A 445 Scout's Personal Equipment

This is a long page with loads of information for new and experienced Scouts.  Use the above links to jump around the page to the information you want to see.

Uniform:

"Class A" or "Field" Uniform

	Boy Scout Khaki Uniform Shirt - The khaki Boy Scout uniform shirt is the standard uniform for Troop 445.  On joining 445, the Scout will receive one 445 unit number patch, and the red Troop 445 neckerchief.  All other insignia (patches) for the shirt must be purchased.  Please use the insignia guides on the  inside front and back covers of the Boy Scout Handbook for proper placement of all patches on the uniform shirt.
	Scout Pants or Shorts - BSA pants or shorts are preferred, though not required.  Wear clean blue jeans or  khaki pants as long pants, or clean blue jean shorts or khaki shorts.
	Scout Belt - The standard green web belt with slide buckle, the leather Scout belt with Scout buckle, or any  other leather belt from a Scout Camp or Ranch with appropriate Scout buckle.
	Hiking Boots, clean Tennis Shoes, or comfortable Dress Shoes
	Scout Socks - Required when wearing Scout shorts.  Wear appropriate hiking socks with hiking boots.  Wear clean white crew or ankle socks with tennis shoes.
	Troop 445 Baseball Cap - The Troop cap is the ONLY hat to be worn at ALL Scouting functions where the  Scout uniform is to be worn.  Troop caps are available for sale at all Scout meetings.
	Troop 445 Neckerchief - Worn on special occasions (Courts of Honor, Color guards, etc.)

"Class B" or "Activity" Uniform

	Troop 445 T-Shirt - We recommend purchasing two Troop t-shirts.  This allows having a clean Troop t-shirt at all times at Troop functions (wear one and wash the other).  If a Troop t-shirt is not available, any other  Scout t-shirt (summer camp, Philmont, OA, etc.) is acceptable.
	Scout Pants or Shorts - BSA pants or shorts are preferred, though not required.  Wear clean blue jeans or  khaki pants as long pants, or clean blue jean shorts or khaki shorts.
	Scout Belt - The standard green web belt with slide buckle, the leather Scout belt with Scout buckle, or any  other leather belt from a Scout Camp or Ranch with appropriate Scout buckle.
	Hiking Boots or Tennis Shoes
	Scout Socks - Required when wearing Scout shorts.  Wear appropriate hiking socks with hiking boots. Wear  clean white crew or ankle socks with tennis shoes.
	Troop 445 Baseball Cap - The Troop cap is the ONLY hat to be worn at ALL Scouting functions where the  Scout uniform is to be worn.  Troop caps are available for sale at all Scout meetings.

Bring to ALL Troop 445 Meetings, Campouts, and Activities:

	Appropriate Uniform Class A uniform is worn to all Troop 445 meetings from October 1 to May 31 (school year).  It is also worn to  and from ALL Troop campouts and other activities.  Bring a hanger to hang your shirt on at all campouts. Class B uniform is worn to all Troop 445 meetings from June 1 to September 30 (summer).  It should also be  brought to all Troop campouts.  Class B is worn in camp on all campouts.
	The Boy Scout Handbook - This is the textbook of Scouting.  It is needed for all advancement.
	Notebook and Pen/Pencil - needed at ALL Troop meetings, campouts, and activities

Camping Equipment:

Troop 445 is an active Troop, with outings scheduled 11 months out of the year.  We go camping rain or shine, hot or cold.  As such, take great care in selecting personal camping gear.  Make sure that the equipment you buy is of quality to stand up to repeated use and abuse.  Please consult with a Troop leader on any questions regarding personal camping equipment.

Below we have listed equipment needed for weekend campouts in warm and cold weather, for summer camp, and for longer backpacking trips.  Below the lists are comments, suggestions, and ideas on some of the equipment in the lists.

