pullover cap
Optional Equipment:
_____ Quality Sunglasses
_____ A very light pair of sneakers (only if hiking wearing boots)
_____ Personal Kit, including small tubes of sunscreen, lip-balm and
insect repellent, and your personal clean-up gear. Keep it very small and
very lightweight!
Dr. Bob, SM-111
Home.
7 August 1997