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Poncho - plastic ponchos with permanently
attached hoods are best. Avoid the "emergency
pocket" versions because they rip when the boys sit
down on them. A good poncho will provide years of
use to a Scout.
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First Aid Kit - The Troop carries a substantial
emergency first aid kit but each Scout should have a small
kit of basic first-aid necessities (band-aids, bandages,
gauze, duct tape, etc.).
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Flashlight - Nothing big or fancy is required
but it should be rugged. Flashlights that twist on
and off are least subject to accidental turn on (which
runs the batteries out). A combination that works
well for camping is a medium-sized flashlight (two D-cell
type) and a small battery-operated tent lantern.
Newer hi-tech flashlights are smaller and expensive; they
are not recommended for younger boys because they are
easily lost or broken.
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Pocket Knife - Each Scout is required to be
trained and receive the Tot n Chip card to carry a knife.
The official Boy Scout pocket knife, and
versions of the Swiss Army Knife, are good choices.
Knives that include a blade, punch, screw driver, bottle
opener, and a can opener are recommended. Note that
Scouts are not permitted to carry a long-blade folding
knife or sheath knives. Please consult with the
Scoutmaster if in doubt.
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Eating Utensils - Are provided by troop in grub
box for car camping.
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Mess Kit - The Official Boy Scout Mess Kit is
sturdy and thus recommended. It will be used for
cooking and eating many times for back packing
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Canteen - Any leak-proof water bottle will do
(aluminum or plastic.) A one liter container will do
for most trips. These containers are usually carried
inside the pack so belt canteens are not recommended.
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Personal Toilet Kit - Should include soap in a
plastic container, toothbrush, toothpaste, wash cloth,
towel, and toilet paper. Toilet paper is not needed
for places where sanitary facilities are available, please
check with the Scoutmaster before outings.
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Sleeping Bag - Choose a 3 - 4 pound
synthetic-filled nylon bag. Avoid down-filled
(expensive and useless when wet) or cotton (heavy and also
useless when wet.) The best shapes are mummy or
modified mummy but choose one the Scout will be
comfortable in. Be sure to get a stuff sack with
your bag.
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Sleeping Pad - Provides comfort required for a
good night's sleep. They provide padding and
insulation from the ground. Choose a good one.
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Backpack - A pack is only required when the
Troop hikes but most Scouts will use them every time we go
camping because they are convenient for carrying their
personal gear and stuff around camp. Your son will
grow so look for a bag with adjustable straps. There
are internal and internal frame pack--each has its
advantages and disadvantages. Look for comfort and
accessibility. A good backpack has padded shoulder
straps and a complete round-the-waist padded hip belt.
The hip belt must be able to support most of the pack's
weight.
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Hiking Boots/Socks - All Scouts should have a
good pair of boots. These need to have a strong
sole, come up to the ankle, and be comfortable when laced
snugly. Boots should be waterproofed (sprayed with
waterproofing such as CampDry on the outside) and broken
in (worn a few times) before they are used for hiking.
Many boots are made from a rugged fabric and Gore-Tex
material; these are fine. Sneakers are generally not
suited for hiking over rugged terrain. Comfort and
fit are important so well fitting, cushioned socks are
also needed. Be sure to wear cushioned socks when
trying your boots on for a proper fit. Wool and
synthetic socks (or blends of these) are best because they
don't absorb moisture and help keep your feet dry.
Cotton socks are NOT good because they absorb and retain
moisture.
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Compass - A valuable tool that relates to many
aspects of hiking. Good ones come mounted on a
see-thru plastic plate that has ruler and bearing markings
for use when reading maps. (Used for orienteering in
advancement)
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Stove - The Troop provides Patrol stoves for
most campouts. You may wish to purchase a
backpacking stove sometime in the future. An
inexpensive first stove is a simple Coleman camp stove,
suitable for most needs shared by 2-3 scouts on backpack
outings..
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Clothing - Comfort is the key. In winter
you should stay away from cotton as it retains moisture
and dries slowly.
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Folding Chair - A must for relaxing around a
campfire after a busy day outdoors. Modern folding
chairs are compact, lightweight, and inexpensive so don't
go camping without one. (Car Camping only)
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Tents - The Troop does not provide tents or but
most scouts have one, to start out buddy up for Troop
outings.