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Personal Equipment for a Weekend Campout/Backpack in Warm Weather

A backpack is not necessary for newer Scouts or for all weekend campouts.  A backpack is necessary for weekend backpacking campouts.  If you do not have a backpack, use a duffle or gym bag to pack in.  Your sleeping bag still needs to be in a waterproof stuff sack!  Your sleeping bag should be rated to 30^o to 40^o and weigh around 4 pounds or less for warm weather camping.  Clothing list include clothes to be WORN and PACKED.  Please take into account the expected weather and make changes to the list accordingly.  All clothing should be individually packed in zip lock bags to protect from getting wet.

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Personal Equipment for a Weekend Campout/Backpack in Cold Weather

A backpack is not necessary for newer Scouts or for all weekend campouts.  A backpack is necessary for weekend backpacking campouts.  If you do not have a backpack, use a duffle or gym bag to pack in.  Your sleeping bag still needs to be in a waterproof stuff sack!  Your sleeping bag should be rated from 0^o to 20^o and weigh around 5 pounds or less for cold weather camping.  If you do not have a winter sleeping bag, use your summer bag, and add 3 or 4 blankets as added insulation.  Clothing list include clothes to be WORN and PACKED.  Please take into account the expected weather and make changes to the list accordingly.  All clothing should be individually packed in zip lock bags to protect from getting wet.

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Personal Equipment for Summer Camp

Clothing list include clothes to be WORN and PACKED.  Please take into account the expected weather and make changes to the list accordingly.  All clothing should be individually packed in zip lock bags to protect from getting wet.

Personal Equipment for a Backpacking Trip of 4 or more days

Weight REALLY becomes a factor in longer backpacking trips.  If you don't think you'll need it, you are probably right.  Leave it at home!  Clothing list include clothes to be WORN and PACKED.  Please take into account the expected weather and make changes to the list accordingly.  All clothing should be individually packed in zip lock bags to protect from getting wet.

Gear Comments, Suggestions, and Ideas:

General Information:

	Do not feel pressured into purchasing equipment immediately upon joining Scouts.  The acquisition of  personal gear should be a slow, methodical process.  You should take time to examine the equipment  others use, ask others questions about their equipment, and experiment with different items before making  any purchases.
	"Inexpensive" and "cheap" are not interchangeable terms.  As a young Scout, inexpensive equipment is sufficient for most campouts and activities.  As the Scout becomes older and matures in his desire and ability to "take on" the outdoors, some equipment will need to be replaced with other more functional (often more expensive) equipment.  The older equipment can often be given or sold to newer, younger Scouts in the Troop.
	When purchasing equipment, be sure to check into the items warranty.  Some manufacturers warranty their equipment for the life of the product against defects in materials and workmanship (Kelty; Sierra Designs;  Cascade Designs - Therm-A-Rest, Platypus; Outdoor Research; Gregory; just to name a few)
	Clothing fabrics - Avoid cotton.  Cotton has little or no insulating value, and even less when wet.  It is very heavy  and holds water in the fibers.  For clothing against the skin, polypropylene or CoolMax wicks moisture away from the body, cooling the body in the summer and keeping the body warm in the winter.  For loose fitting  garments (hiking shorts or pants) use a nylon fabric.  It is more wind resistant than cotton and dries quickly.
	We ARE NOT endorsing any item or manufacturer by mentioning the item or manufacturer in this discussion.
	The major equipment purchases parents will make for Scouts are for a backpacks, sleeping bags, and hiking  boots.

