What to Take on a Boy Scout Camping Trip

Camping trips with the Boy Scouts can produce many of a person's fondest memories. Camping and experiencing the outdoors is a valuable experience for any youth, but it takes careful preparation. Forget something important and you could wind up having a miserable time or even put yourself in danger.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Make sure to bring the Scout Outdoor Essentials. Outlined in the Scouting Manual, the Scout Outdoor Essentials is a list of ten items that should be brought on any camping trip. The essentials include map and compass, a pocket knife, first aid kit, extra clothing, rain gear, flashlight, trail food, water, matches and sun protection.

Step 2

Pack the necessary shelter items. Shelter items should be packed first and at the bottom of any bag, as they are likely the heaviest and bulkiest items you carry on your trip. Shelter items include a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and a ground cover to keep morning dew from soaking through your tent.

Step 3

Ensure your first aid kit is fully stocked. Bandages, gauze, bug spray, moleskin, antibiotics, scissors, a tick remover, CPR mouth barrier and medical tape should be the bare minimum included in a camping first aid kit.

Step 4

Pack all cooking concerns. A forgotten can opener can ruin a camping trip pretty quickly. Make sure to bring adequate pots and pans, silverware, food for all your meals and cleaning materials. Biodegradable soap and a sponge should be adequate for cleaning purposes.

Step 5

Pack enough water for your entire trip. Have at least two gallons per person per day. One gallon would be for drinking and another for cleaning and cooking. If you cannot carry all of your water, be sure to have a method of purifying it, such as iodine tablets or a pump filter.

Step 6

Pack discretionary items. A camera, frisbee, books, marshmallows and deck of cards can all be just as important in a successful camping trip as the necessary items. After all, the point is to have fun and produce some wonderful memories.

Resources

Scouting Magazine

Article Written By Louie Doverspike

Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.

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