Recommended Camping Equipment

The following list is recommended individual camping equipment for a weekend camping trip.  Exact needs will vary with season and activities.  For more information on camping equipment see the camping section of the Boy Scout Handbook.  Parents and Scouts should keep in mind that despite the dizzying array of high-tech camping equipment now available, most of these items are unnecessary and undesirable on a Boy Scout campout.   

Label all items wherever practical!


  • Scout uniform (wear it to/from campouts)

  • Boy Scout Handbook (important!)

  • Pack or duffle bag

  • Sleeping bag

  • Closed-cell Foam sleeping pad or Thermarest-type pad

  • Personal mess kit: plate/bowl, fork, spoon, cup

  • Poncho or rain suit

  • Long Underwear (not cotton) (September through May, campouts can be chilly!)

  • Water bottle (labeled with name )

  • Flashlight

  • Change of clothing (include different clothing to sleep in)

  • Extra socks (wool or synthetic only; no cotton)

  • Extra pair of boots or shoes

  • Outerwear:

    • Warm jacket

    • Hiking boots – waterproof highly recommended (no sneakers)

    • Hat or wool cap


Recommended/Optional

  • Folding Knife

  • Matches

  • Compass

  • First-aid Kit

  • Bug Repellent

  • Whistle

  • Sewing kit

  • Sunscreen

  • Toiletries (toothbrush!)

  • Small towel


Prohibited Items

  • Sheath knives

  • Fireworks

  • Firearms

  • Radios, iPods, electronic games

  • Aerosol cans

  • Alcohol/drugs



Cell Phones: scouts may bring cell phones but they should be left in the cars, not used during the campout except in emergency, but can be used on the way home to notify parents of expected arrival time.