Packing:

	Duffle or gym bags - a medium to large sized duffle or gym bag will work for most campouts.  Make sure that  everything you will need (except your sleeping bag and pad) fit into the bag.  If you are using a duffle or gym  bag, it is important to pack all clothing in zip-lock bags to protect the clothing from rain.
	Backpacks - books could be written on this subject.  Sooner or later every Scout will need to acquire a  backpack to fully participate in Troop 445's outdoor program.  There are two main categories of backpacks:  external frame, and internal frame.  Both types should come with a well-padded hip belt (DO NOT BUY A  BACKPACK WITHOUT A HIP BELT!!!).  There are pros and cons to each type of pack.  Do not hesitate to  consult with Troop leaders before making this purchase if you have any questions. External frame pack features: (just scratching the surface) generally less expensive and a little less comfortable than internal frame packs some brands are available with a frame and suspension that will grow with a Scout to a certain  point (example:  Kelty Yukon & Tioga series) pack frame and suspension can be adjusted to fit the Scouts body  most have a number of pockets allowing for very organized packing external frame allows for gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, etc.) to be strapped onto the  frame leaving more room in the pack for items that need to stay protected and dry can become unbalanced and awkward under heavy loads because the external frame keeps  the pack pushed away from the body's center of gravity designed for hiking well established trails or less demanding cross country hiking Internal frame pack features: (again, just scratching the surface) generally more expensive and a little more comfortable than external frame packs pack suspension provides a more "custom" fit, although most are somewhat adjustable pack body provides very few individual pockets - the user needs to be proficient at the "art" of  packing his pack very little equipment can be strapped onto the outside of the pack - sleeping bag and tent are  usually carried inside the pack.  Most packs have space to lash the sleeping pad outside the  pack.  These packs also utilize compression straps to tighten the load down. pack maintains better balance under heavy loads because the internal frame keeps the back  closer to the body's center of gravity great choice for off-trail hiking or when carrying a load while doing activities requiring  independent arm movement (skiing, climbing).  Very comfortable for on-trail hiking as well.
	Pack Cover - a waterproof nylon pack cover with an adjustable draw string allows for the pack to stay dry  while hiking in the rain.  It also provides the pack protection when in camp.  When purchasing, make sure the  cover you choose will completely cover your pack when fully loaded with sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and room  for extra gear.  It is better to buy a cover that is too big rather than too small.  Until a pack cover is purchased,  a Scout can use large (35-gallon or larger - bring at least 2) heavy trash bags as a pack cover.  It is difficult  to hike using a trash bag, but will protect the pack in camp.
	Zip-Lock Bags - always use the heavy "freezer" bags.  These bags are carried in addition to the bags used to pack your clothing in.  These bags have many uses: washing clothes, trash bags, etc.
	Sleeping Bag Straps - do not use "bungee cords"!  Purchase 1/2" to 1" wide straps 24" to 30" long with  adjustable buckles.  It is a good idea to have 3 sets for sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any other equipment you may need to attach to the outside of your pack.  (If you are using an internal frame pack you only need one set of these straps.)

Sleeping:

	Sleeping Bag - New Scouts generally join the Troop sometime in the spring.  By this time the cold weather is over.  A good, old-fashioned, square cotton or nylon bag will work fine by itself until probably October.  When  the weather begins to turn colder, you can add blankets inside this sleeping bag (fold the blankets into a "bag" and secure with large safety pins).  More blankets can be layered on top of the bag for added warmth.  When  the decision to buy a new sleeping bag has been made, we suggest a mummy-style bag with one of the newer types of synthetic fill.  The bag should be rated between 20oF to 35oF, and should weigh between 3 and  4 pounds.  This temperature range will allow almost year-round use without having to wear any thermal  underwear or a stocking cap for added warmth.  The bag should stuff down no larger than 14" diameter and 22" long.  In the hot, summer months, most Scouts bring just a fleece blanket as their sleeping bag.  Take every  precaution possible to keep your sleeping bag DRY!
	Waterproof Stuff Sack - The stuff sack that comes with most sleeping bags IS NOT waterproof.  It can be  made somewhat waterproof by seam-sealing the seams and Scotchguarding the fabric.  A waterproof stuff sack can be purchased that will fully protect your bag from water.  Some types of waterproof stuff sacks,  called "compressor bags" will keep your bag dry and compress its packed size down, taking up less room.
	Sleep Clothes - Scouts should always bring clothes specifically for sleeping in.  In warm weather, a t-shirt and gym shorts are fine.  In colder weather, long underwear and thick socks may be necessary.  These  clothes are only worn in the tent and will be dry for use.
	Sleeping Pad - A sleeping pad is REQUIRED for any cold weather camping and is nice to have along on every  campout.   There are two main types of sleeping pads: closed-cell foam pads and self-inflating foam pads.   Closed cell foam pads are usually thinner, lighter, and much less expensive than self-inflating foam pads.   Comfort, weight, and expense will dictate your purchase.

Eating:

	Bowl - a deep, plastic bowl with a 2 cup capacity is all that is needed.  An old Tupperware bowl, or an empty  margarine bowl work fine.  Some use a second "measuring" style cup instead of a bowl to save on weight and  space.
	Cup - for most campouts and activities, the Eagle camp mug is a perfect choice.  When trying to shed some  weight backpacking, use a smaller, plastic, measuring-style cup.
	Spoon - a "soup" style spoon is all that is needed for backpacking campouts.  It can be metal.  A better choice  is lexan - an unbreakable plastic.  A knife and fork can be taken along on non-backpacking campouts.
	Canteens - Each Scout needs to be able to carry 2 to 3 liters of water at any given time.  The choices and  styles of canteens are numerous.  Some packs have canteen holsters designed to fit the Nalgene round,  one-liter bottle.  Newer styles (Platypus, CamelBak, etc) use a very light, flexible water bladder with a hose and mouth-piece used to drink the water.  This provides a quick, hands free method of drinking when hiking.

Clothing:

	Zip Lock Bags - You have seen it over and over on this page.  Every item of clothing to be packed needs to be packed in its own zip-lock bag.  Take care on the outing not to damage the bag, and it may be re-used on the next outing.  Packing clothes this way is the best way to keep clothes from getting wet.
	Raingear - If you go camping with Troop 445, sooner or later you are going to get rained on, often HARD.  Good raingear is essential.  A good rain poncho (waterproofed nylon - not disposable plastic) will last years if taken care of properly.  If using a rain poncho, also bring a light jacket and pants that are wind and rain resistant.  A  good waterproof rain suit (jacket with hood and pants) is another choice.  There are many manufacturers that  now make very affordable waterproof/breathable jackets and pants (Red Ledge, Campmor, etc.).  A rain suit also acts as another layer of clothing in cold conditions.
	Hiking Boots - Hiking boots provide the proper foot and ankle support needed for an active outdoor program.   Inexpensive, lightweight, leather and nylon hiking boots are a great choice for younger Scouts who outgrow their  shoes all the time.  Once the Scout has stopped growing, you may decide to purchase a more expensive waterproof boot if the Scout will be doing more "high adventure" activities.  When buying boots, ALWAYS wear the socks you will be wearing when hiking.
	Camp Shoes - a second pair of footwear (besides hiking boots) should be included to give your feet a rest from the heavy boots worn all day.  These shoes can be older tennis shoes, boat shoes, "water socks", or moccasins, or sandals (sandals are a bad choice - open toed footwear tends to lead to injuries on campouts).
	Socks - this may be a more important choice and purchase than hiking boots.  DO NOT SCRIMP on your  hiking sock and liner purchase.  The right socks or combination of socks will prevent blisters while hiking.  Most  hikers use a combination of a heavy wool or wool blend outer sock along with a light, thin polypropylene or  CoolMax sock to wick perspiration away from the foot.  You should experiment with different types and  combinations to find what feels and works best for you.  It is a good idea to have 2 pair of heavy socks and 3 pair  of liner socks on campout where a lot of hiking will be done.  This allows you to be able to put on dry socks as  needed, and hang the wet socks on your pack or clothesline to dry.
	Hiking Shorts - nylon or other synthetic fabrics allow for faster drying and are lighter weight than cotton.  If  you purchase hiking shorts with "zip-off" legs, bring the legs along, and you have both shorts and pants in one article of clothing (weight savings).  Large cargo pockets allow you to carry small items in your pockets  comfortably while hiking.  If you can find hiking shorts with attached mesh liners, you can leave the 2 or 3 pair of underwear on the list at home (more weight savings).
	Long Pants - once again, nylon or other synthetic fabrics are preferred over cotton.  Blue jeans are okay for most weekend campouts, but provide no insulating value, are very heavy, and dangerous when wet.  Zip-off  pants get another mention here.
	Flexible Hat with wide brim - mandatory for warm weather outings.  This hat will keep your face, ears, and neck out of the sun.
	Stocking Hat and Gloves/Mittens - mandatory on cool and cold weather outings.  Stocking hats of fleece, wool, or knit save more body heat than a jacket.  Gloves or mittens of fleece or wool are lightweight and inexpensive.
	Long "Thermal" Underwear - again avoid cotton if at all possible.  Many manufacturers are making inexpensive polypropylene underwear that is lighter and warmer than cotton.

Personal & Miscellaneous:

	Duct Tape - don't laugh!  This stuff fixes almost everything from torn tents to blistered heels.  Wrap 10-12 wraps of good quality duct tape around your canteen.  This makes the duct tape easily accessible when needed.
	Notebook and pen/pencil - a "mini-composition" book is perfect for camping.  They are about 4.5" x 3.25" in size and have 60 to 80 pages.  Pen will last longer on the paper, but pens can freeze and rupture in cold weather. We encourage all of the Scouts and leaders to take notes about every campout they attend for future reference.
	Personal First Aid Kit - This list can be fairly long or short depending on personal preference.  There is a list of short list suggested items in the Boy Scout Handbook, and a longer, more detailed list in the Boy Scout Field Book. The kit should be contained in something that will last .  At a minimum, the kit should contain: 6-8 Band-Aids (flexible fabric type will stick better in campout situations) 3-4 Sterile Gauze Pads (3x3 or 4x4 size) - use your duct tape to hold the gauze down Moleskin (NOT Molefoam - it does not stick!) - you can find this in the foot care section of any drug or department store.  It comes in both rolls and sheets - buy the sheets.  This is used on "hot spots" before blisters can form on the feet.  Duct tape can be helpful again in keeping moleskin in place. SMALL bottle of antibacterial soap - to clean cuts and wounds 6-8 Alcohol wipe pads SMALL TUBES of antibiotic ointment and steroid/anti-itch lotions to use for cuts or poison ivy 2 quarters - for pay phone in case of emergency *SMALL QUANTITY of aspirin/acetaminophen/ibuprofen for pain relief *SMALL QUANTITY of antihistamine/antacid for allergy and upset stomach relief *NOTE:  IT IS THE SCOUT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO INFORM A LEADER BEFORE TAKING ANY ORAL MEDICATIONS OF ANY KIND.  BREAKING THIS RULE WILL NOT BE TOLERATED!
	SMALL Pocket Knife - Once a Scout has earned his Tote-N-Chip, he can carry a small knife.  We do not allow any sort of sheath knife, spring-loaded knife, or knife with a blade longer than 4 inches.  These will be confiscated and returned to the parent on returning home.
	Flashlight - the flashlight should be no bigger than a 2 AA battery light.  The flashlight is one of the pieces of equipment that gets the most abuse, so spend wisely.  For really light weight, and for long battery life, you can  get LCD flashlights.
	Bandannas - Like duct tape, these amazing things have all sorts of uses around camp, from first aid sling to washcloth.  Scouts should bring at least 2 bandannas on every outing.

The backpacking equipment list is a compilation of input from experienced backpackers in Troop 445, the Philmont Guidebook to Adventure,
and the list provided by Dr. Bob (Scoutmaster, Troop 111, Arlington, VA - the most complete Philmont equipment list we have seen).
This page has been viewed times since July 2, 2003.
This page was last edited on April 06, 2007 at 06:17 PM.
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